NAVIGATION

NAVIGATION

AUST | TBF | RAISING | Awareness, Funds and Support for Eating Disorders and Body Image Issues

[Edited extract from public address]

Over 1.1 million Australians are living with an eating disorder. Less than a third of those receive treatment or support.

We believe everyone’s experience of an eating disorder or body image issue is unique and access to effective services is essential.

The Butterfly Foundation (TBF) represents all people affected by eating disorders – a person with an eating disorder, their family and their friends. As a leading national voice in supporting their needs, Butterfly highlights the realities of seeking treatment for recovery, and advocates for improved services from both government and independent sources.

Butterfly operates a National Helpline, which is staffed by counsellors experienced in assisting with eating disorders.  It also provides a wide range of facilities for service providers and recovery groups.

Because Butterfly recognises that eating disorders often arise from poor body image, it delivers a range of Positive Body Image workshops to schools and workplaces through its education program.   It has a strong media presence to raise awareness of Butterfly’s perspective in community debates about body image and eating disorders.

MORE:

The Butterfly Foundation (TBF)

Butterfly acknowledges the traditional owners and custodians of the land on which we work as the first people of this country. We commit to embracing diversity and eliminating discrimination in health care. We welcome all help-seekers and strive to create a safe place for all people, irrespective of their size, shape, age, abilities, gender, sexuality, cultural background, language, economic status, profession or location.

MELB | MQFF | SCREENING | Melbourne Queer Film Festival | Tuesday 14-Sunday 24 November 2024 | all tickets on sale now

[Edited extract from public address]

The annual Melbourne Queer Film Festival program is officially LIVE! 

Melbourne Queer Film Festival has been doing movies differently for over 30 years. 

The largest queer film festival in the Southern Hemisphere, MQFF challenges and entertains by delivering a curated festival of queer film content every year in November.

MORE:
Melbourne Queer Film Festival (MQFF)


Melbourne Queer Film Festival acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands upon which we live, work and learn, and pays respect to Elders past and present. We acknowledge the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ spirit, imagination and rich history of storytelling that is an inspiration to all Australians.

AUST | VTMH | WEBINAR | The Cultural Engagement Program | Wednesday 20 November 2024 | 3-4pm AEST

[Edited extract from public address]

The Cultural Engagement Program: A journey into supporting children, young people and families from multicultural and multifaith backgrounds through culturally responsive practice. 

Join speakers Meena Nathan, Ikran Aden and Lena Ford (Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH)) in this seminar on The Cultural Engagement Program (CEP). A state-wide service that works with children, young people and families from multi-cultural and multi-faith backgrounds who are in contact with Victoria’s Child Protection program.  

The CEP was established in 2018 to support child protection working with culturally diverse communities including refugees, migrants and asylum seekers from new and emerging communities. The CEP has evolved into a successful program providing an information and advice service for DFFH programs as well as direct support to children, young people and families who are involved with child protection. 

The program is about to embark on the Multicultural and Multifaith Children in Residential Care Project, which aims to ensure that children and young people in out-of-home care are connected to their culture, language and faith and, where possible, returned to the care of their kinship 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

MORE:

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

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

CoPP | SKEM | SUPPORTING | Fundraising for Community Groups, Schools, and Clubs

[Edited extract from public address]

Calling all local clubs, community groups and schools to utilise free space at the St Kilda Esplanade Market.

Join the St Kilda Esplanade Market. In its idyllic beachside location, the St Kilda Esplanade Market is an icon of St Kilda and Melbourne. A world-renowned art and craft makers’ haven, the market has been the destination of choice for those seeking high-quality and authentic Australian products since 1970. Find a range of arts, crafts and other original creations to take home every Sunday from 10am.

Are you part of a City of Port Phillip (CoPP) Club, Community Group, or School?
Looking for a fun way to fundraise, perform, or showcase your talents?

Offering FREE SPACE for:
  • Sausage sizzles and fundraising stalls
  • Membership sign-ups and awareness booths
  • Local schools to exhibit student artwork or perform as choirs/theatre groups
Why Participate?
The market attracts visitors from all over, making it the perfect spot to fundraise, raise awareness, or showcase your creative work. Get exposure to a diverse, international crowd while connecting with the local community.

Interested?
Learn more at stkildaesplanademarket.com.au or contact the Market Manager at 03 9209 6777.

