June 2002

Drug projects strengthen ethnic communities

More ethnic communities will be better armed to prevent the vicious cycle of drugs through Government-funded projects tailored to local needs.

Health Minister John Thwaites said three of seven Statewide projects announced as part of the $5 million initiative would directly assist culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

‘Koorie, Greek and Vietnamese people, as well as young former refugees, will benefit from culturally-relevant Statewide projects designed and implemented by their communities.

‘Local communities are in a strong position to help prevent and respond to drug issues but do not always have financial resources to do so.

‘This initiative enhances their capacity to act positively.’

The Australian Greek Welfare Society, Australian Vietnamese Women’s

Welfare Association and Ecumenical Migration Centre of the Brotherhood of St Laurence each run Statewide projects under the Community Strengthening Initiative.

Four other Statewide projects comprise the Victorian Deaf Society, Whitelion, the Dardee Munwurro Drug and Alcohol Support Group and the Victorian Local Governance Association.

Overall, the Community Strengthening Initiative funds 76 projects across Victoria to undertake local cultural, recreational, creative and educational activities.

They build on existing infrastructure, have a strong focus on mobilising community support and participation and encourage local partnerships.

Mr Thwaites said the projects involved locals in community days, detailed drug prevention and education measures to seniors and encouraged the young from ethnic backgrounds to join positive sporting and recreational activities after school and on weekends.

‘The Government has no higher social policy than drugs and has committed $77 million to increase prevention, treatment, counselling and other drug services in Victoria.

‘Victorian communities know what the issues are in terms of drugs and they often know the best way to protect their children and young people.

‘Through this initiative, the Government is recognising knowledge vested in the Victorian people and is giving local communities an opportunity to put their ideas into practice.

‘The initiative is bolstering local communities' ability to find meaningful answers to drugs,’ he said.