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AUSSIEStory | Ro Unbinds Binary: Life is Diverse, Diversity is Natural, Crank it Up!

Born to challenge societal expectations and boundaries, Ro learnt from retired Australian Uniting Church minister and activist Dorothy McRae-McMahon that being LGTBIQA+ did not exclude you from a spiritual life.

Join Ro as they recount their journey from conversion practices to living life through the lens of love. A  consistent social justice reformer and human rights champion. Along the way, finding time for long-time partner now wife, 2 step children, 1 daughter and a granddaughter. 

How is it working out? 


Join us with 'humanising the other':

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AUSSIEStory
Global Engagement In Friendlier Neighbourhoods (GEIFN)
Website

--- GEIFN is based in City of Port Phillip, the traditional lands of the Boon Wurrung, Bunurong and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation. Respect is offered to past, present and future elders of all spiritual traditions. 
--- Services and program delivery is culturally safe to people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, aesexual and questioning (LGBTIQA+).
--- May we find together a generous way to accommodate those in need of refuge. Let us be cool, strive individually and together to overcome inequality, violence, disengagement, tragedy and injustice wherever it may be. Let us honour, savor and enjoy results of mindful effort so more thrive peacefully with less effort in our place called home.
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VIC | VTMH | UPDATING | Community News | December 2025

[Edited extract from public address]

It’s been a very meaningful year for VTMH in which capacity building has remained our focus. 

Working in collaboration with teams and organisations, community members and people with lived and living experience has been very enriching. We hold hope that our work together shapes a mental health system that both represents and meets the needs of all community members, honouring and respecting many ways of knowing, being and doing. 

We delivered 19 workshops to over 401 participants, 6 seminars to over 481 participants, and have had more than 70,000 views across our online resources. We held a forum for the first time since 2023. Focused on innovations in cultural responsiveness in the sector, we had almost 20 speakers and over 100 attendees.  

We’ve also been upgrading and updating the system for our online modules. We hope to launch the new system in early 2026 alongside updated content for the modules.  

And finally, we’ve reached a few milestones in our Partners in Diversity project with Eating Disorders Victoria (EDV).   

Our first webinar for 2026 will be held in April. We will release more details when we open bookings early in the year.  

We’re excited to start the new year in 2026 and wish you all a happy and healthy holiday season.  
 

 Programs and projects 

VTMH Partners in Diversity: Eating Disorders Victoria  

VTHM and Eating Disorders Victoria (EDV) entered into a partnership through VTMH Partners in Diversity (PiD) program in mid-2023. 

Upgrades to VTMH’s Interactive Online Learning Hub 

We’re currently in the process of upgrading our Learning Management System (LMS) so that we can continue to provide easy to access online learning modules for years to come.

VTMH Forum 2025 

We held our 2025 forum on 6 November. Over 100 people from across the sector gathered to explore this year's theme: Practice and Research Innovations Towards Culturally Responsive Systems. 

Our Transcultural Clinical Discussion Service

Transcultural Clinical Discussions (TCD) are a service that VTMH offers to mental health clinicians across Victoria. This is not an emergency service. 

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Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH)
Address: St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, Level 1, Bolte Wing, 14 Nicholson Street, Fitzroy VIC 3065
Tel: (03) 9231 3300

VTMH acknowledges it is located on the traditional lands of the Boon Wurrung and Woiwurrung (Wurundjeri) peoples of the Kulin Nation. We know this land has history, custodians and stories spanning tens of thousands of years. We celebrate and recognise the First Peoples’ continuing connection to the land and water, and pay our respects to their Ancestors and Elders, past, present and emerging.
In a spirit of reconciliation, we commit to walking the journey of learning and healing together.

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VIC | VMC | UPDATING | Community, News and Information | Tuesday 23 December 2025

[Edited extract from public address]

As the year draws to a close, we enter a season of reflection. Across Victoria and around the world, communities are marking this time through meaningful traditions – from Hanukkah and Christmas to Bodhi Day and other important spiritual and cultural observances.

It is a season that reminds us of the values that connect us: peace, compassion and togetherness.

At our Community Vigil on Sunday, we came together as a multicultural and multifaith community, united in our grief and solidarity with the Jewish community. Alongside the Minister for Multicultural Affairs, we stood side-by-side with the Jewish community at St Peter’s Eastern Hill Hall. We lit 15 candles in commemoration of the 15 lives tragically lost at Bondi. I was moved by all those who spoke, their profound and heartfelt reflections give me hope that we can come together, as friends and as a community, to overcome hate. Thank you to all those who joined us, from fellow Commissioners, Victoria Police and Fire Rescue Victoria, Mayors and Councillors, community organisations and leaders. Your show of solidarity matters.

Separately, I also joined the Premier, Attorney-General, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police and other leaders in signing a Statement of Condolence and Solidarity. This statement affirms our vision for a Victoria that is safe, inclusive and respectful for all. You can add your voice by signing the Statement of Unity and Solidarity.

In the spirit of light over darkness, I want to highlight a moment of extraordinary courage this year. During the tragic attack at Bondi Junction, Ahmed al-Ahmed bravely intervened and helped disarm the attacker, saving lives in an act that has been widely recognised as heroic. My appreciation also goes to the first responders who ran towards danger to help save lives. These acts are a reminder of the best of humanity.

I also encourage you to read the announcement from Premier Jacinta Allan in response to the Bondi terrorist attack.

As the year draws to a close, and in addition to reflection, I encourage everyone to rest, reconnect with loved ones and to seek renewal. Community service is the heartbeat of civic life, and through connection and care, we continue to build a better future together. I look forward to reconnecting with many of you in 2026 as we continue our collective work to strengthen a respectful, safer and more inclusive Victoria.

Warm regards,
Vivienne Nguyen AM, Chairperson

 

 News and events 

VIC | VMC | CELEBRATING | Cultural Diversity Week 2026

From 21–29 March, join us in celebrating Cultural Diversity Week – a time to honour the stories, traditions and contributions that make Victoria such a vibrant place to live.
This year’s theme – Culture connects us all – reminds us that sharing intercultural experiences fosters understanding, belonging and connection.

