The Victorian Government is giving Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) and Traditional Owner group networks the resources they need develop Aboriginal-led, culturally safe responses to coronavirus.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gabrielle Williams today announced an extra $23 million to support Aboriginal Victorians through the pandemic.

The package includes $10 million to establish the Aboriginal COVID-19 Response Fund, to give local organisations the funding they need to develop responses at a local level over the coming year.

The fund provides immediate support – including emergency relief, outreach and brokerage, social and emotional wellbeing initiatives – as well as cultural strengthening and celebration opportunities.

The package also includes $13 million over two years to meet an increase in ACCO service demand. This will provide support for Elders, homelessness services and stable housing, education support and resourcing for Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) to provide specialist health supports.

The funding supports self-determination by putting decision-making power back in the hands of Aboriginal communities.

Dedicated funding is also included for Registered Aboriginal Parties to ensure they have the technology and skills needed to continue working remotely and care for Country during the pandemic.

A COVID-19 Aboriginal Community Taskforce was set up in April to inform the Government’s coordination of services to Aboriginal Victorians, which includes ACCO and departmental representatives.

To support the community, the Government is providing $35 million for Aboriginal organisations to build, upgrade and maintain social and transitional housing, $2 million to ACCHOs in wellbeing and social supports, $287,400 in targeted business support and a further $100,000 to improve and create targeted health messaging.