FUNDING FOR NEW AUTHORITY TO DRIVE URBAN RENEWAL
The long-term challenge of reducing poverty and crime in two of Sydney’s most disadvantaged
suburbs is being tackled by the new Redfern-Waterloo Authority (RWA),
established on January 17 2005.
Minister for Redfern-Waterloo Frank Sartor today announced $7.18 million
will be made available in 2005-06 to run the RWA as it begins the task of
creating job and training opportunities, improving human services and renewing infrastructure
in the area.
From July 1 2005, the RWA will assume responsibility for the
Redfern-Waterloo Partnership Project from the Premier’s Department.
Since its establishment, the RWA has begun drafting the first stage of
the Redfern-Waterloo Plan, to be released for public comment later this year.
It is setting up three Ministerial Advisory Committees to review the
delivery of social services, jobs and enterprise, and the built environment.
The RWA recently signed a Jobs Compact with the construction union to provide
employment and training opportunities for young locals on State-owned building
sites, especially Aboriginal residents.
The RWA is also implementing a community consultation strategy that will
include regular newsletters to residents, quarterly community forums and smaller
community meetings on specific issues.
“This spending reflects the Government’s commitment to alleviating
entrenched social problems in the area,” Mr Sartor said.
“By working with the community, the Government aims to make a long-term difference
by revitalising Redfern-Waterloo and allowing local families to gain employment
and prosper.”