Queenslanders are encouraged to apply now for a share of the Celebrating Reconciliation Grants Program 2023.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Minister Craig Crawford said the $100,000 grants program will support events being held in or around National Reconciliation Week 2023.
"Reconciliation must be alive in our hearts, minds, and actions on the Path to Treaty in Queensland," Mr Crawford said.
"National Reconciliation Week's theme for 2023 is: "Be a Voice for Generations".
"It is an opportunity for all of us to learn about our shared histories and cultures, and how we can all contribute to a reconciled Australia.
"Grants of up to $3,000 will support local initiatives that bring together Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous peoples.
"These initiatives could include cultural displays, art exhibitions, story-telling, community activities and more."
National Reconciliation Week is held each year from 27 May to 3 June and commemorates two significant milestones in Australian's reconciliation journey—the successful 1967 referendum and the 1992 High Court Mabo decision.
Since launching in 2018, the dedicated grants program has supported more than 150 reconciliation initiatives in communities across Queensland, including a 2022 event run by the Gold Coast Titans Community Benefit Fund.
Titans General Manager of Community Renee Cohen said the grant supported a pre-game dinner for school students and guests involved in Titans Indigenous education programs, and a larger event held at CBUS Super Stadium.
"With more than 10,000 people in attendance, our goal going into the event was to educate as many people as we could through performances and speeches," she said.
"Community members and NRL fans told us they had learned more about First Nations history, which was a great outcome and exactly what we were hoping for.
"The Gold Coast Titans is committed to greater promotion and opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and supporting the community, so we were proud to have been able to host this event during National Reconciliation Week."
The Celebrating Reconciliation Grants Program is proudly funded by the Department of Seniors, Disability Services and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships.
Apply now or find out more at www.qld.gov.au/recgrants
Applications close next Monday, 16 January 2022.
