The Victorian Government is creating jobs by helping build, restore and enhance facilities where multicultural communities gather – to be enjoyed on the other side of this pandemic. 

Minister for Multicultural Affairs The Hon. Ros Spence MP and local Member for Bayswater, Jackson Taylor MP today announced that the Shree Swaminarayan Temple, in Boronia will receive $44,000 in funding to support refurbishment and upgrade of their Temple. 

That includes an upgrade to the kids play area outside, as well as safety bollards, a brand new floor finish, as well as a wholesale upgrade to their toilets, including completely replacing the all abilities toilet to ensure every visitor has the facilities they deserve. 

Today’s announcement is one of 36 infrastructure projects across the state sharing in more than $3.5 million in funding through the Andrews Government’s flagship Multicultural Community Infrastructure Fund and the Indian Community Infrastructure Fund. The projects will create local jobs while also helping Victorians feel connected to their cultural heritage in facilities that are safe, modern and inclusive. 

The Multicultural Community Infrastructure Fund grants will provide $1.1 million for 23 multicultural groups to upgrade their community facilities, with more than half based in regional Victoria. 

A further 13 infrastructure projects will share in $2.4 million through the Indian Community Infrastructure Fund – a key election commitment. 

$400,000 to construct the Sikh Community Gurmat Centre in Devon Meadows and $450,000 for another new Indian community centre in Wodonga. The community kitchen run by multicultural women at Wellsprings for Women in Dandenong will be renovated, while major works will also get underway at the Ballarat Welcome Centre, the Italian Social Club in Swan Hill and the Sunraysia Alevi Centre in Mildura. 

For a full list of successful recipients, visit: vic.gov.au/grants-support-multicultural-communities.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence 

“We know how important it is for multicultural Victorians to have a space to call their own – and that’s as important now as ever.” 

“While Stay at Home restrictions mean we can’t gather in person right now, this funding will help create safe spaces for community members to come together in a COVID-safe way, once we reach the other side.” 

Quotes attributable to Member for Bayswater, Jackson Taylor MP 

“Our community is a proud melting pot of cultures, with a rich history of helping each other out. Indeed, Shree Swaminarayan Temple has been teaming up with local charities to provide meals for those doing it tough during the pandemic.” 

“I’m stoked to have been able to help secure this funding for the Temple who are an absolute mainstay of the community in our patch.” 

“This will not only support the great work that they do in our area, but also create jobs for locals to deliver the needed upgrades.”