Grants program supporting connection to Country

  • Up to $25,000 for projects that strengthen intergenerational links
  • Program forms part of State Government’s Commitment to Aboriginal Youth Wellbeing
  • The Connecting to Country grants program is now open, providing support to culture and arts projects and initiatives that renew links between community, Country and culture.  

    Aboriginal people and organisations can apply for up to $25,000 for activities on-Country that encourage sharing of cultural knowledge and skills between generations, preservation of culture and strengthening of communities. 

    The Connecting to Country grants program forms part of the State Government’s Commitment to Aboriginal Youth Wellbeing, a comprehensive response to the Coroner’s Inquest and Learnings from the Message Stick report into Aboriginal youth suicide. 

    Projects previously funded by the program include Robe River Kuruma Aboriginal Corporation which used $25,000 funding for its project to support Elders and members to undertake six on‑Country trips.

    Juluwarlu Group Aboriginal Corporation received $24,940 to facilitate a camp on-Country with young people and Elders, exploring traditional and contemporary forms of art and weaving, and sharing knowledge in Yindjibarndi language.

    Connecting to Country is administered by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries. Applications are open until August 26, 2021.  

    Projects should display strong evidence of Aboriginal community design and support.

    For more information, visit https://www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/funding/arts-funding/connecting-to-country

    As stated by Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman:

    “Connecting to Country is an extremely valuable grants program that aims to ensure that traditional cultures are preserved through information sharing and generational connections.

    “Eligible projects recognise Aboriginal cultural leadership, support youth development and contribute to stronger community mental health and wellbeing.”

    As stated by Acting Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch:

    “The McGowan Government recognises that we can support strong Aboriginal communities by supporting connections to Country. 

    “WA is home to diverse and varied Aboriginal communities, which have their own unique cultures and stories.

    “This grants program supports Aboriginal people and organisations to undertake projects and initiatives that keep tradition, culture and stories alive.”

    Culture and the Arts Minister’s office – 6552 5400

    /Public Release. View in full here.