More support targeted at multicultural communities is on the way for residents in areas hardest hit by New South Wales' deepening COVID-19 crisis
The NSW government has pledged a new support package of $18.8 million, which it says will be directed towards people suffering hardship in the local government areas of concern across Sydney's south and west.
Of the new money, $13 million is to be made available in grants for not-for-profit multicultural community groups and local councils. Community groups can apply for individual grants of up to $30,000.
The funding is intended to assist grassroots organisations and culturally-specific caseworkers deliver emergency food relief, promote COVID-19 testing and vaccination, and provide culturally-appropriate care.
“This is the largest package of funding delivered during this current outbreak which supports local organisations to help those who need it most,” Minister for Multiculturalism Natalie Ward said.
“We know these are incredibly tough times for vulnerable members of our community including recent migrants, young people and seniors.”
“This package responds to feedback from our daily discussions with community and religious leaders who have told us more support is urgently needed.”
The package also includes $4 million for ongoing multicultural communications, including interpreting and translation services.
More than $8 million has now been put towards efforts to translate coronavirus messaging, amid concerns misinformation has been circulating in these communities.
The NSW government has faced criticism for its heavy-handed response to curbing the virus in the LGAs of concern, many of which have large migrant populations.
Local mayors have voiced views their communities had been singled out by severe restrictions such as curfews.
Community groups have also raised concerns about the mental health and economic impact of recent measures in diverse, working-class areas with a higher population of refugees.
Vaccination access has also been an issue, though a vaccine blitz is now underway to close the gap in coverage between suburbs of concern and more affluent areas of Sydney.
Last month, the government pledged a $6.25 million package to assist temporary visa holders and asylum seekers.
NSW reported a record 919 cases of COVID-19 and two deaths on Wednesday.
SBS is providing live translations of daily New South Wales and Victoria COVID-19 press conferences in various languages.