Get involved:
 

VIC | VMC | CALLING | Applicants for Multicultural Youth Network | applications close Sunday 11 January 2026

The Victorian Multicultural Commission is calling on passionate young leaders to apply for the Multicultural Youth Network 2026.

If you're aged 18 to 25 and ready to represent your region, elevate youth voices and influence real change, this is your moment.

Join a network of changemakers to help shape inclusive policies and champion multicultural communities across Victoria.
 

VIC | VMC | CALLING | Short Film Submissions for MFF 2026 | now open, entries close Tuesday 10 March 2026

The Victorian Multicultural Commission, in partnership with Swinburne University of Technology and SBS, is calling all filmmakers to share their stories. Whether you're an emerging filmmaker or an experienced creator, we want to hear your story.

Anyone is welcome to submit a short film of 10 minutes or less. The premiere event will screen in Melbourne during Refugee Week on 18 June 2026 at ACMI Cinemas. Films in the Official Selection will screen at multiple venues and on SBS On Demand.

Prizes of $2,500 to be won per category! 
 

VIC | VMC | REPORTING | Multicultural Awards for Excellence 2025

The 2025 Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence (MAEs) was held at Government House, celebrating outstanding individuals and organisations whose efforts have strengthened inclusion, unity and belonging across Victoria.

Now in its 24th year, the Victorian Multicultural Commission proudly coordinated the MAEs to honour those who champion cross-cultural understanding and support Victorians from migrant, refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds to thrive and fully participate in all areas of life. Watch our highlights video (2 mins) for an overview of the event.

The 2025 MAEs recognised 53 winners across 14 categories, including 36 new inductees to the Multicultural Honour Roll. Recipients came from metropolitan and regional Victoria, representing 29 cultural backgrounds, with awards acknowledging individuals, organisations and police. 
 

VIC | STANDING | Together Against Hate

Lat week, Victorian multicultural and multifaith leaders came together with the Premier of Victoria, the Hon Jacinta Allan to stand united against hate and violence. This powerful moment of solidarity sends a clear message: We stand together as one and our communities will not be divided.

At this meeting. attended by the Premier, the Attorney-General, the Minister for Multicultural Affairs, the Victorian Multicultural Commission and the Chief Commissioner of Police, community leaders signed a Statement of Condolence and Solidarity. This statement reaffirms our shared commitment to a Victoria that is safe, inclusive and respectful for all. View the statement.

Now, we invite you to join us in this commitment. Sign the Statement of Unity and Solidarity today and show your support for a Victoria that celebrates diversity and rejects hate.

Together, we can ensure Victoria remains a place where diversity is celebrated and hate has no home. Let us continue to work together to promote safety and unity.


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Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)
Address: Level 6, 121 Exhibition Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

The VMC acknowledges the Traditional Owners of country throughout Victoria and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.

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AUST | AFUO | UPDATING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Ukraine Crisis Appeal

[Edited extract from public address]

I wanted to take a moment to personally thank everyone who has donated so far to our Winter Appeal. 

It is hard to put into words what your support means to the families, children, and veterans in Ukraine who are facing the harshest days of winter. Your kindness lets them know they are not alone, nor forgotten.

If you have not yet made a donation but are able to, this would extend this circle of protection towards the cost for one more family. Your support is the most meaningful gift they could receive this year.

Together, over 12 days we have raised $130,000 AUD. This isn't just a number—it represents thousands of moments of warmth, safety and light that simply wouldn't have existed without your heart. It has given warmth to over 100 house holds, each unit costing approx $1,200 AUD.

As Christmas approaches, the Ukraine Crisis Appeal team want to wish you and your family a season filled with peace, love and the same comfort you are providing to others.

May your own homes be filled with the warmth and light you have so selflessly shared with those in the darkness.

While we celebrate this time with our loved ones, the frost in Ukraine continues to set in, and our mission is not yet over. Generators remain our most critical need. They are the literal lifeline that keeps hope alive, ensuring that a hospital stays powered or a family stays warm when the grid goes dark.

Thank you for standing with Ukraine and for keeping hope alive.

Warm regards,
Diahanna (Darka) Senko
AFUO Director Humanitarian and Medical Aid
Chair, AFUO Humanitarian Aid Initiatives Committee (HAIC)
Chair, Ukraine Crisis Appeal and Ukraine Crisis Appeal Resettlement Funds

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Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO)

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VIC | ECCV | UPDATING | Community News | eBulletin #59-60 | December 2025

[Edited extract from public address]

Christmas wishes from the ECCV team to all those celebrating at this time of the year.

It's been a tough end to 2025, a year already beset by so many overseas conflicts and humanitarian crises. 
 
As the voice of multicultural Victoria, we've been heartbroken by the atrocity that took place on the first day of the Jewish festival of Chanukah on our own shores. As we've said, the deadly shootings in Sydney this month were an attack on our Jewish community as well as the inclusive, multicultural values that bind all our communities together in our diversity.
 
We know this is not a time to be divided but to come together. ECCV will continue to challenge divisive, anti-migrant narratives that have gained fuel and redouble our efforts to eliminate hate and racism – in all forms.
 
The public holidays coming up give all of us who are not working a much-needed opportunity to rest and regroup, 
 
Our warmest wishes to you all.
Farah Farouque, CEO
 

ISSUING | Statement on Attack at Bondi Beach

ECCV extends its deepest condolences to those who have lost loved ones in the antisemitic attack at Bondi earlier this month. Now more than ever we must stand firm against antisemitism and hate in all forms.

PUBLISHING | Annual Report

We are pleased to share ECCV’s Annual Report 2024–25, reflecting on a year of hard work and strong engagement with migrant and refugee communities across the state.

 Highlights 

ECCV AGM

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Annual General Meeting. We were pleased to welcome Premier Jacinta Allan as keynote speaker and with more than 200 attendees, it was our strongest turnout in recent years.
 
