The NSW government will provide resources for transport providers and the indigenous community to coordinate new culturally based services
July 2, 2010
The NSW government has committed $190,000 for a state-wide transport initiative to help Aboriginal people attend events of cultural significance.
Transport Minister John Robertson says it’s important Aboriginal people living in remote areas have access to transport to get to and from culturally significant events.
“This is especially important when it comes to funeral services, especially those of Elders,” he says.
Robertson says there is a range of other events significant to Aboriginal people.
“This project is designed to help communities access transport to get to and from these celebrations.”
He says the project is a catalyst for local organisations and transport providers to develop transport policies to address the needs of local communities.
“This project will engage and empower local communities and provide the opportunity for skills development in the coordination of transport for the community.”
NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Paul Lynch says a number of community organisations will be contributing funding and in kind support for the project.
“There are a lot of people behind this initiative,” he says.
Coordinated by the Disability and Aged Information Service Inc, the project starts in August with initial funding for the next 18 months.