Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders is encouraging local not-for-profit organisations to apply for grants after the release of emergency funding to support vulnerable temporary visa holders and specialist migrant and settlement services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A total of $4 million will be distributed, on top of $2 million of quick grants already distributed to provide immediate emergency relief to asylum seekers.
“There are so many outstanding organisations that provide invaluable services for the vulnerable temporary visa holders in our community,” Mr Saunders said.
“I’m encouraging all eligible not-for-profit organisations to apply for this funding to support their vital emergency relief work in our community.”
Acting Minister for Multiculturalism Geoff Lee said vulnerable temporary visa holders have become increasingly at risk of destitution since the onset of the pandemic, as many are not eligible for Commonwealth support.
“We know that specialist migrant and settlement organisations have had to really step up in extremely challenging times to support some of the most vulnerable in our society with their most basic necessities,” he said
“The funding will provide a much-needed helping hand to provide emergency relief including food, medical support, telecommunications, transport and essential housing.”
Grant funding will also be available to support culturally appropriate case and support workers, transportation and outreach services to connect with isolated community members and interpreting and translation services.
Applications close at 9am on Monday 27 July 2020. For more information about the program, grant eligibility and application forms go to: https://multicultural.nsw.gov.au/grants-temporary-visa-holders