We congratulate the newly elected Board for 2025–27. Office bearers, including the new ECCV chairperson, will be confirmed in coming weeks.

REPORTING | ECCV in the Media

ABC Radio National Breakfast – Our CEO Farah Farouque spoke on RN Breakfast in response to the proposed US plans to collect data on so-called 'migrant crime' in Australia, highlighting the dangers of racialised narratives and the importance of evidence-based discussion. She was also asked about Pauline Hanson's Senate stunt. 
“These are hateful narratives built to distract from serious issues, and they have no merit.” – Farah Farouque, CEO
Also: Read media coverage of ECCV's AGM in the Philippine Times and The Greek Herald.

 Opportunities and Resources 


 Christmas Office Hours 

Please note that ECCV's office will be closed from Thursday 25 December 2025 reopening Monday 5 January 2026


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Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV)
Address: Suite 101, 398 Sydney Road, Coburg Vic 3058
Tel: (03) 9354 9555

ECCV acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Victoria, and pays respect to their Elders past and present.
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AUST | RfPA | ISSUING | Statement on Bondi Attack of Jewish Community Sunday 14 December 2025

[Edited extract from public address]

Religions for Peace Australia extends heartfelt condolences to the victims of the tragic shooting at Bondi Beach on Sunday 14 December 2025.

Our prayers and thoughts are with the victims, their families and everyone impacted by this unspeakable act of violence targeting our Australian Jewish community. We extend our sympathies to the Jewish community, who will be deeply impacted by this terrorist incident, at a time of year when they should be coming together to celebrate the start of Hanukkah with family and friends.

Hanukkah (Chanukah) is the Jewish eight-day, wintertime “festival of lights,” celebrated with a nightly menorah lighting, special prayers and fried foods. In many places, this is done as a communal celebration.

The Hebrew word Hanukkah means “dedication,” and is thus named because it celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple.

Just over two years since the attacks of 7 October 2023, many Jews feel a deep need to stand together and be confidently Jewish—now more than ever. It reminds everyone that their faith is shining strong.

On this first night of Hanukkah with the Chabad Community event ‘Hanukkah by the Sea’ celebration, 16 people were killed and many others injured and taken to hospital. Many hundreds were forced to flee as the shootings were occurring, to find safe shelter.

We salute the bravery of civilians and Police who responded to this event while it was occurring. We honour all those who opened their homes and provided shelter to those fleeing the beach. We thank all emergency services for their prompt response and protection of the community.

We respect the need for police and community to manage this issue in a considered calm methodical way.

Chabad in New South Wales, particularly through its Yeshiva Centre in Sydney, has a rich history that reflects the broader experience of Jewish immigration and community building in Australia.

The NSW Jewish Board of Deputies has cancelled all community celebrations. Hanukkah (Chanukah) celebrations in other states have been cancelled. The planned Hanukkah celebrations are currently under risk assessment to determine if they will proceed.

No faith community in Australia should be forced to retire from their worship and live in fear. The Jewish Community has a right to feel safe. They have the right to be who they are and the way they believe. An attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on every Australian.

This is not the Australian way. We are a multicultural and multifaith community that make up this home we all call Australia. It is the land of the Dreamtime, it is the land of peaceful tolerance and acceptance of all who come here and make this country their home.

This attack was on a Chabad community event at Bondi Beach ~ Hanukkah by the Sea. Chabad in New South Wales remains a central pillar of Jewish life, promoting outreach and education while staying committed to the Chabad philosophy of spreading Jewish awareness and practice.

Religions for Peace Australia joins with all faith communities in Australia in condemning this action, this attack on our peace.
May peace prevail on Earth!
May peace prevail on the Jewish communities that live in Australia.
Emeritus Prof Desmond Cahill, President, Religions for Peace Australia
Rev. Sandy Boyce, Co-Chair
Ms. Philippa Rowland, Co-Chair

Religions for Peace Australia is a global, community-based organisation working for global peace across the world and for social cohesion in Australia in other countries, and for peace and co-operation between the religions of the world. It works for an understanding of the benefits that religion and religious moderation brings to society, and works against religiously based extremism that is violent. Religions for Peace Australia has affiliates and branches in all states of Australia.

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Religions for Peace Australia (RfPA)

Religions for Peace Australia acknowledges, celebrates and pays respect to the traditional owners of country throughout Australia - and to all First Nations Australians - on whose traditional lands we meet and work, and whose cultures are among the oldest continuing cultures in human history.

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AUST | CITC | WEBINAR | Silent Bondi Vigil | Sunday 21 December 2025 | 9-9.10pm AEST

[Edited extract from public address]

Greetings of peace.You are invited for a silent 10-minute online vigil to remember and honour those affected by the Bondi tragedy. 

This will be a gentle space for quiet reflection, shared care, and solidarity, holding the victims, their loved ones, and the wider community in our thoughts. 

All are welcome to attend in silence, prayer, meditation or simply to be present together.

Thank you for your presence.

In peace and with community in our hearts - the Calm Collective team

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Calm in the City (CitC) 
Melbourne: Meditation Centre, Bookshop and Quiet Room, 256 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy Vic

Calm in the City is a not-for-profit venture which listens and engages with the city communities to bring calm into the heart of the city. We respectfully acknowledge that all Calm in the City events in Melbourne take place on the lands of the Kulin nations.

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VIC | VPL | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Victoria Police Legacy Children’s Christmas Appeal

[Edited extract from public address]

Bring joy to a young police legatee this Christmas by donating to the Victoria Police Legacy Children’s Christmas Appeal, proudly supported by BankVic.

Victoria Police Legacy (VPL) provides ongoing care and support to Victoria Police families who have suffered the loss of a loved one - including the many young children who are police legatees.

We’re grateful for BankVic’s generous support, and we encourage you to donate if you’re able. Even the simplest gift can make a meaningful and heartfelt difference.
 
