MUSLIM COMMUNITY GRANTS PROGRAM FOCUSES ON WOMEN

Muslim women ranked high on the agenda of Queensland community organisations vying for $36,000 in State Government grants to support community programs, research projects and events.

Minister for Multiculturalism Lindy Nelson-Carr today announced the eight recipients of Multicultural Affairs Queensland’s Muslim Community Grants.

“I’m delighted these community-based grants predominantly focus on issues for Muslim women and encourage Queenslanders to value difference and celebrate our diversity,” she said.

“The submissions are testament to our communities’ commitment to building a Queensland characterised by understanding, respect and tolerance.”

Ms Nelson-Carr said 11 applications were received in this, the second round of the Muslim Community Grants program.

“The grants have been given to five small-scale community projects, a minor research project and two events all working to encourage greater interaction between Muslim Queenslanders and the broader community.

“These projects will allow the Beattie Government to learn from local interactions, with their findings influencing future policy development.”

Ms Nelson-Carr said the Muslim Community Grants program was part of the $700,000 Muslim Community Engagement Strategy announced by Premier Peter Beattie in September last year.

For more information visit: www.premiers.qld.gov.au/multicultural

Media contact: Karla Steen 3336 8004