10 April – Member for Parramatta Julie Owens today announced that 11 local organisations will receive $933,369 in Government funding to assist refugees and migrants become self-reliant and settle in the Parramatta region.
A total of 11 projects will be funded under the Gillard Government’s Settlement Grants Program, which aims to help refugees and migrants become independent, acquire crucial skills and knowledge about life in Australia and contribute to the national economy.
Organisation and their Funding
Asian Women at Work Inc $53,745
Philippine Australian Community Services Inc $75,000
SydWest Multicultural Services Inc $64,300
Iranian Community Organisation $89,914
Sydney Anglican Home Mission Society Council $222,677
The Hills Holroyd Parramatta Migrant Resource Centre $64,300
Auburn Diversity Services Incorporated $64,300
Assoc of Bhanin El Minieh – Aus Arabic Community Welfare Centre Inc $75,000
Auburn Youth Centre $93,820
Australian Afghan Hassanian Youth Association Incorporated $80,313
Great Lakes Agency for Peace and Development International $50,000
TOTAL: $933,369
“I am delighted that these local organisations will receive federal funding to provide practical assistance to help our newest community members,” Ms Owens said.
“The Gillard Government recognises the important role community organisations play helping migrants and refugees settle as quickly as possible and build rewarding lives in Australia.
“These projects will provide new arrivals with the tools they need to become self-reliant and successfully settle in our community.”
“These comprehensive services will assist refugees and migrant families strengthen their connection to the wider Australian community and encourage participation, engagement and inclusion,” Ms Owens said.
“The funding will allow these organisations to offer information sessions and cultural orientation programs on topics such as Australia’s legal system, housing, parenting practices, intergenerational issues and financial management to assist new and emerging communities.
Funding through the Settlement Grants Program is aimed to assist refugees, family sponsored migrants and the dependents of those on skilled migration visas with low levels of English.
During the 2013-14 financial year the Gillard Government is providing a total of $41.3 million to support new migrants and refugees through the Settlement Grants Program. This includes $1.39 million in funding to support the implementation of recommendations of the Report of the Expert Panel on Asylum Seekers.
A complete list of successful applicants in the 2013-14 funding round is available on the Department of Immigration website http://www.immi.gov.au/living-in-australia/delivering-assistance/settlement-grants/funded-orgs.htm