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GEIFN | CONSOLIDATED | Community Information | Monday 1 April 2024

Fast Facts: Community Responses Victoria & Australia

In This Section

  1. Highlighting
  2. Granting
  3. Employment & Training
  4. Engaging
  5. Collectivising
  6. Announcing
  7. Supporting
  8. Acknowledging

 1. HIGHLIGHTING 

In this Section

      1. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural Festival and Events (MFE) Program | applications close 3pm Friday 19 April 2024
      2. MELB | NGVA | EXHIBITING | Wurrdha Marra – Many Mobs
       

       1.1  VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural Festival and Events (MFE) Program | applications close 3pm Friday 19 April 2024

      [Edited extract from public address]
      Department of Premier and Cabinet's Multicultural Affairs' Grants of up to $50,000 available to support multicultural festivals and events
      Supporting multicultural festivals and events, the program offers grants of up to $50,000 for Not-for-profit groups to deliver events that celebrate community connection, culture and social cohesion. 

       1.2  MELB | NGVA | EXHIBITING | Wurrdha Marra – Many Mobs

      Welcome to Wurrdha Marra – meaning ‘Many Mobs’ in the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung language. 
      The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia (NGVA) is a home to Australian art, presenting First Nations and non-First Nations art from historical to present day. The name comes from the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, supporting the purpose of this space in sharing the work of First Nations artists, from emerging to senior figures, and across time and place. 

      For First Nations peoples around the world, art and design are part of a continuum where the past intersects with the present, different materials converge, and diverse perspectives come together. The central role of art in passing down important cultural knowledge is celebrated in this display through the diverse approaches that artists take to maintaining and regenerating customary cultural practices and iconography while also creating new forms of expression.

      Wurrdha Marra is a dynamic exhibition space in which familiar works from the NGV’s collection of First Nations Australian art and design are displayed alongside new acquisitions. Presented through a series of changing thematics, the works on display offers a series of visual dialogues as a way to explore how parallel innovations and continuities can continue to inspire new ways of thinking about art.

      The works included in this inaugural hang are by emerging artists as well as senior figures across both time and place. Each of these artists has in their own way been at the forefront in creating new forms of expression, and in maintaining and regenerating customary cultural practices and iconography. Great individual artists, working in Aboriginal-owned art centres or independently after studying at art school, continue to shape and transform art in Australia, inspiring many others to follow their example.
      • Read More
      • Where: NGV Australia (NGVA), The Ian Potter Centre, Fed Square, Melbourne
      • Cost: Free entry
      • Bookings: no booking required. Now showing 10am–5pm daily


       2. GRANTING 

      In this Section

        1. CoPP | GOV | GRANTING | Community Grants Program | applications close midnight Thursday 4 April 2024
        2. CoPP | GOV | GRANTING | Cultural Development Fund (CDF) – Festivals and Events | applications close midnight Thursday 4 April 2024
        3. CoPP | GOV | GRANTING | Cultural Development Fund (CDF) – Projects | applications close midnight Thursday 4 April 2024
        4. CoPP | GOV | GRANTING | Love My Place (LMP) | applications close midnight Sunday 7 April 2024
        5. VIC | SEWA | GRANTING | South East Water Community Grants | applications close Friday 12 April 2024
         

         2.1  CoPP | GOV | GRANTING | Community Grants Program | applications close midnight Thursday 4 April 2024

        Community grants support eligible community groups and organisations to apply for funding City of Port Phillip (CoPP).
        For projects and programs that strengthen capacity, encourage social connection, address health and well-being inequities, enable access and inclusion for diverse communities, and support sustainability initiatives.

        Who should apply
        Incorporated community groups and not-for-profit organisations that offer projects and programs that benefit communities in Port Phillip.

        Points of difference from other grant programs
        This program funds projects and programs that strengthen capacity, support social connection, address health and well-being inequities, increase access and inclusion for diverse communities, and support sustainability initiatives. 

         2.2  CoPP | GOV | GRANTING | Cultural Development Fund (CDF) – Festivals and Events | applications close midnight Thursday 4 April 2024

        Supporting artists, arts and cultural organisations and creative community projects in the City of Port Phillip (CoPP).

        Who should apply
        Arts, cultural or community-based not for profit organisations. Organisations from outside City of Port Phillip may apply if the festival or event is held in the City of Port Phillip and engages with Port Phillip participants and community.

        Points of difference from other grant programs
        CDF is specifically for events and festivals within the City of Port Phillip. Its main goals are to engage the community, promote social connections, and drive local economic benefits. While LMP might also fund events and festivals, its primary focus is on experimenting with public space, rather than solely supporting events. 

         2.3  CoPP | GOV | GRANTING | Cultural Development Fund (CDF) – Projects | applications close midnight Thursday 4 April 2024

        Supports artists or arts and heritage organisations to create new art in the City of Port Phillip (CoPP) that connects with our community and celebrates the creativity of our City.

        Who should apply
        Local artists and art and heritage related organisations.

        Points of difference from other grant programs
        While the CDF – Festivals and Events is specifically for events and festivals, the CDF – projects supports the development of artistic project in our community. We do this by helping artists and groups create projects in the City of Port Phillip, supporting learning and teamwork by providing mentoring, forming partnerships, and getting people involved in the arts, making sure people of all ages and backgrounds are included, bringing our whole community together and bringing more art and culture to our streets and neighbourhoods. 

         2.4  CoPP | GOV | GRANTING | Love My Place (LMP) | applications close midnight Sunday 7 April 2024

        Love My Place grants help make public spaces livelier and more useful for the community and local businesses inCity of Port Phillip (CoPP).

        Who Should Apply
        For-profit businesses, artists and sole traders based in Victoria who can enliven local spaces in Port Phillip.

        Points of difference from other grant programs
        LMP is focused on experimenting with how public spaces can be used creatively to support high streets and centres of activity. 

        It supports a wide range of projects like experimental projects within the public realm, public space improvements, including landscaping, amenity, play and gathering spaces, creative lighting installations, including projections, public art installations, creative events and music projects that prioritise place or place activation. 

         2.5  VIC | SEWA | GRANTING | South East Water Community Grants | applications close Friday 12 April 2024

        South East Water (SEWA)’s annual Community Grants program is now open, with grants of up to $10,000 available to help local groups make community projects possible.
        Now in its fifth year, the program has granted over $320,000 to 66 community groups across Melbourne’s south-east, helping to make local communities better places to live.

        This program opened Monday 4 March. You can apply for a grant between $500 and $10,000.


         3. EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING 

        In this Section

            1. VIC | VOVI | TRAINING | Building an Inclusive Volunteer Program | Tuesday 16 April 2024 | 9.30am–12.30pm
            2. VIC | GOV | BOOSTING | Local tech workforce
            3. VIC | GOV | CALLING | Women in sports media program | applications now open
            4. CoPP | PPLS | SUPPORTING | Finding Jobs Advice from Killara
             

             3.1  VIC | VOVI | TRAINING | Building an Inclusive Volunteer Program | Tuesday 16 April 2024 | 9.30am–12.30pm

            Volunteering has a powerful impact when it is accessible to all and reflects our diverse communities. However, developing and maintaining a truly inclusive volunteer program can be challenging.
            An interactive workshop by Volunteering Victoria (VOVI) provides participants with the skills and knowledge needed to recruit, engage, and retain a diverse team of volunteers, including reviewing organisational procedures and workplace culture. 

            Learning outcomes:
            • Review organisational procedures to identify opportunities for promoting inclusion in volunteering
            • Reflect on workplace culture and inclusion
            • Identify and develop strategies for promoting diversity and inclusion in volunteering.
             

             3.2  VIC | GOV | BOOSTING | Local tech workforce

            The Victorian Government’s Digital Jobs program is building the state’s digital workforce by training and upskilling mid-career Victorians so they can transition into digital careers.  

             3.3  VIC | GOV | CALLING | Women in sports media program | applications now open

            Applications are now open for the 2023‑24 Change Our Game Women in Sports Media Program. This program is designed to provide women who are interested in sports media the knowledge, skills and industry contacts to progress their careers in this industry. 

             3.4  CoPP | PPLS | SUPPORTING | Finding Jobs Advice from Killara

            Come along to Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) and meet James from Killara, who can help you to find work. James can help you find work and access to a range of services. He can provide information, advice, and support in person, online, and on the phone.


             4. ENGAGING 

            In this Section

                1. VIC | AAV | CREATING | Future Reset - Maker Space
                2. CoPP | MYYS | GATHERING | School Holiday Programs in Port Phillip | Friday 29 March–14 April 2024
                3. CoPP | S2b | WORKSHOPPING | Japanese Sashiko Workshop | Saturday 6 April 2024 | 10.30am-12.30pm
                4. CoPP | S2b | WORKSHOPPING | Paper Mache – 6 week Art Course | Mondays beginning 8 April 2024 | 11am-12.30pm
                5. CoPP | CCM | GATHERING | Neighbour Connect Program for Over 55s | Weekly starting Monday 8 April 2024 | Mondays 12noon–1.45pm
                6. CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Memoir writing with Author Susan-Gaye Anderson | Monday 8 April 2024 | 6.30–7.30pm
                7. CoPP | PPLS | TRAINING | Introduction to iPad Workshops | Weekly on Tuesdays (9 April–30 April 2024) | 10.30am–12noon
                8. MELB | EQPR | REMINDING | Last call to apply and be part of the LGBTIQA+ Leaders Summit | applications close Monday 15 April 2024
                9. CoPP | PPLS | TRAINING | Can You Spot a Scam? Be Connected Seminar | Tuesday 16 April 2024 | 3–4.30pm
                10. CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | "Life skills for a broken world" with Author Dr. Ahona Guha | Tuesday 16 April 2024 | 6.30–8pm
                11. VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Not before Time, Lived and Living Experience-led Justice and Repair | Wednesday 17 April 2024 | 3–4pm
                12. CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | With Authors Jacinta Halloran & Leah Kaminsky | Wednesday 17 April 2024 | 6.30–7.30pm
                13. CoPP | PPLS | GATHERING | Writeability Goes Local: Port Phillip Writers Group | Monthly sessions, beginning Friday 19 April 2024 | 12.30–2pm
                14. CoPP | GOV | HEARING | Your say: Port Phillip Housing Strategy | submissions close 19 April 2024
                15. AUST | TJP | GATHERING | Trans Justice Strategy Retreat | 19–21 April 2024
                16. CoPP | GOV | ADAPTATION | Preparing for climate change over a board game | Saturday 20 April 2024 | 10am–2pm
                17. CoPP | PPLS | MAKING | Seed Balls Workshop with Emma Grace | Saturday 20 April 2024 | 11am–12.30pm
                18. MELB | BACC | EXHIBITING | Unfinished Business | on now, until Tuesday 21 April 2024
                19. CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Heritage with Author Will Spokes | Tuesday 23 April 2024 | 6.30–7.30pm
                20. VIC | VTMH | WORKSHOPPING | Recovery and Diversity: Approaches to Cultural Assessment and Supporting Personal Recovery | Wednesday 24 April 2024 | 9.30am–4pm
                21. CoPP | S2b | WORKSHOPPING | Spil'no (Together) Embroidery Masterclass | Saturday 27 April 2024 | 11am-1pm
                22. CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Nature Strip Gardening with Emma Cutting | Emerald Hill Tuesday 30 April 2024 | 12noon–1.30pm | & | St Kilda Thursday 9 May 2024 | 6–7.30pm
                23. CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Heritage with Author David Radcliffe | Tuesday 30 April 2024 | 6.30–7.30pm
                24. MELB | EQPR | DEVELOPING | Your Adaptive Leadership Capacity | 28-30 May 2024
                25. VIC | VTMH | TRAINING | Mental Health and Cultural Diversity Community of Practice | Registrations open for 2024 | next session Wednesday 29 May 2024
                26. AUST | EQPR | GATHERING | Better Together 2024 | Friday 14–Saturday 15 June 2024
                 

