Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien is encouraging Wide Bay communities to apply for funding to help showcase the best of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and history during this year’s NAIDOC Week.

NAIDOC Week 2020 will be held from 8 to 15 November and the Morrison Government has opened a new NAIDOC local grants round with $1.4 million available to support local communities to host events and other activities during the week.

“Whether it’s a virtual event or an in-person event hosted in a COVID-safe manner, we know that all Australians are excited to start planning for NAIDOC Week, which this year provides a fantastic opportunity to showcase our resilience,” Mr O’Brien said.

“Butchulla, Gubbi Gubbi, Wakka Wakka and other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people play a vital role in the story of Wide Bay, and these grants will assist in enabling events to celebrate our proud history, share culture, and recognise and honour the contributions and achievements of Indigenous Australians.”

“This year’s theme, Always Was, Always Will Be, is an opportunity for all Australians to engage with Indigenous culture, gain a greater understanding of our nation’s shared history and celebrate the unique place Indigenous peoples have in our communities.”

“I encourage everyone to plan how they will get involved with NAIDOC Week and I’m looking forward to the unique events and activities that people will come up with this year to showcase the best of Indigenous Australia in a COVID-safe way.”

Information on the 2020 NAIDOC local grants round is available on the National Indigenous Australians Agency website, www.niaa.gov.au/naidoc, with applications closing 17 August at 7pm (AEST).

All applicants from the previous round that closed in March will be contacted by the National Indigenous Australians Agency and provided guidance on how to re-apply.

Events and information about NAIDOC Week 2020 will be posted to www.naidoc.org.au

WELCOME TO WIDE BAY

In the spirit of Australia, I acknowledge all citizens who contribute to making our nation the greatest on earth.

I acknowledge our defence force personnel, past, present, and emerging, for their service to our nation, and particularly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of Australia.

I also acknowledge the Australian taxpayers who, through their hard work, pay for the infrastructure, health, education, and emergency services that keep our proud nation healthy, safe, and prosperous.