All donations over $2 are fully tax-deductible, and your impact will last a lifetime.

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Victoria Police Legacy (VPL)
PO Box 4086
Burwood East 3151
Toll Free: 1800 065 999 (country areas)
Tel: 03 9663 4280

The Victorian Government acknowledges Aboriginal Traditional Owners of Country throughout Victoria and pays respect to their cultures and Elders past and present.

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AUST | CUIN | UPDATING | Embodied, Skilled, Specialised Transmitters and more | December 2025

[Edited extract from public address]

Humans are not just beings; each of us is also a transmitter of light and of information that pre-existed our birth. 

This issue our focus is on acknowledging and celebrating the work of our presenters and of the educators and community leaders who value it as part of their own work as living transmitters of culture.
     

SHARING | The Light

A reflection on the tragic shooting event that took place during sundown in Bondi when Chanukah commenced on Sunday 14 December 2025.

Chanukah is celebrated by 16 million Jewish people across the world to remind us that even the smallest light matters. A single flame can push back darkness at a time when fear and brutality try to extinguish hope. Chanukah insists that light is a choice, an action, and a responsibility. Candles are lit not because the world is safe, but because it is not.

Humanity is not defined by its worst moments. I recommit, quietly but firmly, to choosing empathy over fear, solidarity over division, and care over indifference. May the light we transmit be stronger than the darkness we witness.

Peter Mousaferiadis, Cultural Infusion CEO
     

Contents

  1. Embodied Language Learning through Cultural Transmission
    • Centring Culture in Technology and Technology in Culture
    • Living Transmitters of Culture: On Celebrations of Cultural Diversity
    • Australia’s Inclusive Employers of 2025
    • Data-Driven Tools for Today’s Inclusion Leaders
  2. Education and Experience News
    • Discover a Better Way of Seeing Diversity with the Atlas
    • New Programs and Highlights for Schools and Communities
    • ICAP: Creating Tomorrow's Leaders Today - Now Available for Year 6 Too! 
    • Cultural Infusion's Teacher Learning Hub
  3. Voices of Cultural Infusion
    • The K-Wave Debate and a Swedish Cuppa
    • What is the Point of Cultural Diversity Celebrations?
  4. Calendar Spotlight
    • Lunar New Year, begins 17 February 2026
     

 1. Embodied Language Learning through Cultural Transmission 

‘Language doesn’t just live on a page – it also lives in rhythm, sound, gesture and emotion.’ 
– Elizabeth Mousaferiadis, Education & Experiences Coordinator, Cultural Infusion
Our Education and Experiences team presented a workshop on embodied learning at the recent Languages Teachers Victoria Conference. Mohammed, our skilled presenter of Rhythms & Instruments of West Africa, demonstrated how language can be transmitted physically.

Cultural Infusion offers interactive programs nationwide to build intercultural understanding through movement, sound and storytelling.
     

Centring Culture in Technology and Technology in Culture

  • Tech is not culturally neutral.
  • Culture shapes tech before tech shapes culture.
  • When tech ignores culture it amplifies inequities.
  • Responsible tech design requires cultural understanding.
  • Humans are meaning-makers, not just users.
These were some of the points CTO Rezza Moieni shared with the Australian-Iranian IT Association (ARIA) panel at Microsoft’s head office in Melbourne.


Living Transmitters of Culture: On Celebrations of Cultural Diversity

What’s the point of celebrating cultural diversity?
  • Belonging
  • Education
  • Maintenance, practice and renewal of Cultural traditions
  • Innovation
  • Fun, and much more.
Read Peter Mousaferiadis’s post, ‘Living Transmitters of Culture: The Case for Celebrating Cultural Diversity’, and check out his speech to the Asia Street Food Festival, below!
     

Australia’s Inclusive Employers of 2025

The Diversity Council Australia uses our Atlas platform for their annual List of Inclusive Employers and to offer participating organisations a real-time dashboard, detailed data, and comprehensive analysis tailored to the DCA’s methodology and reporting needs.

Check out the list and if you are looking for a more efficient way to conduct your organisation’s membership community survey or want better quality people data across your own organisation, please get in touch! Or read on for more ways you can engage with our powerful Atlas! We can’t wait to hear from you!
     

Data-Driven Tools for Today’s Inclusion Leaders

B Corp Evidence Data Collection
B Corp sets the global benchmark for organisations that lead with purpose, equity and accountability. But addressing the new B Corp standards and providing evidence can be time-intensive – especially when it comes to gathering cultural, diversity and supply-chain data evidence. 

We’ve pre-built two low burden surveys, one for staff and one for suppliers that can be deployed easily and will collect 'live' evidence for your B Corp submission  — all on one platform and dashboard.
The results will greatly enrich your staff and supplier intel, quite apart from B Corp requirements. 

PCI for Self-Assessment and Benchmarking
How does your organisation rate – in the eyes of your own people – in terms of representation, data, leadership, talent retention and attraction, and culture?
Find out with our new tool, PCI, available on Cultural Infusion's Atlas platform, based on our scientific methodology to give you the full picture.  
GDEIB Digital for All Your Self-Assessment and Reporting Needs
Are you looking for an easy way to view and share your Diversity, Equity and Inclusion data? Cultural Infusion is GDEIB certified, and we are proud to announce the launch of GDEIB Digital to enable you to effortlessly self-assess and benchmark, underpinned by the Atlas's scientific methodology and unrivalled expertise in cultural and demographic diversity data.

 2. Education and Experiences News 

Discover a Better Way of Seeing Diversity with the Atlas

Bring your school’s cultural story to life with the Atlas: the world’s unrivalled leader in demographic and cultural diversity data!

Find out how many languages and dialects your class or school speaks! What belief systems, places and heritages are there to learn about? Discover all the amazing hidden diversity in your school!

Supported by the Victorian Government, we still have some limited free spots for government schools.
     

New Programs and Highlights for Schools and Communities

     

Creating | Tomorrow's Leaders Today (ICAP) | Now Available for Year 6 Too! 

