Released 08/02/2018 - Joint media release
The ACT Government will support a series of events to celebrate Reconciliation Day, Australia’s first public holiday celebrating the culture, contribution and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Funding of $200,000, which is included in the upcoming Budget Review, will go towards a flagship community event, as well as community-led activities in the lead-up to Reconciliation Day on 28 May 2018.
The Reconciliation Day public holiday will be an opportunity for the Canberra community to come together in the spirit of reconciliation to recognise and celebrate the important place of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and history in our city and nation.
The Reconciliation Day funding provides $150,000 for an event or events on Reconciliation Day. A further $50,000 will support activities in the lead up to Reconciliation Day, enabling grassroots organisations to participate fully in the celebrations to ensure that Reconciliation Day in Canberra has a strong community focus.
The Reconciliation Day Grants Program will support events with a focus on:
- Promoting understanding and celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures
- Promoting understanding of the impact of past policies and historical events on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- Delivering opportunities for all Canberrans to be involved and to have the ability to participate in community events
- Developing seminars and panel discussions on the importance of Reconciliation for all Australians
A community-led Reconciliation Day Council will be appointed to oversee the program for Reconciliation Day and promote the importance of Reconciliation across the community.
If you or your organisation are interested in contributing to the celebrations of Reconciliation Day public holiday and helping our community come together on the road to healing, you are encouraged to apply for a grant.
Applications for grants open Monday 12 February and close at 5.00pm on Monday, 5 March 2018.
Applications can be submitted through the Community Services Directorate website from Monday.
- Statement ends -
Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases
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