                 4.1  VIC | AAV | CREATING | Future Reset - Maker Space

                Arts Access Victoria (AAV) offers Future Reset – Maker Space is a year of free in person and online visual and digital arts workshops and is for young Deaf and Disabled people aged 18–25 who live in Victoria. Beginners welcome!
                This is a safe space for making art, socialising and creating community with peers. Workshops in visual and digital arts, professional development and free studio time, led by Deaf and Disabled artists.

                All workshops are Auslan interpreted. Make 2024 a year of creativity and meeting new people.



                 4.2  CoPP | MYYS | GATHERING | School Holiday Programs in Port Phillip | Friday 29 March–14 April 2024

                Did someone say songwriting, mini-golf and go karts for ages 13-18?
                This school holiday program courtesy of Port Phillip Middle Years and Youth Services (MYYS) is one to share. 

                 4.3  CoPP | S2b | WORKSHOPPING | Japanese Sashiko Workshop | Saturday 6 April 2024 | 10.30am-12.30pm

                Back by popular demand!
                Come and join Japanese sewer Maoko Carroll, who will be running a Sashiko sustainable sewing workshop at Space2b Social Design (S2b). 

                Spend some time with like minded people, learn how to mend your garments and feel connected with the community. 
                • Where: Space2b Social Design, 144 Chapel St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
                • Cost: AU$95.00 (2 hours)
                • Bookings: essential. Online via Space2b 

                 4.4  CoPP | S2b | WORKSHOPPING | Paper Mache – 6 week Art Course | Mondays beginning 8 April 2024 | 11am-12.30pm

                Learn the art of paper mache with Iranian artist Leila Ashtiani at Space2b Social Design (S2b).
                This unique art method will teach you how to create 3-dimensional sculptural art forms using recycled papers such as card board egg cartons. Leila will take you through the process step-by-step to create your very own master piece!
                • Where: Space2b Social Design, 144 Chapel St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
                • Cost: AU$240.00 (2 hours x 6 Weeks)
                • Bookings: essential. Online via Space2b
                 

                 4.5  CoPP | CCM | GATHERING | Neighbour Connect Program for Over 55s | Weekly starting Monday 8 April 2024 | Mondays 12noon–1.45pm

                Neighbour Connect is a free weekly social event by Christ Church Mission (CCM), including an organised activity and informal lunch for elderly residents in the City of Port Phillip. 
                The regular interaction increases participants’ social inclusion and improve their health by reducing their social isolation, creating positive community connections, and improving their nutrition.  
                • Where: Christ Church Community Centre (CCCC), 14 Acland Street, St Kilda
                • More information: phone 9534 9250
                 

                 4.6  CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Memoir writing with Author Susan-Gaye Anderson | Monday 8 April 2024 | 6.30–7.30pm

                Have you ever thought, "I must write my life story one day"?
                A memoir is not just a record of the past; it's a priceless gift to your loved ones, preserving memories for generations to come.

                Now is your chance to turn that aspiration into reality! Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) for an inspiring talk with Susan-Gaye Anderson, a seasoned presenter from the early pioneering days of television. 

                In this talk, Susan-Gaye will share skills and tips on writing to help and motivate you to create a lasting memoir or fiction.  

                 4.7  CoPP | PPLS | TRAINING | Introduction to iPad Workshops | Weekly on Tuesdays (9 April–30 April 2024) | 10.30am–12noon

                Are you over 60? Would you like to borrow an iPad with free internet? 
                Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) will soon be launching an iPad Lending Program for local residents with a Victorian Senior’s Card. 

                In preparation for this lending program we are running a series of introductory iPad workshops for absolute beginners over 60. 

                These hands-on, interactive workshops will cover the basic functionality of an iPad, explain some common feature uses and lay the foundations for you to get to know your new iPad. iPads will be provided. 

                 4.8  MELB | EQPR | REMINDING | Last call to apply and be part of the LGBTIQA+ Leaders Summit | applications close Monday 15 April 2024

                Ready to engage, connect and embrace challenges alongside other LGBTIQA+ leaders? 
                Apply to attend the The Equality Project (EQPR) LGBTIQA+ Leaders Summit 2024
                        
                Final Reminder
                Join us for the highly anticipated 2nd LGBTIQA+ Leaders Summit on 13 June 2024, preceding Better Together 2024!

                This year, we're on a fresh mission: delving into the essence of leadership within the LGBTIQA+ community and our role as catalysts for change.

                How might we foster collaboration to amplify our collective impact as a united community of leaders and changemakers?
                 
                Last Call!
                If you're keen to be part of this pre-conference event, complete the Expression of Interest(EOI) Form below by 15 April 2024.
                If your EOI is successful, you'll be asked to confirm your attendance with an RSVP. Attendees must hold a ticket to Better Together 2024 and able to attend the event in full, from 9am–3pm. 


                 4.9  CoPP | PPLS | TRAINING | Can You Spot a Scam? Be Connected Seminar | Tuesday 16 April 2024 | 3–4.30pm

                Australians aged 55 and over lost more than $220 million to scammers in 2022. It serves as a reminder that the internet is a wonderful place to explore and connect with others, but it pays to be savvy.
                Learn about how to spot a scam through this online presentation, delivered by the eSafety Commissioner, followed by an in-person Q&A with library staff.

                Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) at the library for this 1-hour presentation to discover:
                • Common scams including the latest Tax and Medicare scams
                • Tips on how to spot them
                • What to do and what not to do
                • Where to go for help.
                Join us in person at the St Kilda Library for a live screening of this one-hour scam safety webinar. 

                 4.10  CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | "Life skills for a broken world" with Author Dr. Ahona Guha | Tuesday 16 April 2024 | 6.30–8pm

                [Edited extract from public address]
                A revolutionary framework for living well by this acclaimed author and psychologist. 
                Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) and Dr. Ahona Guha to talk about her new book Life Skills for a Broken World at South Melbourne's Emerald Hill Library.

                In her book she shows how we can deal with our deepest life problems and anxieties such as how to cope with death. She proposes a revolutionary framework for living well in a broken world. 

                 4.11  VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Not before Time, Lived and Living Experience-led Justice and Repair | Wednesday 17 April 2024 | 3–4pm

                In May 2022, the Department of Health commissioned advice to the Minister for Mental Health on how their government could formally acknowledge harms in the mental health system. 
                The resulting report entitled, "Not before Time, Lived Experience-Led Justice and Repair" contains discussions of significant traumas and gross human rights violations.

                Working together with Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) in this seminar, the co-author of this report, Simon Katterl (mental health advocate and consultant), provides expert insights into the Lived and Living Experience-led justice and repair process as recommended throughout the report.

                VTMH seminars are open to individuals, from all disciplines and working in all sectors, who are based in Australia and interested in diversity and mental health.  
                • Where: Online via Zoom — details to be sent to registrants in advance
                • Cost: Free
                • Bookings: essential.  Spaces are limited. To secure a place, please register online via VTMH
                 

                 4.12  CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | With Authors Jacinta Halloran & Leah Kaminsky | Wednesday 17 April 2024 | 6.30–7.30pm 

                Acclaimed authors Jacinta Halloran and Leah Kaminsky discuss their recent works, both popular features in our Read Now collection. 
                Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) for this inspiring discussion. 

                 4.13  CoPP | PPLS | GATHERING | Writeability Goes Local: Port Phillip Writers Group | Monthly sessions, beginning Friday 19 April 2024 | 12.30–2pm

                Writers with disability from Port Phillip and the surrounding region are invited to attend Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) free Writeability Goes Local: Port Phillip Writers Group. 
                This eight-month creative writing program aims to reduce the disadvantages that disabled writers can face due to social isolation, the expense of professional development and the assumption that people with disability need other people to tell their stories. 

                Jenny Hedley is a local neurodivergent writer, PhD candidate and Writeability mentor who will facilitate the Writers Group. 

                Writeability Goes Local: Port is a collaboration between Writers Victoria and City of Port Phillip. This project has been supported by the City of Port Phillip through the Cultural Development Fund, and Writers Victoria.  

                 4.14  CoPP | GOV | HEARING | Your say: Port Phillip Housing Strategy | submissions close 19 April 2024

                After two rounds of community engagement to understand the housing issues and opportunities in the City of Port Phillip (CoPP), we have prepared a draft Housing Strategy for the City. 
                Give your feedback on this draft Strategy to help us best plan for our residents’ current and future housing needs. 

                 4.15  AUST | TJP | GATHERING | Trans Justice Strategy Retreat | 19–21 April 2024

                Together, we are forging a new vision for how we create a future where all trans and gender diverse people are safe, celebrated, and free.
                In the face of the global attacks on trans peoples rights, lives, and health care, Trans Justice Project (TJP) is facilitating the first national Trans Justice Strategy Retreat to bring together 100 trans activists, advocates, and allies for three days of workshops, trainings, and plenaries. 

                This retreat will be a big moment for our movement.

                As an attendee you will have the chance to hear from local and national campaigns, build connections with leaders from all over the country, and gain tools and insights that will help strengthen and sharpen your own campaigns.
                 
                The conversations that we will have together will fundamentally shape the work our movement does in the coming year. That's why we have tried to make it as affordable as possible for people to attend.
                 
                Tickets are on a sliding scale with scholarships available and free tickets for First Nations people. We also have a shuttle travelling to and from the nearest train station to cut down on travel costs.

