Joint Media Release: Morrison Government supporting inclusive communities

The Morrison Government is supporting the Lebanese Muslim Association with $4 million in funding to help at-risk young people who might engage in anti-social behaviour or crime through early interventions such as counselling services, employment support and workshops.

Minister for Families and Social Services, Paul Fletcher and Liberal Candidate for Reid Fiona Martin announced the funding today at the Lebanese Muslim Association headquarters in Lakemba.

Mr Fletcher said the funding demonstrated the Morrison Government’s recognition of the importance of working closely with multi-faith, inclusive organisations like the Lebanese Muslim Association.

“The Morrison Government is committed to our successful interfaith and multicultural society and funding to develop understanding and a sense of belonging for all Australians is at the core of this project,” Mr Fletcher said.

Programs administered by the Lebanese Muslim Association are inclusive to the needs of the Australian Muslim community to strengthen social cohesion with the wider Australian community.

Ms Martin said The Lebanese Muslim Association has been servicing the South West Sydney community for over 50 years.

“Funding to this invaluable organisation in Western Sydney demonstrates the Morrison Government’s commitment to supporting a vibrant multicultural and understanding Australia,” said Ms Martin.

“The Lebanese Muslim Association aims to build a resilient and inclusive Australian Muslim community that has a positive and sustainable contribution globally to help Australians achieve their full potential,” Ms Martin said.

President of the Lebanese Muslim Association, Samier Dandan welcomed the support of the Morrison Government.  

“People from all cultures have so much to give to the values and stories that make up the fabric of our Australian family. The support from government to help build this future together is a commitment to create a better multicultural society and enables the Lebanese Muslim Association to continue building stronger, more cohesive communities for all who call Australia home,” said Samier Dandan.

This funding is part of the Morrison Government’s $14 million Social Cohesion Package developed to bring Australians together and supporting multicultural and faith-based communities.