SHADOW Minister for Citizenship and Communities Robert Furolo has urged NSW community organisations to immediately apply for Community Development Grants before the program is cancelled by the O’Farrell Government.

“Community Development Grant funding is available to not-for-profit and incorporated organisations for projects that promote harmony and mutual understanding – but I am very worried this funding will be cut in the upcoming June budget,” Mr Furolo said today.

“I urge community organisations across NSW to get in as quick as they can.”

Applications forms for Community Development Grants are available from the Communities Relations Commission website, www.crc.nsw.gov.au/services/grants.

The closing date for application is 27 April 2012.

“The Minister for Citizenship and Communities Victor Dominello has announced the creation of the Multicultural Advantage Fund – but we still await details of how it will work,” Mr Furolo said.

“I ask Mr Dominello – what are the new funding priorities? What changes will be made as to who is eligible for grants? What will happen to funding for existing community programs?

“Labor is determined to ensure the O’Farrell Government supports local ethnic organisations and allows them to continue their vital work.

“We will be watching carefully to ensure that the Multicultural Advantage Fund is not code for a funding cut.

“Today, I call on the O’Farrell Government to assure the hard-working community and ethnic based groups that their work to build social cohesion and support for new and emerging communities remains the top priority.

“NSW Labor has always recognised and supported multiculturalism. Strengthening our community through support for multiculturalism remains a core focus of the Labor Party’s identity – and always will.

“That’s why I’m encouraging applications from our diverse organisations for projects that strengthen harmony and support emerging communities.

“The O’Farrell Government must end the uncertainty and guarantee they will not cut funding to projects that support new and emerging communities.”