                The event is wheelchair accessible, has strong covid-safety measures, and all attendees will be vetted to ensure safety and confidentiality. Best of all, your ticket price will cover your food and accommodation for the whole weekend. 
                 
                If you are doing work connected to trans justice then this event is for you, whether you are trans or an ally. I am so excited for us all to come together to talk, plan, and share.
                • Where: Lake Dewar Discovery Camp, Myrniong, VIC, 3341
                • Cost: Free–AU$330 + BF
                • Bookings: Tickets strictly limited and selling fast, online via Humantix
                In solidarity for trans justice,
                Jackie Turner (she/her), Director

                 4.16  CoPP | GOV | ADAPTATION | Preparing for climate change over a board game | Saturday 20 April 2024 | 10am–2pm

                City of Port Phillip (CoPP) is thrilled to bring The Adaptation Game (TAG) board game to our community. It's a playful workshop for Port Phillip residents to connect and prepare to be more resilient to climate change.TAG is based on real science about how climate change will affect Port Phillip. You get to play out ways to prepare and protect your home, family, community, and environment.  

                This is a co-operative game where all the players work together, so you don’t have to be “good at games”. You will play with three other people, and there will be a facilitator running your game, making it as easy as possible.

                Come for the game, stay for the connections, and learn how you can make a meaningful contribution to your community’s resilience.
                • Where: St Kilda Town Hall
                • Cost: Free
                • Inclusions: Lunch will be provided
                • Learn more
                 

                 4.17  CoPP | PPLS | MAKING | Seed Balls Workshop with Emma Grace | Saturday 20 April 2024 | 11am–12.30pm

                Unleash your inner environmentalist with our hands-on Seed Ball workshop!
                Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) for a creative journey as you learn about pollinators, biodiversity, and the importance of rewilding urban spaces. Be part of the green revolution and transform the landscape, one seed ball at a time!  

                 4.18  MELB | BACC | EXHIBITING | Unfinished Business | on now, until Tuesday 21 April 2024

                Unfinished Business in an exhibition at Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre (BACC) at Melbourne Museum of photographic portraits revealing stories of 30 First Nations people with lived experience of disability from across Australia.
                Each participant’s story is complex and intertwined with Australia’s political and social history, which has resulted in today’s high rates of disability in Aboriginal and Torres Strait communities.

                Through their involvement in the project, each participant’s self-narratives accompanying their portraits contextualise and draw much-needed attention to critical issues that impact on their lives.
                • Where: Birrarung Gallery, Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Melbourne Museum
                • Cost: included with museum entry $0–15
                • Bookings: open 9am–5pm (Closed Good Friday And Christmas Day). Online through Melbourne Museum
                 

                 4.19  CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Heritage with Author Will Spokes | Tuesday 23 April 2024 | 6.30–7.30pm

                Are you a historical crime fiction fan?  
                Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) at the Emerald Hill Library for a night of mystery and intrigue as Will Spokestakes us back to the 1920s through his suspenseful, historically inspired tale. 

                Death on the Ferry Hygeia follows constable Jim Foley navigating post war Melbourne, a blend of extreme poverty and wealthy privilege. A major charity event is planned aboard the majestic Port Phillip Bay excursion ferry Hygeia. But the constable's career, and even his very life, are on the line as evil stalks the decks of this luxurious excursion ship…  

                 4.20  VIC | VTMH | WORKSHOPPING | Recovery and Diversity: Approaches to Cultural Assessment and Supporting Personal Recovery | Wednesday 24 April 2024 | 9.30am–4pm

                A Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) workshop using a diversity lens to explore contemporary approaches to recovery-oriented practice in mental health settings.
                It also introduces ways to conduct person-centred assessments that understand cultural and social context and the powerful determinates of health and wellbeing. 

                Using a variety of facilitation modes, grounded in a reflective practice approach, the workshop is designed to stimulate the interest of participants in the range of issues related to transcultural mental health and recovery, and provide learners with the opportunity to explore the challenges and realities of assessment and recovery alongside diverse communities. 

                VTMH workshops are open to and provided free to staff working in Victoria’s state-funded mental health workforce. This includes public clinical and community mental health services, as well as state-funded mental health programs within community health and social services.

                Staff working in a range of roles within this workforce, including but not limited to community rehabilitation and recovery workers, lived experience workers, mental health nursing, social work, occupational therapy, psychiatry, community engagement roles, program leaders/project workers and administration roles, are invited to register.

                If you are unsure if this workshop might be relevant to your role please feel free to contact us via vtmh@svha.org.au
                • Where: Kathleen Symes Library, Multipurpose Room 1, 251 Faraday Street, Carlton
                • Cost: Free
                • Bookings: essential. Spaces are limited. To secure a place, please register online via VTMH
                 

                 4.21  CoPP | S2b | WORKSHOPPING | Spil'no (Together) Embroidery Masterclass | Saturday 27 April 2024 | 11am-1pm

                Create for Ukraine project unites your inner creativity with your ability to make a meaningful impact on someone’s life far across the globe. 
                Join Space2b Social Design (S2b) for this glimpse into Ukrainian identity and folk culture through its beautiful tradition of embroidery.
                • Where: Space2b Social Design, 144 Chapel St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
                • Cost: $85 AUD + BF
                • Bookings: essential. Online via Humanitix
                 

                 4.22  CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Nature Strip Gardening with Emma Cutting | Emerald Hill Tuesday 30 April 2024 | 12noon–1.30pm | & | St Kilda Thursday 9 May 2024 | 6–7.30pm 

                [Edited extract from public address]
                Transform your nature strip into a beautiful street garden that will attract pollinators and support local biodiversity.
                These two sessions at Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) will be presented by The Heart Gardening Project’s founder Emma Cutting. 

                In this workshop, Emma will take you through the steps needed to prepare your nature strip for planting, she’ll introduce you to some of the best plants for attracting pollinators and she’ll share her passion and knowledge for connecting people to nature.    

                 4.23  CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Heritage with Author David Radcliffe | Tuesday 30 April 2024 | 6.30–7.30pm

                The origins of post-war manufacturing in Fishermans Bend can be traced back to pioneering engineers, designers and makers of machines, in Port Melbourne during the first half of the 20th century.
                They created all manner of food processing equipment, excavators to build vital infrastructure, cranes and conveyors used in numerous industries and aircraft when our nation was threatened. 

                Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) and David Radcliffe who will present the personal stories of four immigrant engineers, innovators and entrepreneurs who helped shape the industrial landscape of this area, as featured in his book, Making It Here.  

                 4.24  MELB | EQPR | DEVELOPING | Your Adaptive Leadership Capacity | 28-30 May 2024

                Seeking to elevate your leadership to drive LGBTIQA+ inclusion within your organisation?
                Are you a member of an Employee Resource Group (ERG) looking to enhance your leadership skills? Or perhaps you're just starting out, finding your footing and navigating ways to overcome challenges?

                The Equality Project (EQPR) is excited to invite you to our new Adaptive Leadership Program in Melbourne on 28-30 May 2024.
                 
                Our program is designed for ERG leads who are driving change within their organisations to foster inclusive workplace cultures. Whether you lead a DEI initiative, belong to an Employee Resource Group (ERG), or aspire to enhance your leadership skills, this program is your catalyst for growth. 

                 4.25  VIC | VTMH | TRAINING | Mental Health and Cultural Diversity Community of Practice | Registrations open for 2024 | next session Wednesday 29 May 2024

                A Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) facilitated space to critically reflect on cultural diversity and mental health. 
                The Mental Health & Cultural Diversity Community of Practice (MHCD CoP) offers members an opportunity to explore contemporary practices and have robust and respectful conversations about ways we can make our practice more accessible and responsive to the diverse needs of local communities.

                Facilitated state-wide by Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH), using a variety of formats to engage in these discussions, including holding reflective conversations, engaging in dialogue with guest presenters on a range of topics and panel discussions to name a few. 

                The CoP:
                • Is a free program
                • Facilitated online via Zoom and/or Face to face
                • Meets quarterly throughout the year. Remaining 2024 dates are:
                  • Wednesday 29 May 2024
                  • Monday 26 August 2024
                  • Wednesday 27 November 2024
                • Each meeting runs for 2 hours, from 10am-12pm
                The CoP is open to those working in Victoria’s publically funded mental health sector.  For your registration to be successful, please ensure that you register with a work email address.

                Registering as member of the CoP is essential. Membership is renewed annually. For more information on becoming a member, visit our website below. 

                 4.26  AUST | EQPR | GATHERING | Better Together 2024 | Friday 14–Saturday 15 June 2024

                Australia’s 6th National LGBTIQA+ Conference will take place in Djilang, Wadawurrung Country (Geelong, Victoria) at GMHBA Stadium, Kardinia Park.

                Mark your calendar, buy your ticket, propose your session, and join The Equality Project (EQPR)
                at GMHBA Stadium for Australia's LGBTIQA+ Community Conference.

                The conference explores the current issues facing the LGBTIQA+ movement in Australia, and celebrates where we've made progress.

                We want to create opportunities to establish meaningful connections so we can work together, shape the narrative and drive positive change.

                Tickets are now on sale, session proposals are open and more information is available at The Equality Project website.

                We don’t have all the answers, but we’re creating the space to ask the questions.

                 5. COLLECTIVISING 

                In this Section

                    1. VIC | ECCV | UPDATING | eBulletin #43 | March 2024
                    2. AUST | CUIN | UPDATING | Diversity Access: From AI to Inclusion – The Latest in Tech & Social Progress | March 2024
                    3. AUST | GiveOUT | UPDATING | March Rainbow News: More people than ever identify as LGBTQIA+, but more work to do
                    4. AUST | ILF | UPDATING | News from the Indigenous Literacy Foundation | March 2024
                     

                     5.1  VIC | ECCV | UPDATING | eBulletin #43 | March 2024

                    Today is the first day of the holy month of Ramadan, and we would like to wish Ramadan Kareem to all those who celebrate. 
                    We acknowledge this is a particularly difficult time for Victoria's Muslim communities, many of which are hurting and mourning the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Our thoughts are with you all, and we hope this month brings peace, reflection and spiritual enlightenment.
                     
                    Last Friday was International Women's Day, which we were pleased to mark with a special morning tea with guest speaker Voula Messimeri AM. Currently serving as the Chair of Settlement Services International and National Accreditation Authority for Translators & Interpreters, Voula is a long-time champion of multiculturalism. She delivered a powerful address to ECCV staff and Board members acknowledging the contributions of migrant and refugee women throughout Australian history.
                     
