Canberra’s migrant and refugee settlement services will receive essential funding under the Australian Government’s Diverse Australia Program, the Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, Laurie Ferguson, announced today in the lead up to Harmony Day on March 21.
“The Diverse Australia Program promotes a sense of belonging for everyone in a practical way – delivering funding to groups and organisations that make a real difference to Australian communities,” Mr Ferguson said.
Senator for the ACT, Kate Lundy congratulated ACT Migrant and Refugee Settlement Services, on receiving a well-deserved grant under the program.
“This is a fantastic initiative that aims to address cultural, racial and religious intolerance by promoting respect, fairness and a sense of belonging for everyone and will assist the Migrant and Refugee Settlement Services continue their hard work in the ACT community,” Senator Lundy said.
Under the program, Migrant and Refugee Settlement Services of the ACT will receive $26,600 to establish and run the Harmony Players Project.
The project will offer about 25 young men a range of social and cultural activities such as sports, mentoring and leadership training with organisations like ACT Scouts.
Activities will also include skill development through coaching, participation in mainstream basketball competitions, referee training courses and social activities involving families, friends and communities. There will be mentoring and presentations at local primary schools, and interaction with ACT Police.
More information on the 2009 Diverse Australia Program can be found at www.harmony.gov.au.
Media contact: Annika Hutchins (Senator Kate Lundy) 0407 458 882
