AUST | GEIFN | CALLING | LGBTQIA+ Story Tellers for AUSSIE Stories: Downunder the Rainbow

Collected video stories of identity, connection and belonging by First Nations, Settlers and Migrants from downunder the rainbow.

As response to Voice Referendum 23, Global Engagement in Friendlier Neighbourhoods (GEIFN) and I’m From Driftwood (IFD) aim to showcase diverse Australian views by sourcing and producing 8-10min 1st-Person Video Stories of LGBTQIA+ Folk from around Australia. 

Recordings will be hosted individually on IFD website for global audience and matched with 2 others on GEIFN website for local audience.

GEIFN’s Potential Top 5 Talking Points to offer insights, answers and views to question “What does Reconciliation look like to you?":

1. What did the coming out process look like for you?
2. How did being LGBTQIA+ teach you about your family, community and the world?
3. Where is your gift of being LGBTQIA+ been used in personal, professional or public life?
4. Who is your message of reconciliation to?
5. Why should Australia be a place, position and player on a spherical global playing field?

IFD's existing Australian content is 12 stories, all by cis-gender males. This project is encouraging Australian-residing LGBTQIA+ Women or Women-identifying, First Nations, People of Colour/Migrants. Together, a diversity of ages, genders, views, wisdom and compassion strengthen any reconciliation.

If you or someone you know fit the description and wish to be a part of this reconciliation

project, please contact Carey on 0438 371 488 or caretaker@geifn.org

Primary Collaborator

I’m From Driftwood (IFD) is delivered digitally through a cloud-based multi-channel platform to a broad-based audience developed over the past 15 years. Part of this conversation and active enthusiasts since the conception.

Quoting from IFD website:

The stories on I’m From Driftwood send a powerful message to LGBTQIA+ people everywhere: you exist, you matter, you belong.

 

IFD’s collection of more than 1,400 professionally-produced videos and user-submitted written oral histories are shared freely online – giving voice to and forging connections among often marginalized or silenced people, educating people about the joys and challenges, complexities and intersectionalities of LGBTQIA+ lives, and increasing empathy in IFD viewers.

Some existing IFD examples:

• ImFromDriftwood: Carlo’s Gay, Catholic and Still Wanting to Have a Family. It’s Just Going to Look Different (6 mins).
• ImFromDriftwood: Charlotte’s Coming Out Is An Act Of Activism. Reflections On Being Out In The Workplace (6 mins)
• ImFromDriftwood: Homophobic Experience at Medical Center Leads Trans Student to Change Entire Life Path (8 mins)

How to Reconcile

Language is an interesting thing. It can be used to educate, mystify, divide, harm or heal. English is a particularly interesting example.

The English language has 26 letters (written symbols) but it makes over 44 different sounds (syllables) and countless compound ideas (words). All relying on ‘learnt, practised or assumed knowledge' to correctly use, prevailing cognizance (ability to independently critically think), pronounce, know and then to respond.

 

To make things even more interesting, English is always changing, borrowing from many other languages with meanings that may change over time.

Let's look at the word "reconcile":

[reh’con’syle]

From late Middle English: from Old French reconcilier or Latin reconciliare, from Latin re- = back, concentrate, focus + conciliare = bring together.

verb

1. restore friendly relations between. Ie, the monarch and the archbishop were publicly reconciled. Ie, they wanted to be reconciled with their father. 
• settle (a quarrel). Ie, advice on how to reconcile the conflict. 
• make or show to be compatible. Ie, the agreement had to be reconciled with the city's new international relations policy. 
• someone accepting a disagreeable or unwelcome thing. Ie, the team was reconciled to the poor match result.
2. make (one account) consistent with another, especially by allowing for transactions begun but not yet completed. Ie, it is not necessary to reconcile the cost accounts to the financial accounts.

And this is just 1 word. Languages are made of many words. Words connected by space(s) make sentences. Sentences connected by space(s) make paragraphs. Paragraphs connected by space(s) make narratives or stories. Stories connected by space(s) make story books. Story books connected by space(s) mark time and are called tradition. This is the process of transmission. Transmission can be verbal, physical, formless or abiding in the space between.

Please find examples of other words (and if needed translations in other languages):

• GEIFN | CONTEMPLATING | On Gratitude
• GEIFN | ENDORSING | FCCV Statement on Prevention of Family Violence and Violence Against Women
• GEIFN | ENDORSING | Uluru Statement
• GEIFN | SUPPORTING | LGBTIQA+ Inclusion
• GEIFN | CONTEMPLATING | Upon Closing

So back to this case: collected video stories of identity, connection and belonging by First Nations, Settlers and Migrants Downunder the Rainbow.

How to get involved?

1. Fit the criteria, sorted something out, feeling crazy-brave? Volunteer to tell your story and make contact on the details below.
2. Pass the word to someone you know has a reconcilingly good story to tell.
3. Share the message through your socials.

MORE:

Global Engagement In Friendlier Neighbourhoods (GEIFN)

Join us with 'humanising the other' 

Carey Rohrlach (he/him), AUSSIEstory Team Member, Tel 0438 371 488

Website

GEIFN is based in the traditional lands of the Kulin Nation. Respect is offered to past, present and future elders of all spiritual traditions. 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.

GEIFN | MIXING | Media | October 2025

 [Edited extract from public address]

Best wishes for less Suffering, more Happiness with Good Health and Time to Enjoy it. Welcome to Chinese calendar year of the Wood Snake | 中国日历 AH 4722.

Sharing a timely aspiration:
"In any negotiation, both sides have to understand that you don’t make peace with your friends. You make friends with your enemies.”
Juan Manuel Santos, Former president of Colombia, 2016 Nobel Peace Prize, current Chair of the Elders (1951- CE)

If having no reason to celebrate this month, here are 3 prepared earlier:

• 2 October: International Day of Non-Violence (International)
• 17 October: International Day for the Eradication of Poverty (International)
• 24 October: World Development Information Day (International)

This edition, we reflect upon the time after hostilities cease. The Wounded Swan is a story from Ancient India over 2,600 years ago.

As a child, Hindu Prince Siddhartha with his cousin/step-brother Devadatta, petitioned the Kings’ Ministers to hear and adjudicate over who owned a wounded swan.

Devadatta reasoned that he was the one who shot the arrow that downed the swan so he owned it.

Siddhartha reasoned he owned it as he was the one who found it hurting, saved it, was interested in tending the injury and would set the healed creature free.

Resulting in much discussion until a Sage judged that “Everyone values their life more than anything in the world. Therefore, the swan belongs to the person who tried to save its life, not to the person who tried to take its life away.”

Remember: information may contain misunderstandings, deliberate omissions and complete fabrications. Accept nothing blindly. Test for usefulness: if useful keep; adapt for personal circumstances if necessary; or if unuseful discard. Be your own guiding light.

Read on intrepid Mixers, and let's see what is to discover this edition. Subscribers decide if anything is useful.

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Topics List

1. Guest Sings
2. Street Jives
3. Wisdom Reconciles
4. Media Writes
5. TED Talks
6. Music Challenges
7. Acknowledgments

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1. Guest Sings

Approx 5 min presentation

• Postmodern Jukebox with The Rembrandts - Friends (Evolution 1920s to 1990s)

Back to Topics List

 

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2. Street Jives

Approx 2 min presentation

• Sesame Street's Abby – Emotions Dance Party #2

Back to Topics List

 

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3. Wisdom Reconciles

• Daily Grind vs Compassionate Team Work (2 mins)
• Gardening Australia: Unused Melbourne Building Becomes 50 New Homes (12 mins)
  
• Dr. Ramani: Revealing How Healthy People Manage Their Emotions (11 mins)
  
• Amanpour and Company: Jerrod Carmichael on Love, Sex, Honesty and His Special “Don’t Be Gay” (19 mins)
  
• Mapster: Indigenous Wisdom - Songlines (16 mins)

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4. Media Writes

Approx 5 min reads

Intro
James Hughes explores childhood, parenting and engaging recounting how "Other kids sometimes teased me about my dad’s job. But we enjoyed the spoils” via The Age

Jane Rocca explores audience, timing and delivery with "Jimmy Rees: ‘My 10-year-old son is the harshest critic of my comedy’” via The Age

Henry Rajendra explores identity, society and cohesion responding to reasons why "Three young men told me I didn’t belong here, but they’re wrong” via WA Today


Intra
Thomas Mitchell explores balancing parenting, work and life in "‘Every rom-com needs a little tragedy’: Miranda Tapsell on Top End Wedding follow-up Top End Bub” via The Age

Jamila Rizvi explores identity, migration and acclimation recalling why "I was an adult before I truly understood where my father was from” via The Sydney Morning Herald

Sandra Thom-Jones explores identity, exploration and neurological diversity recounting "I went from high school dropout to professor. What I did next shocked my colleagues” via The Brisbane Times


Inter
Benjamin Law talks dicey topics Religion, Politics and Bodies with Aaron Pedersen when "‘Thou shalt listen’: commandments for good acting – and living” via WA Today

Benjamin Law talks dicey topics Money, Religion and Death with M Gessen and "‘The flavour of the forbidden’: Russian-born author’s unusual teen rebellion” via The Brisbane Times

Carolyn Webb explores childhood, reality and dreaming in "As bombs rained down, Nikita fled his home. Now he’s written a grand interstellar adventure” via The Sydney Morning Herald


Multi
Bronte Gossling explores graduating, interning and advantages when "Thirty thousand people applied for Stephanie’s finance job. Two ‘soft skills’ sealed the deal” via The Brisbane Times

Kerrie O’Brien explores gender, access and opportunity reviewing how "These women shook off the shackles of expectations – and told their stories their way” via The Age

Bridie Smith explores learning, engagement and collaboration "This school’s ‘KISS and catch up’ approach became its secret to success” via The Age


All
John Bailey explores identity, interconnectedness and initiative and why "‘Social media is designed to atomise us’: Viral sensation Jack Toohey” via The Age

Angus Holland, Jackson Graham and Angus Dalton explores science, technology and cool computing in "Chandeliers, ‘qubits’ and Schrödinger’s cat: Inside the bizarre world of quantum computing” via The Sydney Morning Herald

Jen Vuk explores childhood, parenting and aging reflecting "I spent all my younger years trying not to be like my mother. And, yet, here we are” via WA Today


Togather
Samantha Harris explores identity, connection and belonging recounting "‘I was the shyest girl’: How I almost missed my modelling break” via The Sydney Morning Herald

Elissa Doherty explores gender, determination and skilfulness when revealing "How Alyssa blazed a trail for women in trades” via The Age

Bridget McManus explores collegial, confidence and curiosity when reviewing "How Leigh Sales’ neurodivergent journalism students are bringing celebrities to tears” via The Brisbane Times


Nobly
Victoria Laurie explores distance, motivation and belonging in "Not your average tech bro: The boy from the bush behind a digital juggernaut” via The Age

Catherine Strohfeldt explores education, learning and collaboration in "The secret behind this Brisbane school’s dramatic drop in suspensions” via The Brisbane Times

Thomas Fuller explores vision, building and living in "Does the solution to the housing crisis lie in this upmarket Swiss neighbourhood?” via The Sydney Morning Herald

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5. TED Talks

5-20 min presentations

• Steven Pinker: How Common Knowledge Shapes the World (14 mins)
  
• France Villarta: The gender-fluid history of the Philippines (11 mins)
  
• Sarah Stroud and Michael Vazquez: If you had the chance to be immortal, would you take it? (6 mins)
  
• Rezza Moieni: How to create tech-driven diversity (18 mins)
  
• Kailash Satyarthi: How to make peace? Get angry (19 mins)

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6. Music Challenges

Approx 30 min presentation + reflection times

If desired, a short selection of publicly available material on a chosen theme for personal reflection. 

For best results, sit comfortably with a straight back, have headphones in a shared space, after each clicked link, allow a little reflection with your personally-held view before clicking on the next link.

Get ready to Reflect!
Choose your playing level:
Be introduced at 1.
Be soothed at 2-4.
Be shocked at 5.
Be inspired at 6.
Fuller illumination 1-6.
You be the judge. Or not.

Cryptic Clue:

What to do after hostilities have ended?

1. Inspire
2. Perspire
3. Collaborate
4. Engage: Test for personal circumstances, if useful keep, if unuseful discard, if exceeds needs, share mindfully
5. Endure: Adapt for present times without sacrificing intent
6. Endear: (Inspiring Others To Tend the Flame) live/ demonstrate/ inspire/ teach experience with others

This challenge is making hostilities, pact, deplete, destroy, ceasefire, construct & armistice.

making
[mayke’ing]
From Old English macian, of West Germanic origin, from a base meaning = fitting; related to match.

noun

1. the process of making or producing something. Ie, the making of videos. Ie, decision-making.
2. the essential qualities needed for something. Ie, the student had the makings of a great teacher.
   • (North American English) Australian and New Zealand English informal paper and tobacco for rolling a cigarette. Ie, the smoker reached for their tobacco tin and makings.
3. (informal dated) earnings or profit. Ie, the makings off the last contract was enough for a short holiday.

hostilities
[hoh’still’lee’tees]
From late Middle English: from French hostilité or late Latin hostilitas, from Latin hostilis; from hostis = stranger, enemy.

noun

• hostile behaviour; unfriendliness or opposition. Ie, their hostility to all outsiders.
  • acts of warfare. Ie, the wise called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

pact
[pakt]
From late Middle English: from Old French, from Latin pactum = something agreed, neuter past participle (used as a noun) of paciscere = agree.

noun

• a formal agreement between individuals or parties: the countries negotiated a trade pact with each other.

deplete
[deh’pleet]
From early 19th century (earlier (mid. 17th century) as depletion): from Latin deplet- = emptied out, from the verb deplere, from de- = (expressing reversal) + plere = fill; from plenus = full.

verb

• use up the supply or resources of. Ie, reservoirs have been depleted by years of drought. Ie, The Team started the game with a depleted side.
  • diminish in number or quantity. Ie, supplies are depleting fast.

destroy
[des’troy]
From Middle English: from Old French destruire, based on Latin destruere, from de- = expressing reversal + struere = build.

verb

• end the existence of (something) by damaging or attacking it. Ie, the room had been destroyed by fire.
  • ruin (someone) emotionally or spiritually. Ie, the ex-spouses are determined to destroy each other.
  • defeat (someone) utterly. Ie, The Visitors have the batting to destroy our team.
  • kill (a sick, savage, or unwanted animal) by humane means. Ie, their terrier was destroyed after the attack.

ceasefire
[seece’fyer]
From Middle English: from Old French cesser, from Latin cessare = stop, from cedere = to yield + Old English fȳr (noun), fȳrian = supply with material for a fire, of West Germanic origin; related to Dutch vuur and German Feuer.

noun

• a temporary suspension of fighting; a truce. Ie, the latest ceasefire seems to be holding. Ie, a ceasefire agreement.
• • an order or signal to stop fighting.

construct
[con’strukt]
From late Middle English: from Latin construct- = heaped together, built, from the verb construere, from con- = together + struere = pile, build.

verb

• build or make (something, typically a building, road, or machine). Ie a company that constructs solar panels.
  • form (an idea or theory) by bringing together various conceptual elements. Ie, poetics should construct a theory of literary discourse.
  • (Grammar) form (a sentence) according to grammatical rules. Ie, these rules tell us how to construct a grammatical sentence in a given language.
  • (Geometry) draw or delineate (a geometrical figure) accurately to given conditions. Ie, construct a square equal in area to a given circle.

noun

• an idea or theory containing various conceptual elements, typically one considered to be subjective and not based on empirical evidence: history is largely an ideological construct.
  • (Linguistics) a group of words forming a phrase. Ie, the appropriateness of the grammatical construct is illustrated.
  • a physical thing which is deliberately built or formed. Ie, a transgenic construct.

armistice
[arm’ih’stiss]
From late 17th century: from French, or from modern Latin armistitium, from arma = arms + -stitium = stoppage.

noun

• an agreement made by opposing sides in a war to stop fighting for a certain time; a truce. Ie, the opposing governments signed an armistice with each other.

[Practice]

Optional
-- Chant Mantrastyle

Why? Why not?
Start today. 
As the case may be.
Or not.

Back to Topics List

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7. Acknowledgments

Reconciliation

• Acknowledging traditional inhabitants of City of Port Phillip are the Boonwurrung, 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.

Invitation to Support Content Creators

The music/stories/videos have been sourced from public domain. If you like any of the content, please consider buying directly from online marketplaces to support creators and truth telling in the public interest.

