Slow start to support for Aboriginal cultural and visitors centre
The search for funding for an Aboriginal cultural and visitor center in the City of Cockburn continues after efforts so far have not received a positive response.
The city plans to build an $18.1 million center on Progress Drive in Bibra Lake as part of its reconciliation action plan.
It will include a cultural museum, arts and creative spaces, and host family and community programs.
The council spent $250,000 on a detailed design and at its February 10 meeting approved a $20,000 budget for an Aboriginal reference group to study design and cost options for the use of existing sites.
The City has been seeking funding from the corporate sector and State and Federal governments since 2021.
This included applying for grants from the Thriving Suburbs and Housing Support Program Community Strengthening Infrastructure programmes; but none of these were successful.
He also hosted target sponsors at events with follow-up emails and contacted more than 40 organizations in the city and surrounding areas.
“There is some interest in funding specific community programs in the short term, but no capital investment,” a city report said.
“The risk associated with securing funding for ACVC through advocacy remains a significant challenge.”
The low level of interest led to the city losing a $1.5 million grant from the Lotterywest COVID recovery fund awarded in 2021 because construction deadlines were not met.
It is hoped that the completed detailed design plans will increase interest in supporting the centre.
The city also launched a campaign. community campaign increasing support for the center as “more than just a building.”
“It will provide an experience that connects people with the stories and traditions of the Nyungar people in a meaningful and lasting way,” the campaign says.
“Under the guidance of Nyungar elders, the center was co-designed to honor this heritage with the shape of the turtle symbolizing connection with the land.”
The city will also look at what existing spaces can be used in the meantime.
“Creating a designated space within our existing buildings that can focus on these goals will demonstrate the importance of the ACVC project and create progress in building community connections and relationships to achieve these goals,” the report said.