Intercultural Citizenship Ambassador Program (ICAP)* is a flexible program newly designed for students in Years 7 to 9 and now also available for Year 6. It can be delivered during class time or adapt as a before- or after-school program for wellbeing, making it easy to integrate into your school’s timetable.

*Available in Victoria only.
FREE for Year 6, 7, 8 and 9 students at Victorian government schools.

Cultural Infusion's Teacher Learning Hub

Cultural Infusion's Teacher Learning Hub (formerly known as Learning Lands) is getting a major upgrade in early 2026, and we’re excited to share what’s on the way. The revamped platform will include a newly developed collection of practical, curriculum-aligned lesson plans on Intercultural Competency (F-12) and five new self-paced Professional Development modules designed for Australian educators to support teachers more than ever.

Sign up now and get early access when the new platform goes live. 

 3. Voices of Cultural Infusion 

The K-Wave Debate and a Swedish Cuppa

Yun Kim wrote a thoughtful response piece on K-pop and cultural appropriation, ‘The K-Wave in Context: Harmony over Ownership‘ for the Sound Infusion blog.

Popular fave Shadow Tsui wrote a new post for the Cultural Infusion blog about a sensible-sounding Swedish tradition, called, ‘Let’s Fika! A Story of Cultural Appreciation in Sweden’.

What is the Point of Cultural Diversity Celebrations?

Finally, once again, we recommend the article ‘Living Transmitters of Culture: The Case for Celebrating of Cultural Diversity’ by Peter Mousaferiadis, which draws from his long experience as a cultural entrepreneur, touches on the Victorian treaty and recent apology, and addresses some unfortunate but widespread misconceptions.
   

 4. Calendar Spotlight 

Lunar New Year, begins 17 February 2026

Lunar New Year has been celebrated in many countries for thousands of years, particularly China, Korea, Indonesia and Vietnam. The celebration involves removing the bad and old, and welcoming the new and good. It’s a time to worship ancestors and pray for good harvest. Lion dance, dragon dance, temple fairs and flower market shopping and just a few of the rich and colourful traditions. Families will redecorate they houses with red couplets, lanterns, new flowerpots and furniture, and will shop for foodstuffs for banquet specialities.

To honour the essence of this festival, we have many immersive programs to help you celebrate Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean and Indonesian cultures:

Cultural Infusion wishes everyone who is having holidays, especially our greatest supporters, the hardworking educators, a wonderful, culturally diverse holiday and a prosperous, peaceful 2026. The next newsletter will be in February 2026 as we have a short break for summer.


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Cultural Infusion (CUIN)
Address: Suite 2, 273-277 Wellington Street, Collingwood VIC 3066

Cultural Infusion has its offices based on the ancestral land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We acknowledge and pay respect to the past, present and future traditional custodians and elders and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia.

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VIC | VMC | STANDING | Together Against Hate – Sign the Statement of Unity and Solidarity | Thursday 18 December 2025

[Edited extract from public address]

Victorian multicultural and multifaith leaders came together with the Premier of Victoria, the Hon Jacinta Allan, to stand united against hate and violence. 

This powerful moment of solidarity sends a clear message: We stand together as one and our communities will not be divided.

At this meeting, attended by the Premier, Attorney-General, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Victorian Multicultural Commission and Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police, community leaders signed a Statement of Condolence and Solidarity. This statement reaffirms our shared commitment to a Victoria that is safe, inclusive and respectful for all. 
Show your support for a Victoria that celebrates diversity and rejects hate. We invite you to join us in this commitment by signing the Statement of Unity and Solidarity today. 

Together, we can ensure Victoria remains a place where diversity is celebrated and hate has no home. Let us continue to work together to promote safety and unity.

Vivienne Nguyen AM, Chairperson

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Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)
Address: Level 6, 121 Exhibition Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

The VMC acknowledges the Traditional Owners of country throughout Victoria and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.

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AUST | THCO | UPDATING | Awareness, Funds and Support for independent media and more | December 2025

[Edited extract from public address]

In September this year, the Nobel-prize-winning journalist Maria Ressa gave a powerful speech to the National Press Club about the ways in which authoritarians manipulate social media. 

She called for the Australian government to bolster the regulation of technology platforms and issued a stark warning.
“The greatest threat we face today isn’t any individual leader or one government. It’s the technology that’s amplifying authoritarian tactics worldwide, enabled by democratic governments that abdicated their responsibility to protect the public … Tech platforms have become weapons of mass destruction to democracy.”
Ressa is right. We all consume content served up by these platforms, and we are all at risk from misinformation and disinformation. But this is even truer for younger generations who have little experience of journalism before social media. They need access to trustworthy information on the platforms they use. 

That is why The Conversation wants to invest in producing content from academic experts on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and other social platforms. We want to commission fast, accessible, evidence-based explainers that meet people when they most need clarity. In a sea of misinformation and agenda-driven spin, we want to give the truth a fighting chance.

Two of our valued supporters, the Sue Beeton Fund and the Koshland Innovation Fund, understand the urgency of our mission. For the next two weeks, they will match every donation from our readers. This means that if you give again now, the impact will be doubled.


THANKING | Supporters of The Conversation

In normal times, this might be a “shorts and thongs” sort of day as we wind down for the Christmas break. Instead, we are shell-shocked. The Bondi attack shattered our sense of safety and forced us to confront difficult questions about how something like this can happen and how we can stop it from happening again.

Our team has been working hard to produce sober analysis and reporting, grounded in evidence and drawing on deep expertise.  Their commitment has been underpinned by the belief that journalism is a form of public service. Our aim, as always, is to be constructive, not divisive. We focus on solving problems rather than amplifying them.

I am proud of our work this week, and throughout 2025. It’s made possible by the selflessness of many people, and I want to thank them all. 

Thank you to our hundreds of thousands of thoughtful and generous readers who see the value of reliable information and who care enough to help us provide it.

