Major funding helps work against trafficking

26 October 2008 0 Comments

The following article was recently posted on the Catholic Religious Australia website. CRA is the peak body representing all Religious Congregations in Australia:-

Australian Catholic Religious Against Trafficking in Humans (ACRATH) has received a $250,000 windfall from the Federal Government by being named as one of four NGOs to share $1 million to support their work against trafficking in humans.

ACRATH, the Anti-Slavery Project, Project Respect and the Scarlet Alliance will each be granted $250,000 to provide vital outreach for trafficking victims and conduct education and awareness initiatives on people trafficking. The grants were announced the Minister for Home Affairs Bob Debus on Thursday, October 23.

The media release from the Minister’s office continued …

“It’s time to recognise the tireless efforts of these NGOs in the protection of victims of people trafficking and in raising awareness of the crime in the broader community.

“It’s fortunate that the number of trafficking victims in Australia remains low, but we must remain vigilant.

“NGOs have been making a valuable contribution and have lobbied hard for victims.

“This funding recognises the important work they do along with a number of Government agencies in developing Australia’s anti-trafficking strategy.”

The funding is being provided from confiscated criminal assets under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

In June 2008, Mr Debus convened the first National Roundtable on People Trafficking, which brought together for the first time more than 20 Government agencies and NGOs.

The Government will also approach legal education and training bodies, such as the National Judicial College, for assistance in developing resources to assist judges, prosecutors and jurors.