The Andrews Government is supporting Ballarat’s Aboriginal community by boosting and investing in local infrastructure.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Gavin Jennings and Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison today announced that Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation is among eight groups across the state that will share in more than $3 million as part of the Aboriginal Community Infrastructure program.

Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation has been given $150,000 to upgrade and expand its Ballarat offices in Mair Street.

This is the third year of the program, which has invested $11.8 million to Aboriginal organisations so they can create culturally safe spaces and strengthen services.

Ms Addison said every Aboriginal Victorian deserves a space they can call their own and where they can be with others in their community.

“It is fantastic that Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation has been successful in this funding round to expand and modernise its headquarters here in Ballarat. They are a vital part of the local community and this will ensure their contribution continues for years to come,” Ms Addison said.

“This program is also a great example of Aboriginal organisations determining how they want to see key community infrastructure develop and grow,” she said.

Improving Aboriginal community infrastructure is fundamental to the pursuit of self-determination and helps organisations have a strong social, cultural and economic base from which to build their future.