Sincere thanks to every academic who found the time to write an article and share their expertise this year. 
Thanks to our university partners and philanthropic funders who work so hard to make a positive difference. 

Thanks also to the volunteer board members and my colleagues in editorial, administration and technology, who are so committed and principled and lovely to work with.

Special thanks to all the people who became monthly donors this December and to the thousands more who supported us with tax-deductible gifts throughout the year. (And if you haven’t donated yet to our end-of-year campaign, you still can.) 

Finally, from everyone in the team here, we wish you a joyous and peaceful Christmas. May 2026 be a better year, one in which we live together without violence and we care as much for those around us as we do for ourselves.

SUPPORTING | Our work

I hope you will consider helping us secure the resources we need to do this work. Your support will help make expert knowledge accessible and protect us from the shysters, charlatans and shills who distort public debate.

Best wishes,
Misha Ketchell, Editor

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The Conversation (THCO)
Address: Tenancy B, Level 5, 700 Swanston Street, Carlton Vic 3053

We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of Australia and Māori as tangata whenua in Aotearoa New Zealand.

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YARRA | YEF | UPDATING | Stories, events and more | December 2025

[Edited extract from public address]

DISCUSSING | Hot water emergency? Read this before you pick another gas system

When a hot water system fails, most households will replace it like-for-like. But with gas prices continuing to rise, and rebates available for electric heat pump hot water systems, it's worth considering your options before rushing back to gas. 

In our latest article, we compare upfront costs, installation timeframes, running costs, and available rebates for gas storage vs heat pump hot water systems. It’s a practical guide for making an informed decision, especially when time is tight.

Head over to our LinkedIn newsletter to read the full article. And if you’ve dealt with a hot water emergency, we’d love to know what system you chose and why – let us know in the comments! 

JOINING | Australia's first Vehicle-Grid Network

YEF is pleased to be one of the in-kind partners in Australia’s first national collaboration network accelerating electric vehicle-to-grid integration, called the Vehicle-Grid Network.
 
The Network will foster cross-sector partnerships, knowledge sharing, and innovation to explore the potential of bidirectional EV charging to lower bills and emissions.
 
Commissioned by RACE for 2030 in partnership with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), the project is led by Climate-KIC Australia and the Institute for Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS).
 
Interested parties from industry and government can contact Project Lead, Nodoka Nakamichi: nodoka.nakamichi@uts.edu.au

REPORTING | Efficient Electric Homes Summit

We recently joined hundreds of home electrification proponents at the Efficient Electric Homes Market Acceleration Summit in Sydney hosted by the Energy Efficiency Council (EEC).

Key takeaways included: 
  • Mandatory home energy ratings disclosure is a crucial step to drive minimum standards and incentivise owner upgrades, such as at the point of sale or lease.
  • “One stop shops” for residential energy upgrades are common in Europe, with 86 in Belgium, where more successful models involve communities and local governments.
  • The significant health benefits of home energy upgrades are an under emphasised outcome of the electrification movement. 
  • Congratulations to the EEC on launching their Market Acceleration Plan, which outlines a mission to establish a mature market for efficient electric retrofits across Australia.
  • Read the Market Acceleration Plan

REPORTING | Achievements from the Melbourne Community Electrification Roadshow

Since our first event in August this year, the Melbourne Community Electrification Roadshow has:
  • Engaged 1,600 participants
  • Delivered 19 local events
  • Partnered with 15 community groups and councils 
  • Reached communities across 11 local government areas
Across information sessions, webinars, market stalls and expos, these events have helped households explore the benefits of electrification, like better home comfort, lower energy bills and lower emissions.

A huge thank you to all our wonderful partners, and to everyone who has attended an event. 

We’ll be back from February 2026 with another round of fantastic community events. Check out our website for dates.

This project is supported by the Community Electrification Engagement Program, delivered by Sustainability Victoria on behalf of the Victorian Government.

WISHING | A safe and happy holiday season!

As we near the end of the year, we’d like to thank you for your continued support throughout 2025. From community batteries to home energy upgrades, it’s been a big year and we’re so grateful to work alongside such a dedicated and engaged community.

The YEF office will be closed from Tuesday 24 December 2025 and will reopen Monday 5 January 2026.

We wish you and your loved ones a safe and restful holiday season, and we look forward to reconnecting in the new year.

SHARING | Our Services

Find out more about the services that Yarra Energy Foundation offers including:
  • Feasibility studies
  • Community Engagement
  • Community battery strategies for local councils
  • Consulting & advice
  • Project management 
  • Solar & electrification programs
We are a small team of extremely passionate energy experts with decades of combined industry, governmental, business, and sustainability experience.

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Yarra Energy Foundation (YEF)

Yarra Energy Foundation acknowledges the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung as the Traditional Owners of this country, pays tribute to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Yarra, and gives respect to the Elders past and present.

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WORLD | PWR | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Advanceing of Global Peace, Justice, and Sustainability

[Edited extract from public address]

JOINING | Us in our Commitment to a Culture of Sustainability and Care for the Earth

The Parliament of the World’s Religions seeks to encourage and enable action — both collective and individual – to reduce and counter the adverse impacts of human-caused climate change. This is reflected in our guiding document, Towards a Global Ethic with a Commitment to a Culture of Sustainability and Care for the Earth. This work is only possible because of donations–Just $50 will make an impact.

This year, our Climate Action Task Force launched our Tri-Abrahamic Dialogue Series on the Climate Crisis with a webinar "What Do Our Faiths Demand?" (81 mins) that brought together leading scholars and practitioners across the Abrahamic traditions. This dialogue series, which is made freely available to the public through the generous support of our sponsor The First Analysis Institute for Integrative Studies, complements our long-standing and contemplative Buddhist-Catholic Dialogue group. Both Dialogues will continue in 2026 with your support.

In partnership with many others, in 2025 we co-sponsored an Ethical Stocktake event in New York City to catalog faith commitments in the buildup to the COP30 UN climate conference in Brazil. We also supported a number of statements, such as the Multi-Faith Ocean Declaration that was rolled out at the UN Ocean Conference. 