                    Also last week, ECCV made a submission on the federal government's Aged Care (Exposure Draft). Informed by the experience and expertise of our Positive Ageing & Aged Care Policy Advisory Committee, the submission emphasises that the new legislation must centre the interests and needs of older people from migrant and refugee backgrounds, not treat them as ‘additional’ or optional. 
                     
                    Last but not least, I was honoured to be re-elected as ECCV Chairperson at the first Board meeting of the year. This is a landmark year for the organisation, marking 50 years since it was founded. I could not be more delighted to work with the Board to make ECCV's 50th anniversary celebrations a success.
                     
                    Eddie Micallef, Chairperson

                    HIGHLIGHTS

                    ANNOUNCING | Office bearers for ECCV board elected

                    Last month, the ECCV Board held its first Board meeting of the year where they elected the next term of office bearers. Eddie Micallef was re-elected as Chair and Jenny Maticas Treasurer. Jill Morgan AM was re-elected as Deputy Co-Chair alongside Gabrielle Marchetti. We also welcome Joe Caputo OAM who was elected as Secretary.  

                    SUBMITTING | ECCV feedback on new Aged Care Act draft

                    ECCV provided feedback on the federal government's new Aged Care Act (Exposure Draft) last week to ensure the law meets the needs of older people from migrant and refugee backgrounds, as well as carers and workers in the sector. A key recommendation in ECCV submission is the development of a Multicultural Aged Care Strategy to elevate the cultural appropriateness of the aged care system as a whole.

                    WISHING | Happy International Women's Day

                    To mark International Women's Day on 8 March, ECCV was delighted to host Voula Messimeri AM as guest speaker at a gathering last week for staff and Board. Voula served for 27 years as CEO of Australian Greek Welfare Society, one of ECCV's founding members, and was the first woman to be elected as Chair of FECCA. She was bestowed ECCV Life Membership at our 2023 AGM.  

                    REPORTING | Multicultural input crucial for NDIS reforms

                    ECCV's Statewide Disability Network (SDN) held its first meeting of the year last month, where members discussed findings from the NDIS Review's final report. Participants agreed now was a vital time for the Network to help shape the new system to ensure the needs and interests of people with disability from migrant and refugee backgrounds are well-represented.  

                    OPPORTUNITIES AND RESOURCES

                    JOINING | Our mental health workshops

                    Do you work in the mental health sector and want to learn how to provide culturally safe services? ECCV is holding workshops to help practitioners understand the factors impacting poorer mental health outcomes for multicultural communities. To arrange a workshop, contact Partnerships & Engagement Lead Surmeli Yesilyurt on 0481 589 664 or via email at syesilyurt@eccv.org.au.

                    RAISING | Voices of diverse people with disability

                    In partnership with the Migrant Resource Centre North West Region, ECCV is delivering workshops to empower people with disability from migrant and refugee communities. The Raise Our Voices program supports people with disability from multicultural backgrounds to understand what self-advocacy is, why it's important and how they can improve their self-advocacy skills.  

                    PUBLISHING | Golden Years hot off the press: read latest edition

                    The new Golden Years is out now! Golden Years is ECCV's triennial eMagazine for seniors from migrant and refugee backgrounds and the multicultural aged care sector. Inside this new edition, you will find articles on Islam and ageing, the new Australian Aged Care Act, financial elder abuse, the importance of culturally appropriate food options for aged care residents, and more.  

                    SUBSCRIBING | to ECCV's disability newsletter

                    ECCV’s monthly Multicultural Disability Bulletin features the latest disability news, events and resources for people with disability from migrant and refugee communities, their carers and families as well as the disability sector. This month's Bulletin includes stories about the findings from the recent NDIS review and how ECCV's 2024-25 Pre-Budget Submission advocates for people with disability. 

                     5.2  AUST | CUIN | UPDATING | Diversity Access: From AI to Inclusion – The Latest in Tech & Social Progress | March 2024

                    Welcome to the latest edition of Cultural Infusion (CUIN) newsletter, where we bring you the pulse of cutting-edge developments in the realms of technology, innovation, and social change. 
                    In this edition, we delve into the transformative landscape of data-driven insights and artificial intelligence showcased at Big Data & AI World, and updates on the Upfront Initiative III Summit, highlighting strides made in fostering inclusive workplaces and driving equitable opportunities. 

                    Furthermore, we're excited to announce the release of Amazon Web Services (AWS)'s latest white paper, offering invaluable insights into emerging trends and strategies shaping the future of our digital landscape. 
                    Finally, in the wake of recent discussions surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, we examine the nuanced dynamics and potential backlash in our featured article, shedding light on the ongoing journey towards creating truly inclusive environments. 

                    Join us as we navigate through these pivotal topics and delve into the forefront of innovation and social progress.

                    REPORTING | 'Diversity in the Age of AI — Diversified We Grow'

                    On 6 and 7 March, Peter Mousaferiadis gave several talks, chaired a panel and facilitated a series of ‘fireside conversations’ about big data and its role in AI at Big Data & AI World which is part of Tech Show London. The conference was attended by 15,000 people.

                    Peter highlighted the importance of treading carefully as we race to implement AI and the need to include every voice in large language models. As he says, ‘Algorithms are still making the assumption we’re all starting from the same place. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Without inclusive datasets that capture the complexity of identity of being and becoming in the AI age, we risk perpetuating division, exclusion, and poverty and conflict which is costing the world more than 17 trillion dollars annually (according to the Global Peace Index).’

                    A standing-room-only crowd came to hear Peter delve into the need to centre culture and cultural diversity in technological development and discuss some of the opportunities and pitfalls of AI. His post 'Diversity in the Age of AI: Diversified We Grow' was based on the keynote, and can be read by clicking the button below.  

                    CELEBRATING | The Essence of #IWD2024

                    The International Women's Day event hosted by SeenCulture, "The Ripple Effect of Investing in Women," was held on 5 March and drew more than over 50+ attendees. 

                    Our very own CTO Rezza Moieni was MC for the night and presented live the findings of our Diversity Atlas survey which attendees filled out at the start of the event. 

                    The event was a success and we are thankful to have shared some interesting insights, celebrating the cultural richness present in the room. 
                         

                    SHARING | Diversity Data Driven White Paper by AWS

                    We're excited to share that the white paper commissioned by AWS, "Diversity Atlas: Providing Data-Driven Direction for Organizations' Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity Journey," is now published.

                    This white paper is the second of a series of publications by AWS, the first being the Inclusion Playbook, which identifies Diversity Atlas as the first step to inclusion. 
                         

                    CHALLENGING | DEI Must DIE! Really?

                    Recently, Elon Musk tweeted (or X’d) that DEI must DIE, with ‘die’ in angry capital letters.  Clearly, he’s not a fan of the industry we’re in. Just last week, the US state of Alabama brought into law a “bill restricting public universities and government agencies from sponsoring diversity, equity and inclusion programs.”  I’d like to suggest this is just some strange goings-on in the US, but it seems like globally there’s a loud push against DEI, and it’s very loud at times.
                     
                    But who’s doing the shouting? And how many people do they represent? Are they heroic liberators, fighting for our freedoms from whatever it is about inclusion they hate, shouting through their megaphones on behalf of a disenfranchised silent majority?

                    We have actual global data on people in the workforce, based on users of Diversity Atlas. Sure, that’s not everyone, but people in the workforce are the ones probably most likely to encounter DEI initiatives, and when asked to respond to a statement along the lines of 
                    “I support DEI programs” the global averages are: 
                    • Strongly Agree 54.1%,
                    • Agree 37.5%,
                    • Impartial 7.2%,
                    • Disagree 0.8%,
                    • Strongly Disagree 0.4%

                    Oh, look at that, even if you add disagree and strongly disagree you only get to 1.2%. Let’s round that off to about one-in-a-hundred specifically don’t support DEI initiatives in the workplace. For those of us in the industry it makes sense; why would anyone want to oppose any sort of initiative that welcomes and fosters difference, or encourages anything the company can do to make everyone feel welcome, and maybe also works towards being a true representation of the wider community? 
                     
                    I think it’s a noisy minority who oppose it for reasons that are probably political, contrarian for its own sake, maybe racist, maybe homophobic. We don’t ask people why they specifically oppose it so we have no accurate data but we occasionally read in the comments rants against ‘radical-agendas’ or some reference to white heterosexual men being the real victims of discrimination, but again, look at the figure… (1.2%).  It’s a real-world figure that dispels the myth that there’s some massive groundswell against DEI.  There’s not (in the workplace anyway). 

                         

                    MEASURING | Cultural Diversity at ‘The Upfront Initiative’

                    It is always a privilege to be among thousands of professionals, debating how to create a culturally harmonious world. 

                    This time around, our EU-based Cultural Ambassador, Mario Chatzidamianos, represented Diversity Atlas on the stage of the third annual The Upfront Initiativeconference for equality, inclusion, diversity and visibility in the workplace, held on 14 March 2024 at the Athens Conservatory, Greece.

                    Seventy guest speakers and more than a thousand delegates took part in a ten-hour marathon to discuss: inclusion, visibility, parenthood, representation in the media, cancel culture, neurodiversity, mental health, addictions, ageism, image-shaming, equal opportunities, coordination, commitment to tackle racism, and discrimination in business and society.

                    The conference organisers, LiFO and Tsomokos Communications, chose Diversity Atlas to map the cultural diversity among participants. Mario presented the findings of the first, fully anonymous, cultural diversity online survey in Greece.Mario highlighted that among surveyed participants, ‘my interests/hobbies’ was the most important indicator, at 29.8%, underscoring that organisations may benefit from encouraging employees to use their passions in the business environment and continue developing their interests.

                    The second most popular indicator was ‘education’, at 27.7%, a rare finding outside academia, but clearly relevant to this diverse audience of top politicians, journalists, artists, pop culture representatives, alongside civil society organisations and companies.

                    Greeks in general consider education to be a key self-identification factor, which reflects the deep-rooted cultural belief that tertiary studies offer better employment and economic opportunities.

                    It is also important to notice that, among the surveyed participants, 87.5% are multilingual and Ancient Greek is still studied and spoken by a significant number of people!     

                    Watch Mario’s presentation video on our YouTube channel, subscribe to our newsletterand social media and stay up to date with our latest news. Run a free Healthcheck for your organisation and book a demo with our team to find what Diversity Atlas can do for you!
                         

                    HIGHLIGHTING | Calendar Spotlight: Easter Sunday

                    Easter Sunday is a joyous celebration in the Christian faith, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his crucifixion. It is a day of hope, renewal, and rejoicing, symbolising the triumph of life over death. Eggs, a symbol of new life and rebirth, are often used in Easter celebrations as a reminder of the resurrection and the promise of eternal life. Christians around the world gather for worship services, prayers, and festive gatherings to honour the resurrection of Jesus and to rejoice in the hope and salvation it brings. 