MORE:

St Kilda Esplanade Market (SKEM)

City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land. We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

CoPP | DMP | TRAINING | Community Project Activation Workshop | Wednesday 13 November 2024 | 5-7.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Whether you have a community project idea, in the middle of a project or have finished a project, join this interactive resourcing and support workshop to make your next project even better. 

Understand the ‘tears’ and ‘cheers’ of project work and how to make your project a success.

Topics explored:
  • Getting paid and volunteers
  • What to do when things go wrong
  • Share key learnings with your peers
  • Paperwork
  • Managing risk
  • Evaluation and growth
Get all your questions answered and tap into valuable resources in this shared learning experience to deliver on your project idea.

For those who want dive deeper and continue the conversation, an extra session is available on Wednesday 20 November 2024 | 5-7.30pm.

Delivered by Debby Maziarz Productions (DMP). Debby is a community development practitioner and facilitator who started her creative career in the circus. She founded the Westside Circus and then dived into her own arts leadership practice that maximises her skills and assets and delivers on her mission.
  • Where: St Kilda Library Community Room, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: essential, online via Trybooking: https://www.trybooking.com/CUYFC

MORE:

Debby Maziarz Productions (DMP)

AUST | EMAC | WORKSHOPPING | Easy Read Q & A | Friday 8 November 2024 | 10-10.45am

[Edited extract from public address]

A completely free, interactive, online event facilitated by experienced Easy Read trainer, writer and speech pathologist, Ruby Yee.

Please share with your networks far and wide. We all have a responsibility to communicate in a way that is accessible for the 44% of Australians experiencing low literacy.

1 in 7 Australians will have a communication disability at some stage in their life.

Disability can impact many areas of communication:
  • vision and hearing
  • speaking and understanding 
  • attention and memory 
  • reading and writing
  • decision making
  • sensory processing 
  • movement
We all benefit when communication is made easy for everyone.
  • Where: Online
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: Contact to register your place: info@embraceaccess.com.au

Places will be limited to ensure everyone can ask the questions they need!

Other free resources include:

MORE:

Embrace Access (EMAC)

We acknowledge Aboriginal people as the First Nations Peoples of Australia and pay our respects to Elders past, present and future. We are proudly LGBTIQA+ inclusive.

CoPP | SCOPE | WORKSHOPPING | An Introduction to Disability Awareness | Wednesday 6 November 2024 | 9.30am-12noon

[Edited extract from public address]

This 2.5 hour workshop is the foundation of a Scope training package. Perfect for all staff and volunteers in a community group to consider how their work practices are suitable, inclusive, welcoming, and accessible for people with disability. 

Learning outcomes:
  • Demonstrate knowledge of disability, including prevalence in Australia
  • Understand how the Social Model of Disability overcomes challenges and barriers to access and inclusion
  • Interact with people living with disability respectfully and with confidence
  • Understand and use inclusive language
  • Create a truly inclusive environment for all people.
Additional training module: Disability related legislation 
  • Understand individual and organisational obligations under current disability related legislation applicable to national and state jurisdictions
  • Explore planned and spontaneous reasonable adjustments Suitable for all staff.
Delivered by Scope 2 trainers living with disability.

Scope was founded 75 years ago by families who wanted quality services for their children and is now Australia’s largest Disability Service Provider.

Scope’s awareness sessions build individual and organisational capacity for more inclusive, aware and accessible communities. Their training workshops are delivered by trainers with lived experience.
  • Where: St Kilda Training Room, St Kilda Town Hall, Carlisle Street, St Kilda
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: essential, online via Trybooking

MORE:

Scope Australia (SCOPE)
Address: Level 2, 109 Burwood Road, Hawthorn Victoria 3122, Australia
Tel: 1300 472 673

Scope acknowledges and pays respect to the many First Nations and Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where we live, work and provide our services. We recognise and celebrate their spiritual and ongoing connection to culture and Country. We pay our respects to all Elders past and present. Scope welcomes diversity and celebrates all people.

VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Spirituality & Diversity Discussion: Spiritual care values and recovery - are we talking about the same thing? | Tuesday 19 November 2024 | 10.30am-12noon

[Edited extract from public address]

While person-centred care models include these domains, workers often feel ill-equipped to support people in these aspects of their lives. 

This 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.

