THE Ballarat and District Aboriginal Co-operative has received $2.6 million for a new community village as part of a grant from the State Government.<\/p>\n
Comprising round two of the Regional Infrastructure Fund, the cash will see the construction of cultural spaces, a garden and large hall, and individual units fit for 16 Aboriginal elders.<\/p>\n
Minister for Regional Development, Mary-Anne Thomas, announced the funding on Tuesday at BADAC\u2019s community centre, and said the initiative is part of the State Government\u2019s commitment for the self-determination of Aboriginal people.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m very pleased that this $2.6 million will enable BADAC to create an independent living, culturally safe environment for local Aboriginal elders,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe want to ensure in partnership with BADAC that older Aboriginal Victorians are able to age in places that area culturally safe and appropriate environments, one that is designed by and for Aboriginal Victorians.\u201d<\/p>\n
The village will be located on Porter Street, to be constructed in collaboration with local elders, and CEO of BADAC, Karen Heap, said she has plenty of ideas for what the facilities will offer.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019ll have singles and couples units and a space for meals and activities, plus a caretaker and chef just to help maintain it, and I\u2019d like to start building this year,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe situation is definitely needed. We\u2019ve got some of our older people that need it now. I\u2019m really keen to try and ensure that they get into it before they pass. This has been a long time coming.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
THE Ballarat and District Aboriginal Co-operative has received $2.6 million for a new community village as part of a grant from the State Government. Comprising round two of the Regional Infrastructure Fund, the cash will see the construction of cultural spaces, a garden and large hall, and individual units fit for 16 Aboriginal elders. Minister […]<\/p>\n