THE HON MARK DREYFUS QC MP
Attorney-General
Minister for Emergency Management
Special Minister of State
Minister for the Public Service and Integrity
MEDIA RELEASE
Attorney-General commends community leadership during visit to Lakemba
Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus QC today visited the Lakemba Mosque to acknowledge the vital role of community leadership in building resilience to violent extremism.
During his meetings with community leaders, including representatives from the Lebanese Muslim Association, Mr Dreyfus also announced another round of grants in the Building Community Resilience program aimed at countering violent extremism.
The support and suggestions we receive from community leaders are very helpful, Mr Dreyfus said.
Community leaders not only provide advice and guidance to members of their community, but through engaging with the Australian Government they assist in the development of programs appropriate for their communities.
Community organisations like the Lebanese Muslim Association are delivering extremely worthwhile projects for their community. These include leadership and educational activities, supported by the Building Community Resilience grants program, which empower young people to engage with and contribute positively to Australian society.
As the Building Community Resilience grants program is a highly successful initiative, I am delighted that we will be launching another grants round in the coming weeks.
The grants program has already provided more than $4.1 million to support 50 diverse community-based projects across the country.
The grants program focuses on early intervention and aims to support community-based projects across Australia which build resilience to radicalisation and violent extremism.
"The Australian Government understands the threat violent extremism poses to the safety and harmony of our society. That's why the Australian Government is forging stronger ties and improving cooperation with communities throughout Australia to further the common aim of countering violent extremism.
The Government will continue to work with communities to strengthen our inclusive society, which values and respects people of all faiths and backgrounds, Mr Dreyfus said.
More information on the Building Community Resilience Grants Program and the funded projects is available at www.resilientcommunities.gov.au.
MONDAY, 29 APRIL 2013
