More than 25 community groups have been successful in the latest round of the Investing in Queensland Women grant program for 2021 and will share in $270,000 to drive community initiatives set to empower women.
Minister for Women and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Shannon Fentiman today announced the grant recipients alongside Queensland Rugby League (QRL) who received $10,000 to run an education program to dispel inappropriate behaviour and take a zero-tolerance approach to abuse and violence.
“We want to educate, inspire and encourage the community to respect women and girls, and embrace gender equality,” Minister Fentiman said.
“I am delighted to announce the successful recipients of the second round of Investing in Queensland Women recipients today.
“These grants will see successful applicants address a range of issues faced by Queensland women such as domestic and family violence, sexual violence prevention, respectful and healthy relationships, mentoring and leadership opportunities, career pathways into construction and women’s health.
“Following Queensland Rugby League’s announcement of pay equity for women State of Origin players last week, it’s great to see they will continue their work to support gender equality in our communities thanks to this grant.”
The QRL will use their grant to develop an awareness campaign as part of their Respectful Behaviours Framework which will be promoted across QRL networks and channels. The campaign will feature male and female legends of the game to spread the message that domestic violence will not be tolerated.
Queensland Rugby League CEO Rohan Sawyer said the QRL is grateful to the Palaszczuk Government for their support of our Respectful Behaviours initiative.
“As an organisation who work with many vulnerable communities, we recognise our role in advocating for and championing safe communities,” Mr Sawyer said.
“The funding provided by the Palaszczuk Government will support the development of an education campaign drawing awareness to the reality of Domestic Violence.
“Although our programs will be aimed at empowering individuals by creating a safe environment for potential victims, linking in with specialist networks, it is important to note we will hold space for and support individuals who believe they may be at risk of perpetrating.
“The QRL is committed to actively working with key stakeholders in our game to address Domestic Violence.”
Minister Fentiman Queensland women are looking to the government to invest in initiatives that address inequality, promote respect, and support women and girls to contribute and achieve – and that is exactly what this grant program does.
“Several projects look to raise awareness of the impacts of domestic and family violence and where to get support, while other projects focus on specific women’s health issues such as the promotion of activity for older women.
“Many of these initiatives also ensure that the unique needs of women from culturally diverse backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and the LGBTQI+ community are addressed.
“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to supporting and encouraging women and girls to participate in all aspects of society and see women empowered across the state.
“I want to congratulate all the successful recipients in round two and acknowledge their hard work in making Queensland a safer place for women and girls.”
Round two of the grant program sees initiatives being delivered across the State, including in the South East in Southport and the Gold Coast, South West in Longreach, Central in Bundaberg and Yeppoon, Northern and Far North Queensland in Cairns, Georgetown and Ayr.
Applications for round one of the Investing in Queensland Women grant program for 2022 will open February 2022.