None of this work was accomplished alone. It could not have happened without our partners or without you, our supporters. We are in the midst of what undeniably is a difficult time for our planet, but when people across many faiths and diverse convictions are able to come and work together we believe there still is reason to hope. 

The Parliament envisions a world where people of all faiths and spiritual traditions matter, and interfaith collaboration drives the advancement of global peace, justice, and sustainability.

These efforts are only possible with donor support and today, Giving Tuesday, is the perfect time to show it. No gift is too small or large, just $25 will make an impact. 

THANKING | You

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to a future where people of all faiths and spiritual traditions matter, and interfaith collaboration drives the advancement of global peace, justice, and sustainability. 
“Earth cannot be changed for the better unless we achieve a transformation in the consciousness of individuals and in public life”. – Towards a Global Ethic
We are excited to share with you a few highlights from our work in 2025:

PUBLISHING | Strategic Plan

With your support behind us, we are looking towards 2026 and beyond with the adoption of our new Strategic Plan. 

Highlights of the plan include:
  • An updated mission and vision
  • Three new programmatic area focuses that encompass all of the critical issues the Parliament is working to address
  • Increased multilingual access
  • New ways to engage the next generation
  • Increased global reach and Convening participation
The work of the Parliament of the World’s Religions is driven by our guiding document, Towards a Global Ethic. At the core of the Global Ethic is this: Every individual has intrinsic dignity and inalienable rights, and each also has an inescapable responsibility for what she or he does and does not do. All our decisions and deeds, even our omissions and failures, have consequences.

INVESTING | In the future work of the Parliament, 

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Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR)
Address: 70 East Lake St., Suite 230 Chicago, IL 60601 USA
Tel: (312) 629-2990
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Cultivating harmony among the world’s religious and spiritual communities and to foster their engagement with the critical issues of our time – in partnership with one another and with the guiding institutions of society.

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VIC | VMC | UPDATING | Community, News and Information | Thursday 11 December 2025

[Edited extract from public address]

As we approach the end of 2025, we come together to recognise and celebrate the contributions and achievements of people and organisations from all walks of life.

Every day, across our state, individuals and organisations demonstrate the values that shape a vibrant and inclusive Victoria to champion compassion, resilience, leadership and a shared commitment to the rights and responsibilities we hold as a community.

Community service is the heartbeat of civic life, and as we near the end of the year, it’s important we keep that heartbeat strong.

This is what the Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence represents. Each year, these awards honour not only what has been accomplished, but also what is possible. Awards like these are not just about the past achievements, they also help to inspire the future.

The 2025 Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence celebrated 53 winners across 14 categories, including 36  inductees to the Multicultural Honour Roll. Recipients from both metropolitan and regional Victoria, representing 29 diverse cultural backgrounds, were honoured with awards recognising individuals, organisations, and Victoria Police.

We would like to congratulate all winners, nominees and highly commended recipients and extend our appreciation to everyone who submitted an entry. Your stories, contributions and dedication enrich our multicultural community and help shine a light on the many ways Victorians are building a better future together.

I’d also like to express my sincere gratitude to Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, Governor of Victoria, for hosting this year’s ceremony at such a prestigious venue, I also would like to thank our sponsors for their ongoing support.
You can also revisit the 2024 recipients and the 2023 recipients.

Thank you, as always, for your ongoing commitment to building a stronger, fairer and more connected Victoria.

Warm regards,
Vivienne Nguyen AM. Chairperson

 

 News and events 

VIC | VMC | CALLING | Members for Multicultural Youth Network | applications close Sunday 11 January 2026.

The Victorian Multicultural Commission is calling on passionate young leaders to apply for the Multicultural Youth Network 2026.

If you're aged 18 to 25 and ready to represent your region, elevate youth voices and influence real change, this is your moment.

Join a network of changemakers to help shape inclusive policies and champion multicultural communities across Victoria.
 

VMC | CALLING | Short Films for Multicultural Film Festival 2026 | submissions close Tuesday 10 March 2026

The Victorian Multicultural Commission, in partnership with Swinburne University of Technology and SBS, is calling all filmmakers to share their stories. Whether you're an emerging filmmaker or an experienced creator, we want to hear your story.

Anyone is welcome to submit a short film of 10 minutes or less. The premiere event will screen in Melbourne during Refugee Week on 18 June 2026 at ACMI Cinemas. Films in the Official Selection will screen at multiple venues and on SBS On Demand.

Prizes of $2,500 to be won per category!
 

VIC | GOV | ADVISING | Better practice guide for inclusive engagement

The Victorian Multicultural Commission is honored to announced that Victorian Government has launched a new Better practice guide for inclusive engagement.

It’s designed to help practitioners, experts and organisations to engage meaningfully with community. We know that inclusive engagement helps us build trust, improve our programs and services and create better outcomes for all Victorians.

The guide can be used before, during and after engagement. It shares practical tools to help your engagement be accessible to everyone. It’s also publicly available, to easily share with your stakeholders and networks.

For more information, please visit: https://www.vic.gov.au/better-practice-guide-inclusive-engagement
 

VIC | GOV | ADVISING | Know your fire risk - stay safe

Summer is a dangerous season in Victoria and fires can be unpredictable.
The Victorian Multicultural Commission strongly advises you to know your fire risk to keep you and your loved ones safe. You need to leave well before fire impacts your home and community.

Leaving early is always the safest option.
 

VIC | GOV | ADVISING | Stay Safe During Extreme Heat

Extreme heat days are becoming more frequent and intense across Victoria. Taking simple steps can help you and your loved ones stay safe.

What you can do:
  • Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day
  • Keep your home cool with curtains or air conditioning
  • Check in on family, friends, and neighbours – especially older people and those with health conditions
  • Never leave children, adults or pets in parked vehicles
  • Follow health alerts and heat warnings from your local council or the Bureau of Meteorology
  • For more information and tips
 

AUST | GOV | ADVISING | Under 16 social media ban

From 10 December 2025, a new law will require social media users to be 16 or older.