                     5.3  AUST | GiveOUT | UPDATING | March Rainbow News: More people than ever identify as LGBTQIA+, but more work to do

                    CEO message

                    There is much to report across our much loved LGBTIQ+ community sector! This month, The GiveOUT Team(GiveOUT) is sharing three key insights and what it means to you - as funders, LGBTIQ+ community sector leaders, and supporters.  

                    More people than ever are identifying as LGBTQIA*, particularly young women
                    As an indicator of growing social acceptance of LGBTIQ+ people, a recent report by Gallup in the U.S. found that the rate of LGBTIQ+ identification has more than doubled since 2012, with nearly 30% of Gen Z women now identifying as LGBTIQ+. This reinforces the importance of LGBTIQ+ inclusion, particularly in gender equity and youth support. 

                    What you can do: 
                    • Funders: Consider how your focus areas (including youth and gender equity) impact LGBTIQ+ communities, and be explicit that you are interested in receiving funding applications from LGBTIQ+ organisations.
                    • LGBTIQ+ community sector: NSW, QLD and NT have open grants for not-for-profits supporting outcomes for women and we encourage LGBTIQ+ organisations to apply.
                    • Community: Learn more about the unique experiences of LGBTIQ+ women in the workplace and join Out for Australia’s free career mentoring program for young LGBTIQ+ people.

                    Urgent work is required to improve mental health outcomes for LGBTIO+ Australians
                    Recent ABS data reveals that three-in-four LGB+ Australians have experienced mental illness at some point in their lives, with non-binary Australians experiencing mental illness at more than double the rate of their cisgender counterparts. We must adequately resource and increase the capacity of the LGBTIQ+ organisations best placed to lead the change. 

                    What you can do: 
                    Reforms to philanthropy must not reinforce existing inequalities
                    GiveOUT was invited to provide feedback at the Productivity Commission’s philanthropy inquiry public hearings. Despite the urgent need for LGBTIQ+-led solutions to the systemic challenges facing our communities, our sector receives only 5 cents to every $100 philanthropic dollars. We need to ensure the proposed reforms (such as the overhaul of the DGR system) enable more equitable access to, and distribution of, funding. See our full statement here. 

                    What you can do: 
                    • Funders and supporters: Join us in supporting 25 years of the iconic Aurora Ball (Saturday 22 June 2024) and help raise vital funds for LGBTIQ+ community groups. Buy Table tickets.
                    • LGBTIQ+ Community sector: Go to our website to explore grants and other funding opportunities currently open. Need help delivering your initiative? Get matched with an expert via Pride By Side.
                    • Community: Stay tuned for more information on GiveOUT Day 2024, to be held in October. 

                    A final note - a huge congratulations to:
                    • Maree Sidney, current CEO of Australian Communities Foundation, for her appointment as incoming CEO of Philanthropy Australia. Maree has been an outstanding GiveOUT champion and LGBTQIA+ advocate for many years and we look forward to her leadership at the national peak body for philanthropy.
                    • Kuan Chia, GiveOUT Board Director, for his appointment to Board Director, LGBTIQ+ Health Australia. 
                    • David Sloan, GiveOUT Board Director, for his appointment to Head of Philanthropy, Wesley Research Institute. 
                    Read on for more updates from the LGBTIQ+ community sector. 

                    Much love, 
                    Em Scott, CEO

                    COMMEMORATING | Upcoming Days of Significance 

                    In celebration of upcoming days of significance, we are profiling two GiveOUT Day 2023 organisations. 

                    Transgender Day of Visibility | Sunday 31 March 2024
                    Day of pride and celebration for trans and gender diverse people all around Australia.
                    Org spotlight: Trans Pride Australia 
                    $1,120 raised on GiveOUT Day
                    “Trans Pride Australia stands as a focal point for community cohesion and support within the trans and gender diverse landscape of Australia. TPA is about creating and maintaining spaces that prioritise the voices, experiences, and needs of its 6,000+ members.”
                    Can you make a difference today? 
                    World Autism Awareness Day | Tuesday 2 April 2024
                    Day to increase understanding and acceptance of people with autism.
                    Org spotlight: Drop in Care Space 
                    $3,080 raised on GiveOUT Day
                    “We are a lived experience and volunteer led community drop in centre in Adelaide for adults who identify as LGBTQIA+, disabled or neurodivergent including Autistic, ADHD or mental health conditions.”
                    Can you make a difference today?  

                    HIGHLIGHTING | Other upcoming events and opportunities


                    Thank you to our generous partners who support GiveOUT's work:
                     
                    As always, if you have any questions, comments or feedback, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@giveout.org.au.
                    With love,
                    The GiveOUT team

                     5.4  AUST | ILF | UPDATING | News from the Indigenous Literacy Foundation | March 2024

                    Yamandhu marang.
                    Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) are pleased to announce that the first release of our Book Supply invitations for 2024 has gone out to our remote Community contacts and so far over 89,000 books have been ordered by 385 remote Communities. We will also have a second release of Book Supply invitations later in the year and aim to gift over 136,800 culturally relevant books into 430 remote Communities.

                    This month we launched our annual fundraiser, Great Book Swap at Sydney SEA LIFE Aquarium with First Nations primary school students and ILF Ambassador Andy Griffiths. The event was held at the dugong enclosure to tie in with one of our four NEW Language Houses that schools get allocated when they register for Great Book Swap - Marntuwunyini (dugong in Tiwi language). See the word of the month below to learn how to pronounce dugong in Tiwi language!

                    Pre-registrations for the musical fundraiser, Busking for Change have also opened this month. Schools across the nation will learn how to sing and play the Shordi Krik song in both English and Kriol. This is a term 3, joyful multi-literacy activity Students can sing, play an instrument, dance and learn the song in Kriol while raising funds for our Foundation to support the creation of books in First Languages. Learn more about Busking for Change.

                    We ask for our supporters to get involved with Great Book Swap and Busking for Changeas they not only support our three core programs but also spread awareness of the importance of First Languages and our work in Community. 

                    Mandaang guwu,
                    Ben Bowen (Wiradjuri/Gandagarra), Chief Executive Officer

                    SPOTLIGHTING | Word of the Month

                    To celebrate second year of UNESCO Decade of Indigenous Languages, each month we encourage readers to learn a new word in an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander language. 

                    This month's word is dugong in Tiwi language! Tiwi is an Aboriginal language with multiple dialects, spoken by over 2000 Tiwi people, the majority of whom reside on the Tiwi Islands, north of Darwin in the Northern Territory.
                    • Dugong = marntunwunyini
                    • Phonetics: marn-too-woon-yin-ee
                     

                    NEWS

                    REPORTING | Jessica Mauboy on her Tour, Literacy, and Believing in the Next Generation of Storytellers

                    Check out this interview with ILF Ambassador, Jessica Mauboy where she talks about her Yours Forever tour, literacy, music and storytelling. Jess also talks about her passion about the work of the ILF and advocates for the next generation of First Nations storytellers in every aspect of her life. 

                    LAUNCHING | Great Book Swap at SEA LIFE Aquarium!

                    First Nations primary students from five Sydney schools had the opportunity to learn about and meet a dugong for the launch of one of our biggest annual fundraisers, Great Book Swap! With beloved Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) Lifetime Ambassador and children’s author, Andy Griffiths. 

                    REGISTERING | NOW for Great Book Swap 2024!

                    This year we have four NEW language houses as well as two very exciting prizes for schools! Schools and Early Learning Centres who host a Great Book Swap by 1 November 2024, will automatically win a virtual visit from ILF Ambassador Andy Griffiths! We also have an Early Bird prize – a book pack consisting of ten ILF titles. Learn more about Great Book Swap in the link below. 

                    COMMEMORATING | International Women's Day 

                    On International Women's Day, ILF Head of Programs Zoe Cassim spoke to staff at Exchange for Change about how the ILF empowers female storytellers in Community, the innovations of First Languages being revitalised and reinvigorated through our Translation Rights Projects and the power of the next generation of female storytellers through our Create Initiative program.

                    ANNOUNCING | Sydney Trivia Night 

                    After the success of our 2023 Sydney Trivia Night, we are pleased to announce that we are currently planning our Sydney Trivia Night for this year! This year it will be held in mid-July. Watch this space for more information as we'd love to test your knowledge!

                    CLICKING | For More Stories

                     

                    WORK IN COMMUNITY

                    REPORTING | Cobar and Orange Book Buzz Trip 

                    This month, we had our first Book Buzz trip since pre-Covid, visiting a Book Buzz site in Orange and one in Cobar. This was a great opportunity to officially meet the Community, gift our collaborative Vision Australia and Deaf Australia kits and also deliver some Book Supply family packs.

                    REPRINTING | Namarnkol

                    This month we are so excited to announce that we have published the fifth edition of the Barramundi book! Namarnkol (Barramundi) is a non-commercial book in Kunwinjku language produced with Jabiru FaFT in the Northern Territory. 

                    Ambassador News

                    Gregg Dreise

                    Congratulations to ILF Ambassador Gregg Dreise on his new children's book, Circles of Life. The book is an astounding work of significance for sharing with kids and adults about Indigenous art from the super star Kamilaroi author. 

                    Shelley Ware
                    Congratulations to ILF Ambassador Shelley Ware on her book, We Are Matildas, which was shortlisted for the West Australian Shortlist for Young Readers Book of the Year.

                    Special Thanks 

                    Thinking of writing your will? The ILF has partnered with Safewill to provide our supporters with the ability to write their will for just $80 (half price).

                    We would like to thank MFS Investment Management for another generous donation. Their fantastic support over the past four years has enabled support for all of our programs in remote Communities around Australia.

                    We are indebted to our partner Australia Post for their support with the delivery of Book Supply packs to remote Communities and their ongoing fundraising.  

                    Community Fundraisers

                    A big thank you to Murray Henman for his dedicated support for the ILF for the last five years. Murray has donated funds raised from trivia nights to our Foundation and has raised an incredible amount of over $10,000 over the years. We are so grateful for Murray's support!
                    Thank you to the Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne 2023 Graduate teams at Colins Biggers & Paisely who fundraised for the ILF through trivia nights, online auctions and raffles! The teams set a target of $6,200 which they surpassed by raising an incredible amount of over $19,000 to support our work in remote Communities. 
                     
                    We are so grateful for the support and tremendous efforts of Emma Tovey Crutchfieldwho has raised over $11,000 for the ILF this month! Emma and her friends and family swam an incredible 100km to raise money for our Foundation. 


