Minister for Family and Community Services, Kay Patterson, made the future of 106 Balinese child victims of the Bali tragedy brighter on December 4, 2003 when she handed over a cheque for more than AUS $35,000 to help them receive an education.
Funds raised will go to YKIP, which established the YKIDS Children’s Education Fund immediately after the Bali tragedy to help meet the educational needs of children who lost parents or whose parents were seriously injured in last year’s tragedy. There is no free education available in Indonesia and it can cost up to approximately $AUD400 to educate a student each year, including books and uniforms. “This is one of the positive stories to come out of the Bali tragedy,” Senator Patterson said.
“Centrelink has played an important role in helping Australian survivors and families of victims, both with support on the ground in Bali through social workers and through the Bali Hotline, administered by Centrelink to coordinate support for survivors and families of victims.
“I am delighted to have the opportunity to present the proceeds of the casual day to Ross Tysoe, who will ensure the funds are passed on to the YKIP/YKIDS Children’s Education Fund,” she said.
YKIP thanks all of the people of Centrelink for their generous contribution to this fund.
