The Victorian Government is providing grants to seniors from multicultural backgrounds to stay connected to culture and community to help community groups keep activities running.
Today, Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence announced that more than 900 multicultural seniors’ organisations will share in the $7.4 million over the next four years.
“It’s vital seniors can reconnect with their communities as we ease restrictions – whether through morning teas, gardening clubs or cultural events,” Minister Ros Spence said.
“We are giving back to the Victorians who built our state, so they can catch up with the people and activities they’ve missed,” Minister Spence added.
The government will provide up to $2,000 per year to support the delivery of in-person and digital activities by community groups.
It will include running costs for social and cultural activities, the purchase of equipment, and the development of in-person and remote support programs to build stronger community connections.
Organisations will also receive group personal accident insurance and public liability insurance to cover members and volunteers delivering programs and activities. Said support removes a potentially high cost for these local community groups.
Organisations that have been funded cover many communities across metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria. It includes the Frankston Filipino Seniors Support Group, Oakleigh Chinese Senior Club, Keon Park Greek Senior Citizens Club, Wangaratta Italian Pensioners Club and the Point Cook Indian Seniors Group.
The funding recognises the difficulties the pandemic has presented for multicultural seniors’ communities and the significance of social and cultural connections for maintaining resilience in challenging times.
“Remaining connected to culture as we get older is critical for keeping up mental and physical health – and we’re proud to support Victoria’s multicultural seniors with a strong sense of community,” Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers James Merlino said.
The government also encourages newly established multicultural seniors’ groups or those that did not receive a direct funding offer to apply online through the Multicultural Seniors Support program. Applications close 28 February 2025. For more information or to apply, visit: vic.gov.au/multicultural-seniors-support.
The funding provided to seniors from multicultural backgrounds is in addition to over $2.1 million that have been allocated through the CALD Communities Taskforce. It ensures multicultural seniors groups are equipped to continue supporting their members through the pandemic.
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