                     6. ANNOUNCING 

                    In this Section

                        1. VIC | GOV | SUPPORTING | Expanded eligibility for power outage payments
                        2. VIC | GOV | LAUNCHING | New multicultural community profiles
                         

                         6.1  VIC | GOV | SUPPORTING | Expanded eligibility for power outage payments

                        The Victorian government has expanded the eligibility criteria for Prolonged Power Outage Payments (PPOP) to reflect the unique nature of two extreme storm events in short succession. 

                         6.2  VIC | GOV | LAUNCHING | New multicultural community profiles

                        The Department of Families, Fairness and Housing has recently launched 37 profiles of cultural communities in Victoria. 
                        The profiles are designed to be a snapshot of each community, showing their diverse and unique needs. This includes where the community primarily lives, the languages they speak, significant dates and communication and engagement tips.


                         7. SUPPORTING 

                        In this Section

                        1. AUST | MANY | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way
                        2. AUST | MULTI | Supporting Voices, Treaty and Meaningful Reconciliation with First Peoples, Settlers, and Those Who Come After
                        3. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Coronavirus Response
                        4. AUST | MULTI | UPDATING | Coronavirus Response
                         

                         7.1  AUST | MANY | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way

                        In this Section
                        • Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander
                        • Ageism
                        • Asylum Seeking & Refugees
                        • Climate, Environment & Emergency
                        • Community, Connection & Belonging
                        • Difability & Disability
                        • Employment
                        • Family & Neighbourhood Violence
                        • Health, Sickness & Wellbeing
                        • Kids, Youth, Parenting & Education
                        • LGBTIQA+
                        • Men
                        • Racism
                        • Women

                        Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander
                        • Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation school teaches Aboriginal kids in their own language started in 2022 with just 15 students and this year they already have 74 enrolments plus a waiting list!
                        • From the Heart (FTH) views a Voice to Parliament as a body enshrined in the Constitution would enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to provide advice to the Parliament on policies and projects that impact their lives.
                        • The Healing Foundation (THF) – a national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation providing a platform to amplify voices and lived experience of Stolen Generations survivors and their families.
                        • Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) Book Supply – creating and translating books with the collective storytelling of First Nations authors, illustrators and Elders
                        • Pathfinders National Aboriginal Birth Certificate Program (PNABCP) – Canberra not-for-profit group helping make life easier for people in need. As part of its many programs, it helps provide free birth certificates and registrations for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island community
                        • Reconciliation Victoria – promoting reconciliation across Victoria, promoting deeper understanding, respect and justice for and with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
                        • The Torch Project (TORCH) provides art, cultural and arts industry support to First Nations people currently in, or recently released, from Victorian prisons. 

                        Ageism
                        Climate, Environment & Emergency
                        Community, Connection & Belonging
                        Difability & Disability
                        Employment
                        Family & Neighbourhood Violence
                        Health, Sickness & Wellbeing
                        Kids, Youth, Parenting & Education
                        • Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is the main way the Australian Government is helping families with the cost of early childhood education and care. For translated materials
                        • Couch International Student Centre is a safe and free lounge space in Melbourne for international students to socialise, relax, study, and seek assistance
                        • Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800 – for kids, teens and young adults
                        • Little Dreamers (LIDR) is Australia’s leading Young Carer organisation, supporting young people who provide unpaid care for a family member affected by disability, chronic or mental illness, addiction or frail age. Watch 3 min video
                        • Parentline – 13 22 89 – for parents and carers
                        • Parenting courses by Relationships Victoria (REVI) offers free 6 to 12 week courses for parents to learn better ways to connect with their children and family in a culturally sensitive way.
                        • Red Earth (REEA)'s School Immersions are all-inclusive, comprehensive programs designed to open the hearts and minds of students to the beauty and realities of life in remote Indigenous Australia. Find out more
                        • Refugee Council of Australia (RCA) – Face-to-Face program involves presentations to students from a speaker with a refugee background. Learn more
                        • Study Melbourne (STME)  has many free or low cost events for international students who are studying and living in Victoria. Find student events near you 
                        • Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) online community VMConnect is home to a dedicated Group for multicultural young people living in Victoria
                        • #16DAYS4KIDS | Colouring Your Conversation
                        • WHISE, in collaboration with the Promoting Respect and Equity Together (PRET) Regional Partnership. Teaching children about respect and gender equality is crucial for their personal and social development. It equips them with essential life skills, fosters positive relationships, and contributes to a more compassionate and harmonious society. Download Colouring Sheets
                        • Youth and Family Support Network (YFSN) delivering activities and initiatives that empower local African-Australian communities to tackle racism and support social cohesion. Watch video (2 mins)
                         

                        LGBTIQA+

                         

                        Men

                        The following crisis and counselling services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week:
                        Racism
                        Women


                           7.2  AUST | MULTI | Supporting Voices, Treaty and Meaningful Reconciliation with First Peoples, Settlers, and Those Who Come After

                            In This Section
                            • AUST | GOV | OFFERING | Resources and Translations on The Voice and Referendum 2023
                            • AUST | AICR | ENCOURAGING | YES23. Recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Constitution through a Voice
                            • AUST | LWB | TRANSLATING | Resources in 45+ community languages on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice
                            • AUST | REAU | EXPLAINING | Voice to Parliament and Referendum 2023
                            • AUST | RJfV | ISSUING | An Open Letter to the Australian Public: The Voice to Parliament would enhance Australian governance
                            • AUST | TLW | CALLING | Those Interested to Lace Up Your Shoes and Come Walk with Michael Long in support of the "Yes" campaign
                            • AUST | WRITERS | ENDORSING | The Voice as a major reform leading to better outcomes for First Nations Peoples
                            • AUST | GiveOUT | SUPPORTING | Proudly for a First Nations Voice to Parliament
                            • VIC | ECCV | ADVOCATING | Victorian Multicultural Voices for ‘Yes’ campaign
                            • VIC | VWT | ENGAGING | Listen and learn together through kitchen conversations. It’s time to say yes
                            • VIC | VTMH | DEMONSTRATING | Solidarity In Context to the Referendum
                            • AUST | GEIFN | HOW | To Accept No: Contest of Binaries | Sunday 15 October 2023
                            • AUST | GEIFN | WHY | To Accept No: Contest of Timing | Monday 16 October 2023
                            • AUST | GEIFN | WHEN | To Accept No: Contest of Terra nullius | Tuesday 17 October 2023 and beyond
                            • AUST | VTMH | OFFERING | Reflections following the Referendum
                            • CoPP | PPCR | STRIVING | Towards Meaningful Reconciliation
                            • AUST | CHGR | BUILDING | First Nations kids learning and loving to learn. Their families walking beside. Seeing hope for the future
                            • AUST | YSS | EDUCATING | Aboriginal Pedagogy, Social Justice and Self-Determination
                            • AUST | EVCO | BUILDING | Stronger, more inclusive organisation through Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Competence Training Programs

                            AUST | GOV | OFFERING | Resources and Translations on The Voice and Referendum 2023

                            Australian Government advises                             in late 2023, Australians will have their say in a referendum about whether to change the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.
                            The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice would be an independent and permanent advisory body. It would give advice to the Australian Parliament and Government on matters that affect the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

                            Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have called for members of the Voice to be chosen by First Nations peoples based on the wishes of local communities.

                            AUST | AICR | ENCOURAGING | YES23. Recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Constitution through a Voice 
                            Australians for Indigenous Constitutional Recognition (AICR) asks all to consider voting Yes. It’s time to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Constitution through a Voice.

                            What is the 2023 Referendum?
                            This vote will give all Australians the chance to come together and consider a change to our constitution that will honour and celebrate the rights, history, and ongoing relationship of Indigenous Australians with this land. It’s a rare chance to make a major positive impact now and for future generations.

                            Australia has been considering constitutional recognition for more than 15 years. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have asked that the form of recognition come through a Voice to Parliament, which will give advice on laws and policies that affect Indigenous people. 

                            This is what the Australian people are now being asked to decide: Should we recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in The Constitution, with a Voice? 

                            A Voice will provide advice to the Federal Parliament about laws and policies, through a consultative policy making process that delivers meaningful structural change.

                            Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people know and understand the best way to deliver real and practical change in their communities. When they have a say through a Voice, we can finally start to close the gap that still exists between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Australians on practical issues like life expectancy, educational outcomes, and employment. 

                            This is why a “Yes” result is important.
                            AUST | LWB | TRANSLATING | Resources in 45+ community languages on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice
                            To encourage participation in the Referendum for all Australians, Polaron Language Services with Life Without Barriers (LWB) and several partner organisations have developed accessible translated resources in more than 45 languages.

                            These are free to download and aim to break down language, literacy and communication barriers among Australia’s diverse communities. This includes:
                            AUST | REAU | EXPLAINING | Voice to Parliament and Referendum 2023
                            Reconciliation Australia (REAU) advises First Nations Voice to Parliament protected by the Constitution is a key element of the Uluru Statement from the Heart.
                            The Bill to enable the referendum became law in mid-June, but we are waiting for the referendum date to be announced.

                            The referendum question contained in the Bill is:

                            A Proposed Law: to alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. Do you approve this proposed alteration?

                            What is a referendum

                            Find out more at Australian Electoral Commission.

                            Or click the following Reconciliation Australia links that interest you:

                            Why do we need a First Nations Voice?

                            A Voice to Parliament will give Indigenous communities a route to help inform policy and legal decisions that impact their lives. Giving people a say will lead to more effective results.

                            Embedding a Voice in the Constitution would recognise the special place of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia’s history, but importantly would also mean that it can’t be shut down by successive Governments.

                            This is important because Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and bodies have called for voice for close to 100 years. 


                            AUST | RJfV | ISSUING | An Open Letter to the Australian Public: The Voice to Parliament would enhance Australian governance 
                            We are individuals representing no political party or political interest. We speak, rather, as retired judges (RJfV) who spent our professional lives listening to, and seeking to evaluate, contending arguments.

                            We have since considered carefully both the case for, and the case against, the proposed Voice to Parliament. Having done so, we confidently believe that, by raising the quality of our public debate, the proposed Voice will both enrich our democracy and increase the likelihood of governments making correct decisions about matters that affect Indigenous peoples. It will also, and very importantly, give Indigenous Australians their due recognition in our Constitution as this nation’s first peoples.  

                            Democracies are at their best when decisions are made after informed and respectful debate to which all may contribute. Life being what it is, the rich and the powerful have and will retain that privilege to a greater degree than most. Some, among them Australia’s First Nations peoples, have continually battled to be heard at all.

