15 October 2009
Australian Foreign Minister visits Salaam Baalak Trust
Today I visited a drop-in centre for street children run by the Salaam Baalak Trust in Mumbai.
Australia is supporting the work of Salaam Baalak through the Australian High Commission New Delhi’s Direct Aid program, with a grant of up to 10 lakh rupees ($30,000).
I also presented the children at the centre with soccer balls donated by Football Federation Australia who are heading Australia’s bid to host the 2018 or 2022 FIFA World Cup.
During my visit I had the opportunity to hear first hand from children who benefit from Salaam Balaak’s facilities and the care of the Trust.
Salaam Baalak has been providing care and protection to street children in Mumbai for 20 years. Salaam Baalak was established with the proceeds of Mira Nair’s famous 1989 film Salaam Bombay!.
The organisation currently provides aid for nearly 6000 children through various programs, shelters and activities in Mumbai and Delhi.
Football Federation Australia registered Australia’s formal bid to host either the 2018 or the 2022 FIFA World Cup in March 2009. A decision will be made by the FIFA Executive Committee in December 2010. The bid is a high priority for the Australian Government.