19 October 2006
The Victorian Government and Monash University have signed an agreement this morning to establish a Global Terrorism Research Centre at Monash University.
The $1.2 million centre will have a particular focus on building networks with similar international research centres to investigate the social forces behind terrorism.
It is part of $5.6 million of State Government funding to further enhance Victoria's capacity to fight terrorism.
The Victorian Premier Mr Steve Bracks said the establishment of the centre would allow Victoria to not only participate in, but lead research into terrorism.
"Countering the threat of terrorism is not just a law enforcement issue," Mr Bracks said. "It is much broader and involves all sections of our community.
"The Victorian Government believes that a strong and vibrant multicultural society, where there is respect and tolerance for others, has a key part to play in tackling the root causes of potential terrorism within our own society."
"Since 2002, the Victorian Government has been at the forefront of the fight against terrorism and has committed more than $250 million for initiatives to counter terrorism and other major emergencies," Mr Bracks said.
"It is imperative that our emergency services are well prepared, properly resourced and trained to deal with any critical incidents."
Monash Vice-Chancellor Professor Richard Larkins said Monash had the capability to contribute to the world-wide fight against terrorism.
"The issues surrounding terrorism are complex," Professor Larkins said. "This centre will contribute to knowledge about security and law enforcement, global terrorism networks, factors that motivate individual terrorists and identify the social, political and religious factors that encourage recruitment to terrorist organisations."
For more information contact Dr David Wright-Neville on +61 3 9905 2968 or Ms Robyn Anns, Media Communications on +61 3 9905 9317 or 0417 568 781.
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