The Victorian government has declared goals to reduce racism and discrimination in policing, backing grassroots anti-racism initiatives and to support those subjected to it in a state-based, five-year strategy.

Announced on Wednesday, the 2024-2029 anti-racism strategy promises a range of actions, reforms, prevention efforts and reporting back to communities on progress made.

"Our consultations confirmed what existing research and data tell us. Racism is a widespread and common experience for First Peoples, multicultural and multifaith people in Victoria", the strategy document states.

The launch comes after the state government introduced the Justice Legislation Amendment (Anti-vilification and Social Cohesion) Bill into Parliament on Tuesday.

An advisory group to the Victorian Government, the 'Anti-Racism Taskforce' "recognised that First Peoples in Victoria face specific and distinct forms of racism," the strategy noted.

"The Taskforce understands that realising the right to self-determination is fundamental to addressing the racism First Peoples face. This strategy identifies the specific effects of colonisation on the First Peoples of this state."

In short, four goals with respective 'key areas for action' are oulined.

Goals include: Racist attitudes, behaviours and beliefs are recognised, challenged and rejected; Government services and workplaces are safe, accessible and non-discriminatory; Racism and discrimination are no longer barriers to participation, progress, safety and success across all sectors; People subjected to racism receive appropriate and culturally safe services and supports.

The strategy also identifies racism as a health and wellbeing issue, and an 'embedded' concern faced by First Peoples, multicultural and multifaith communities in the state within the justice system, acknowledging the overrepresentation Indigenous and some multi-cultural groups.

"At its worst, structural racism in the justice system can have devastating consequences for First Peoples – even leading to death," the strategy reads.

The government said $4 million allocated from the 2024-25 Victorian budget to Local Anti-Racism Grants will support the effort, including up to $150,000 available for organisations "to deliver programs and services that drive anti-racist behaviour".

The grant initiative signals "funding to reduce discrimination in policing", the Government said in a co-release.

"We will walk side by side with First Peoples to tackle racism as we move forward on the path to truth-telling and Treaty," Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins said.

Victorian Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt said: "We are taking action to make sure every Victorian feels safe, every Victorian is respected, and every Victorian can thrive in our state."

"Standing up to racism and discrimination is everyone's responsibility and it is only by working together that we can build a truly inclusive and equitable society," Minister Stitt said.