Caretaker Disclosure

Words and concepts are conditional things that point to a 'reflection of experience'. They are limited and do not adequately describe the 'full lived experience'. Like the moon's reflection on a lake's surface, it is not the moon, nor the experience of gazing up at the darkened sky transformed by the presence of a full moon. It is in the eyes/ears/nose/mouth/touch/cognisance of the beholder.

This curation is an interpretation of the universal basis of re:lig:ion (Latin = again:uniting:energy) or bodhicitta (Sanskrit = Awakening Consciousness). This email invites a sharing of countless thoughts, words and actions wishing, causing and receiving less Suffering and more Happiness. For benefit initially of the individual increasing in beneficiaries until it includes all across the 3 times and 10 directions. Or not. As each case may be.

It is not personal, it is just the way things are.

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GEIFN | CONSOLIDATED | Community Information | Wednesday 1 October 2025

Fast Facts: Community Responses Victoria & Australia

Topics List

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

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 1. HIGHLIGHTING 

1. VIC | GOV | INTRODUCING | Victoria's Treaty is here
2. VIC | GOV | CELEBRATING | Victorian Seniors Festival
3. VIC | GOV | COMMITTING | Until every Victorian is safe
4. VIC | VMC | SCREENING | Multicultural Film Festival on Tour
5. AUST | EQPR | GATHERING | The Program for Better Together 2025
6. AUST | GEIFN | CALLING | LGTBIQA+ Story Tellers for AUSSIE Stories: Downunder the Rainbow

 

 1.1  VIC | GOV | INTRODUCING | Victoria's Treaty is here!

For the first time in Australia's history, a Treaty has been negotiated with First Peoples. The Statewide Treaty Bill 2025 has been introduced into the Victorian Parliament. 
The Bill will establish a new entity Gellung Warl (Gullung-Warl, from Gunaikurnai language) which is evolved from Victoria's successful First Peoples' Assembly. This Bill will give effect to this Treaty.

Here in Victoria, the Government has been on the path to Treaty for nearly a decade. A strong foundation has been laid. For too long, laws and policies have been made about First Peoples – without First Peoples. Treaty is key to closing the gap so that Victorians have the same opportunities. When First Peoples lead the way to design policies and solutions, we get better outcomes.

• Learn more

 

 1.2  VIC | GOV | CELEBRATING | Victorian Seniors Festival 

Connect, create and celebrate with the Victorian Seniors Festival this October. The festival presents a range of diverse events that celebrate multicultural older Victorians. Join in free and low-cost events close to home and across the state. Victorian Seniors Card holders can access 8 days of free public transport from 5 to 12 October 2025.

• For more information and translated resources visit Seniors Online.

 

 1.3  VIC | GOV | COMMITTING | Until every Victorian is safe – Victoria’s third rolling action plan to end family and sexual violence 2025-2027

Family violence remains widespread across Victoria. It is fuelled by gender inequality and harmful gender stereotypes, in a society where women are still treated as unequal to men on many levels. Ending family violence involves everyone. We all have a role to play – at home, at work and in our communities.

The Victorian Government has committed to 106 actions to help prevent and respond to family and sexual violence over the next three years. This plan was informed by extensive stakeholder engagement, reflecting a diverse range of perspectives and priorities. 

• More information about Until every Victorian is safe and what the Victorian Government has committed to.

 

 1.4  VIC | VMC | SCREENING | Multicultural Film Festival on Tour

The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) is proud to present MFF on Tour – bringing powerful, diverse storytelling to regional and metropolitan communities across the state. 

• Watch our trailer of the 2025 Official Selection films featured.

Join us at one of the upcoming screenings:

• Rosebud Cinema, Mornington Peninsula Shire | Saturday 18 October 2025 | 4-6.30pm
• Federation Square, Melbourne, Outdoor Screen | Thursday 30 October 2025 | 6-8pm 
• SBS On Demand | 10 November 2025-9 November 2026

• For more information and to book tickets

 

 1.5  AUST | EQPR | GATHERING | The Program for Better Together 2025

See what's on at Equality Project (EQPR)'s Better Together 2025! The program is now live!
Read the program of talks, panels and workshops. 
 
There are three types of sessions for you to enjoy at Better Together 2025.
Better Think talks, panels of 50 minutes, and workshops of all kinds across the two days.

In 2025 we have more workshops than at any previous Better Together conference. This is our most interactive, participatory conference yet.

• Read The Full Program

 

 Three Kinds of Sessions 

Better Think 

• A 20-minute TED-Talk style presentation on a single idea

Panel

• 2-4 panellists and a moderator, talking on a topic with audience Q&A

Workshop 

• A highly interactive session focused on participation and hands-on learning

Now that you know what's on offer, make sure you have your ticket to Better Together 2025!

• Register to Attend
• Need help with your conference ticket? Apply For A Scholarship

 

 1.6  AUST | GEIFN | CALLING | LGTBIQA+ Story Tellers for AUSSIE Stories: Downunder the Rainbow

AussieStory - Collected Video Stories of Identity, Connection and Belonging by First Nations, Settlers and Migrants Downunder the Rainbow.
Global Engagement in Friendlier Neighbourhoods (GEIFN) and I’m From Driftwood (IFD) aim to showcase diverse Australian views by sourcing and producing 8-10min 1st-Person Video Stories of LGTBIQA+ Folk from around Australia. 

Now seeking Storytellers who have demonstrated reconciliation(s) in their own life. Recordings will be done remotely through Zoom or if Melbourne based optionally in a studio. Storytellers will have opportunity to review final edit. Final edit recordings will be hosted individually on IFD website for global audience and bundled in a group of 3 for GEIFN website and local audience. 

Please feel welcome to share with your networks interested in inclusion, reconciliation and equitable coexistence.

• For more details

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 2. GRANTING 

1. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Supporting Regional Multicultural Community Organisations to deliver events across regional Victoria in 2026 | applications close October 2025
2. AUST | EQPR | GRANTING | #BT2025 Scholarships | applications now open
3. CoPP | PPCG | GRANTING | Bring your Bill Day | Thursday 23 October 2025 | 11am-12noon

 

 2.1  VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Supporting Regional Multicultural Community Organisations to deliver events across regional Victoria in 2026 | applications close October 2025

Funding is available to support regional multicultural community organisations to deliver events across regional Victoria in 2026.

To attend an Information Session in Bendigo or Ballarat, please register via the links below.

Bendigo Information Session | Wednesday 1 October 2025 | 6.30pm

• Where: Galkangu, 189–229 Lyttleton Terrace, Bendigo VIC 3550
• Bookings: Register online via Eventbrite

 

Ballarat information session | Thursday 2 October 2025 | 6.30pm

• Where: Lucas Community Hub, 17 Coltman Plaza, Lucas VIC 3350
• Bookings: Register online via Eventbrite

• Learn more

 

 2.2  AUST | EQPR | GRANTING | #BT2025 Scholarships | applications now open

You can now apply for a scholarship to attend The Equality Project (EQPR)'s Better Together 2025 in Adelaide on 31 October and 1 November. 
Scholarships in 2025 are $139 excl. fees, with some fully-funded places via a variety of specific access programs.

Did you know, over 50% of attendees at Better Together 2024 had their ticket subsidised by us at The Equality Project, or one of our amazing conference partners?

The Equality Project recieves no ongoing funding, but our financial access programs have always been at the heart of our work. This is part of what we mean when we say Better Together is a grassroots conference.

If you don't need a scholarship yourself, you can also help to support someone else attending by donating to our ongoing scholarship program.

• Apply for a Scholarship
• Donate

 

 2.3  CoPP | PPCG | GRANTING | Bring your Bill Day | Thursday 23 October 2025 | 11am-12noon

Supporting our local community to save money on energy bills and access hardship support with Port Port Phillip Community Group (PPCG)'s Bring your Bills days.
Join our presentation to discover: 

• the benefits of email and account features
• how to manage and avoid spam emails 
• ways to keep your email account secure
• how to avoid common email scams. 

Eligible Concession card holders might also be able to apply for the Victorian Government's $100 Power Saving Bonus.

• Where: Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
• Bookings: no bookings needed. Please bring along any copies of any bills you would like help with.

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 3. EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING 

1. AUST | FECCA | TRAINING | Community or faith leader supporting multicultural communities?
2. VIC | GOV | CALLING | Applicants to be a Board Member with Creative Victoria | expressions of interest close 11.59pm 8 October

 

 3.1  AUST | FECCA | TRAINING | Community or faith leader supporting multicultural communities?

Federation of Ethnic Communities' Councils of Australia (FECCA) is offering free online training to help you safely support those affected by family, domestic and sexual violence (FDSV), while strengthening leadership and fostering positive change in the community.

What you’ll learn:

• Recognise signs of FDSV
• Respond with compassion, respect, and safety
• Connect people with specialist support services
• Lead open, supportive conversations

Start the e-learning today by clicking here or contact fdsv.tecs@ssi.org.au for more information.

• Learn more

 

 3.2  VIC | GOV | CALLING | Applicants to be a Board Member with Creative Victoria | expressions of interest close 11.59pm 8 October 2025

Creative Victoria is seeking expressions of interest from people with diverse skills, experience and an interest in joining the boards of Victoria’s leading creative and cultural organisations. People who submit their interest will be included in a talent pool from which Victorian Government board appointments will be selected when vacancies arise.

The EOI process is open to people from across the state with a passion for the creative sector and relevant experience to contribute to the boards of some of the state’s leading creative and cultural agencies and organisations. People do not need to have experience working for an arts organisation or in the creative industries to express their interest.

Desirable skills and experience include financial management, corporate governance, strategic planning, legal, sponsorship, communications and marketing, and more.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people of all ages including young people aged 18-34 years, women, people with disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, LGBTIQA+ people and people from rural and regional Victoria are encouraged to apply.

• For more information, visit Join a Public Board

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 4. ENGAGING 

1. CoPP | PPLS | STAYING | Connected with the Community Connector Service
2. CoPP | VPC | OFFERING | Witnessed Document Signing | weekly, every Sunday (excluding public holiday weekends) | 12noon-4pm
3. CoPP | GOV | VISITING | Port Phillip Aged Care Information Hubs | every Monday and Wednesday until 12 November 2025 | 11am-1pm
4. CoPP | PPLS | TEACHING | One on One Device Advice | 3 locations | weekly
5. CoPP | PPLS | OFFERING | Tech Help at Albert Park | monthly, every Wednesday (excluding school holidays) | 3.30-4.30pm
6. CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Chatty Cafe at Port Melbourne | weekly, every Thursday | 11am-12noon
7. CoPP | PPLS | CONNECTING | With Family History Club | First Thursday of the month | 1-2pm
8. CoPP | PPLS | GROWING | Port Phillip Seed Library
9. CoPP | PPLS | WRITING | Last Friday Write Club | monthly, last Friday, until Friday 28 November 2025 | 10am-12noon
10. CoPP | PPLS | GATHERING | Queer Art Club | monthly, last Sunday | 11am-1pm
11. CoPP | GOV | ENCOURAGING | Seniors Social Connection
12. CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | ESL Conversation Circle | Weekly, 2 Sessions & 2 Locations
13. CoPP | CSAS | SHOWING | Unfolding futures | Monday-Friday (closed public holidays) until Friday 31 October 2025 | 8.30am-5pm
14. MELB | PMOA | EXHIBITING | 65,000 Years: A Short History of Australian Art | Tuesday-Saturday until 22 Nov 2025 | 11am-5pm
15. AUST | NJP | CALLING | Submissions for Arts And Policy Competition | Entries close 1 October 2025
16. CoPP | PPLS | GATHERING | Family History Club: Senior's Festival Show and Tell | Thursday 2 October 2025 | 1-2pm
17. MELB | MYA | GATHERING | 2025 Multicultural Youth Awards Ceremony | Friday 3 October 2025 | arrive 5.30pm for 6.15-9.30pm
18. CoPP | PPLS | SCREENING | Film Club: Mustang | St Kilda Monday 6 October 2025 | 12noon-2pm | OR | Emerald Hill Wednesday 8 October 2025 | 11am-1pm
19. CoPP | PPLS | DANCING | Line Dancing for beginners | Monday 6 October 2025 | 1-3pm
20. CoPP | S2b | SHOWING | Festive Shades Exhibition | Tuesday 7 October-Saturday 1 November 2025
21. CoPP | FoS | CELEBRATING | 25 years of friendship between the City of Port Phillip and Suai, East Timor | Tuesday 7 October 2025 | arrive 5.15pm for 5.30-6.30pm
22. CoPP | PPLS | WORKSHOPPING | Building Better Connections & Making New Friends | Wednesday 8 October | 1.30-3.30pm
23. CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | With Silver Sleuth Authors | Thursday 9 October | arrive 5.30pm for 6-7pm
24. CoPP | S2b | WORKSHOPPING | Sacred Strokes: Madhubani Art | Saturday 11 October 2025 | 10.30am-1.30pm
25. BEAUMARIS | BLSC | GATHERING | Beaumaris Life Saving Club Open Day | Saturday 11 October 2025 | 1-3pm
26. CoPP | PPLS | SCREENING | Ageing (Dis)gracefully Short Films | Tuesday 14 October 2025 | Arrive 4.30pm for 5-7pm
27. VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Cultural bereavement and its lasting impact on migrants and refugees | Wednesday 15 October 2025 | 3-4pm
28. AUST | RGA | GATHERING | GiveOUT Day 2025: Love Edition is here and every dollar is doubled* | Thursday 16 October 2025
29. MELB | SFRI | GATHERING | 2025 Australian Social Cohesion Summit | Thursday 16 October 2025 | 8.30am-5pm
30. AUST | NJP | WEBINAR | Alternative First Responders Symposium 2025: Policy, People and Practice for Building a Response Beyond Police | Thursday 16 October 2025 | 9.30am-5pm AEDT
31. CoPP | S2b | GATHERING | Diwali Dinner with Friends | 17 October 2025 | 6-8pm
32. CoPP | PHAAA | GATHERING | Annual General Meeting | Saturday 18 October 2025 | 11am-11.30am
33. CoPP | PPLS | CRAFTING | Neurodivergent Craft Club | Saturday 18 October 2025 | 1-3pm
34. CoPP | GOV | HEARING | Your say: On Port Phillip's waste and recycling strategy | submissions close Sunday 19 October 2025
35. CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Living History and Family Stories - Making sense of the past today | Tuesday 21 October | arrive 6.15pm for 6.30-7.30pm
36. CoPP | PPLS | WORKSHOPPING | Managing your emails safely | Thursday 23 October 2025 | 11am-12pm
37. VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Spirituality & Diversity Discussions: "Spiritual care values and recovery - Are we talking about the same thing?" | Tuesday 28 October 2025 | 10.30am-12noon
38. SA | EQPR | GATHERING | 3rd Rainbow Leaders Summit | Thursday 30 October 2025
39. CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | with Author Jacinta Parsons on her "A Wisdom of Age" and Brian Nankervis | Thursday 30 October 2025 | arrive 5.45pm for 6-7pm
40. AUST | EQPR | GATHERING | Better Together® 2025 | Friday 31 October-Saturday 1 November 2025 | tickets on sale now
41. MELB | VTMH | GATHERING | VTMH Forum 2025: Practice and Research Innovations Towards Culturally Responsive Systems | Thursday 6 November 2025
42. VIC | VMC | GATHERING | From dumplings to dialogue – let’s talk mental wellbeing | Saturday 8 November 2025 | 11.15am-3pm
43. CoPP | PHAAA | SHOWING | ‘Healing Through Connection’ Art Exhibition | Monday 10 November 2025-Monday 19 Jan 2026
44. MELB | FECCA | GATHERING | National Multicultural Health And Wellbeing Conference | Tuesday 11-Wednesday 12 November 2025
45. CoPP | PHAAA | GATHERING | St. Kilda Peace Festival: Healing through Connection | Sunday 14 December 2025 | 2-5pm

 

 4.1  CoPP | PPLS | STAYING | Connected with the Community Connector Service

Looking for support, services, or social connections as you age? The Community Connector Service (CCS) is here to help!
They can assist with: 

• Finding aged care and carer support services
• Connecting you with local services to help you stay independent
• Discovering social groups, programs, and activities
• Accessing council services like delivered meals and community transport

Meet the CCS team at your local Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) library – use the link below for session times and more information.

Tel: 03 9209 6882 or email communityconnector@portphillip.vic.gov.au

• Learn More

 

 4.2  CoPP | VPC | OFFERING | Witnessed Document Signing | weekly, every Sunday (excluding public holiday weekends) | 12noon-4pm

The Victorian Pride Centre (VPC) has launched a Document Signing Centre (DSC) service in St Kilda where legal documents can be witnessed by a Justice of the Peace.
This is the only community-based DSC within a 10 km radius of Melbourne's CBD that's not a police station or law court. The DSC@VPC provides a space where everyone, regardless of their background or identity, can feel secure and supported in having their legal documents witnessed.

