Grants available for multicultural celebrations across Qld

A $1 million grants program to celebrate Queensland’s multiculturalism is now open for applications.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Grace Grace said the Celebrating Multicultural Queensland grants program was all about celebrating the wealth of cultures in Queensland as well as promoting the benefits of diversity.

“Community organisations and local councils across the state can apply for a share of up to $700,000 under the first round of funding to hold events and celebrations that celebrate the state’s rich diversity”, she said.

“This particular funding round will support events that celebrate a range of cultures and traditions through festivals and cultural days that incorporate the best of food, music, craft and sport.

“We want to encourage as many events as possible to be held next year to celebrate and promote Queensland’s multicultural identity, the benefits of multiculturalism, increased understanding and cohesion among people from diverse cultural backgrounds and the wider community.”

Grants for events are available in two categories, with up to $20,000 per event under the Signature Events category for high-profile multicultural and diverse cultural events that have strong community support.

Up to $10,000 per event is available under the Cultural Events category to support multicultural celebrations that promote acceptance and understanding of a particular culture or religion by other cultural groups and by the wider community.

Applications for multicultural events and celebrations close on Friday 26 August 2016.

The second round of funding comprising $300,000 for culturally diverse projects is expected to open in November 2016.

It will fund projects designed to ensure people from diverse cultural backgrounds have equitable access to services and opportunities.

Ms Grace said the Queensland Government was committed to promoting community harmony and increasing awareness of the state’s cultural diversity.

“This is underpinned by the Multicultural Recognition Act 2016 which was passed by the Queensland Parliament in February to ensure greater support for the state’s multicultural communities,” she said.

“This is all about promoting our state as a united, harmonious and inclusive place for everyone to live.

“Queensland is a multicultural success story, which is why we have so much to be proud of and to celebrate.”

For more information or to apply for a grant visit www.communities.qld.gov.au/multicultural 

Media Contact: Martin Philip 0427 919 548