Refugees to get funding package

REFUGEE communities in Casey and Dandenong are set to benefit from a $140,000 funding boost.
The State Government funding will help residents from numerous nationalities and cultural backgrounds form stronger ties with their community by accessing local services and facilities.
The Minister assisting the Premier on Multicultural Affairs, John Pandazopoulos, announced the package in Dandenong last week as part of the State Government’s $4.7 million refugee support package.
He said the funding would help develop community leadership.
“The funding will be used to employ a broker to work with local refugee leaders to develop skills to strengthen their communities,” Mr Pandazopoulos said.
“Often refugee communities encounter unique challenges in accessing essential services from sporting clubs to childcare centres and this program is aimed at assisting communities to overcome these barriers.
“These strategies will also help refugees to build networks and become more connected with their local communities.”
Springvale Community Aid and Advice Bureau will implement the program in partnership with Greater Dandenong and Casey and refugee communities.
During the funding announcement Mr Pandazopoulos also presented 38 grants totalling more than $41,000 to multicultural groups based in Casey and Dandenong.
Groups to receive grants include the Berwick Greek Senior Citizens Club, the Casey Hungarian Senior Citizens Club, Corona Italian Seniors Club of Casey, Dandenong and Endeavour Hills Club de Los Abuelos: Italo-Spanish Inc and the Sri Lankan Elders Welfare Association.