A new project set to ensure access to safe and functional facilities to services for members of the Greek community is in the works.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Robin Scott announced on Monday that Fronditha Care will receive a $250,000 government fund for the development of a new Greek Community Centre in Mulgrave.
This funding will come through the Labor Government’s Multicultural Community Infrastructure Fund (MCIF), which supports Victoria’s Greek community to feel connected with their traditional culture as they participate in and contribute to the wider society.
“This funding will strengthen the Greek community participation in our vibrant multicultural society and have an enduring impact on the character and infrastructure of our State,” said Mr Scott said while visiting the Fronditha Care facility in Clayton.
“By ensuring diverse communities stay connected and have access to good facilities, we can create an inclusive multicultural society that every Victorian can be proud of.”
The plan for the new community centre, which includes several different activity areas and a spacious events room, has already been approved by Monash City Council.
“It will be an especially flexible space for the community, designed to cater to its different needs,” said Fronditha CEO George Lekakis.
“I hope that the Mulgrave centre will strengthen the community and become to cultivate and exchange ideas as well as hold amazing events.”
Fronditha Care’s Vice-President Faye Spiteri said the centre will be a permanent option for community groups.
“The support and commitment of the Victorian government is greatly appreciated and goes a long way to helping us establish a permanent centre to bring together the Greek and local community,” Ms Spiteri noted.
The announcement was welcomed by Member for Oakleigh Steve Dimopoulos who agreed that Greek organisations in Victoria will benefit from the development of this facility, with a new place to call home.
“We understand the growing needs of the Greek community and are delivering for the community,” he added.
Meanwhile, Member for Bentleigh Nick Staikos said that “We are supporting the development and expansion of multicultural infrastructure. This community centre will be a place where the whole Greek diaspora can come together and celebrate our states diversity.”
This project will ensure the Greek community will have access to safe, functional facilities to access services, participate in activities and share their vibrant culture with the wider Victorian community.
The centre is due for completion by 2019.
