Students throughout Western Australia, from Albany to Exmouth and Fitzroy Crossing, are reaping the benefits of $796,000 in grants provided by the Partnership Acceptance Learning Sharing (PALS) program.

A total of 288 applicants have successfully secured funding for a variety of activities, which consists of storytelling, language instruction, theatre, dance, music, painting, and bush tucker gardening

The program is accessible to all primary and secondary schools, as well as kindergartens. Its objective is to cultivate a partnership between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal individuals founded on trust, respect, and understanding.

PALS operates on the principle that by promoting initiatives aimed at enhancing the teaching and understanding of Aboriginal cultures, achievements, and historical events within educational environments, a deeper comprehension of the experiences and diversity present in the Aboriginal community is fostered.

It emphasises the importance of accepting and respecting diversity while valuing Aboriginal viewpoints. Additionally, the program encourages learning about one another through the exploration of Aboriginal histories, languages, and cultures, and promotes a shared journey towards healing and reconciliation.

The categories for funding make of the arts, community engagement, connections to country and culture, the promotion of inclusive environments, as well as history and language.

WA Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Dr Tony Buti, encouraged all schools to apply for funding "to assist with their projects to foster partnership, acceptance, learning and sharing of Aboriginal cultures".

"It was pleasing to see such a strong response from schools throughout Western Australia and I'm impressed with the huge range of projects the Cook government has been able to support through these grants," he said.

"Participating in these activities promotes the journey towards reconciliation for all involved and also provides an important opportunity for Aboriginal students to see their cultures being respected, shared and celebrated."

The latest funding round is currently open for applications. Details regarding the recipients of grants and the application process can be found online.