The Albanese Government has announced $2.2 million in funding for Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations in Dubbo, supporting efforts to reduce the number of First Nations children in the child protection system, end gender-based violence and keep women and children safe.
As part of the Closing the Gap Outcomes and Evidence Fund five local organisations will be funded to trial new approaches to deliver outcomes on key Closing the Gap targets.
The organisations being funded are:
- Talbragar Wiradjuri Aboriginal Corporation to deliver a cultural mentoring program to Aboriginal children in out of home care.
- Dinawan’s Connection to deliver culturally immersive programs to First Nations children and families that have experienced intergenerational trauma.
- Bunmabunmarra Services to deliver prevention and early intervention programs, including group support sessions on topics such as healthy relationships, communication and emotional regulation, as well as individualised and targeted supports.
- Multi-Purpose Allira Gathering Association Inc to provide families with community development opportunities, education and connections to further support to break the cycle of disadvantage.
- Oyster Tribe Aboriginal Corporation to deliver a series of education workshops on the child protection system, providing knowledge and support to help promote self-determination and empowerment of First Nations families.
The Assistant Minister for Social Security, Ageing and Women Kate Thwaites said local, on-the-ground services were crucial in making progress in Closing the Gap.
“The Albanese Government is committed to working alongside local organisations to close the gap.
“This funding will help local organisations to reduce the rate of children in out of home care, and reduce family violence.
“First Nations children are almost 12 times more likely to be in out-of-home care or connected to the child protection system. Our Government is supporting organisations here in Dubbo to make a practical difference to children’s lives.
“First Nations women and children deserve to be given every opportunity to experience an environment free of violence, abuse and neglect. We want communities to get the support they need to feel safe and connected to culture.”
The Fund is a program for First Nations people, organisations and communities to co-design, trial and evaluate projects aimed at contributing to Closing the Gap Targets 12 and 13 and improve the evidence base for the Australian Government and First Nations people.
More information about the Fund is available on the Department of Social Services website.
More information on the National Agreement on Closing the Gap and its targets is available on the Closing the Gap website.