The Western Australian government has announced a half-million dollar investment in the strength, leadership and self-determination of Aboriginal community organisations.
Through Lotterywest, a $500,000 grant will support Koya Aboriginal Corporation to deliver the Djaling Koya (Listening to the Frog Call) Project, an initiative designed to strengthen the organisation's capacity and support its sustainable growth.
The project will help Koya build the foundations needed to continue delivering culturally grounded services and respond to the evolving needs of Aboriginal communities across Western Australia.
The state government said the funding would support work "helping create meaningful, long-term opportunities for Aboriginal children, young people and families".
The grant will fund initiatives including project staffing, governance and leadership development, community engagement resources, digital communications, monitoring and evaluation, a client relationship management system, and administrative support.
The government said the investment will improve organisational co-ordination, efficiency and strategic planning, enabling Koya to enhance program delivery, foster new partnerships and strengthen its advocacy for Aboriginal children, young people and families.
"By supporting Koya's long-term sustainability, the project will contribute to improved wellbeing, resilience and opportunities for Aboriginal families and communities throughout Western Australia," the government said in a statement on Thursday.
Koya Aboriginal Corporation is an Aboriginal-owned and led not-for-profit organisation based in Midland, in Boorloo/Perth's east. Established in 2004, the organisation delivers culturally responsive programs and services that support Aboriginal and vulnerable children, young people and families.
WA Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch said Koya has "a strong track record of delivering culturally safe and community-led services that make a real difference in the lives of Aboriginal children, young people and families".
"This Lotterywest grant will strengthen Koya's organisational capability, ensuring it has the staff, systems and governance structures needed to continue growing and responding to community needs," he said.
Mr Punch said the WA government is committed to supporting Aboriginal-led organisations "that empower communities and create opportunities for future generations".
"Investing in projects such as Djaling Koya reflects our commitment to recognising and valuing the cultural heritage, knowledge and leadership of Western Australia's Aboriginal people, while helping deliver lasting social and community outcomes," he said.
Since 2010, Koya Aboriginal Corporation has received four Lotterywest grants, totalling $978,515.
