The Victorian Government is continuing to help Aboriginal communities deal with the coronavirus pandemic, with funding now available to develop local responses.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gabrielle Williams today called for expressions of interest in the $10 million Aboriginal Community Response and Recovery Fund.

Funds will be provided to give local organisations the support they need to develop responses at a local level over the coming year.

It will also provide immediate support – though emergency relief, outreach and brokerage, social and wellbeing initiatives – as well as cultural strengthening and virtual celebration opportunities.

Local Aboriginal COVID-19 Response Networks have been set up across the state to help identify local impacts and needs.

To be successful for funding, initiatives must respond to local issues and have the support of Aboriginal communities.

The fund is part of a broader $23 million package announced last month to support Aboriginal Victorians through the pandemic, which included $13 million over two years to meet an increase in Aboriginal community-controlled sector demand.

This will provide support for Elders, homelessness services and stable housing, education supporting and resourcing for Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations to provide specialist health supports.

Expressions of interest will close at the end of November. For more information or to apply visit: aboriginalvictoria.vic.gov.au/aboriginal-community-response-and-recovery-fund