The Victorian Government has launched a new initiative to combat racism and discrimination in communities across the state.

The government is calling for community-led projects, programs and initiatives that tackle racism and discrimination and also promote community harmony in communities across the state.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence has announced that applications are now open for the Local Anti-Racism Initiatives Grants Program 2021.

The new program recognises the central role grassroots organisations play in supporting the participation and inclusion of culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and in preventing and addressing racism.

Grants of between $50,000 and $500,000 are available for projects that promote understanding, inclusion and social cohesion.

A total of $3.8 million is available to deliver projects between 1 July 2021 and 30 June 2022 – either in-person or in a digital format.

The program is aimed at strengthening the capacity of local communities to report racism incidents, promote awareness and understanding of their rights, support those affected by racism and promote community harmony.

Through building the resilience and capacity of communities to engage in constructive intercultural and interfaith dialogue, the program aims to provide a crucial way to address local challenges to social cohesion.

It will also support the development and distribution of anti-racism resources within local community infrastructure to reach broad and diverse audiences.

Minister Spence said that program was aimed at the community level where most racism takes place.

“We’re giving local communities the power and funding they need to develop local programs and initiatives that combat racism in our community – because discrimination and hate-speech has no place in Victoria,” Minister Spence said

“Just as we need to stick together through the pandemic, we need to stick together through the recovery – that’s why we’re investing in local projects that make Victoria stronger, fairer and more inclusive,” she said.

Acting Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Ingrid Stitt said indigenous Australians also faced acts of racism.

“Unforgivably, Aboriginal Victorians still face racism in our community – that’s why we’re funding programs like this, and why we established the Yoo-rrook Justice Commission as part of our landmark Treaty process,” she said.

For more information or to apply, visit https://www.vic.gov.au/local-anti-racism-initiatives-grants-program

 Applications close on Friday 16 April 2021.