The Andrews Labor Government is supporting self-determination by improving Aboriginal community facilities across the Peninsula.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Natalie Hutchins today announced a grant of $50,000 for the Aboriginal Corporation for Frankston and Mornington Peninsula Indigenous Artists and a grant of almost $33,000 for Willum Warrain Aboriginal Association.

Aboriginal Corporation for Frankston and Mornington Peninsula Indigenous Artists fosters emerging and established Indigenous artists in the Frankston and Mornington Peninsula area to support traditional artistic practices.

Today’s funding will be used to develop a business case to explore building a new cultural facility with galleries, offices and studio spaces to showcase Aboriginal Victorians’ art and cultural practice.

Willum Warrain Aboriginal Association provides a culturally safe space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to gather on the Mornington Peninsula.

The funding will be used for a verandah extension and other renovations that will improve safety and wet weather protection.

The grant is from the Labor Government’s Aboriginal Community Infrastructure program, which has invested $14.6 million to build new community infrastructure or to repair, refurbish or expand existing facilities.

This investment from the Labor Government is fundamental to the pursuit of self-determination and social and economic development for Aboriginal Victorians.

Funding for the second round of the program is now open. For more information or to make an application visit vic.gov.au/aboriginalvictoria

Quotes attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Natalie Hutchins

“Aboriginal organisations are doing a great job delivering front line services and the Aboriginal Community Infrastructure Program will support these organisations to grow and flourish.”

“Giving Aboriginal organisations like these funding to improve their facilities gives them the ability to control and plan for their own future. This goes to the heart of self-determination and helps close the gap.”

Quote attributable to Member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke  

“We’re supporting local Aboriginal organisations to continue rolling out the programs and services they deliver so well to the Frankston community.”