This is a free service managed by the Royal Victorian Association of Honorary Justices, and may be expanded next year.

• Learn more
• Where: The Forum, Victorian Pride Centre, 19-81 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda VIC 3182
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: Appointments aren't necessary

 

 4.3  CoPP | GOV | VISITING | Port Phillip Aged Care Information Hubs | every Monday and Wednesday until 12 November 2025 | 11am-1pm

City of Port Phillip (CoPP) is partnering with the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing and the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) to support community members in understanding upcoming improvements to aged care.
Drop by our Aged Care Information Hub to:

• Find clear, up-to-date information about changes to aged care
• Browse a range of printed resources
• Chat with our friendly team about aged care services and support
• Get help navigating My Aged Care

Share your thoughts and experiences through the Improving Aged Care in Australia survey.

• Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: No bookings required, just come by and say hello!

 

 4.4  CoPP | PPLS | TEACHING | One on One Device Advice | 3 locations | weekly

Need some help getting started with your new phone, laptop or tablet? Or just need some help navigating the latest apps?
Book in a 25-minute appointment and have your tech questions answered by our friendly Port Phillip Library Service(PPLS) team! Running weekly, these sessions can assist you with basic troubleshooting and navigation of your personal devices.

No question is too simple or silly. These sessions run weekly over three locations to choose from. 

• Where: Emerald Hill, Port Melbourne & St Kilda Libraries
• Cost: Free
• Read more: PPLS
• Bookings: Emerald Hill, Port Melbourne and St Kilda

 

 4.5  CoPP | PPLS | OFFERING | Tech Help at Albert Park | monthly, every Wednesday (excluding school holidays) | 3.30-4.30pm

Need help with digital technology? Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) and Students from Albert Park College who are here to help. 
Young Mentors is an intergenerational program bringing together secondary school students and older people. 

• Learn to use your tablet, laptop, smartphone or computer 
• Learn to send emails and video chat with family online.
• Get directions on Google maps… and much more

You can book one-on-one sessions with Albert Park College students every Wednesday.

• Where: Albert Park Library, 319 Montague Street, Albert Park Victoria 3206
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

 4.6  CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Chatty Cafe at Port Melbourne | weekly, every Thursday | 11am-12noon

Sometimes the most meaningful connections start with the lightest of invitations: a friendly smile, a shared table, a brief conversation. 
Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)'s Chatty Café has a new home! Join us for friendly conversation, the simple joy of connection, and a few tasty snacks to share.

The Chatty Cafe Scheme embraces encouraging genuine connection, one cuppa at a time.

• Where: Port Melbourne Library, 333 Bay Street, Port Melbourne Victoria 3207
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: No bookings needed, bring your friends and meet some new ones.
• Learn More

 

 4.7  CoPP | PPLS | CONNECTING | With Family History Club | First Thursday of the month | 1-2pm

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) Family History Club and connect with others passionate about family and local history. 
In each session, we’ll introduce the fantastic research resources available at our Heritage Centre and take time to share our own stories.

Tea and biscuits are on us!

• Where: Port Phillip Heritage Centre, Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank St, South Melbourne VIC 3205
• Cost: Free
• Learn more

 

 4.8  CoPP | PPLS | GROWING | Port Phillip Seed Library

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) has a community initiative to help you grow your own garden and support a more sustainable future.
The Port Phillip Seed Library (PPSL) is open to all members of our library service. Each month, members can collect two free packets of seeds with simple instructions to help you grow flowers, herbs or food at home.

Whether you’re planting your first veggie patch or expanding your native garden, this program helps:

• Support local food production
• Preserve heirloom and native plant varieties
• Encourage community knowledge-sharing
• Attract pollinators and support ecosystems

Don’t forget to share your progress and tag us using #PortPhillipSeedLibrary

• Join the PPSL today and start growing something great!

 4.9  CoPP | PPLS | WRITING | Last Friday Write Club | monthly, last Friday, until Friday 28 November 2025 | 10am-12noon

Looking for a friendly space to share your writing? 
Whether it’s short stories, poetry, essays, or the next big novel, our Last Friday Write Club is the perfect place to connect, create and be inspired.

Bring along up to 1,000 words in hard copy to workshop with the group. Together we’ll share feedback, swap ideas, and explore new techniques to help your writing shine.

No printer? No problem! You can use the library’s printing and photocopying facilities before the session.

• Bookings: online via Trybooking

 4.10  CoPP | PPLS | GATHERING | Queer Art Club | monthly, last Sunday | 11am-1pm

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) Queer Art Club is a space for our Queer Community to come together, share our experiences and stories
With Queer related themes, we will have an opportunity to reflect on our lived experiences – celebrating our joys, expressing our grief and learning about our community. 

Lead by queer arts therapist Don Fazliu, Art club is an open invitation to express, explore, experiment, and engage with different art-making prompts and materials (collage, watercolors, soft pastels, oil pastels, paints and much more.) 

Unlike typical art-making spaces, we don’t instruct you on how to make art – we encourage you to find what feels right, without the pressure of it looking a certain way. 

• Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

 

 4.11  CoPP | GOV | ENCOURAGING | Seniors Social Connection Program

The City of Port Phillip (CoPP) Social Connection Program (Better Together) is for older people who want to connect with others and join activities or events based on their interests.
This community based social connection program is delivered through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) and supports people to engage in structured activities which are group based. Many of the activities and programs are designed to develop, maintain, and support social connection with others through the programs delivered.

For more information, visit City of Port Phillip's social support and recreation or contact Michelle Kein on 9209 6738 or via email on socialinclusion@portphillip.vic.gov.au. 

• Download Poster for your community notice board

 

 4.12  CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | ESL Conversation Circle | Weekly, 2 Sessions & 2 Locations

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) for a free, fun reading program to improve your English language skills. New sessions started at Emerald Hill 23 July 2025

• Read aloud with others and practice pronunciation 
• Improve your English comprehension and vocabulary 
• Meet new friends in a safe, welcoming environment 

These free, informal sessions will run each week at our two libraries but only during school terms. 

This program is aimed Intermediate-level English speakers. 

Please Note: These sessions do not run during school holidays.

• Where: Tuesdays | 1.30-2.30pm | St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
• Where: Wednesdays | 1.30-2.30pm | Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: No bookings required, just drop in!

 

 4.13  CoPP | CSAS | SHOWING | Unfolding futures | Monday-Friday (closed public holidays) until Friday 31 October 2025 | 8.30am-5pm

A presentation of contemporary artwork by recipients of City of Port Phillip (CoPP)'s Rupert Bunny Foundation Visual Arts Fellowship (RBFVAF).
Each artwork in this exhibition attests to the artists extending their practice at pivotal points in their career.

By expanding their imagination through experimentation of mediums and exploration of concepts, the artworks unfold across time and space in this retrospective.

The RBFVAF is a biennial award that was initiated after the painting The Forerunners1894c by Rupert Bunny was irreparably damaged in the 1991 St Kilda Town Hall fire.

In the spirit of the contribution Bunny made to the visual arts, and in acknowledgement of the gift of The Forerunners painting to our City, insurance funds from the damages were used to establish the Rupert Bunny Foundation.

This exhibition celebrates the 30th Anniversary of the Rupert Bunny Foundation and marks 20 years of the Fellowship.   

• Where: Carlisle Street Art Space (CSAS), St Kilda Town Hall. 
• Cost: free
• More information: Carlisle Street Arts Space - City of Port Phillip

 

 4.14  MELB | PMOA | EXHIBITING | 65,000 Years: A Short History of Australian Art | Tuesday-Saturday until 22 Nov 2025 | 11am-5pm

Celebrating the brilliance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art while confronting the dark heart of Australia’s colonial history and proclaims the importance of Indigenous knowledge and agency. 
The The Potter Museum of Art (PMOA) exhibition features more than 400 works, including rarely-seen artworks and cultural objects from the University of Melbourne’s collections, 194 important loans from 78 private and public lenders and six new commissions.

Complementing the exhibition are important educational resources for primary, secondary as well as tertiary students, designed to build a deeper understanding of Indigenous art, history and culture. These educational resources will continue to be available beyond the life of the exhibition. They are developed in partnership with the University of Melbourne’s signature Ngarrngga Project, which builds innovative curriculum resources in collaboration with Indigenous Knowledge Experts.

Curated by Associate Provost and Distinguished Professor Marcia Langton AO, Senior Curator Judith Ryan AM, and Associate Curator Shanysa McConville – in consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and custodians of art traditions – the exhibition explores the belated recognition of Indigenous art and its rise to prominence globally.

• For More Information

 

 4.15  AUST | NJP | CALLING | Submissions for Arts And Policy Competition | Entries close 1 October 2025

Submit your vision. Join a movement. Across the country, National Justice Project (NJP) are having important conversations about how we build alternative first responses from police, one that prioritises care, wellbeing, and community. 

OFFERING | $1,500 in prizes to be won!

Arts Prize Pack

• $300 WAHWAH Voucher
• ‘After Story’ by Larissa Behrendt
• 2 x Tickets to AFR Symposium
• 1 x Ticket to Kaldor Centre Conference
• Opportunity to present at AFR Symposium

Policy Prize Pack

• $300 Clothing the Gap voucher
• ‘After Story’ by Larissa Behrendt
• 2 x Tickets to AFR Symposium
• 1 x Ticket to Kaldor Centre Conference
• Opportunity to present at AFR Symposium

We are calling on our supporters to be courageous and put forward their best visionary ideas for change!

• Read Submission Guidelines

 

SUPPORTING | Ongoing Work

The National Justice Project is funded by people like you committed to the fight for social justice. 
Donate Today

The National Justice Project is a Public Benevolent Institution endorsed as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) covered by Item 1 of the table in section 30-15 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.  Donations of $2.00 or more are tax deductible.

To keep up to date with our strategic legal action and advocacy, visit our website or follow us on your preferred social media platform.

• Learn more or donate

 

 4.16  CoPP | PPLS | GATHERING | Family History Club: Senior's Festival Show and Tell | Thursday 2 October 2025 | 1-2pm

Please join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) for a special Senior’s Festival session of Family History Club!
On the first Thursday of each month, we come together to discuss family history projects, local history interests, questions, conundrums and much more. To celebrate Senior’s Festival, we will be hosting a show and tell of personal items. Please bring along an item that is significant to your family history or to our local City of Port Phillip history. We will discuss all your treasured items over tea and biscuits.

• Where: Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

 

 4.17  MELB | MYA | GATHERING | 2025 Multicultural Youth Awards Ceremony | Friday 3 October 2025 | arrive 5.30pm for 6.15-9.30pm

Join Multicultural Youth Awards (MYA) honouring the exceptional accomplishments of young leaders from multicultural backgrounds across Victoria and the nation. 
This event is a unique opportunity to experience inspiring stories of resilience, innovation, and community impact.

Be part of an unforgettable evening as we recognise excellence across 13 award categories and shine a spotlight on the next generation of leaders shaping our future.

• View highlights from last year’s Awards (1 min)

Secure your spot today and join us for this inspiring event!

• Dress Code: Formal attire or cultural dress
• Where: Victorian Parliament House, East Melbourne VIC, Australia
• Cost*: General $110; Community $60
• Bookings: don’t miss out on this opportunity to celebrate and support our multicultural youth. Tickets are limited and obtainable online via Humanitix

*General Admission applies to professionals, government, and corporate guests. Community Rate is available for youth, students, concession holders, and grassroots community members. 
 
We look forward to celebrating with you on Friday 3 October 2025!
 
Kind Regards, 
Multicultural Youth Awards Team

 4.18  CoPP | PPLS | SCREENING | Film Club: Mustang | St Kilda Monday 6 October 2025 | 12noon-2pm | OR | Emerald Hill Wednesday 8 October 2025 | 11am-1pm

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) each month for our new cinema club where we will watch a range of films from around the world.
In a village in the north of Türkiye, Lale and her four sisters innocently celebrate the end of the school year at the beach with some boys. The supposed debauchery of their actions causes their home to progressively transform into a prison; classes on housework and cooking replace school, and marriages are arranged. The five sisters, driven by the same desire for freedom, fight back against the limits imposed upon them.

Directed by: Deniz Gamze Erguven
Rating: M
Language: Turkish (English subtitles)

Two Session Times:

• Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182 | OR | Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking: St Kilda Library | Emerald Hill Library

 

 4.19  CoPP | PPLS | DANCING | Line Dancing for beginners | Monday 6 October 2025 | 1-3pm

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) for line dancing in a fun way of improving your balance, memory, and general wellbeing.
It is physical, mental, music, social and laughter therapy all rolled into a 45-minute beginner class. The beginner’s class will be followed by an hour of easy social line dancing for those who want to go the extra mile.

No experience necessary. Tea and coffee included. Denim, hats, and boots encouraged!

For further information contact Matt on 0409 250 907.

• Where: Port Melbourne Library, 333 Bay Street, Port Melbourne Victoria 3207
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

 

 4.20  CoPP | S2b | SHOWING | Festive Shades Exhibition | Tuesday 7 October-Saturday 1 November 2025

Join Space2b (S2b) for a vibrant celebration of India’s rich tapestry of traditional, folk & indigenous art forms. From the intricate Madhubani & Tanjore paintings to the earthy textures of Warli and Gond art, each work tells a story rooted in cultural identity & collective memory. This special Diwali exhibition is hosted by the Indian Australian Artists Inc. (IAA), a Melbourne-based not-for-profit Artists' community organisation.

Opening Night: Friday 10 Oct 2025 |  5.30pm-7.30pm
The opening on Friday 10 October will include traditional Diwali refreshments and live music by Jessie Hillel. 

Please join us!

• Where: Space2b Social Design, 144 Chapel Street, St Kilda VIC 3182
• Learn More

 

 4.21  CoPP | FoS | CELEBRATING | 25 years of friendship between the City of Port Phillip and Suai, East Timor | Tuesday 7 October 2025 | arrive 5.15pm for 5.30-6.30pm

Join Friends of Suai (FoS) for this  25th Anniversary exhibition launch.
Since 2000, this unique partnership has been guided by a formal Friendship Agreement, supporting peace, connection and community development across borders. Through the Friends of Suai/Covalima, funding has enabled vital programs in education, health, gender equality, livelihoods and sustainability.

The exhibition will showcase treasured items from Suai, including:

• Ceramic pottery and a glass solidarity block symbolising unity.
• An Order of Timor-Leste medal, recognising outstanding service
• A striking display of photographs capturing 25 years of shared history
• Handwoven and colourful tais – traditional cloths of Timor-Leste, rich with symbolic patterns and colours.

We are delighted to welcome special guests Alberto Barros (Director) and Amelia Amaral (President) of the Covalima Community Centre in Suai to celebrate this enduring connection.

Refreshments provided.

• Where: Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

 

 4.22  CoPP | PPLS | WORKSHOPPING | Building Better Connections & Making New Friends | Wednesday 8 October 2025 | 1.30-3.30pm

Discover practical ways to boost social confidence, navigate life’s changes, and build new friendships.
This Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) 2-hour interactive workshop is designed to help you build meaningful connections, and covers the impact of loneliness, setting healthy boundaries, using technology safely, and improving communication.

• Where: St Kilda Library Community Room, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda 3182, St Kilda Victoria 3182
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

 

 4.23  CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | With Silver Sleuth Authors | Thursday 9 October | arrive 5.30pm for 6-7pm

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) with these Silver Sleuths in the Golden Age of Crime.
Is it ever too late to turn to a life of crime (writing)? Agatha Christie was still plotting murders in her eighties, and today, plenty of authors are proving age is no alibi. At this year's Port Phillip Seniors’ Festival, four Sisters in Crime will explore the challenges and joys experienced by older authors.

After thirty-five years as a teacher-librarian, Laraine Stephens swapped sensible shoes for 1920s Melbourne gangsters in her Reggie da Costa Mysteries. Janice Simpson biked to Istanbul and pedaled straight into crime writing with her latest, Double Fault. Katrina Watson, once a doctor, now prescribes deadly mysteries like The Bones and award-winning short stories. And host Amanda Hampson found bestseller success at 50 with The Tea Ladies and its murderous sequels.

Together, they’ll prove that crime pays – especially for late bloomers.

