$93.4 million to extend hundreds of Indigenous education and wellbeing programs

Media release - Minister Wyatt

The Morrison Government is investing more than $93 million into 224 organisations to extend a range of Indigenous programs across early childhood, schooling, vocational education and training, and safety and wellbeing projects.

Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Ken Wyatt AM, MP, said the funding continues many successful programs that address essential service gaps and meet community needs.

“Our commitment to initiatives that help realise better outcomes for Indigenous Australians is unwavering – this funding will help deliver a raft of critical services, particularly to improve early life outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.”

“224 organisations will receive funding from the Indigenous Advancement Strategy, allowing them to plan and deliver 253 activities and services for Indigenous Australians.

“These projects will be predominantly delivered by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 70 per cent of funded organisations are Indigenous-owned, supporting the growth of sustainable Indigenous enterprises.”

Aligning with the calendar year, the majority of grants are related to children and schooling programs.

“This funding will be used across Australia to support young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children to become ready for school and to support Indigenous students to successfully engage in their primary and secondary education, post-school qualifications and progression into the workforce.

“It’s about better access and engagement, as well as wrap-around support to help our children succeed.”

Key investments include:

• $18.3 million for ‘away from base’ projects, providing access to a quality education for remote students.
• $19.5 million for early childhood initiatives, including pathways to pre-school and facilitated playgroups, so that Indigenous children are ready to start school.
• $25 million to improve school attendance and provide youth engagement programs.
• $22.1 million for wellbeing, mentoring and alcohol and other drug rehabilitation services to provide happier and healthier environments for families.
• $5.8 million for crime prevention, violence reduction and support for victims.