This means young people under 16 will no longer be able to hold accounts on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, YouTube, X, Threads, Reddit and Kick.

The new law is designed to keep young people safer online, by reducing exposure to harmful content and addictive platform features. It’s about helping our young mob stay strong, safe and connected - both online and in real life.

Families, schools and communities all play a role in shaping healthy online habits. Together, we can support our young people to build stronger relationships with family, friends, culture and Community.
 

THORNBURY | IMA | OFFERING | Free Entry to the Islamic Museum of Australia | every Saturday during school holidays

The Islamic Museum of Australia is offering free entry every Saturday during the school holidays.
Explore Islamic heritage through art, history, and culture – perfect for families, students and community groups.
  • Where: Islamic Museum of Australia, 15A Anderson Rd, Thornbury VIC
  • Cost: Free entry
Take this opportunity to learn, connect and discover.

AUST | ASCS | PUBLISHING | Australian Social Cohesion Summit 2025 Report

The inaugural Australian Social Cohesion Summit (ASCS) brought together community leaders, researchers, advocates and practitioners to explore what strengthens belonging, trust and participation in Australia.

The Summit Report is now available online, it includes:
  • A published keynote in The Conversation
  • Findings from Mapping Social Cohesion 2025
  • Highlights from Neighbourhood, Women, and Youth sessions
  • Workshop presentations and visual summaries
  • Photos from the day
Themes of local connection, women’s leadership, and youth-driven change emerged strongly throughout the event. This report captures those insights, offering practical takeaways for everyone working to build a more cohesive Australia.

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Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)
Address: Level 6, 121 Exhibition Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

The VMC acknowledges the Traditional Owners of country throughout Victoria and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.

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AUST | RGA | UPDATING | Community news, funding, opportunities & more | December 2025

[Edited extract from public address]
What to expect...
 

 1. Rainbow Giving News 

SAVING | The date: Sweat with Pride is back 1-30 June 2026!

Earlier this year, over 1,700 Australians got active and raised more than $160,000 for rainbow communities. From gym sessions, to dog walks, to dance breaks between meetings – every move counted, and every dollar made a difference.

One month of sweat funds year-round support, advocacy and services for LGBTQIA+ people.

In 2026, team up with co-workers, rally your community group, join with friends or family, or go solo and set your own pace. However you move, you’ll create change — for yourself and for rainbow communities.

Whether you joined us in 2025 or you're ready to take the leap in 2026, we want to you on the list!

June 2026 is going to be bigger, bolder, and sweatier – let’s make it count.
     

    ADVISING | Holiday Shutdown

    As we wrap up a huge year, please note that RGA will be closed for the holiday period.

    Our last day of operation will be Friday 19 December 2025, reopening Monday 12 January 2026.

    Thank you for everything you’ve helped us achieve in 2025 - we can’t wait to continue this work with you in the new year.


    ADVISING | Grants Update

    We're close to finalising our annual grants process for FY26, and this year's round has reinforced what collective impact truly looks like.

    Journeying alongside our Grants Working Group and funders has been a privilege. Their diverse perspectives, lived experience and sector insights strengthened our assessments and shaped our recommendations.

    We're excited to introduce our new grant partners and their work in January 2026.


    ASKING | Are you are next Board Director? | Applications close Friday 5 December 2025

    We’re looking for a passionate leader to join our Board as we expand our impact.

    If you want to help strengthen LGBTQIA+ communities across the country, we’d love to hear from you.
     

     2. Other LGBTQIA+ Funding Opportunities 

     

     3. Community News 

    • AUST | INTERACTION | InterAction for Health & Human Rights
    • SA | SARAA | SA Rainbow Advocacy Alliance
      • REPORTING | State of Pride (South Australia) A comprehensive snapshot of LGBTIQA+ equality in South Australia. Highlighting key wins and urgent priorities for systemic change. From healthcare and education to safety and recognition, the report lays bare the gaps that still exist and the opportunities to close them.
      • HEARING | Your say: SA 2026 Election With the South Australian 2026 State Election coming up SA Rainbow Advocacy Alliance (SARAA) is keen to find out what matters most to the LGBTIQA+ people of South Australia. Have your say and let us know what your priorities are, it takes just 5 minutes to share your voice!
    • AUST | EQPR | REPORTING | The Missing Voice Equality Australia (EQPR) has released a new report offering rare insight into the medical interventions currently being performed on intersex children in Australia - and the rationales driving these decisions. You can also sign the petition to ensure all states and territories protect future generations of people wth an intersex variation. 
    • AUST | PID | ISSUING | The National Conversation Report Pride in Diversity (PID)’s latest analysis explores Australia’s response to anti-woke and anti-DEI backlash. One insight stands out clearly: “Guilt-driven messaging” is alienating and fuels backlash. Messages centred on inclusion, fairness and belonging resonate far more widely
    • NSW | GOV | HEARING | Your say: LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Survey The NSW government is hosting a survey to help inform the development of NSW's first LGBTIQA+ Inclusion Strategy. Take the survey by Thursday 11 December 2025 and let's use our voices to support our community.  
    • NSW | Twenty10 | ADDRESSING | Social Media Age Restrictions (Under 16s) New national restrictions begin 10 December. Twenty10 is expanding resources — including a new Under 16s Padlet — to keep young people connected and safe.
     

     4. Community Events 


     5. Ways To Support 

     
    Rainbow Giving Australia: Working towards an empowered, sustainable and united rainbow community 


    MORE:

    Rainbow Giving Australia (RGA)

    Rainbow Giving Australia acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live and work. We pay our respects to all Elders past and present. Rainbow Giving Australia is committed to working with First Nations LGBTQIA+ organisations and initiatives to mobilise the resources they need for their important work.
    This always was and always will be Aboriginal land. Sovereignty has never been ceded.

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