The Abbott Government has put local multicultural groups in jeopardy, demonstrating once again that it has no interest in supporting projects that will foster social cohesion in our communities.

In Question Time today the Minister for Social Services, Kevin Andrews, revealed that all grants to multicultural groups under the Building Multicultural Communities Program, announced by Labor in Government and fully funded in the 2013-14 Budget, are facing the Abbott axe.

Shadow Minister for Citizenship and Multiculturalism, Michelle Rowland, said the Minister’s lack of regard for volunteer groups, cultural organisations and charities was disgraceful.

“It is outrageous that the Abbott Government has put these organisations on the chopping block,” Ms Rowland said.

“These organisations are often volunteer groups with little revenue raising capacity and are vital contributors to the community.

“Many of them have spent their own money and made plans based on notification of their successful grant applications.

“I will keep fighting for a guarantee from the Abbott Government that the funding awarded to these organisations will be honoured,” Ms Rowland said.

THURSDAY, 21 NOVEMBER 2013