                            If successful, the referendum on the Voice will not diminish the influence of anyone. But it will help to correct an historic wrong. It will give recognition, and a voice, to those who for thousands of years owned and lived in balance with this land, only to have their rights to it disregarded during the centuries which have followed settlement from other lands. No consideration was given to the deep connections with country which the original inhabitants have incorporated into their very being; and the newcomers who now occupy their land listened, if they listened at all, with none of the empathy to which everyone should be entitled.

                            Constitutional recognition of the Voice in a successful referendum will acknowledge these facts, and do much to rectify a long-existing injustice. It will not, in our opinion, divide our nation. On the contrary, it will heal a wound which presently divides us. Nor will it disrupt government or destabilise the presently stable and appropriate division of power between the parliament, the executive and the judiciary.

                            The possibility of disruption and instability is a concern which nevertheless deserves respect (although not when it descends to ridiculous fears such as that Anzac Day will be ‘cancelled’). It is also reasonable to have doubts about the detail of the arrangements which will follow a successful referendum. We nevertheless firmly believe that these are not reasons for voting ‘No’. First, Australia can draw upon its wealth of common sense and its capacity for sensible compromise. The Voice will not waste its time, energy, finances or goodwill with silly claims that have no chance of political or judicial support. And secondly, detailed arrangements must allow for a degree of flexibility which is impossible if incorporated into a less than flexible constitution. The details are properly to be determined by the parliament of the day according to the changing circumstances of the day.

                            Advocates for the ‘No’ case point to the proposed amendment’s inclusion of a power in the parliament to make laws with respect to the powers of the Voice. The referendum if passed does not confer powers on parliament that it does not already have to pass such laws. We believe that the likelihood of parliament acting inappropriately in this respect is small. In our opinion it fails to justify a ‘No’ vote.  

                            Advocates for a ‘No’ vote also claim that the Voice is a creature of Canberra. That is untrue. The call for the Voice was made in the Uluru Statement from the Heart, which is the product of the widest survey of the views of First Nations peoples ever undertaken and which is a deeply respectful call “from all points of the Southern Sky”. 

                            It includes an invitation to all Australians to create a better future. We think this invitation should be accepted.

                            Signed:
                            • The Hon Mary Gaudron KC, Former Judge of the High Court of Australia
                            • The Hon Carmel McLure AC KC, Former President of the Supreme Court of Western Australia Court of Appeal
                            • The Hon Stephen Charles AO KC, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria Court of Appeal
                            • The Hon David Harper AM KC, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria Court of Appeal
                            • The Hon Robert Redlich AM KC, Former Commissioner of the Victorian Independent Broad-based Anti-Corruption Commission (IBAC), former Judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria Court of Appeal
                            • The Hon Paul Stein AM KC, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of NSW Court of Appeal, former President of the Anti-Discrimination Board
                            • The Hon Anthony Whealy KC, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of NSW Court of Appeal
                            • The Hon Margaret White AO, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of Queensland Court of Appeal
                            Thank-you for reading the open letter supporting the Voice. Please forward this letter to anyone you think would be interested to read it.


                            AUST | TLW | CALLING | Those Interested to Lace Up Your Shoes and Come Walk with Michael Long in support of the "Yes" campaign 
                            The Long Walk (TLW)'s Michael Long is once again setting off from Melbourne to Canberra in support of the "Yes" campaign.
                            Michael Long is one of the most recognisable Aboriginal figures in AFL football. He played for the Essendon Football Club between 1989 and 2001, was a member of two premiership sides and the winner of the 1993 Norm Smith Medal.

                            Michael championed the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cause within the AFL. In 1995, Michael made a stand against racial abuse, following an on-field incident with another player, asserting that racism had no place in sport.

                            Ultimately this lead to Michael being one of the pioneering forces behind the racial abuse code that was adopted by the AFL in the 1990s. Michael retired from football in 2001.
                            "Lace Up Your Shoes and Come Walk with Me. We walked in 2004 for a Voice and a Vision.
                            This year I have decided to bring forward my 20th Anniversary Long Walk to support the campaign for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament."
                            Walk with Michael Long in support of the "Yes" campaign on one or more legs of the walk from Melbourne to Canberra.

                              AUST | WRITERS | ENDORSING | The Voice as a major reform leading to better outcomes for First Nations Peoples
                              It’s only fair.                               Writers for The Voice (WRITERS) accept the generous, modest invitation of First Nations Peoples in the Uluru Statement from the Heart to walk with them towards a better Australia. 

                              We support their call for recognition via a constitutionally enshrined Voice to Parliament because we believe passionately that this major reform, the product of broad grassroots consultation and supported by the great majority of First Nations Peoples, will lead to better outcomes for First Nations Peoples.
                              AUST | GiveOUT | SUPPORTING | Proudly for a First Nations Voice to Parliament
                              The GiveOUT Team (GiveOUT)                               supports Australia saying YES in the Referendum for a constitutionally enshrined First Nations Voice
                              LGBTQIA+ people understand the significance of a public vote about their lives, and the importance of allies in advocating for change. It is time for the LGBTQIA+ community, and the Australian people as a whole, to stand in solidarity with our First Nations communities, including our Brotherboys, Sistergirls and other LGBTQIA+ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

                              At GiveOUT, we know that there is no substitute for the wisdom of lived experience when it comes to designing policies and programs.
                              “As an organisation that exists to address systemic disadvantage, and provide impacted communities the resources they need to drive their own solutions, GiveOUT fully supports this much needed reform to ensure First Nations people are recognised in the constitution and are given a voice on the issues and interventions that impact them.” – Georgia Mathews, Chair of GiveOUT
                              Polls have demonstrated that over 80% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people support a Voice to Parliament*. We call upon our LGBTQIA+ friends and allies to join this historic movement and vote ‘YES’ in the Referendum. We must take this important step toward a fairer future for this country. 

                              You can show your support by: *Source: https://www.unsw.edu.au/news/2023/06/ten-questions-about-the-voice-to-parliament---answered-by-the-ex 


                              VIC | ECCV | ADVOCATING | Victorian Multicultural Voices for ‘Yes’ campaign
                              The Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) joins forces with Yes23 and the Multicultural Australia for Voicealliance for Victorian Multicultural Voices for ‘Yes’.

                              Harnessing the power of multicultural communities to raise awareness about why the recognition of our First Nations People in the Constitution is important and how voting ‘Yes’ will achieve that.

                              Multicultural and multifaith leaders, along with First Nations Elders, attended the launch, with guest speakers Aunty Esme Bamblett, CEO of the Aboriginal Advancement League and a member of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, Minister for Multicultural Affairs Colin Brooks, and the Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Gabrielle Williams.

                              Victorian Multicultural Voices for ‘Yes’ will be organising community town hall forums and community workshops in the lead-up to the referendum. These engagements aim to empower and equip multicultural communities with how to have conversations about the referendum and why it matters.

                              ECCV Members will be hosting their own community forums to inform members of their communities about why voting ‘YES’ matters, including the Islamic Council of Victoria and the Greek Community of Melbourne.

                              The launch follows the success of a national multicultural town hall forum at Springvale City Hall with Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney, which was attended by more than 700 people in August 2023.

                              The ECCV is the peak body for multicultural Victoria, with over 220 organisational members.
                              VIC | VWT | ENGAGING | Listen and learn together through kitchen conversations. It’s time to say yes 
                              Together, Yes is a kitchen conversations movement by Victorian Women’s Trust (VWT) in support of a YES vote in the 2023 referendum on a First Nations Voice to parliament. It’s a powerful way you can participate in the referendum to enshrine an Indigenous Voice in our constitution.
                              In 1967 we were counted, in 2017 we seek to be heard. We leave base camp and start our trek across this vast country. We invite you to walk with us in a movement of the Australian people for a better future. – Uluru Statement from the Heart, May 2017
                              By voting YES in the referendum, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will finally have a say on the policies and laws that affect their communities.

                              But voting ‘yes’ isn’t enough. We need to unite to ensure it’s a resounding YES from every corner of the country.

                              Is Together, Yes working with First Nations people?
                              Yes. The Victorian Women’s Trust (creator of Together, Yes) have been working in partnership with Koorie Women Mean Business for more than 30 years, which has guided much of our work since.

                              Since October 2022 we have been in close collaboration with indigenous-led campaigners to ensure Together, Yes helps achieve a positive referendum outcome.

                              Together, Yes uses ‘kitchen table conversations’, a model designed by the Victorian Women’s Trust more than twenty years ago. Tried and tested, it arose from a powerfully simple idea: engaging people in respectful and honest dialogue creates real and lasting change.

                              This civic engagement model is built on a set of important values. People are encouraged to:
                              1. Help create a safe place for thinking, talking and taking action
                              2. Acknowledge the experience and wisdom each person brings to the table
                              3. Enter discussions in good faith with an open, constructive spirit
                              4. Engage in respectful discussion, even in the face of dissent
                              5. Be prepared to listen, gain new insight, and test one’s own opinions

                              Together, Yes invites people from all walks of life to gather in small group discussions and engage in an honest reckoning of the harm and injustice of our colonial past; Australia’s history of constitutional indifference; and how a Voice to parliament can make a difference.
                              VIC | VTMH | DEMONSTRATING | Solidarity In Context to the Referendum
                              At an important moment in history, Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) supports the national vote adding an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice (The Voice) to the Australian Constitution.

                              VTMH aligns with the principles of unity and understanding promoted by Reconciliation Australia, and we also endorse the stance taken by St Vincent's Health Australia on this matter.

                              VTMH sees this as a big chance to bring people together and make things better. We know that health and wellness are connected to making things right between different groups of people in Australia. VTMH thinks this vote can make real changes and respect the different viewpoints of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
                              AUST | GEIFN | HOW | To Accept No: Contest of Binaries | Sunday 15 October 2023
                              With any adversarial system where only 2 options (aka binary) are offered, part of informed consent is accepting that for every winner there has to be non-winners.
                              Binaries (this OR that) is Absolutism. It takes time for people to realise that there are no lasting Absolutes.

                              To explore further, every thing with a beginning has also got within the seeds of its end. As daybreak begins it has ended night. As night begins it ends daylight. But when we understand fully we understand that the sun is always shining, it is just our personal vantage point that moved while individually we might be standing still. The spherical planet we all call home is spinning on its own axis as it revolves around the sun. It is only the side facing the sun that gets the sun at any given time. The half in darkness hasn't lost, it is just waiting again for its time in the sun. So dark does not exist without light.
                              "To be or not to be – that is the question." – William Shakespeare, English playwright, poet and actor (1564-1616 CE)

                              And when that gets easy, consider "To be AND not to be – that is the answer."

