$93 million allocated to extend hundreds of First Nations education programs

Over 220 organisations have welcomed the investment of more than $93 million by the Federal Government to extend a range of First Nations programs across early childhood, schooling, vocational education and training, and safety and wellbeing projects.

Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians Ken Wyatt 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.”

Under the Indigenous Advancement Strategy, 224 organisations will receive funding allowing them to plan and deliver 253 activities and services for First Nations 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,” the Minister said.

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.

Key investments include:

• $19.5 million for early childhood initiatives, including pathways to pre-school and facilitated playgroups, so that Indigenous children are ready to start school.
• $18.3 million for ‘away from base’ projects, providing access to a quality education for remote students.
• $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.

Ultimately, the Minister said, the funding allocations are about “better access and engagement, as well as wrap-around support to help our children succeed”.

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