MICHELLE ROWLAND MP
SHADOW MINISTER FOR CITIZENSHIP AND MULTICULTURALISM
SHADOW ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR COMMUNICATIONS
MEMBER FOR GREENWAY
THE HON SHAYNE NEUMANN MP
SHADOW MINISTER FOR INDIGENOUS AFFAIRS
SHADOW MINISTER FOR AGEING
MEMBER FOR BLAIR
MEDIA RELEASE
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ABBOTT ATTACKS BLAIR COMMUNITY WITH CRUEL CUTS
Shadow Minister for Citizenship and Multiculturalism, Michelle Rowland and Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann today met with communities who have been impacted by the Abbott Government’s cuts to multicultural funding.
They visited the Riverview Neighbourhood House and the Ipswich Rugby League Club who between them were pledged $163,200 under the Building Multicultural Communities Program.
Ms Rowland said the Abbott Government’s decision to cut $11.5 million from the program was a disgrace and would have an adverse impact on the community.
“Tony Abbott has cruelly cut grants to organisations that work to maintain cohesive and socially inclusive neighborhoods across the country,” Ms Rowland said.
“The best way that governments can help build inclusive, harmonious communities is from the bottom up, by supporting grassroots programs like this.”
Mr Neumann said he was furious that these organisations have had their approved funding snatched away by the Abbott Government.
“These are two organisations that punch above their weight in terms of their contribution to the local community.
“North Ipswich Reserve, home of the Ipswich Rugby League Club, is an important venue for local and national sport – and the site of the city’s first-ever Rugby League game in 1909.
“And Riverview Neighbourhood House has a long history of providing activities and services for families from a variety of ethnic backgrounds.
“Riverview Neighbourhood House provided the only local place of refuge, relief and support for residents affected by the 2011 and 2013 floods,” Mr Neumann said.
“These are not wealthy organisations; these are not-for-profit community groups that desperately need this funding to deliver crucial services in our community.”
“We call on Mr Abbott to release the funds that have been approved to organisations around Australia and let them continue doing the great work they do in the community,” Ms Rowland said.
Ms Rowland also encouraged the community to send Tony Abbott a message about his cuts to multicultural organisations by visiting www.ISupportCommunities.com
Funding cut from Blair:
Ipswich Rugby League Inc – $30,000
Riverview Neighbourhood House Association Incorporated – $133,200
MONDAY, 7 APRIL 2014
