- The Partnership Acceptance Learning Sharing (PALS) program open for applications
- Almost $800,000 available in this funding round for WA schools and kindergartens
- Grants totalling $172,000 already approved, applications close on 8 May 2024
Advancing and promoting Aboriginal reconciliation in the community through Western Australian school and kindergarten projects is the aim of a Cook Government initiative which is currently offering a total of $799,000 in grants.
The Partnership Acceptance Learning Sharing (PALS) program is available to all WA primary and secondary schools and kindergartens.
The program aims to foster:
- Partnership between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people based on trust, respect and understanding;
- Acceptance of and respect for diversity and valuing Aboriginal perspectives;
- Learning more about each other through Aboriginal histories, languages and
cultures; and
- Sharing a common journey towards healing and reconciliation.
Two tiers of funding are available: individual grants of up to $2,000 and grants of up to $3,000 over two years. So far, 61 grant applications totalling $172,000 have been approved.
Categories include arts, community relationships, connecting to country and culture, inclusive environments, history and language.
More information on the program and how to apply is available on the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) website https://www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/funding/arts-funding/partnership-acceptance-learning-sharing-(pals)
Applications for the current round of funding close on 8 May 2024.
As stated by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Tony Buti:
"By supporting projects that enhance understanding of Aboriginal cultures, achievements, and histories in the classroom, we gain a deeper understanding of the experiences and diversity of Aboriginal people a key to recognising our shared histories and unified futures.
"The PALS grant program has been helping to advance reconciliation via schools and kindergartens since 2004. Last financial year, 435 projects were supported with total financial assistance of $719,500.
"I encourage schools and kindergartens to participate in this extremely worthwhile program and take advantage of the funding on offer. The benefits of expanding the knowledge of Aboriginal art, history, culture and languages among our young people are enormous, and contributes greatly to community harmony."