• Where: Albert Park Library, 319 Montague Street, Albert Park Victoria 3206
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

 

 4.24  CoPP | S2b | WORKSHOPPING | Sacred Strokes: Madhubani Art | Saturday 11 October 2025 | 10.30am-1.30pm

Join Space2b (S2b)'s Madhubani Kachni Art Workshop focused on Gods & Goddesses for Diwali.
In this workshop you’ll learn the traditional fine line techniques of this intricate style. Discover the mythological meaning behind each form & create your own devotional artwork inspired by India’s gods & goddesses. Let your pen connect to something greater—through tradition, through story, & through sacred art.

Meet your teacher: Rashmi Gore, artist, educator, designer & yogi whose journey bridges the worlds of architecture, creativity & holistic living.

• Where: Space2b Social Design, 144 Chapel Street, St Kilda VIC 3182
• Cost: $65 per person
• Bookings: Limited spaces, online via ClassBento

All materials will be provided

 4.25  BEAUMARIS | BLSC | GATHERING | Beaumaris Life Saving Club Open Day | Saturday 11 October 2025 | 1-3pm

Have you have ever wondered how Beaumaris Life Saving Club (BLSC) is run? Or you are curious about the lives saved and all the amazing work they do? 
Please pop down to the club for friendly smiling faces, family orientated and sausage sizzle!

Where:
Beaumaris Yacht Club, Ricketts Point, Beach Road, Beaumaris VIC 3193
Located in the Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary, plenty of parking
https://maps.app.goo.gl/9oG96icMrErrSiXS8

 4.26  CoPP | PPLS | SCREENING | Ageing (Dis)gracefully Short Films | Tuesday 14 October 2025 | Arrive 4.30pm for 5-7pm

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) for a screening of Ageing (Dis)gracefully.
Film lineup:

• Slow Dating (dir. Adam Szudrich)
• Last Man Standing (dir. Calan Mai)
• Nanna (dir. Warwick Thornton)
• Wonder Down Under (dir. Declan Arrighi)
• Patricia in the Dark (dir. Laura Hartley)
• Ashes (dir. Georgina Haig)
• Granny Grommets (dir. Leah Rustomjee)

A selection of short films screened at the 2024 St Kilda Film Festival – plus some new additions!

• Where: Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

 

 4.27  VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Cultural bereavement and its lasting impact on migrants and refugees | Wednesday 15 October 2025 | 3-4pm

Amongst most clients Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) sees within our organisation’s practice, there is an almost underlying silent grief of missing ‘home’ that carries mental distress more complex than cultural shock.
Identified as cultural bereavement, this includes loss of identity and an unidentified anxiety and/or depression that may surface late in life and can affect 2nd and 3rd generations.

Presenter is Lucy Louca, Coordinator, Counselling & Dementia Support Services at PRONIA (Australian Greek Welfare Society), Melbourne

The presentation will discuss:

• Experiences gained through meaningful service provision especially in light of significant challenges
• Recognizing and responding to cultural bereavement
• Keeping this cohort engaged and connected to the larger community 

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

 

 4.28  AUST | RGA | GATHERING | GiveOUT Day 2025: Love Edition is here and every dollar is doubled* | Thursday 16 October 2025

One Donation. Double the Impact. All the Love.
GiveOUT Day is Australia’s annual day of giving for LGBTQIA+ causes and communities – and it’s happening and donations are now open!

This year, Rainbow Giving Australia (RGA) are turning up the charm with Love Edition, helping you fall for a rainbow cause that speaks to your heart.

Whether you’re new to giving or already head over heels for rainbow causes, now is the time to show your love and watch it go twice as far. 

• Make a Donation

 

ASKING | Why Love Edition?

We believe giving should feel good. That’s why this year’s theme is all about joy, connection, and heart.
Because giving = love. And love changes lives.

• Browse All Organisations

* = Every donation made before or on 16 Oct is matched dollar-for-dollar up to $1,750 per organisation (or $3,500 for First Nations organisations) –  until the pool runs out.

• You give $25 → we make it $50
• You give $50 → we make it $100
• You give $100 → we make it $200

Let's make it a match! Ready to give?

• Make a Donation
• Learn more

Let’s make this our biggest, most love-filled GiveOUT Day yet.

Special thanks to our primary partner Sidney Myer Fund, and to: Slingsby Foundation, Reichstein Foundation, Tripple, Brian M. Davis Charitable Foundation, Fay Fuller Foundation, The Wyatt Trust & an anonymous funder, for making matched funding possible!

With pride,
The Rainbow Giving Australia Team

 4.29  MELB | SFRI | GATHERING | Australian Social Cohesion Summit 2025 | Thursday 16 October 2025 | 8.30am-5pm

The Scanlon Foundation Research Institute (SFRI) invites individuals and organisations to attend the 2025 Australian Social Cohesion Summit in Melbourne. It’s a national gathering focused on strengthening connection, belonging and inclusion across Australia.

Hosted by the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute, this landmark national event will take place in Melbourne, bringing together changemakers from across government, academia and the community.

Theme: “Building On Our Strengths: The Role of Youth, Women, and Neighbourhoods in Fostering Social Cohesion.” 

Summit Scholarships
To help reduce barriers to attendance, Summit Scholarships are also available. Full scholarships are available to:

• Volunteers, grassroots community organisers and students
• Recognised community leaders and sports club members

Please note: Scholarships cover the cost of Summit registration only. Attendees awarded a scholarship will be responsible for their travel and accommodation. 

To apply for a scholarship, please send an email to info@scanloninstitute.org.au with a short explanation of your community work and why you’re interested in attending the Summit.

• Where: Monash City Campus, 750 Collins St, Docklands VIC 3008
• Cost: Varies
• Bookings: For more information and to Register

 

 4.30  AUST | NJP | WEBINAR | Alternative First Responders Symposium 2025: Policy, People and Practice for Building a Response Beyond Police | Thursday 16 October 2025 | 9.30am-5pm AEDT

National Justice Project (NJP) are honoured to have advocates from across the nation joining us on Thursday 16 October 2025 for our national online symposium.

International Keynote Speakers:

• Alexander Heaton, The Policing Project, NYU, USA
• Gina M. Nagano, House of Wolf, Turtle Island, Canada

In the afternoon, our speakers will be taking over the microphone to share why we need to re-think the response and choose care over force. We’ll also hear about alternatives already in action and explore what we need to keep investing in to ensure we strengthen the ecosystem for change and commit to true community safety.

A big thank you to our event sponsor, Robinson Gill Lawyers, for their support in bringing this event together.

• Download Program
• Where: online
• Cost: Varies
• Bookings: online via Humanitix

 

SUPPORTING | Ongoing Work

The National Justice Project is funded by people like you committed to the fight for social justice. 
Donate Today

The National Justice Project is a Public Benevolent Institution endorsed as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) covered by Item 1 of the table in section 30-15 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.  Donations of $2.00 or more are tax deductible.

To keep up to date with our strategic legal action and advocacy, visit our website or follow us on your preferred social media platform.

• Learn more or donate

 

 4.31  CoPP | S2b | GATHERING | Diwali Dinner with Friends | 17 October 2025 | 6-8pm

Join Space2b (S2b) for a magical evening as Space2b’s gallery is transformed into a special Diwali Dining room. The night will feature live entertainment from Caisha Sprout, a Melbourne-based songwriter of Indian heritage. With her earthy guitar & soulful vocals, Caisha will create the perfect musical backdrop for this celebration of light & culture.

The Diwali Festival represents the victory of light over darkness, good over evil & knowledge over ignorance & we’re delighted to share its joy with you.

Our talented chefs Neha & Kaustav will prepare a genuine Indian feast, blending modern flair with traditional recipes. Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, they will craft a vibrant three-course menu that captures the rich flavours & spirit of Indian cuisine.

MEETING | Our Special Guests

Kaustav & Neha are our special guest chefs for our Diwali feast on Friday 17 October. Their culinary journey began early, inspired by their parents and a shared love of authentic, traditional cuisine. 

Together, they launched Aussie Nukkad in 2018 – beginning with fresh Indian snacks and meals prepared from home for friends, family and colleagues. Their food quickly grew in popularity, and today they cater for weddings, markets and major events, always staying true to their roots while reimagining classic dishes.

Caisha Sprout is our special entertainment at Space2b's Diwali Dinner with friends on Friday 17th October. Caisha is an exciting Melbourne-based songwriter, whose music grows from her own rich and unique creative roots. Deeply inspired by blues, soul & funk, Caisha brings an earthy blend of guitar and vocals – music that you don’t just hear, but feel.

Her narrative is a reflection of the broader Australian story – an Aussie girl, the daughter of migrant parents, contributing to the vibrant, multicultural community we celebrate today. 

Jessie Hillel will be performing at our Festive Shades exhibition opening on Friday 10 October 2025. Exploding onto the R&B/Pop scene, singer, songwriter and producer Jessie Hillel takes on her alter ego Jhm (pronounced ‘Jim’).

Jessie was runner-up on New Zealand’s Got Talent and will delight you with her take on jazz, soul, R&B, pop, and classical influences, all influenced by her love of Malayalam music.

Join us to meet the artists and artisans and sample some delicious Indian snacks.

Special Thanks to the Palais Theatre Community Fund

We know you will love the food, music, & experience – and we look forward to welcoming you to Space2b for this unforgettable Diwali celebration. Tickets are $70 per person & spaces are limited.

• Where: Space2b Social Design, 144 Chapel Street, St Kilda VIC 3182
• Cost: $70 per person
• Bookings: online via Humanitix

 

 4.32  CoPP | PHAAA | GATHERING | Annual General Meeting | Saturday 18 October 2025 | 11am-11.30am

Another year of Planetary Healing Artists Association of Australia (PHAAA) staying connected with community and supporting our mission of sharing the spirit of peace and harmony through art and creativity.
This has been another challenging year full of surprises and changes for us. It's time to celebrate our achievements of the past year and thank our many volunteers who have supported us.

The committee warmly invites you to attend our Annual General Meeting and stay on for the Volunteers' celebrations afterwards. 

The Annual General Meeting for the Planetary Healing Artists' Association will be held at Planetary Healing Artists’ Office, At the rear of Mary Kehoe Community Centre, 224 Danks Street, Albert Park, VIC 3206

Note that everyone is welcome to attend the AGM, however only current members of Planetary Healing Artists Association may vote or be nominated to the Committee. We write to remind you that all Committee positions will be available at our Annual General Meeting (AGM) coming up, so please contact us to nominate/discuss further on 0415 552 488 or email: info@planetaryhealingartists.org if you would be interested in taking up a position on the Committee before 1 October 2025.

We look forward to welcoming you all to this meeting, so please RSVP to info@planetaryhealingartists.org as soon as you can, if attending for catering purposes.

 4.33  CoPP | PPLS | CRAFTING | Neurodivergent Craft Club | Saturday 18 October 2025 | 1-3pm

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) for a relaxed and welcoming crafting session designed specifically for neurodivergent individuals aged 18 to 25. 
Whether you prefer to bring your own project and supplies or take part in our monthly themed activity, there’s space for you.

October's Craft: Memory Boxes

Decorate your very own cardboard memory box! Memory boxes can be used to store any number of bits and bobs - Trinkets? Old birthday cards? Cool scraps of paper? You decide! Paint and collage materials will be provided to help you bring your artistic vision to life.

• Where: St Kilda Library Community Room, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

 

 4.34  CoPP | GOV | HEARING | Your say: On Port Phillip's waste and recycling strategy | submissions close Sunday 19 October 2025

The City of Port Phillip (CoPP) is working with their community to create a smarter, more sustainable approach to waste and recycling.

Key proposals include:

• fortnightly garbage collection for houses and townhouses
• a separate glass bin for houses, townhouses and select apartments
• stronger litter management through new procedures and litter enforcement officers 

• Share your feedback

 

 4.35  CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Living History and Family Stories - Making sense of the past today | Tuesday 21 October 2025 | arrive 6.15pm for 6.30-7.30pm

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) and local author David Radcliffe as he shares the extraordinary, multi-generational story behind his new book Goldfields to Graceville (2025). 
For over fifty years, David has traced the lives of Amos and Sarah Radcliffe, their thirteen children, and eleven siblings – across three continents and through the 19th and early 20th centuries.

We’ll follow adventures from striking gold at Ballarat’s diggings and raising a family on the Queensland frontier to reveal how family history can make the past feel alive again – and how looking at old stories through modern eyes can uncover new insights and connections.

• Where: Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

 

 4.36  CoPP | PPLS | WORKSHOPPING | Managing your emails safely | Thursday 23 October 2025 | 11am-12pm

Having an email address is your gateway to the online world. 
It allows you to keep in touch with family and friends and access online services, including online shopping and banking. Even though many of us use email every day, there may be some features and safety tips you didn’t know about. Get the most out of using email by exploring the benefits of email, how to manage spam emails, and steps to secure your account and protect yourself from scams.

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)'s presentation to discover: 

• the benefits of email and account features
• how to manage and avoid spam emails 
• ways to keep your email account secure
• how to avoid common email scams. 

Join us at the library for a series of free online safety presentations, hosted by the eSafety Commissioner.

• Where: Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

 

 4.37  VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Spirituality & Diversity Discussions: "Spiritual care values and recovery - Are we talking about the same thing?" | Tuesday 28 October 2025 | 10.30am-12noon

While person-centred care models include these domains, workers often feel ill-equipped to support people in these aspects of their lives. 
This Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) reflective peer group allows mental health practitioners to deepen their understanding about spiritual diversity, which can include beliefs, values, traditions and practices.

Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) is pleased to offer more opportunities for mental health practitioners to identify and explore challenges when spirituality or religion comes up during encounters with consumers.

Sessions in this series are for practitioners working in the Victorian publicly funded mental health sector. This includes staff working in clinical and community-managed mental health services, as well as mental health programs in community health services. Unfortunately, these discussions are not currently open to those working in private practice, NDIS providers, or students on clinical placement.

• 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. 

 

 4.38  SA | EQPR | GATHERING | 3rd Rainbow Leaders Summit | Thursday 30 October 2025

Join 100 rainbow leaders for a conversation that matters. The Equality Project (EQPR) are excited to announce that our 3rd Rainbow Leaders Summit is on just before Better Together® 2025 in Adelaide, we’re gathering visionary rainbow leaders, changemakers and allies from across Australia.

Get ready to:

• Dive into challenging conversations that move us beyond easy answers;
• Engage with fresh perspectives that sharpen your thinking;
• Walk away with a new way of seeing what’s possible and your role in making it happen.

Spots are limited and we're looking for passionate voices from every corner of our rainbow communities.

Want to be in the room?

• Expresss Your Interest

The Equality Project Team
P.S. Have you got your Early Bird ticket to Better Together® 2025 yet?

 4.39  CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | with Author Jacinta Parsons on her "A Wisdom of Age" and Brian Nankervis | Thursday 30 October 2025 | arrive 5.45pm for 6-7pm

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) with Jacinta and Brian Nankervis for an evening of entertainment and thought-provoking discussion about life and her new book.

A Wisdom of Age was sparked by the many conversations Jacinta Parsons has had recently with older women right around the country about the experience of being a woman and ageing. 

Over the course of these encounters, it became clear to Jacinta that the conversation about ageing for women is alive and bubbling with a kind of excitement - that is, women are ready to do ageing differently.

For this book, Jacinta mines wisdom directly from those who know how to do it well, those older women who say, this is what feels good.

Capturing the brewing tone of revolution that sits in the hearts of middle-aged and older women, A Wisdom of Age tells a different story about ageing – a story about reclaiming the fierce girl we have inside us; about an unapologetic taking up of space; about speaking out and re-finding our confidence; and finally, about wisdom.

• Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Trybooking

 

 4.40  AUST | EQPR | GATHERING | Better Together 2025 | Friday 31 October-Saturday 1 November 2025 | tickets on sale now

The Equality Project (EQPR) believes in a world where we are better together. Secure your launch-price ticket now and join a powerful gathering of LGBTIQA+ changemakers, allies, and service providers.
This one is for our inner circle: the changemakers, the people who know we are Better Together.

The Better Together® Conference is a meaningful gathering for change. We come together under one roof with a shared vision of making progress.

Meet, learn from and collaborate with people making positive change for the LGBTIQA+ communities in Australia. Attend panels, get hands on in a workshop or share a cuppa as you take a breath and reconnect with your 'why' at Better Together 2025.

All prices include GST, additional transaction fees apply.

• Where: Adelaide Convention Centre on Kaurna Land, Adelaide
• Cost: Sliding Scale
• Bookings: Register now to secure your spot!

