'We Are Queensland' campaign aims to prevent extremism

The Queensland government has announced a new advertising campaign designed to stop radicalisation and encourage minority communities to integrate into society

Still from the We are Queensland campaign

Still from the We are Queensland campaign Source: SBS

The Queensland government has unveiled a multi-media campaign to encourage minority communities in the state to better integrate and avoid radicalisation.

The We Are Queensland campaign features young Queenslanders from different backgrounds and cultures, and will cost $7.4 million over four years, on top of the $5 million already allocated to "social cohesion" programs.

Multicultural Affairs Minister Grace Grace said the government consulted with multiple minority communities about the campaign, and believed it would go a long way towards reducing the isolation of young people in those communities from society.
"What we want to do is ensure this reaches out as far as possible, and that those who may feel isolated or a bit marginalised have the opportunity to come out, be connected with the community," Ms Grace told reporters on Sunday.

"We are getting wonderful advice and information from local leaders in our community, these ads will reflect what they are saying."

Opposition spokesman Ian Walker said the campaign was a good idea in theory but it remained to be seen whether it would be effective in practise.

"I think we're a bit doubtful that a television ad will touch the heart of a hardened terrorist, but let's wait and see," Mr Walker said.

"The important thing is the steps Labor actually takes in the community, to ensure people are actually safe in their communities."

In addition to the campaign, community groups can access grants of between $5,000 and $20,000 from next month for their own programs to encourage community engagement.

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Source: AAP



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