Tuesday, 20 October 2020

The Victorian Government is delivering on an election commitment by supporting multicultural media outlets with new equipment and ensuring communities – including in Gippsland– remain informed and engaged.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence and Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing announced today Gippsland FM Community Radio Society Co-operative Ltd, will receive $6300.00 to target the station’s expanding podcasts menu, in particular to support programming presented by multicultural youth.

Gippsland Community Radio is one of 43 multicultural media outlets in Victoria sharing in $500,000 through the Andrews Labor Government’s Multicultural Media Grants Program.

The grants – for new or upgraded office equipment, recording devices, editing software and the like – will help broaden the reach of multicultural media outlets while keeping Victorians connected to culture and community through the delivery of high-quality in-language news, information and entertainment.

This one-off funding round – a 2018 pre-election commitment – recognises the vital work of multicultural media outlets across Victoria in keeping culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities informed and supported.

The capacity to reach more people whilst fostering a greater sense of connection in communities has never been more important than during the pandemic.

The successful recipients showcase the diversity of the Victoria’s CALD communities and the value of staying connected while physically apart.

For more information, visit: vic.gov.au/2020-multicultural-media-grants-program.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence

“Accessing information in one’s own language has never been more important. This program enables our multicultural media outlets to strengthen their existing capacity and amplify their reach.”

“When many Victorians are missing family, friends and community, finding ways to ensure people from Victoria’s diverse communities can remain connected, informed and supported through staged restrictions is essential.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing

“Every Victorian deserves to stay connected and informed to news that matters to them – we know Gippsland FM is one of the many small media outlets that do this amazing work.”

“A big congratulations to Gippsland FM Community Radio for receiving funds through this stream – it’ll mean they can improve their reach, keep people informed and entertained.”