Dementia Australia builds dementia awareness in diverse community groups
Dementia Australia has today launched its new Diversity Small Grant program to help build greater awareness and understanding of dementia in Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities.
With applications open now until 11 October, Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and CALD organisations and groups are encouraged to apply for up to $30,000 in funding for activities to help create awareness about dementia in their communities.
The grants program has launched at a time when dementia prevalence rates among First Nations people are approximately 3-5 times higher than that of the general Australian population1.
As well it has been found that at least 28 per cent of people living with dementia in Australia were born in a non-English speaking country2.
Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said the new Diversity Small Grant program is an opportunity for communities to spread information and awareness about dementia in their local communities, their way.
“Dementia Australia is committed to working towards an inclusive future where all people impacted by dementia receive the care and support they need, in ways that are culturally appropriate,” Professor Buchanan said.
“We invite Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities to determine what activities will work best for their community to increase awareness and understanding of dementia and dementia-related supports.
“No matter who you are or how you are impacted by dementia, we want everyone to know Dementia Australia is here for you.”
Alongside up to $30,000 in funding, successful applicants will receive two complimentary professional dementia information sessions for their staff or committee members.
Dementia Australia will also remain available to provide support and guidance to the successful applicants. Grant applications are open until 11 October 5pm AEST.
1 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2024) Population health impacts of dementia among First Nations people
2 Australian Bureau of Statistic 2018 Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers
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Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for the estimated more than 421,000 Australians living with dementia, and the more than 1.6 million people involved in their care. We advocate for positive change and support vital research. We are here to support people impacted by dementia, and to enable them to live as well as possible. No matter how you are impacted by dementia or who you are, we are here for you.
For support, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. An interpreter service is available. The National Dementia Helpline is funded by the Australian Government.
Media contacts: David Gear, Media and Communications Advisor, 0427 204 297, David.gear@dementia.org.au
When talking or writing about dementia please refer to Dementia-Friendly Language Guidelines.
Note to Editors:
We request, where possible, details for the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 appear alongside news stories about dementia, as these stories often prompt questions or concerns:
If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, please call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or visit dementia.org.au.