Record $1 million grant program to celebrate multicultural Queensland

Young people will be a focus of this year’s record $1 million grants program to celebrate Queensland’s multiculturalism.

Multicultural Affairs Minister Leanne Linard said the annual Celebrating Multicultural Queensland program was aimed at building social connection and cohesion.

“Multiculturalism is one of our greatest strengths and we remain committed to fostering an inclusive, harmonious and united Queensland,” Ms Linard said.

“The 2021 Celebrating Multicultural Queensland grants program has a focus on young people and we’re encouraging local community groups to apply.

“For many people from migrant and refugee backgrounds, there can be particular challenges or barriers to connect, participate and contribute within the community, which makes it extremely difficult to feel welcome and included.

“In previous years we have seen projects receive funding that have helped people prepare for future employment, including starting up and running a small business.

“Similarly, sports-related projects have also been supported through the program and shown to be a wonderful way to promote inclusion and well-being through a club or team environment.”

This year, the program is divided into two categories, with the new ‘Youth and Community Connection Projects’ category aimed at funding projects that will help break down barriers facing young people and increase their access to, and inclusion within, the community.

“Priority will be given to initiatives that involve young people from diverse backgrounds in all elements of the design, delivery and evaluation,” Ms Linard said.

“The second category – ‘Economic and Social Participation Projects’ category – is designed for projects that create pathways to participation for people of all ages from culturally diverse backgrounds in the economic, social and cultural life of Queensland.

“Our project grants are a wonderful opportunity for community organisations to tell us what activities they feel will most positively build social connection and cohesion in their area.”

Community groups, sporting clubs, not-for-profit organisations, youth groups and local governments are urged to apply to help deliver projects that promote greater social and economic participation for people from migrant and refugee backgrounds.

Applications close on Monday, 15 March 2021.

For more information about the Celebrating Multicultural Queensland program and how to apply: www.dlgrma.qld.gov.au/cmq-program 

Media: 0417 296 116

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