Funding supports a more inclusive Queensland

A Queensland Government program that supports people from diverse backgrounds into mainstream social and employment opportunities is encouraging Queensland organisations to apply for grants to become local program providers.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Leanne Linard said the long-standing Community Action for a Multicultural Society (CAMS) program is now accepting applications for grant funding.

The CAMS program will provide funding of $7.5 million over three years to help program providers in 17 local government areas support people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds,” she said.

This new round of funding will help expand the reach of the CAMS program which will see $2.5 million in funding allocated each year over three years for up to 21 providers to deliver initiatives in their area.

“Here in Queensland more than one million people are born overseas and more than one in 10 speak a language other than English at home.

“We have such a rich diversity in our population and I’m so proud of our CAMS program which has been supporting people from culturally diverse backgrounds across the state since 1999.”

Ms Linard said the 2022-24 program would target communities to help build economic and social inclusion for people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

“Successful organisations will work with local services, community groups and industry, as well as individuals and groups from culturally diverse backgrounds, to plan and deliver a range of projects, activities and initiatives that build sustainable opportunities for inclusion in local employment, services, networks and industries,” she said.

“The program will have an increased focus on linking participants to broader community, services and industry connections and opportunities.

“By doing this they will be able to achieve their ambitions in terms of employment, training pathways and social activities.”

Applications have now opened and close on Friday 2 July 2021. Any organisations interested in applying for funding can visit www.cyjma.qld.gov.au/multicultural-affairs/programs-initiatives/community-action-multicultural-society-cams-program for details.

Successful providers will deliver the program from 1 January 2022.

ENDS

Media Contact: Bernadette Condren 0417 296 116