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

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence today 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-$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 will strengthen 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.

For more information or to apply, visit vic.gov.au/local-anti-racism-initiatives-grants-program. Applications close on Friday 16 April 2021