Federal Member for Maribyrnong, Bill Shorten is encouraging Local community organisations from Maribyrnong to apply for funding through the latest round of Multicultural Youth Sports Partnership Program.

The Gillard Government’s Multicultural Youth Sports Partnership Program provides grants of between $5,000 and $50,000 to organisations to help youth from new and emerging communities and culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to participate in sport within their local communities.

“Sport plays an important part of Australian society, and as a Government we want to help local sporting organisations better connect with new and emerging communities,” Mr Shorten said.

“Through this program we are helping refugees and new migrants to better understand Australian culture through sport.”

Last year, Sunshine Heights Cricket Club was successful in receiving a grant through the Multicultural Youth Sports Partnership and has helped young people enjoy cricket.

“Sport is a fabulous driver for building participation and inclusion for young Australians from diverse backgrounds – and this is so very clear here in Maribyrnong.

“The Multicultural Youth Sports Partnership will continue to play an important role in helping these young people participate in their local communities through sport.”

Applications are now open for the next round of Multicultural Youth Sports Partnership program. Applications close on 2 May 2013 and successful applicants will be announced in July 2013.

For more information about the grants, visit www.ausport.gov.au

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