The networks, each made up of three or more organisations, seek to drive positive change for local children, families and/or young people, with a focus on supporting the First Nations and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities in this area of western Sydney.
The $4.2M in grant funding will help bolster their efforts in areas like breaking down barriers to education and employment for young people, fostering community art projects, resident-led advocacy, and increasing connectivity and opportunities for First Nations people.
PRF’s Chief Alliances Officer Liz Yeo said the grant program was designed to strengthen the collaborative efforts of community organisations, as they often provide the vital connective tissue required to achieve positive social change for people and places.
“As a place rich in cultural diversity, Mt Druitt has many examples of exceptional local leaders working together to achieve better outcomes for the people who live there,” Ms Yeo said.
“We’re delighted to partner with these community networks that are deeply embedded in Mt Druitt to support their efforts to build community connectedness and drive positive impact.”
The Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Brad Bunting said: “Mount Druitt is home to some of the most resilient and culturally diverse communities in Australia. This funding recognises the strength that already exists here, in our local leaders, our organisations, and our young people and gives them the support they need to go even further. Council is proud to be working alongside the Paul Ramsay Foundation and our community partners to back the networks that are driving real, lasting change.”
Each network will receive grant funding of $600,000 over three years. The Australian Centre for Social Innovation (TACSI) will partner with the Networks and PRF, acting as a neutral convenor to support annual gatherings of the networks, and foster conversation and collaboration.
Ms Yeo said funding networks was a new way of working for PRF, which brings with it the opportunity for learning.
“This approach will provide opportunities for PRF to learn how to successfully work with and support communities by strengthening existing community connections and enabling communities to imagine and lead their futures,” she said.