Need help with your conference ticket?
Scholarships opened in May

We hope to see you there.
The Equality Project Team

 4.41  MELB | VTMH | GATHERING | VTMH Forum 2025: Practice and Research Innovations Towards Culturally Responsive Systems | Thursday 6 November 2025

Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) will hold its biennial forum at the Djerring Flemington Hub. The theme of this year’s forum is “Practice and research innovations towards culturally responsive systems”.   

Across Victoria, there is innovative thinking and action that strengthens the cultural responsiveness of our sector. This forum is an opportunity to shed light on the variety, richness, and challenges of that valuable work. We will focus on the experiences of dignity and indignity in mental health interventions through the lens of communities, clients and service providers.

The forum will feature keynote speakers Indigo Daya and Kathomi Gatwiri, two of the sector’s most innovative and thought-provoking voices. We will announce the rest of the speakers and program in the coming weeks.  

Daya is a research scholar and activist, informed by her own experiences with the mental health system. She practices independent peer support, training and co-reflection, and works with others to grow liberatory alternatives to psychiatry.  
 
Gatwiri is one of Australia’s leading Afro-diasporic scholars whose award-winning interdisciplinary research investigates the intersecting topics of racial trauma, belonging, blackness, and migranthood.  Her work is grounded in decolonising methodologies that attempt to develop knowledge about and for those people who are assigned categories of difference.  
  
A limited number of complimentary tickets are available for people in the community with lived and living experiences, who are not currently employed. If you think you may be eligible, please email vtmh@svha.org.au for more information.

Spaces are limited. Reserve your spot so you don’t miss out.  

• Where: Djerring Flemington Hub, 25 Mt Alexander Road, Flemington
• Cost: $100
• Bookings: online via VTMH

 

 4.42  VIC | VMC | GATHERING | From dumplings to dialogue – let’s talk mental wellbeing | Saturday 8 November 2025 | 11.15am-3pm

Dumplings Against Depression is a community gathering where we’ll share delicious dishes and have open, inclusive conversations about mental health and wellbeing. 

Presented by the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) in partnership with Solis and funded by the Victorian Collaborative Centre for Mental Health and Wellbeing.

Join us to hear from panels of multicultural mental health experts and community voices. Browse stalls and meet local service providers to discover culturally safe and community-based mental health supports.

Dumplings are a cherished dish in many cultures – from Asia to Europe, Africa to the Caribbean – making them the perfect symbol for connection and shared understanding across our diverse communities. Together we can break down mental health stigma and sector silos – one dumpling at a time.

• Learn more
• Where: Long Room, Immigration Museum, 400 Flinders St, Melbourne
• Cost: Free
• Bookings: online via Humanitix

 

 4.43  CoPP | PHAAA | SHOWING | ‘Healing Through Connection’ Art Exhibition | Monday 10 November 2025-Monday 19 Jan 2026

Planetary Healing Artists Association of Australia (PHAAA)'s 2025 art exhibition ‘Healing Through Connection’ will be hosted in Port Melbourne Town Hall. 
We’ve got some talented artists on this year’s roster, and are looking forward to seeing you there.

Additional Artists Welcome
There’s still space left in this year’s exhibition. If interested, showcase your art to the Melbourne community. 

• Submit an expression of interest
• Where: Community Art Space, Port Melbourne, Town Hall

 

 4.44  MELB | FECCA | GATHERING | National Multicultural Health And Wellbeing Conference | Tuesday 11-Wednesday 12 November 2025

Addressing challenges, review best practices and explore how to improve access to health and wellbeing services for Australia's culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) population. ​
This year's conference theme, 'Shaping Tomorrow Together' is a call to action for unity, collaboration, and shared responsibility in building a healthier, more inclusive future. 

Grounded in the strength of Australia’s rich cultural diversity, this theme recognises that lasting change comes from listening to every voice, honouring every story, and valuing every contribution. 

As a community, we come together – drawing on a wide range of experiences and traditions – to lay the foundations for a future that belongs to us all.

Presented by the Australian Multicultural Health Collaborative, Federation of Ethnic Communities' Councils of Australia (FECCA) and VicHealth.

• Where: Victoria Pavilion, Melbourne Showgrounds
• Cost: Varies
• Bookings: essential, online via NMHWC

 

 4.45  CoPP | PHAAA | GATHERING | St. Kilda Peace Festival: Healing through Connection | Sunday 14 December 2025 | 2-5pm

Join Planetary Healing Artists Association of Australia (PHAAA) in celebrating the solstice. 
A multicultural all inclusive Peace Festival with the theme ‘Healing through Connection’ contributing to our shared vision of peace and harmony.
Featuring: diverse cultural (Persian, Indian & Chinese) Traditional Music & Dance Performances, Foods, Storytelling Sessions and Interactive Cultural Workshops to connect the community, exchanging cultural traditions.

• Where: The Well, 12B Chapel Street, St Kilda VIC 3182

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 5. COLLECTIVISING 

1. YARRA | YEF | UPDATING | Stories, events and more | September 2025
2. VIC | ECCV | UPDATING | Community News | eBulletin #57 | September 2025
3. AUST | CUIN | UPDATING | Making Technology Cultural Again and more | August-September 2025
4. AUST | NJP | UPDATING | Community News | September 2025

 

 5.1  YARRA | YEF | UPDATING | Stories, events and more | September 2025

KICKING | Off the Melbourne Community Electrification Roadshow

The Melbourne Community Electrification Roadshow is off to a strong start, with two wonderful events hosted by our partners Healsville CoRe and Bayside Climate Crisis Action Group. 

These events are exploring the benefits of home electrification and helping households access Victorian government rebates and incentives.

There are many more events planned across metro Melbourne in the coming months, in partnership with community groups and local councils. Visit our website to see the full list of upcoming events.   

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

ANNOUNCING | Community battery credit offer for Torquay residents

Yarra Energy Foundation (YEF) is working to deliver a neighbourhood battery in Torquay. The battery will capture excess solar energy during the day and release it when demand on the grid is high, such as in the evening. This helps reduce pressure on the electricity grid and supports more households to install rooftop solar. 

• Learn more about the Torquay Community Battery.

Community batteries can generate revenue by providing services to the electricity grid. As an independent not-for-profit, YEF is committed to returning benefits to the Torquay community. For this project, this will be done through a Community Battery Credit Offerfrom our project partner, Diamond Energy. 

The offer is an annual $240/annum credit to eligible Diamond Energy customers for up to ten years, noting that the offer will be available to a limited number of households, with priority given to concession card holders.
 
Please note: this offer is only available to Torquay residents

• Express your interest in the offer by completing this survey

 

REPORTING | Over 300 home energy upgrades in Hume!

This month marks one year of the award-winning Hume Home Energy Upgrades Program, delivered in partnership with Hume City Council.

Since launching, the program has supported more than 300 energy upgrades across 200 households, with over 175 of these upgrades backed by Council’s concession rebates. These upgrades are helping residents cut bills, lower emissions, and stay comfortable year-round.

Together, the Hume community has:

• Invested $1.127 million in energy improvements
• Abated an estimated 10,000 tonnes of CO₂-e over the lifetime of installed systems (excluding insulation)
• Delivered average savings of $1,474 per year for concession households through full home electrification

None of this would be possible without the dedicated staff at Hume City Council and our trusted delivery partners, All Electric Homes and Enviroflex.

Congratulations to everyone involved – we can’t wait to see what the next 12 months will bring.

• Learn more about the Hume program

 

WELCOMING | Raven!

Please join us in welcoming Raven to the YEF team! Raven is a Project Officer who will be supporting YEF's work across our community battery projects and electrification programs. 

Raven has a broad background in climate action, spanning advocacy, campaigning, funding, and community development. Having recently moved to Melbourne from Aotearoa New Zealand, Raven brings several years' experience working in local government climate change response, including leading the establishment of Wellington City Council's climate and sustainability funding program. Raven is passionate about enabling equitable, community-led solutions to the climate crisis, and the transformative potential of our energy transition for the wellbeing of people and the planet.

We are so happy to have Raven on board! 

• Meet the whole YEF team

 

ATTENDING | Victorian Greenhouse Alliance conference

Earlier this month, members of the Yarra Energy Foundation team joined peers from across the state at the annual Victorian Greenhouse Alliances (VGA) Conference, the largest local government climate conference in Australia.

The event brought together council leaders, officers, and climate practitioners to share knowledge and explore opportunities for collaboration across key climate priorities. Sessions spanned a wide range of topics, from getting off gas and accelerating electrification, to embedding climate into local planning and addressing the costs of adaptation.

It was a valuable opportunity to connect with others working across the sector and to learn from the many innovative and impactful projects underway in councils and communities across Victoria.

• Follow YEF on LinkedIn

 

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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 5.2  VIC | ECCV | UPDATING | Community News | eBulletin #57 | September 2025

Last week, the Victorian Government announced a major reform package in response to the Rebuilding Trust: For a Multicultural Victoria report, led by former Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) Chairperson George Lekakis AO. 
This independent review marks an important milestone for multicultural policy and governance in Victoria.

At the heart of the Government’s response is the creation of Multicultural Victoria, a new statutory body bringing together the Victorian Multicultural Commission and the Office of Multicultural Affairs. The Government has also committed to a whole-of-government multicultural strategy – something ECCV has long called for – and a new Capacity Building Fund to support grassroots organisations.
 
This is a significant step forward. Multiculturalism in Victoria has always been built from the ground up through the dedication of local leaders and community organisations. While government reforms alone cannot solve every challenge, they matter deeply, especially at a time when anti-immigrant rhetoric and division are growing louder.
 
At ECCV, we remain committed to ensuring community voices are heard, respected, and central to decision-making. We recently hosted the Speaking Up, Together: Forum for New and Emerging Communities, bringing grassroots leaders together to address urgent social issues. ECCV also appeared before a Parliamentary Committee to emphasise the importance of trust and long-term engagement in consultations.
 
As we look to the future, we also pause to stand with those in pain. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the two young boys whose lives were tragically taken in a violent incident, and to the entire South Sudanese community. Our thoughts and support are with you during this deeply painful time.
 
Now more than ever, our communities need strong, independent voices, voices that are heard, valued, and respected in shaping the future of a truly inclusive and multicultural Victoria.
 
Abiola Akinbiyi, Chairperson

 News & Advocacy 

REPORTING | Speaking Up, Together: New and Emerging Communities Forum

This month, ECCV brought new and emerging communities together at Coburg Town Hall for our Speaking Up, Together forum. We focused on the pressing issues of employment, youth, and mental health. It was an opportunity to come together for constructive conversations and community-led solutions.

"It meant a lot to hold such a gathering in light of the recent hateful rallies in our cities" – ECCV CEO Farah Farouque. 

ECCV intends to hold more gatherings all over the state over the next 12 months. We will listen deeply and amplify voices of our diverse communities as we advocate and collectively find solutions for the complex challenges we face. That is our promise to multicultural Victoria.

ADDRESSING | Legislative Council Environment and Planning Committee

ECCV CEO Farah Farouque, Senior Policy Advisor James Houghton, and Ageing Well Lead Hayat Doughan were invited to present at a public hearing of the Legislative Council Environment and Planning Committee.
 
They highlighted that building trust with diverse communities is key to effective consultations, and stressed the importance of including face-to-face engagement alongside digital platforms to ensure no voices are left out.

PARTNERING | Dementia Prevention in Multicultural Communities

ECCV is proud to partner with La Trobe University and MindCare Collective on a national digital health program raising awareness of dementia risk in multicultural communities. This month, ECCV ran a weekend workshop with Pasifika Community members, who reviewed resources and provided feedback on cultural relevance, clarity and feasibility.

“The research’s goal is to help multicultural communities access information and resources to improve their lives. But it is also about how we engage. The consultation was best practice, valuing participants’ time, knowledge and lived experience, and making it easy to contribute meaningfully,” – ECCV Ageing Well Leader Hayat Doughan

 

 Statements 

ECCV Condemns Anti-Immigration Rallies

ECCV strongly condemned the recent “March for Australia” rallies, which spread harmful anti-immigration rhetoric. We reaffirmed that multiculturalism is central to Victoria’s identity and success, and that our communities are stronger when united.

• Read full ECCV statement

 

Response to the Victorian Multicultural Review

The Victorian Government has confirmed reforms following the Multicultural Review, including the creation of Multicultural Victoria, a new statutory body. ECCV welcomes these changes and will continue to advocate for strong, community-led policy that reflects our diverse communities.

• Read full ECCV statement

 

 Opportunities & Resources 

Victorian Seniors Festival 2025

October is Victorian Seniors Festival, celebrating older Victorians with free and low-cost activities across music, film, community events and more. ECCV is proud to support the Festival and encourages our members and communities to get involved. 

• Explore the Festival Program

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 5.3  AUST | CUIN | UPDATING | Making Technology Cultural Again and more | August-September 2025

Our lives are entangled with technology, our CTO Rezza Moieni told a TEDx audience in South Korea.
Rezza was asking them to consider technology not as something separate from culture but central, and culture as central to how we design and interact with technology. This matters because technology can either support cultural diversity or be a homogeniser, and we believe homogenisation divides us, whereas diversified we grow.

In this edition of the newsletter, we share links to Rezza’s TEDx talk, and much more. Don't miss your invitation to an author talk on 3 September at Cultural Infusion HQ!
     

INTRODUCING | A Note from the CEO

You may have noticed something new: Diversity Atlas has evolved into the Atlas of Cultural Infusion, or just plain Atlas.

This change brings all our work back under one unified identity that puts culture at the centre of everything we do. Atlas remains the world’s most comprehensive tool for measuring cultural diversity and now sits proudly within the Cultural Infusion family.

For you, this means one monthly newsletter, one brand, and more stories that connect the dots between our education, cultural, and data initiatives.

We really are making technology cultural again!
Peter Mousaferiadis, August 2025
     

 Tech-driven Diversity 

ANALYSING | The Big Breakthrough: Cultural Identity with Scientific Precision

What happens when we stop guessing and start measuring diversity with the same seriousness we apply to medicine and other sciences?

We are used to seeing people flattened into broad identity groups, but the realisation that no two people share the exact same cultural identity changed everything for us and started a 10-year journey into data, culture, and technology.

Through granular data, we can now analyse cultural identity with scientific precision.

In his TEDx talk in May, Rezza Moieni, our CTO, shared how one question led to the Global Database of Humanity: the world’s largest database of human identities.

• Watch the full talk (18 mins)

Rezza also spoke at the National Ageing Research Institute 2025 Annual Summit on how AI systems can either challenge or reinforce age-related bias.
     

REPORTING | TechDiversity Awards Night

‘Eight years ago,’ Rezza Moieni writes, ‘I was sitting in a hipster Collingwood café, drafting an application for something I’d just discovered; the Tech Diversity Awards. A few weeks later … we WON the Minister’s Award!’ Our team has been at every TechDiversity Awards Night since then.

Helmed by Executive Director of TechDiversity Foundation and BMX Champion Luli Adeyemo, the TechDiversity Awards celebrated its tenth anniversary this year. 

• Read Luli’s fantastic summary of the night.

For the fifth year running, we mapped the diversity of the people in the room, a highlight of the night for everyone, revealing the rich representation: 

• 43 different countries of birth
• 57 cultural groups and 
• 96 languages.

Congratulations to all the winners and nominees on the night, Luli and the whole dynamic team of organisers behind this event! We were moved and inspired by everyone’s speeches and stories.

TechDiversity’s 2025 champion was Make It Easy App by We Make It Easy Pty Ltd. This brilliant app allows you to photograph any bamboozling piece of text, even in poor light, and will instantly simplify it for you. We informally tested it against ChatGPT and found it not just faster, since Make It Easy only involves one step, but also much more accurate. So, support home-grown inclusive tech and download it! For free!
     

ANNOUNCING | TechDiversity Academy Starts Soon!

TechDiversity Academy starts from 1 September, with three focused online modules targeted towards supporting mid-level managers take their leadership further with inclusive leadership done right. You can still book later! The academy is open from September to November, allowing flexibility for participants to start and complete the modules at their own pace.

TechDiversity partners with Cultural Infusion and the Australian Computer Society to deliver these timely courses informed by leading practice and holistic methodology.

‘The TD Academy community is made up of people who believe in the power of community and education to harness the DEI transformational process.’ – Luli Adeyemo

• Read more
• Book Your Space

     

 Education and Experiences New Programs and Projects 

Cultural Infusion's Atlas for Schools: FREE Limited Spots

Bring your school’s cultural story to life!

Discover how diverse and unique your school community really is with the Cultural Infusion's Atlas for Schools – a world-first program using interactive data and vibrant visualisations to explore and celebrate your school’s diversity.