                              Accepting No majority means you're ready to continue the national conversation reconciling Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders' (aka First Nations') existence with Colonialism and those who come after. A No majority result is an acknowledgment that this conversation has now began in earnest. And also being just another day in a functioning civil democracy finding its way, steady as we go, full steam ahead.

                              When this proposition gets easier to understand, the opportunities for an outcome that benefits everyone becomes self realising. So if not now, then take comfort in the old wise saying "a journey of a 1,000 steps begins with the first but made realisable with the 2nd and subsequent."

                              AUST | GEIFN | WHY | To Accept No: Contest of Timing | Monday 16 October 2023
                              With big gains come the potential for big setbacks, obstacles and arguments. With practice, patience and perseverance, wisdom, compassion and non-selfish generosity always prevails.
                              "Life is a hard battle anyway. If we laugh and sing a little as we fight the good fight of freedom, it makes it all go easier. I will not allow my life's light to be determined by the darkness around me."
                              Sojourner Truth, American abolitionist and activist for African-American civil rights, women's rights, and alcohol temperance (died 1883 CE)

                              A No majority doesn't mean "never" it just means "not now". For 235 years there has only been 1 resounding No: Terra nullius (nobody's land). Countering this false fact, has now formally recognised a resounding 40% yes to preexistence, a marked improvement from its 0% starting position. Meaning Australia is now ready to begin a conversation reconciling Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders' (aka First Nations') existence with Colonialism and those who come after. 

                              A No majority result is an acknowledgment that this conversation has now began in earnest. While also being just another day in a functioning civil democracy finding its way, steady as we go, full steam ahead.

                              When this proposition gets easier to understand, the opportunities for an outcome that benefits a greater number until including all becomes self realising. So if not now, then take comfort in the old wise saying "a journey of a 1,000 steps begins with the first but made realisable with the 2nd and subsequent."

                              AUST | GEIFN | WHEN | To Accept No: Contest of Terra nullius | Tuesday 17 October 2023 and beyond
                              Terra nullius is a                               Latin expression meaning "nobody's land".  It was a principle sometimes used in international law to justify claims that territory may be acquired by a state's occupation of it. Denying the existence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders' existence by the British gave the British permission to land, stay and colonise.

                              Reconciling this falsehood in Australia's birth began 265 years ago and continues in our minds, hearts and actions. As testimony to this, the Australia today was unimaginable to our forebears. If we accept what we do today influences the future, it is also how brighter futures for a greater benefit is made possible – the real work being undertaken in the majority of ordinary days between the extra-ordinary milestones.
                              "I am my ancestor’s wildest dreams" – Maxine Beneba Clarke, Australian writer of Afro-Caribbean descent (1979- CE)

                              Accepting No majority means you're ready to continue the national conversation reconciling Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders' (aka First Nations') existence with British Colonialism and those who come after. A No majority result is an acknowledgment that this Australian conversation has now began in earnest. Celebrate just another day in a functioning civil democracy finding its way, steady as we go, full steam ahead.

                              When this proposition gets easier to understand, the opportunities for an outcome that benefits everyone becomes self realising. So if not now, then make comfort by applying the old wise saying "Conquer anger through gentleness, unkindness through kindness, greed through generosity, and falsehood by truth."

                               

                              AUST | VTMH | OFFERING | Reflections following the Referendum

                              Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) has taken some time following the Voice Referendum to reflect and attempt to find words to express our disappointment regarding this outcome. 
                              We deeply acknowledge the courage and generosity of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and leaders who extended this invitation to the Australian community to walk together in this journey for learning and healing together.

                              In the weeks since the referendum we have reflected on the impacts that colonisation has had in shaping practices in the mental health sector, including our service, and the continued challenges faced in providing culturally responsive care given the history of these lands.

                              VTMH deeply admires the strength and resilience of First Nations communities across the country. We commit to rising strong, leaning in, and to finding ways to honour our commitment to learning and healing together.

                              We encourage teams and individuals in all sectors to continue joining collective efforts to support a more culturally safe and humanistic system and society. 

                              To learn more about what is happening in Victoria towards truth, treaty and voice, we encourage you to visit the links below:  

                              CoPP | PPCR | STRIVING | Towards Meaningful Reconciliation

                              Port Phillip Citizens for Reconciliation (PPCR) is a voluntary, not for profit community group. 
                              It began in 1997 at a public meeting, at St Kilda Town Hall, convened by Jacki Willox and attended by hundreds of people, including politicians, councillors, indigenous musicians and general public.

                              Objectives
                              • To maintain local awareness of the reconciliation agenda, recognising that information, understanding and community discussion are integral to the process.
                              • promoting an understanding of the history of Aboriginal people, particularly in our local area.
                              Mungo, our monthly newsletter, continues to be a good news source for events, circulating annually to over 3,500 as well as members of other networks.

                              AUST | CHGR | BUILDING | First Nations kids learning and loving to learn. Their families walking beside. Seeing hope for the future

                              Children's Ground Limited (CHGR) introduces you to our ongoing bold vision for change – a future in which every First Nations child can experience a lifetime of opportunity, entering adulthood strong in their identity and culture, connected to their local and global world, and economically independent.

                              Children’s Ground vision includes:
                              • First Nations people across Australia having self-determination and enjoying social, cultural, political and economic justice.
                              • First Nations' next generation of children knowing and celebrating their culture and identity, having freedom of choice and expression and living with opportunity, peace, harmony and wellbeing.
                              • Australians recognising our shared history and celebrating First Nations' culture and strength.


                              AUST | YSS | EDUCATING | Aboriginal Pedagogy, Social Justice and Self-Determination

                              Yarn Strong Sista (YSS) has over 20 years of experience and excellence in Aboriginal pedagogy, social justice and self-determination.


                              YSS is a National Indigenous Educational Consultancy and Training Provider. Indigenous owned and run specialising in Aboriginal Pedagogy, providing authentic Aboriginal training for early childhood professionals, primary school teachers and corporate teams.

                              YSS are specialists with offering a range of services including:
                              • visits to Early Childhood environments to facilitate storytelling and arts workshops with children, 
                              • hosting Professional Development training for Educators
                              • facilitating arts experiences and face-painting at festivals and events, and 
                              • providing First Nations-designed resources and educational tools on our website.
                              Working beyond Early Years, customising our programs to meet the curriculum needs of Primary and Secondary students, and work in community contexts supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Our Aboriginal Early Childhood Education Resources include: Artefacts, Dolls, Children’s Music, Children’s Books, Games, Felt Hand and Finger Puppets, Felt Mats for Storytelling, Puzzles, and Teachers Resource Guides.

                              Other projects include:
                              • Foregrounding Anti Bias Perspectives
                              • Yarn Strong Brutha
                              • Enterprise for Empowerment.
                              Providing relevant resources and books that assist parents, teachers and organisations to acknowledge and celebrate Aboriginal Ways of Being. All our resources are ethically made and sourced, in collaboration with Indigenous artists and Fair-Trade partners.

                              AUST | EVCO | BUILDING | Stronger, more inclusive organisation through Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Competence Training Programs

                              Be part of the big 10 year goal to inspire 10 million Allies to create a kinder, more inclusive Australia.

                              Build a stronger, more inclusive organisation through Evolve Communities Pty Ltd (EVCO)'s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Competence Training Programs.

                              When it comes to cultural awareness training, there isn’t necessarily a one-size-fits-all solution for education, reconciliation and allyship training. 

                              That’s why Evolve Communities offer different training courses and programs to suit any team’s size or style and let you choose the cultural competency training that is the best fit for your business including:
                              • 7 Steps Online Course
                              • Yarning Circle Workshops
                              • Ally Accreditation
                              Evolve Communities is a NSW-based Trusted Authority for Australian Indigenous cultural awareness, ally & facilitator training.


                                 7.3  VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Coronavirus Response

                                Stay up to date on the latest health advice and please consider both the COVID-19 and flu vaccinations if eligible. If you need access to food or financial relief, there is information available for how to get this support.

                                UPDATING | COVID safe and vaccination information to support CALD people with disability

                                The COVID safe and vaccination information to support CALD people with disability translated fact sheets are now obsolete and will not be updated or maintained.

                                The following links are currently being used to promote COVID-19 resources in language (via the translations icon): 

                                Free RATS Now Available to everyone through your local council

                                The Victorian Government has now made Rapid Antigen tests free and available at more than 200 local council distribution sites such as libraries and council customer service centres. The program is open to all Victorians, with all eligibility requirements removed.

                                Individuals can collect up to two packets for themselves plus up to two packets for each household member per visit. People with a disability or their carer can collect up to four packets of tests.
                                To learn in other ways about Victoria's responses: 

                                 7.4  AUST | MULTI | UPDATING | Coronavirus Response

                                • Coronavirus hotline: If you are concerned, call the coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398 (24 Hours).
                                • Coronavirus in-language information
                                • If you are an NDIS participant you can also call the national hotline on 1800 020 080.
                                • Information and referrals for people with disability and their supporters about Coronavirus: Contact the Disability Information Helpline on 1800 634 787. 
                                • If you are deaf, or have a hearing or speech impairment, you can also call the National Relay Service on 133 677.
                                • Interpreting service: If you need an interpreter, call TIS National on 131 450.
                                • Testing locations: Find a testing location near you.
                                • Call-to-Test-at-Home service, providing in-home coronavirus testing to Victorians who would otherwise be unable to get tested, call the DHHS Coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398.
                                • Triple Zero: Please keep Triple Zero (000) for emergencies only.

                                Other Resources

                                   8. ACKNOWLEDGING 

                                  In this Section

                                    1. Acknowledgment to Sources
                                    2. Bye bye to Essentialists
                                    3. Self-Isolators, Non-Essentials And The Homebound
                                     

                                     8.1  Acknowledgment to Sources

                                    This is a consolidated account of information current at time of issuance, sourced, collated and provided by Victorian Multicultural Commission, Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria, various Government Authorities, community organisations, public domain and individuals, received with gratitude.

                                     8.2  Bye bye to Essentialists

                                    Us non-essentialists will endeavour to manage our expection of miracles and do our best to follow rules while staying out of the way. 

                                    Contact your closest friendly non-essentialist if you need anything that can be done remotely. Bye bye to Essentialists for now, please leave to attend to the essential work. That is all from the Caretaker at this time.

                                     8.3  Self-Isolators, Non-Essentials And The Homebound

                                    Meanwhile, if with a surplus of time, this and the following is offered. Discuss with sincerity. Deny untruth. Dismiss unuseful. Accept useful. Adapt to change. Adopt least effort most benefit. Adept with sharing. Enjoy throughout. As each case may be. Round about. And again. Or not.


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