The Australian Government is awarding an additional $8.4 million to a further 30 successful grant applicants under round four of the Safer Communities Fund, to protect children facing risks associated with racial and religious intolerance.

Assistant Minister for Customs, Community Safety and Multicultural Affairs, Jason Wood said the Safer Communities Fund was part of the Government's continuing commitment to keeping Australians safe.

"One way the Government helps make communities safer is through the provision of crime prevention and security initiatives such as CCTV, fencing, bollards and lighting," Assistant Minister Wood said. 

"Grants awarded under Round 4 of the Safer Communities Fund are for local councils, schools, pre-schools and community organisations looking to protect children at risk of racial and religious intolerance.

This funding is in addition to the $41.9 million already awarded under Round 4 of the Safer Communities Fund. Total funding under Round 4 of the Safer Communities Fund is $50.3 million.

"Since 2016, more than 496 projects have been approved for funding through the Safer Communities Fund," Assistant Minister Wood said.

Applications for grants to improve public safety and security are currently open for Round 5 of the Safer Communities Fund.

Further information about Round 5, including how to apply, is available at: GrantConnect www.grants.gov.au and www.business.gov.au