The Andrews Labor Government is putting more shovels in the ground and building the infrastructure that will keep Aboriginal communities strong.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gabrielle Williams was in Heywood today to announce $8.3 million to be shared by 14 Aboriginal organisations, helping them build their dream infrastructure projects and improve the lives of their communities.
Among the successful projects, Winda-Mara Aboriginal Corporation has secured $1.5 million to build a new health centre at Heywood, providing standalone health services, dental, allied health and clinical services to address significant shortages in Aboriginal health care in the area.
Gunditjmara Aboriginal Cooperative will get $1.5 million to redevelop the front of its main headquarters in Warrnambool.
Nairm Marr Djambana will get $1.2 million to renovate its facilities and repurpose them into a neighbourhood hub design so that they are more accessible, while the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service will receive $976,000 to upgrade its facility in Preston.
Boosting the quality and safety of community buildings makes it easier for organisations to do their work and provide services, while also making them more accessible and attractive for people to visit and come together as a community.
The Aboriginal Community Infrastructure Program has delivered 39 projects since it was established in 2017, including early learning centres, social housing and other upgrades.
Beyond bricks and mortar, it also funds the development of feasibility studies where Aboriginal organisations can undertake a formal analysis of their infrastructure needs and bring their vision to life.
Aboriginal organisations can apply for more funding early next year.
As stated by Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gabrielle Williams
“We’re empowering Aboriginal organisations across Victoria to identify, design and develop their own infrastructure projects that will benefit their communities, but also help deliver sustainable economic outcomes.”
“We all need and deserve a safe place to come together – this program is about securing that for all Aboriginal Victorians.”
