The Andrews Labor Government has allocated $25 million over four years to develop a whole of

community approach to enhance social cohesion and community resilience to counter all forms

of violent extremism.

A Taskforce led by Deputy Premier James Merlino will be established with ministers across four

key portfolios – education, youth, multicultural affairs and police.

This initiative will employ both a whole-of-government and whole-of-community evidence-

based approach to address social cohesion, community resilience, marginalisation and

extremism.

Communities will be at the forefront in advising government policy and program development,

these must be community led initiatives, with a particular focus on youth involvement.

The Taskforce will also look at ways to combat racism and bigotry, with a focus on addressing

anti-Semitism and Islamophobia.

The Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Robin Scott, will facilitate action across government, and

in partnership with community groups.

Initiatives will be developed that support communities to address economic and social

disengagement that may lead to individual and community disengagement, anti-social

behaviour and extremism.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Robin Scott:

“The Taskforce aims to enable those at risk of marginalisation to gain a greater sense of

belonging and acceptance.”

“This initiative will employ both a whole-of-government and an evidence-based approach to

social cohesion, community resilience and addressing marginalisation and extremism.

“Community involvement in tackling violent extremism is essential, particularly when it comes to

engaging younger Victorians.”