• Celebrates diversity & promotes global citizenship
• Curriculum-ready lesson plans & activities
• Exclusive ‘Mapped & Measured’ recognition badge

• Apply now to secure your place

ANNOUNCING | New Program and Touring Highlights

Commedia dell'Arte
Commedia dell’arte began in the 16th century in Italy and became the basis for modern-day comedy and clowning. Packed with music, mime, magic and mayhem, this program is a clowning show full of energy, fun and silliness!

• Book Here

     
Ghana Road Show – Limited Time Only!
Available exclusively in August and September, this dynamic performance workshop offers students the opportunity to engage with the rich cultural heritage of Ghana. Featuring acclaimed Ghanaian artists, the program introduces traditional West African acrobatics, circus skills, music and storytelling. Students will develop physical confidence and teamwork skills while gaining a deeper appreciation for Ghanaian culture.

• Enquire Here

Aboriginal Program Tour by Pancakes
Tristan Harris, also known as Pancakes, a Noongar man from the Bibbulmann clan in Western Australia, is a cultural educator, performer, and advocate for Indigenous heritage. From late August to early September, Pancakes will tour in and around Perth featuring his latest program Aboriginal Mural Creation, the all-time favourite Aboriginal Infusion, and even all-day multi-session cultural experiences covering didgeridoo, artefacts, storytelling and more.

Follow the links to book!
     

SPOTLIGHTING | Project: School Holiday Program with Junior Adventures Group

During the July 2025 school holidays, Cultural Infusion delivered a nationwide cultural workshop program in collaboration with Junior Adventures Group. The program reached more than 11,000 primary-aged students and children across metropolitan and rural Australia through 570 sessions, reflecting our commitment to reliability and quality as we aim to support intercultural understanding, curiosity, appreciation and social cohesion through meaningful educational experiences.
     

 HIGHLIGHTING | In the Media and on the Blog 

‘Creative Australia, the Sabsabi debacle and unconscious bias’
The Mandarin published an article by Peter Mousaferiadis exploring the disconnect between some of our leading cultural institutions and the artists they represent.

• Read article

     
‘Cultural Diversity in Dangerous Times’
Peter Mousaferiadis wrote up Cultural Infusion’s involvement as Secretariat at the Civil Society Forum at UNESCO in June.

• Go to post

We had some wonderful contributions from the remarkable people who intern with us, including a piece about our cultural programs, a fascinating story about the biosphere reserve Jeju Island, and a provocative piece about K-pop.

• Explore Our Blog

 

 COMING | Events 

ANNOUNCING | Author Talk 3 September: You're Invited!

Cultural Infusion is honoured to be hosting Gloria Tabi at our Collingwood HQ for what will be a compelling talk about her book ENOUGH: How One Woman’s Truth Became a Roadmap for Change, on Wednesday, 3 September 2025 at 6pm. 

Gloria Tabi is the recipient of the 2024 Legendary Award (African Australians NSW) and the 2022 Social Justice Award (Nelson Mandela Day Australia). 

In this groundbreaking book, Gloria weaves memoir with manifesto, courage with conviction, offering a path to healing for anyone who has ever felt unseen, unheard, or unworthy.

We look forward to seeing you all here for this free community event!

• Doors open: 6pm 
• Doors close: 6.30pm 
• Event ends: 8.00pm 

Registration is essential for catering. 

• Register here

Books can be bought on the night. All profits will go towards raising hair discrimination awareness at Enable Women Africa.
     

ANNOUNCING | Cultural Infusion Partners with Tech Show Paris 2025

Cultural Infusion through its flagship product the Atlas is proud to announce its official partnership with Tech Show Paris 2025, organised by CloserStill Media and taking place on 5 to 6 November at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. This collaboration brings together Cultural Infusion’s global expertise in cultural analytics and inclusion with one of Europe’s most influential technology events. 

• Learn more

 

CONGRATULATING | Kasia!

Congratulations to Kasia Hayward on her nomination for a Tech Professional Award(non-coding) at the Women in Tech Awards 2025. Kasia joined our team in October last year as Head of Culture and Innovation in the UK. She brings fresh energy, creativity and a wealth of experience to our mission of full inclusion and cultural harmony. We are thrilled to see her talent and impact recognised among the finalists for this award.
     

COMING | Up

• 1 September Peter Mousaferiadis will be addressing the Australia-Africa Academic Research Colloquium on Health, Policy & Engineering Management at the University of Melbourne.
• 18 September Peter will be speaking at the World Diversity in Leadership (WODIL) Conference in Edmonton, Canada
• 30 September Peter will be participating as a speaker in the ‘Voices of Culture’ programme at MONDIACULT 2025 in Barcelona.
• 2 October Peter will be in Prague to speak at DEI Forum 2025.
• 5 November Peter will be moderating a panel discussion at Tech Show Paris 2025.

     

HIGHLIGHTING | Calendar Spotlights

23 September, International Day of Sign Languages
International Day of Sign Languages supports and protects the linguistic identity and cultural diversity of all deaf people and other sign language users.
More than 300 sign languages are in active use around the world, and they are all in our Atlas database, the Global Database of Humanity.

Our Atlas team found out through data that Japan has a culture of honouring sign languages. The Japanese branch of one company our Atlas surveyed found that of the 93 languages and dialects represented by their workforce, Japanese Sign language was represented by about 5% of the staff, making it the third most represented language after Japanese and English. Korean Sign Language and American Sign Language were also represented in the results. Results of the Atlas survey usually show only about 1% of sign language users.

Japan recently passed a law to promote the use of sign language ahead of the November Deaflympics.

Only 81 out of 195 countries officially recognise their national sign language. The World Federation of the Deaf claims lack of meaningful sign language legislation on the national level is a grave violation of deaf peoples’ fundamental rights.
     
20 October, Diwali (The Festival of Lights)
One of the most significant religious festivals in Hinduism, Jainism and Sikhism, Diwali is a five-day festival often takes place in late October and November. This year, it falls on 20 October. It is traditionally celebrated with the lighting of oil lamps, colourful rangoli, gift-giving, and festive gatherings. Nowadays, communities around the world will mark the occasion with fireworks, music, traditional dress and food.
 
To celebrate and share the vibrant Indian culture during this festive season, we’re offering a range of interactive cultural workshops, bringing the spirit of Diwali and the diversity of Indian heritage into classrooms and communities:

• Bollywood Infusion (VIC, NSW, ACT, QLD, WA, SA)
• Indian Instrumental Infusion (VIC, NSW, QLD)
• Classical Indian Dance (VIC, NSW, SA)

• Visit our cultural calendar
• Browse All Programs

 

STAYING | Up to date

Interested in staying up to date and finding out more about our cultural initiatives? 
Follow us on social media for the latest news and events.

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 5.4  AUST | NJP | UPDATING | Community News | September 2025

Content Warning: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised the following includes the names of First Nations people who have passed away.

INTRODUCING | This month’s Justice Brief

On September 22, police investigators handed evidence on Kumanjayi White’s death in custody to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The family now faces another wait, as the DPP reviews the evidence of the case. While this marks a step forward, the family remains deeply distressed by continued delays, poor communication from police investigators, and a lack of independent oversight.

As Warlpiri Elder Ned Jampijinpa Hargraves, Kumanjayi White’s grandfather, reminds us, “The colonial system is not fair for First Nations people. We are suffering. It doesn’t recognise our rights. We want the government to listen to us, but they don’t.”

The National Justice Project continues to support Kumanjayi White’s family in their pursuit of truth, justice, and accountability.

Looking ahead, in just over two weeks, our Alternative First Responders team will host a national online symposium: Policy, People, and Practice for Building a Response Beyond Police.

Across the nation, voices are urgently calling for change to the police-first default for when people need assistance and support.

Join us on Thursday 16 October 2025, as we centre human rights, care, choice, and dignity in our first response. We hope you’ll be part of this important conversation.

More updates from the National Justice Project below.

REMINDING | 2 Weeks Left to Grab Your Tickets!

International and national advocates will be taking over the microphone to share why we need to re-think the response and choose care over force. We’ll also hear about alternatives already in action and explore what we need to keep investing in to ensure we strengthen the ecosystem for change and commit to true community safety. 

• View full program here

RECEIVING | Human Rights Legal Service of the Year!

We are thrilled to announce that the National Justice Project has been awarded Human Rights Legal Service of the Year 2025 by the Legal Insider Awards. We extend our deepest gratitude to our clients, communities, and supporters, who entrust us to stand alongside them in the fight for justice. 

• Help us continue our impactful work, make a donation

DEMANDING |  Justice by Family as Brief of Evidence Sent to Prosecutor

The Northern Territory Police announced that police investigators have officially forwarded a brief of evidence to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in relation to Kumanjayi White’s death on 27 May 2025.This development comes after months of investigation and repeated demands from the family for transparency about the process. 

• Read more here

SWEEPING | New Laws Threaten Refugee Rights

The Government has rammed through a Bill that strips the right to fairness from deportation decisions and gives power to block ongoing appeals from people seeking asylum. 

• Read ASRC’s full statement

WELCOMING | Passage of ‘Cindy’s Law’

For almost four decades, the families of Mona and Cindy Smith have carried the unbearable weight of grief and injustice. This month we welcomed the passage of vital legislative changes in the NSW Parliament that close a long-standing loophole in the Crimes Act 1900. 

• Read more

ADVOCATING | Housing not Hyper-Policing

Our Alternative First Responders team have collaborated with The Justice and Equity Centre to spotlight how people failed by policy and pushed into homelessness are too often met with policing as the first response. 

• Read blog here

HIGHLIGHTING | In the Media

The National Justice Project advocates for our clients in the courts as well as in the news media, especially around issues on human rights, discrimination and justice reform.

Here are some highlights from the past month:

• No truth from the 'colonial system': Family distressed by delay in Kumanjayi White case as investigation handed to DPP via National Indigenous Times, 22 September
• The Offence of Indecently Interfering with a Body in New South Wales via Sydney Criminal Lawyers, 17 September 2025
• Cindy’s Law closes legal loophole after 37 years of effort via Law Society Journal, 15 September 2025
• Passage of ‘Cindy’s Law’ welcomed amidst legal reform in NSW via National Indigenous Times, 12 September 2025
• Alternative First Responders’ radio interview with campaign lead  about the upcoming national symposium via 3CR Radio, 10 September 2025
• Why Australia Is Failing on Nazi-Looted Art?  Interview with George Newhouse about Portrait of a Lady - ABC Radio, 4 September 2025
• Professor Daniel Ghezelbash was recognised as Innovator of the Year at the Australian Law Awards via The National Tribune, 18 August

Follow our media commentary

SUPPORTING | Ongoing Work

The National Justice Project is funded by people like you committed to the fight for social justice. 
Donate Today

The National Justice Project is a Public Benevolent Institution endorsed as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) covered by Item 1 of the table in section 30-15 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.  Donations of $2.00 or more are tax deductible.

To keep up to date with our strategic legal action and advocacy, visit our website or follow us on your preferred social media platform.

• Learn more or donate

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 6. ANNOUNCING 

1. AUST | GOV | HELPING | Your community stay safe online
2. VIC | VMC | HIGHLIGHTING | Premier's Multicultural Gala 

 

 6.1  AUST | GOV | HELPING | Your community stay safe online

The Department of Home Affairs has launched the latest phase of its Act Now. Stay Secure. cyber security awareness campaign, empowering all Australians to take control of their cyber safety and protect themselves online. 
To support multicultural communities, resources have been produced in 32 languages, in addition to English.

Resources include:

• A detailed fact sheet that can be shared digitally or printed as an educational tool
• Printable posters for display around your centre
• Social media tiles to share with your followers.

Cyber security affects the lives of everyone. As a trusted community leader, you play a vital role in helping community members protect themselves, their families and the broader community online.

We encourage you to explore the campaign website, particularly the translated resourcespage and share the resources with your community.

• Learn More

 

 6.2  VIC | VMC | HIGHLIGHTING | Premier's Multicultural Gala Dinner

Watch highlights from an unforgettable night of community, culture, and connection at the Premier’s Multicultural Gala Dinner 2025 - where voices united, stories inspired, and diversity was celebrated in every moment. Diana Zhao, born in Shanghai and raised in Melbourne was our wonderful MC for the evening. Thank you to the Premier of Victoria, the Honourable Jacinta Allan, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Ingrid Stitt MP and the VMC Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen for hosting an exceptional night with an impressive entertainment line-up:

• Drumming Events Melbourne
• King Bell and Soukous Ba Congo
• Estudiantina of Melbourne
• Sanggar Lestari
• Pasefika Vitoria Choir
• ALPA
• Kinisi
• La Descarga

Many thanks to Fruitbowl Events Agency for assisting the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) to deliver the event as well as coordinating the traditional teas and coffee blends by community groups.

• Download any or all photos captured from the evening
• View the video (2 mins)

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 7. SUPPORTING 

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

1. Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander
2. Ageism
3. Asylum Seeking & Refugees
4. Climate, Environment & Emergency
5. Committee Training
6. Community, Connection & Belonging
7. Difability & Disability
8. Employment
9. Family & Neighbourhood Violence
10. Health, Sickness & Wellbeing
11. Kids, Youth, Parenting & Education
12. LGBTIQA+
13. Men
14. Migrant
15. Racism
16. Women

7.1.1 Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander

• BlaQ Aboriginal Corporation (BLAQ) – National service provider and NSW State Peak Organisation supporting and representing community living with the intersection of a Cultural life and LGBTQ+SB identity.
• 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!
• Call It Out: A First Nations Racism Register App – University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research, in partnership with the National Justice Project, are proud to announce the launch of the Call It Out App, a ground-breaking platform aimed at documenting and addressing racism against First Nations Peoples in communities across Australia. Download on Apple and Android now to report racism anytime, anywhere. 
• 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
• Koorie Women Mean Business
• Mungo Explorer – online learning platform by Cultural Infusion (CUIN). An inquiry based resource aligned with the Australian curriculum and covers Year 4 First Contact and Year 7 Ancient History. Allowing teachers to share Indigenous perspectives, historical and scientific thinking to teach students about the remarkable story of Mungo Man and Mungo Lady.
• National Justice Project (NJP)
• 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.

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7.1.2 Ageism

• Ageism and reducing its impact – reframing the discussion to help everyone better understand how to communicate about age, ageing and issues affecting older people. Download the Framing age message guide and Download the quick reminder Cheat Sheet
• ‘Ageing well in Victoria: An action plan for strengthening wellbeing for senior Victorians 2022-2026' supporting older Victorians from all backgrounds to connect socially and live healthy, active, and purposeful lives.
• Southern Metro Elder Abuse Prevention Network (SMEAPN) free online course: Framing Age Self-Paced Training: 5 Online Modules – EAPN LMS

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7.1.3 Asylum Seeking & Refugees

• Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) – independent not for profit supporting and empowering over 7,000 people seeking asylum each year to maximise their physical, mental and social wellbeing. As a movement we mobilise and unites communities to creating social and policy change for people seeking asylum and refugees in Australia.
• Brigidine Asylum Seekers Project (BASP) – providing food, housing, English classes, employment assistance, legal and medical support, and donations of money.
• City of Whittlesea (CoW) – offering a 12-week placement program for newly arrived non-student migrants and refugees. Learn more and apply

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7.1.4 Climate, Environment & Emergency

• Better Health – Surviving Extreme Heat In-language video
• Climate Ready Communities – an innovative program empowering you and your neighbours to tackle climate challenges head-on, right where you live. Through this partnership from City of Port Phillip (CoPP) with The Resilience Canopy, you will be supported to establish, sustain and grow climate action projects for your local community. 
• Country Fire Authority and Fire Rescue Victoria recommend your smoke alarms are tested regularly, that batteries are replaced once a year, and smoke alarm units are replaced every 10 years. Learn more
• Country Fire Authority advises Reduce fire risk by using lithium-ion battery powered devices safely
• Country Fire Authority  – Summer Campaign Communications Kit includes a range of resources in different languages to help you stay safe during a bushfire
• Crime Stoppers Victoria (CSV) with Ethnolink – video on how to report a crime, now available in our 11 priority languages: Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Dinka, Farsi, Greek, Hindi, Italian, Punjabi, Somali, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Watch videos
• Emergency management improvement report with engaged multicultural communities, government and emergency services
• Fired Up (36 mins) short documentary which tells the story of Australian Islamic Centre (AIC) volunteers who travelled to areas impacted by the devastating 2019-2020 bushires to provide essential supplies to communities in critical need.
• Fire Safety – translated information
• Fire season preparation in Regional Victoria – visit Country Fire Authority's website, sign up to MyCFA to get local information on how to plan and prepare for fires and other emergencies in your area or learn more
• Life Saving Victoria (LSV) – remembering safety is everyone’s responsibility – especially around water. If you're new to pools or water settings, please take a moment to speak with a lifesaver or lifeguard before entering the water. Always read and follow the safety signs at your location to ensure you're fully informed.
• Port Phillip Eco Centre (PPEC) –  events, educational programs and community projects.
• Royal Life Saving Society of Australia with The LOTE Agency (LOTEA) – Make Safe Decisions Around Water campaign highlighs five key messages to keep our multicultural and multilingual communities safe in and around water while swimming, boating, and fishing. Resources: Water safety information in community languages or  Download: RLSSA-Stakeholder-Pack-2024.pdf or resources by Language
• Scamwatch – Scams targeting people from non-English speaking backgrounds remain a serious concern. To help protect all Australians, free information and resources has been developed in 22 languages, empowering people to recognise and report scams using three simple steps: Stop. Check. Protect.
  
