Council for Australian-Arab Relations grants program

Today I announce the recipients of the Council for Australian-Arab Relations (CAAR) grants program for 2022-23.

The CAAR grants program aims to strengthen collaboration between Australia and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region by advancing areas of shared political, economic and social interest.

Projects under the CAAR grants program are focused on the areas of economic diplomacy and geopolitics, social cohesion and gender equality, sustainability and advocating for better health through support.

The projects also showcase Australian excellence and expertise.

The 12 successful projects for 2022-23, which will receive a share of $429,500 in funding, include:

• The Centre for Arab and Islamic Studies at the Australian National University hosting a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)-Australia Summit on decarbonising energy and agriculture.
• A promotional tour established by Indigenous fashion designers and creatives within the fashion sector and related fields, showcasing how culture and fashion fuse, and how unique Indigenous artwork can be transformed into beautiful clothing and accessories.
• A series of workshops hosted by Victoria University to identify practical solutions to prevent shrinking green zones and promote climate adaptive practices.
• A paediatric webinar series, through the Sydney Child Health Program, establishing partnerships between Australian and Middle Eastern healthcare professionals.
• Sport Inclusion Australia in partnership with the Asian Paralympic Committee, United Arab Emirates Paralympic Committee and Dubai Club for People of Determination based in Dubai developing a program that builds awareness of the options and opportunities for people with intellectual impairment across Arab speaking nations.

More information about the CAAR, the grants program and the full list of successful grant recipients can be found on the CAAR website.