Funding to strengthen Indigenous organisations in FNQ

Three Indigenous organisations in the far north Queensland will share in funding of more than $100,000 to improve their capacity to provide high-quality services to local communities.

Minister for Communities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Warren Pitt said the funding was part of the Strengthening Rural Indigenous Non-Government Organisations and the Strengthening Indigenous Non-Government Organisations programs.

Far north Queensland organisations to benefit from the programs are:
• Girringun Aboriginal Corp, Cardwell – $50,160
• Learning Workshop, Cairns – $40,448
• Warringu Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation, Cairns – $10,000.

“Non-government organisations play a vital role in helping to maintain the wellbeing of communities,” Mr Pitt said.

“These two funding programs ensure Indigenous organisations in all areas of Queensland – rural, remote and metropolitan – can continue to deliver community support services.

“Funding will be used for capacity-building activities such as training for management committee members, financial management training and the development of policies and procedures.”

Mr Pitt said the rural program targeted Indigenous organisations in the Blueprint for the Bush catchment area, which included communities west of the Great Dividing Range, small communities east of the range, and those on Cape York Peninsula and in the Torres Strait.

“Our Strengthening Indigenous Non-Government Organisations initiatives focus on providing practical opportunities for improving organisational processes, encouraging cooperation and collaboration between organisations, and enhancing client services,” he said.

“These initiatives are not just about strengthening non-government organisations – they are about strengthening Queensland communities.

“Funding under these programs will continue to be available for Indigenous community organisations during the next two years.”

Media contact: Peter Nibbs 3235 4280