• Solar Savers – Start saving on energy bills with City of Port Phillip
• State Emergency Service – SES flood guide – Be aware of your risk, check your local area or call VIC SES on 132 500 for support
• Vic Emergency app or Call 1800 226 226 for Vic Emergency hotline
• Victoria Health Department – in hot weather or extreme weather, be neighbourly, check in on vulnerable neighbours
• Yarra Energy Foundation (YEF) and sustainability consultancy Point Advisory have produced a comprehensive document full of relevant information, step-by-step advice, and guidance on how to tackle the roadblocks faced by apartment tenants, owners, and management companies when approaching solar for apartments. Download guide

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7.1.5 Committee Training

A series of free educational volunteer training videos designed to educate and empower nonprofit organisations. 

These engaging Cardinia Shire Council resources are available thanks to the Non Profit Training and provide essential skills and knowledge, helping volunteers and committees maximise their impact and enhance their contributions to the community. 

Grant Writing

• Developing a project plan
• The budget
• Evaluations
• Acquittals
• SMART goals

Conflict of Interest

• Understanding conflict of interest
• Managing conflicts of interest
• Conflict of interest scenario - Committee contractor 
• Conflict of interest scenario - Local contractor

Financial Records and Reports

• Budgeting and using the budget effectively
• Financial record keeping
• Understanding GST
• Financial reporting

Running Successful Meetings

• Important information about your AGM
• Holding the AGM
• Meetings of the Committee
• Making decisions at meetings
• Positive Committee meetings

Contractor Management

• Before you select a contractor
• Selecting a contractor
• Contractor accountability

Managing Difficult Conversations

• Difficult conversations
• Why do difficult conversations arise
• Tips for dealing with difficult conversations
• Where to get support

Governance

• Recruiting committee members
• Committee legislative responsibilities
• Planning and implementing
• Governance and risk 
• Governance framework

Risk Management

• What is risk 
• Risk management process 
• Documenting risk
• Crisis management

For more information

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7.1.6 Community, Connection & Belonging

• Australian citizenship test resource booklet Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond is developed by Department of Home Affairs. Available for download, it has all the information you need to help you pass the test. Australian Citizenship: Our Common​​ Bond - Testable - English (14MB PDF)​​​
  
• Australian GLBTIQ Multicultural Council (AGMC) – Living and Loving in Diversity: An anthology of Australian multicultural queer adventures. Read More and buy
• Better Boards Australasia (BBA) – free online minute-taking course.
• The Boîte is a cornerstone of Victoria's multicultural music scene and champions diverse artists and musical experiences, enriching Australia's cultural landscape.
• Carer Gateway (CAGA) Real Carers, Real Stories - In Their Own Words digital photographic exhibition. 
• Carer Gateway (CAGA) is a national initiative program funded by the Australian Government – free and diverse range of short term services to help you manage your caring role and improve your wellbeing. There are more than 2.65 million unpaid carers in Australia, and 1 in 12 are under 25 years old. If you are an unpaid carer and wish to get access in your language you can call Uniting on 1800 422 737 or visit website to learn more.
• City of Port Phillip (CoPP) Neighbours and Seniors Register creates links between Port Phillip residents over 55, enabling getting to know each other and better supporting each other. Register by using the seniors registration form (PDF 78 KB)
• Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) – ‘Know the Funda-rentals’ campaign to help renters across the state understand their rights and access support.
• The Conversation (THCO) – continuing to grow, making an important contribution to public knowledge
• Cultural Infusion (CUIN)'s online Cultural Calendar is designed to assist schools with organising cultural incursions throughout the year.
• Embrace Access – Easy Read books
• Equality Project (EQPR) Better Together Training Academy – for LGBTIQ+ and Allies to hone advocacy, transform leadership Initiate, activate, lead to make a positive impact in your community.
• Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) Speak My Language podcasts feature people sharing stories and practical advice about living well with disability in a range of community languages.
• Ethnolink Language Services – Multi-lingual resource library with information available on coronavirus in 71 languages.
• Expression Australia – Keep up to date with regular Auslan videos on breaking news in Victoria, Australia and abroad.
• Faith Communities Council of Victoria (FCCV) have published their annual multifaith calendar outlining major holy days and festivals for Baha'i, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, Judaism and Sikhism. View 2024 Multifaith Calendar (pdf) and view 2025 Multifaith Calendar (pdf)  
• Faith and LGBTQA identity can coexist resources kit developed Victorian Equal Opportunity & Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC).
• Foundation House – The Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture for a world without torture and where communities respect, embrace and empower people from refugee backgrounds to thrive
• The Jeder Institute - Toolkits for creating positive change for individuals and communities, around the world, by bringing people together to realise their full potential, build on their existing networks and community strengths and to empower individual’s choice and control.
• Multicultural Framework Review (MFR), ‘Towards Fairness – a multicultural Australia for all’ – towards realising Australia's full potential as a nation made up of many cultures, faiths and lived experiences.
• Mungo Explorer – online learning platform by Cultural Infusion (CUIN). An inquiry based resource aligned with the Australian curriculum and covers Year 4 First Contact and Year 7 Ancient History. Allowing teachers to share Indigenous perspectives, historical and scientific thinking to teach students about the remarkable story of Mungo Man and Mungo Lady.
• National Anti-Scam Centre (NASC) is an activity of Australian Competition and Consumer Commission(ACCC) – Australia's national competition, consumer, fair trading and product safety regulator. Read more and hear or download The Little Book of Scams a useful resource available in 18 languages. Other translated resources include posters, audio recordings, and short videos.
• National Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters' Council (NEMBC) is the peak organisation representing ethnic community broadcasters across Australia. Listen to news
• Paramount Chief Kuol Adol Foundation (PCKAF) aiming to improve the livelihoods of South Sudanese communities through programs in both South Sudan and Melbourne.
• Port Phillip Men’s Shed provides a safe and caring mateship environment. Our members hail from all walks of life and from different age groups. Women are welcome to participate.
• Professional Migrant Women (PWM) – Undefeated is a collection of 118 stories from 90 migrant women, who against all odds, overcame the challenges and barriers of living in a foreign land, speaking a different language, and being singled out for the wrong reason. Find out more and buy
• Social Connection - Explore Practice Toolkits brimming with actionable strategies, tips, and guidelines to foster stronger community bonds.
• St Kilda Repair Cafe (SKRC) – free monthly repair cafe sessions at the Port Phillip EcoCentre on the second Sunday of each month from 2-5pm. Volunteers fix or mend, offer their time and skills to help make possible repairs free of charge to damaged items from home 
• SBS عربي News streams live at 8pm on weeknights and SBS 中文 News is live from 8.30 pm on weeknights and available to stream at any time on SBS On Demand.
• SBS Interactive 2021 Census Explorer
• SBS 2023 Multicultural Film Festival via SBS OnDemand! 
• Scanlon Foundation Research Institute's (SFRI) 2022 Mapping Social Cohesion
• Spiritual Health Association (SHA) in partnership with Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH)  has been running The Spirituality & Diversity Discussion Project since 2019. Read More 
• Transport Accident Commission (TAC) encourages our communities to drive responsibly. Speeding is the most prevalent risky behaviour on the roads and is a factor in approximately 30% of casualty crashes. Exceeding the speed limit by just 3 km/h is associated with a 25% increase in crash risk. At 5 km/h over the limit, crash risk increases by close to 50%. Learn more
• Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) is an interpreting service provided by the Department of Home Affairs for people who do not speak English and for agencies and businesses that need to communicate with their non-English speaking clients. Over 70 years' experience in language services and access to more than 2700 interpreters in more than 150 languages. The phone interpreting service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year for the cost of a local call for any person or organisation in Australia who needs an interpreter.
• Victorian Department of Families, Fairness and Housing has recently launched 37 profiles of cultural communities. The profiles are designed to be a snapshot of each community, showing their diverse and unique needs.
• Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC), free voter education sessions about elections can be delivered in some community languages and we can provide interpreters. Free online education sessions to your community or Learn to vote | Victorian Electoral Commission
• Volunteer West (VOWE) – culturally inclusive toolkit. 
• Victorian Multicultural Commission have published Victorian Multicultural Commission Impact Report. or Watch 40 years of the Victorian Multicultural Commission video (6 min)
• Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH)'s new podcast episode 'Diversity Of Communities: Who Is Left Behind?' Read More or Listen to podcast (38 mins)
• Voices of Australia - Scanlon Foundation Research Institute (SFRI) podcast exploring all things interesting in the world of social cohesion. Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also watch the recording on video, in addition to audio-only! Tune in every Thursday at 10am for a new episode!

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7.1.7 Difability & Disability

• 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!
• Aspergers Victoria (ASVI) – support groups and events for people who have Aspergers, autism, or other similar neurodiverse profiles.
• AUSLAN – Updates by Expression Australia - Regular Auslan only videos on updates of breaking news in Victoria, Australia and abroad.
• Australian Government Department of Social Services – Daily update on NDIS participants and workforce and easy English information on COVID-19. 
• Autism friendly workplaces – We all deserve a workplace that works and sometimes the smallest things can make the biggest difference. Find out how you can start to make your workplace more autism inclusive by learning more at amaze.com 
• Blind Citizens Australia – Information on coronavirus for people who are blind or vision impaired. 
• Disability, Engaging Australians with Ask Me First and How to – 16 mins episode of a discussion on support and advocacy for people with disability and inclusion from CALD communities.
• Disability Gateway Service – the Australian Government provides free information and services to help people living with disability, their families, friends and carers in key areas including finance, employment, health and equipment. Translated fact sheets and videos
• Down Syndrome Australia – Easy Read guide about using money on the internet.
• Extended Families (EXFA) – vibrant social events for children and young adults with a disability in Melbourne’s Southeastern suburbs.
• IncludeAbility: employment for people with disability –  an initiative of the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC), designed to support employers who want to create meaningful employment opportunities for people with disability, and people with disability seeking employment, developing a career or considering self-employment. Learn more
• LGBTIQ+ Health Australia – free training activities for LGBTIQ+ people with disability
• MiACCESS Multilingual Information Access to resources & information – A purpose-built website for CALD people with disability, carers and communities.
• Migrant Resource Centre North West Region (MRCNWR) – Diversity and Disability YouTube Channel 
• National Disability Gateway –  a one-stop shop from the Department of Social Services assisting all people with disability, their families and carers to locate and access services across Australia
• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) – Information about changes to how the NDIS work during the COVID -19 pandemic in 12 languages.
• National Ethnic Disability Alliance (NEDA)  – free training activities for LGBTIQ+ people with disability
• NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission – Information contains links to updates, training, alerts, and resources for NDIS participants and providers.
• Self Advocacy Resource Unit (SARU) supports Victorian self-advocacy groups run by and for people with intellectual disability, people with acquired brain injury and people with complex communication support needs. Watch 'Live Our Lives' (4 mins music video).
• Summer Foundation (SUFO)'s Reasonable & Necessary podcast series helps simplify the NDIS for participants, their families and anyone supporting NDIS participants.
• VALID – 16 Page plain language guide to NDIS Specialist Disability Accommodation
• Vietnamese resources supporting people with disability and their families, friends and carers – a suite of Vietnamese resources available in English and Vietnamese informing how to articulate rights and entitlements, negotiate service agreements and conditions with support providers.
• Women With Disabilities Australia (WWDA) – women and non-binary people with disability, sharing a diverse range of experiences

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7.1.8 Employment

• Bicultural workforce toolkit - The Victorian Government toolkit is an online resource that aims to educate public sector organisations so they can harness the value bicultural workers bring to the workforce.
• Equal pay matters – educational resources for organisations by Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC). For small-to-medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to understand and implement equal pay in their workplaces.
• Fair Work Ombudsman – language help
• Jobs that Matter campaign highlights a range of roles available across the community services sector in Victoria.
• Middle Years and Youth Services (MYYS) are now offering a platform for local businesses or organisations to advertise job opportunities that would suit young people. The jobs appear regularly on the Port Phillip Youth Instagram page.
• Migrant Workers Centre –  resources
• Modern slavery is when a person forces someone to work, marry or do other things through coercion (like manipulation, control or violence), threats or lies. What is modern slavery, Types of modern slavery, Warning signs, Modern slavery in Australia & Research and data
• Professional Migrant Women (PWM) – Undefeated is a collection of 118 stories from 90 migrant women, who against all odds, overcame the challenges and barriers of living in a foreign land, speaking a different language, and being singled out for the wrong reason. Find out more and buy
• Social Services Jobs Guarantee program - Victorian Diploma of Community Services graduates 1 September 2022–31 August 2024
• The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) – supporting employers in fostering safer, more inclusive environments with Guideline: LGBTIQA+ Inclusive Workplaces.
  
• The Victorian Sick Pay Guarantee provides 38 hours a year of sick and carer's pay at the national minimum wage ($21.38 per hour). Translations available in 19 different languages.
• Victorian Volunteering opportunities available.

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7.1.9 Family & Neighbourhood Violence

• Domestic and family violence and your visa Department of Home Affairs web page. Learn more
• Orange Door – for adults, children and young people experiencing family violence
• Our Watch (OURWATCH) – Australia’s leader in the primary prevention of violence against women. We work to embed gender equality and prevent violence where Australians live, learn, work and socialise. Download Change the story summary (698 kb); Download Change the story full suite of graphics (4 mb); Change the story: Three years on (2018) reflecting on the uptake and impact of Change the story since publication in 2015.
• Public Transport Victoria (PTV) – STOPIT aims to educate public transport users on what constitutes inappropriate behaviour while empowering vulnerable communities – including women, girls, LGBTIQA+, and multicultural passengers – as well as bystanders to report incidents to Victoria Police’s STOPIT service.
• Respect Victoria (REVI) – brings light to common types of non-physical violence that can be used in intimate relationships, how to spot the warning signs, and how to look out for yourself and your friends. 
• Safe and Equal (SAE)'s Are You Safe at Home? website features lots of helpful information around family violence and where to go for help. Learn about family violence. Watch a video in your language
• Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre – Victoria’s statewide first response service for women, young people and children experiencing family violence. Tel 1800 015 188 – family violence specialists available 24/7
• Safer and Stronger Communities Pilot, South East Community Links (SECL) – In-language videos for family violence prevention and multilingual resources for Dari, Hazaragi, Hindi, Punjabi and Tamil speaking community members. View on SECL website

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7.1.10 Health, Sickness & Wellbeing

• Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria (ARCVic) – a state-wide, specialist mental health organisation, providing support, recovery and educational services to people and families living with anxiety disorders.
• Australian Psychological Society Referral Service – Tel 1800 333 497
• Be You is the national mental health in education initiative delivered by Beyond Blue, in collaboration with Early Childhood Australia and headspace. Offering a range of online, evidence-based tools, resources and professional learning aimed at improving the skills and knowledge of educators to support mental health and wellbeing in children and young people.
• Beyond Blue –  translated information on managing your mental health during COVID-19 in 63 languages. 
• Cancer Council Victoria (CCV) – online resources in simple English to support linguistically diverse Victorians learn about bowel cancer screening. Watch video (10 mins). Download cancer information in Vietnamese and Modern Standard Arabic. Read Victorian Cancer Plan 2024-2028
• Dementia information for multicultural communities
• DirectLine alcohol and drug counselling - 1800 888 236 - confidential drug and alcohol counselling and referral
• Gambling Help Online (GHO). Free, confidential and available 24/7. Take a step forward
• GP Expert Advice Matters – a website for patients translated into Arabic, simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Hindi and Vietnamese, and has practical information on how to access a local GP, telehealth and interpreter services
• Headway – a small business package of free wellbeing services and resources for all Victorian sole traders and small business owners, their employees and advisers.
• Health Translations – Australian health and wellbeing information - free online library multilingual translations including Auslan and Easy English.
• Eating for your health – at every stage of life. Our bodies need different kinds of food as we grow older – and understanding these changes can help us stay healthy for longer.
• Hepatitis B and the importance of testing and management to reduce liver cancer risk. Protect against liver cancer by raising awareness message by Cancer Council Victoria (CCV)
• Hepatitis B In-language videos – allowing people in CALD communities to access clear and simple information about liver health, available in Arabic, Burmese, Khmer, Mandarin Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese.
• Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA) is a free state-wide non legal advocacy service for people at risk of or subject to compulsory treatment in Victoria.
• Influenza vaccines are free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for: children aged 6 months to under 5 years; pregnant people at any stage of pregnancy; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; people 65 years or over; people who have certain medical conditions which increase their risk of serious illness. Translated resources are available in 15 languages. You can also get more information from your doctor or clinic.
• Lifeline – 13 11 14 – crisis support available 24/7 via phone, text or online chat
• LiverWELL advises liver cancer is now the fastest growing cause of cancer death in Victoria, with a 191% increase in deaths over the past four decades. Now is the time to act. Learn more, talk to your doctor about screening, and help spread awareness in your community. Read more information and find culturally appropriate support
• Mental Health & Wellbeing Hubs – 1300 375 330 – appointments for anyone feeling overwhelmed or in need of support with mental health.
• Mental Health Complaints Commission (MHCC) – Digital and print resources in 20 languages through community-approved translations that are culturally and linguistically appropriate for each community.
• Mental Health Foundation Australia (MHFA) – Small Business Engagement Program to benefit business owners, staff, and customers.
• Moving Pictures launched 12 new short films aimed at raising awareness about dementia, and the importance of early diagnosis to enable better treatment and quality of life. Watch the films
• mpox vaccine – protect yourself and your loved ones
• from this virus. Find out if you qualify for free vaccination and get vaccinated today.
• Multicultural Anxiety Support Group – an inclusive and confidential space for people of varying ethnic and cultural backgrounds who experience persistent anxiety: 
  Regular meetings seek to foster connection and confidence by providing participants with the opportunity to discuss challenges, self-help ideas, and coping strategies.
• Multicultural Health Connect (MHC) – hotline that can be used to find health services such as doctors, hospitals, and community health centres. The hotline is available 11.30am-8pm, 7 days a week - including public holidays. Call the hotline on 1800 186 815.
• MyMedicare is a new, voluntary and free way by Australian Government to register with your regular doctor or clinic. These are government-funded telehealth consultations with your regular doctor and it gives your doctor more resources to treat you
• NURSE-ON-CALL – 1300 60 60 24 – expert health information and advice
• Palliative Care Advice Service (PCAS) – supporting people diagnosed with life-limiting illnesses and those who support them.
• Quit Victoria – Tired of letting cravings control you? Beat the cravings, one at a time.
• R U OK? is a national suicide prevention charity that encourages people to stay connected and have conversations that can help others through difficult times. Key resources are also translated in six languages Arabic (العربية), Simplified Chinese (中文), Greek (Ελληνικά), Hindi (हिन्दी), Korean (한국어) and Vietnamese (tiếng Việt)
• Staying safe in the water – how to enjoy our state's waterways including beaches, rivers and lakes.
• Survive the heat campaign – raising awareness of the risks extreme heat poses to the health of all Victorians.
• Trans Justice Project (TJP) – building a movement standing up for justice, freedom, and equality for all trans and gender diverse people.
• Transport Accident Commission (TAC) - safest way to know for sure that you are under 0.05 Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) level is to completely separate drinking and driving. Sign up for the Spokes newsletter. Read more about Only Protected for a Moment campaign.
• Victorian Polio immunisation factsheets
• Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (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.
• Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) have created the 'Community Engagement with Purpose' resource.
• Water Well Project works with people with migrant, refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds to provide health education to improve health and wellbeing. Releasing a series of simple but informative videos on health and wellbeing topics including COVID-19 vaccination, mental health for kids, and preventative healthcare. Learn about The Water Well Project

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7.1.11 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
• Courage to Care Victoria (CTCV) has launched a set of six digital ‘How to be an Upstander’ lesson plans for years 9&10, complementing their existing face to face Upstander Programs. Find more here
• 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
• Middle Years and Youth Services (MYYS) are now offering a platform for local City of Port Phillip businesses or organisations to advertise job opportunities that would suit young people. The jobs appear regularly on the Port Phillip Youth Instagram page.
• 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.
• Raising Children Network – Translated parenting resources
• 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
• Smile Squad – school dental program is helping thousands of families save up to $400 per child per year by providing free, high-quality dental care at government schools across Victoria.
• Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) online community VMConnect is home to a dedicated Group for multicultural young people living in Victoria
• 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)
• YouthNav - helping young Victorians understand, plan for and succeed in skills like getting a job, moving out of home, getting around, having their say and managing money.

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7.1.12 LGBTIQA+

• Australian GLBTIQ Multicultural Council (AGMC) – Living and Loving in Diversity: An anthology of Australian multicultural queer adventures. Read More and buy
• BlaQ Aboriginal Corporation (BLAQ) – National service provider and NSW State Peak Organisation supporting and representing community living with the intersection of a Cultural life and LGBTQ+SB identity.
• The Equality Project – training and conferences
• Faith and LGBTQA identity can coexist resources kit developed Victorian Equal Opportunity & Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC).
• Gay Asian Proud (GAP) – a social group for same sex-attracted Asian men based in Melbourne and wider Victoria. Find out more
• GiveOUT – growing the pot of gold under the rainbow by supporting LGBTQIA+ organisations to access and use resources for the better. 
• I'm From Driftwood – LGBTQIA+ first-person stories
• LGBTIQ+ Health Australia – free training activities for LGBTIQ+ people with disability
• Our Point 3 (OP3) – not-for-profit organisation, led by and for LGBTQIA+/queer international students, alumni, and allies.
• Trans Justice Project – Impact Report 2023
• Unsaid Says A Lot is an Australian-first campaign by Victoria's Department of Families, Fairness and Housing(DFFH) in support of trans and gender diverse communities. A nation leading campaign. It was co-designed, produced and created by TGD communities. Watch Video (2 mins) and stay connected via Socials Facebook | Instagram | Linked In | Youtube

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7.1.13 Men

• The following crisis and counselling services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week:1800RESPECT – Call 1800 737 732 or visit website
• Lifeline: 13 11 14 or visit website - Counselling, information and referrals for personal crisis
• Mensline: 1300 789 978  or visit website - 24/7 Support for men
• Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 or visit website - Advice and support for depression and anxiety.
• Headspace: 1800 650 890 or visit website - National youth mental health foundation, chat, email or speak with a qualified professional.
• Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 - Counselling for anyone suicidal or affected by suicide
• Tomorrow Man visit website - Australian social enterprise committed to redefining masculinity and improving men’s mental health.
• When No One’s Watching (WNOW) – not-for-profit organisation working to improve men’s health through connection, mateship and community. Learn More in City of Port Phillip

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7.1.14 Migrant

• Australian citizenship test resource booklet Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond is developed by Department of Home Affairs. Available for download, it has all the information you need to help you pass the test. Australian Citizenship: Our Common​​ Bond - Testable - English (14MB PDF)​​​
• The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) is an interpreting service provided by the Department of Home Affairs for people who do not speak English and for agencies and businesses that need to communicate with their non-English speaking clients. Eligibility Requirements and Free Translating Service or by calling 1300 847 387
• Migrant Workers Centre –  resources
• Modern slavery is when a person forces someone to work, marry or do other things through coercion (like manipulation, control or violence), threats or lies. What is modern slavery, Types of modern slavery, Warning signs, Modern slavery in Australia & Research and data   
• Professional Migrant Women (PWM) – Undefeated is a collection of 118 stories from 90 migrant women, who against all odds, overcame the challenges and barriers of living in a foreign land, speaking a different language, and being singled out for the wrong reason. Find out more and buy

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7.1.15 Racism

• Australian Government – Addressing Hate in Our Communities. Everyone deserves to live free from hate and discrimination. Learn more and access reporting links
• Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) have continued their national campaign: Racism. It Stops With Me. Learn more
• Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) – releasing National Anti-Racism Framework, a comprehensive plan featuring 63 recommendations aimed at addressing racism across critical sectors including justice, health, education, media, and workplaces. Read full report
• Call It Out: A First Nations Racism Register App – University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research, in partnership with the National Justice Project, are proud to announce the launch of the Call It Out App, a ground-breaking platform aimed at documenting and addressing racism against First Nations Peoples in communities across Australia. Download on Apple and Android now to report racism anytime, anywhere. 
• Courage to Care Victoria (CTCV) has launched a set of six digital ‘How to be an Upstander’ lesson plans for years 9&10, complementing their existing face to face Upstander Programs. Find more here
• Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC) is supporting culturally and linguistically diverse community leaders to become Anti-racism Ambassadors in partnership with IndianCare, the Centre for Holistic Health and the Communities’ Council on Ethnic Issues. Learn more
• Independent Broad-Based Anti-Corruption Commission (IBBACC) is Victoria's independent body responsible for preventing and exposing police misconduct. You can report anything police do to deny your rights to IBAC.
• Prejudice Motivated Crime in Victoria and Reporting –  Victoria Police website, an animated video (2 min) and poster. Resources are available in English, Arabic, Chinese (Traditional and Simplified), Hindi, Korean, Persian, Punjabi, Somali, Urdu and Vietnamese. Explore the resources
• Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) partnering with Cinespace developed a fictional short film that tests contestants on their knowledge of racism. Watch the video (6 mins) and how to report racism in Victoria through VEOHRC. Visit Reducing Racism information hub to understand your rights, know the options available to report your experiences, and obtain help.

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7.1.16 Women

• Fitted for Work (FfW) – job-readiness services provider for Women and Gender-Diverse Jobseekers with practical skills, knowledge, and connection, so that they can move forward with confidence in their careers.
• Free Pads & Tampons in Public Places Victorian Government program. 
• Koorie Women Mean Business
• National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) - envisioning Zero Deaths from breast cancer
• Made by Many Minds is a one-stop digital platform that provides migrant women in business with a range of services including legal, finance, marketing and merchandising.
• My Body. My Health – a five-part series of educational presentations to help organisations deliver health information to women from migrant and refugee backgrounds.
• Professional Migrant Women (PWM) – Undefeated is a collection of 118 stories from 90 migrant women, who against all odds, overcame the challenges and barriers of living in a foreign land, speaking a different language, and being singled out for the wrong reason.
• Respect Victoria
• Rural Health Connect (RHC) – telehealth psychology sessions to women and families who have experienced stillbirth or miscarriage. Sessions are bulk-billed or available at low cost, depending on a person’s situation. Find out more 
• Safe and Equal 
• SisterWorks is a not-for-profit social enterprise, empowering migrant and refugee women by connecting them with entrepreneurship and employment opportunities. Empowerment Hubs are workplaces and training centres providing opportunities for women to share their experiences with other women and develop pathways to education, employment, entrepreneurship and leadership.
• Victorian Women’s Trust
• Women Leading Locally is delivered by the Institute of Community Directors Australia in partnership with Women for Election.
• Women’s Information and Referral Exchange (WIRE) – Free support, referral and information for all Victorian women, nonbinary and gender-diverse people.
• Women With Disabilities Australia (WWDA) – women and non-binary people with disability, sharing a diverse range of experiences

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

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

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

Australian Government in late 2023 held 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.

• Read the referendum question and constitutional amendment.
• Multilingual poster

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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.

• Pledge your support
• Volunteer
• Stay up to date
• Stay informed 

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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:

• Three social media tiles in 45+ languages that are shareable and easy to disseminate.
• Factsheets in 45+ languages letting communities know about the Referendum 
• 30-second in-language videos – with subtitles and voiceovers.

• For more information

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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?
• How do we get a First Nations Voice to Parliament?
• What work has been done so far?
• What will be added to the Constitution?
• Guiding principles of the Voice
• Do Australians want change?
• Common myths and misbeliefs
• Multilingual information
• See learning resources and information

 

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. 

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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.

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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.

• Register to share with us which legs you'll be joining.
• Subscribe to get special offers, free giveaways, and once-in-a-lifetime deals.
• Make a donation. Financial support will help to make this journey a reality.

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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.

• Testimonials
• Supporting Writers
• Read more

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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: 

• Going public with your support of YES to a Voice 
• If you’re an LGBTIQA+ community organisation, adding your organisation’s name to Equality Australia’s statement
• Take action via yes23.com.au 

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

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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 Voice alliance 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.

• Read full article

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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.

• Watch video (3 mins)
• Visit website
• Stay in the Loop
• Become a Conversation Host. Bring others with you.

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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.

• Read More

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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."

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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."

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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."

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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: 

• Yoorrook Justice Commission 
• TREATY FOR VICTORIA | First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria

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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.

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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.

• Watch video (4 mins)
• Make a donation

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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.

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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.

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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

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 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):

• Protect yourself and others from COVID-19 | Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) translated information | Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care

 

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 find out if your local council is participating, check the collection sites in your neighbourhood at coronavirus.vic.gov.au/get-a-covid-19-test
• For simple tips on staying ahead of COVID-19 and staying well this summer, visit: coronavirus.vic.gov.au/health-advice
• Coronavirus in-language information

To learn in other ways about Victoria's responses:

• Call the Victorian Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398. International, interstate and mobile callers can phone (+613) 9096 9000.
• Department of Health's website in English or Other Languages
• What to do if you are a close contact
• Financial support for coronavirus (COVID-19)
• Isolation and quarantine – extra help and support
• Mental health resources 
• Mental health support services
• Information for people with disability - coronavirus (COVID-19) 
• Emergency relief packages 
• COVID business information 
• COVIDSafe religion and ceremony guidance
• Safe accommodation and support for family violence is available. Call Safe Steps on 1800 015 188 or email safesteps@safesteps.org.au for help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• People with a high risk of getting very sick with COVID-19 can get medicine to help them stay well. There are medicines to reduce your chances of getting COVID-19 and treat COVID-19 symptoms if you get infected. Only people most likely to need hospital care can get COVID-19 medicines. This includes people who are aged 70 and over; are aged 50 and over with certain health conditions (or 30 if they're Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander); or have a weakened immune system, disability or are born with heart disease. Learn more

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 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

• Australian Government Department of Health – Translated resources into 60 different languages, informing communities about COVID-19 vaccines and availability across Australia.
• Access Easy English – Over 70 resources developed on coronavirus.
• Amaze – step-by-step social scripts outlining the COVID-19 vaccine process to help people with autism.
• Better Health – COVID-19 and flu vaccinations health information available in more than fifteen languages. Learn more
• Centre for Culture, Ethnicity & Health (CEH) has translated Long COVID fact sheet into nine in-language written resources and five in-language audio recordings. The Long COVID project focuses on priority CALD communities particularly impacted by COVID-19 in 2020. Read the factsheet 
• Council for Intellectual Disability (CID) – Easy English information for people with intellectual disability and videos about COVID-19.
• DHHS – Victorian Government Department of Health and Human Services advice and information on coronavirus available in 56 languages
• Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) – Multicultural COVID-19 Outreach Program
• Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) – COVID-19 video series Protecting Our Communities
• MyAus Covid-19 app – Multilingual resource application produced by Migration Council Australia (MCA) for Australia's culturally and linguistically diverse communities about COVID - 19, it's impact and available support.
• National Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters' Council (NEMBC) – translated audio explainers of COVID-19 and flu vaccinations on SoundCloud. Translated audio available includes Arabic, Cantonese, Dari, Dinka, Hindi, Mandarinand Vietnamese. Listen today
• NWMPHN Maintaining good mental health through the pandemic through in-language videos. Help spread the message of looking after our mental health in Hindi, Cantonese, Mandarin, Dinka and Vietnamese.
• Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) – promoting The Older Persons COVID-19 Support Line (OPCSL) within ethno-specific communities.
• SBS – news and information about coronavirus (COVID - 19) available in 63 languages.
• Scope - Key word sign video, posters and easy english resources on communicating COVID-19.
• StarHealth fact sheets on COVID-19 are now available – using only valid information sources for its fact sheets, distilling the key points from only trusted sources. 
• Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) surveyed 1500 Victorians and targeted follow up interviews were used to create the commission’s new research pandemic snapshots – Supporting workers with disability and Juggling parenting, caring and work. Explore the research snapshots, FaceBook

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 8. ACKNOWLEDGING 

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 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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