Victorian government on a giving spree

A FLURRY of funding announcements by the Andrews-led government in Victoria have been made in recent weeks to various communal groups — and two more organisations can now be added to the list.

Significant grants have been awarded to Etz Chayim Progressive Synagogue in Bentleigh and St Kilda Hebrew Congregation (SKHC) from the Multicultural Community Infrastructure Fund.

State member for Bentleigh Nick Staikos visited Etz Chayim and announced a grant of $100,000 will go towards improvements to the synagogue building.

“We have a big and vibrant Jewish community in Bentleigh and I am proud that the Andrews Labor Government is making a contribution to them,” said Staikos.

“By working together with local multicultural communities, we can build a society where everyone belongs, feels accepted and can freely participate and contribute.”

His sentiments were echoed by Minister for Multicultural Affairs Robin Scott, who added that the funding will “strengthen community participation in our vibrant multicultural society, and have an enduring impact on the character and infrastructure of our state.”

The grant was gratefully received by Etz Chayim president, Maureen Barten.

“Etz Chayim has cultivated relationships with other local Jewish community service providers and looks forward to growing and expanding these relations, creating a thriving Jewish hub of activity in the southeast suburbs,” she told The AJN.

The announcement is further to $92,500 granted to St Kilda Shule to enable a kitchen upgrade in the Danglow Centre, and the renovation of toilet facilities to also serve those living with a disability.

The new kitchen will incorporate new appliances, stainless steel work surfaces and a more functional workspace; while the bathroom facilities will include the addition of a lifting machine, and will also offer a new access entrance into the foyer.

“We’re thrilled that the government has been so supportive of a multicultural Victoria and of us, in particular,” said SKHC CEO, Rabbi Ronnie Figdor.

“This year we have received three grants from the State Government; one from local government and two from philanthropic entities.

“It highlights the importance placed on a vibrant multicultural Victoria, as well as general enthusiasm for the role St Kilda Shule plays in the community,” he added.

REBECCA DAVIS