Sarah Oliver
Victoria’s acting health minister James Merlino announced today funding recipients of the $1.2 million Supporting Access to Vaccination for Priority Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities program.
The Brimbank and Melton Community Support group will share in the funding, alongside Le Mana Pasifika Project who have locations in Melton and Sunshine.
The program is designed to make access to vaccinations, appointments and combating misinformation easier for culturally and linguistically diverse and multi-faith people.
In total, eight community organisations will deliver tailored, in-language support, engage Victorians online and at shopping centres, and coordinate pop-up vaccination hubs.
“Whether it’s arranging childcare or transport for people needing to get to appointments, this will help overcome the practical barriers that some Victorians face to getting vaccinated,” Mr Merlino said.
Community organisations and neighbourhood houses are also encouraged to apply for up to $20,000 to help vulnerable Victorians overcome barriers to vaccination and tackle vaccine misinformation through the Local Community Access Grants Program.
These initiatives are part of a $21 million package to support Victorians who may face additional barriers to vaccination, including people living with disability, at-risk youth, seniors, culturally diverse and multi-faith communities, social housing residents and victim survivors of family violence.