Eligibility criteria
Sessions in this series are for practitioners working in publicly funded mental health programs across Victoria. This includes staff based in clinical mental health services, community-managed services, as well as people working within mental health programs in community health and human social services. Unfortunately, these discussions are not open to students on clinical placement.
  • Where: Online via Zoom - details to be sent to registrants in advance
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: essential as spaces are limited. To secure a place, please register early online via VTMH

MORE:

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

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

CoPP | S2b | CALLING | Artists for A4 Affordable Art Show 2024 | submissions close Wednesday 20 November 2024

[Edited extract from public address]

The affordable art show is back bigger, better but smaller!

Emerging and established artists are invited to register for the St Kilda A4 Affordable Art Show. In its fourth year, the Affordable Art Show has matured and in 2024 we are requesting that all artworks be A4 (210x297mm). This allows more space and more artists!

This special exhibition celebrates the power of creativity and expression of joy in the lead-up to the Christmas and New Year celebrations and is open to all creatives. We are looking forward to seeing a wide array of artistic styles and mediums:
  • Art, photography, giclee prints and sculpture are welcome
  • All artworks must be A4 or maximum 210mm x 297mm
  • Exhibition will run from Tuesday 3 December 2024–Saturday 1 February 2025
  • Artworks will be judged by three prominent artists who will consider the basic fundamentals and principles of the art, including shape and form, colour, perspective and composition
  • Two prizes – Open and Youth (18 Years and below)
  • Two artworks per artist maximum
  • Grand Opening | Friday 6 December 2024 | 5-9pm coinciding with a Meet the Maker shopping night with music and delicious food
Thanks to Community Bank Windsor, sponsor of the Affordable Art Show
  • Where: Space2b Social Design, 144 Chapel Street, St Kilda VIC 3182
  • Cost: $30 Registration Fee Per Artwork (Discount $15 Fee for CALD Artists)
  • Bookings: More information or to submit via S2b
Together we make a difference


MORE:
Space2b Social Design (S2b)
Address: 144 Chapel Street, St Kilda, Melbourne Vic 3182
Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube

Space2b acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land and the diverse nature of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Australia. We pay respect to the Elders, past, present and future, and celebrate their stories, culture and traditions.

MELB | ASRC | CATERING | From The Kitchen | October 2024-January 2025

[Edited extract from public address]

We’re excited to share this ASRC Catering Update as we enter our busiest time of the year. So far, our social enterprise has been busy and fruitful, continuing to grow with a focus on delivering delicious food while driving positive social impact.

The team is ready and focused for a busy end of the year, helping to bring your end-of-year functions to life. We look forward to welcoming your orders throughout the holiday season as we finish the year off strongly.

GIFTING | For That Time of the Year Again

With the festive season almost upon us, it’s time to start thinking about what to get the office,workplace team or loyal clients to your business. 

ASRC Catering is offering 3 thoughtful gift boxes this year, perfect to treat staff or colleagues with. Each box contains exclusive ASRC Catering products so that you can bring a taste of global flavour into the kitchen.

With 100% of proceeds going directly to support and empower refugees and people seeking asylum, it really is a gift that does good.
  • Pre-order your Corporate Gift Box today. Email us at catering@asrc.org.au or call us (03) 9939 6320
  • View gift boxes

SPOTLIGHTING | The Humans Behind Your Favourite Food

An important goal for the year has been to champion the stories of our amazing staff with lived experience, highlighting their cultural connections to food, and celebrating their achievements. 

We continue to witness our people shine both in and out of the kitchen, challenging themselves and taking on new responsibilities

CAMPAIGNING | On the Move with Kinetic

Thanks to the ASRC’s corporate partnership with Kinetic, ASRC Catering has recently embarked on an exciting new bus and billboard advertising campaign. Thanks to the bright and warm smiles of Sam and Manel, we’ll be shining a light on our social enterprises with digital billboards around Richmond, Fitzroy and Moonee Ponds.

The ASRC is enjoying its second year of partnership with Kinetic, which allows us to utilise digital and print advertising through JC Decaux, giving us visibility all across Melbourne.

Having access to such prominent advertising helps ASRC Catering continue to build its brand awareness, reach new customers and tell the important stories of our staff with lived experience.

Keep your eyes peeled for our ASRC Catering cooks, Sam and Manel around Melbourne - we’d love to see or hear about any bus or billboard sightings.

SITTING | with Kon over a coffee at Journey’s Café

Want to learn more about Journeys Café? Join Kon Karapanagiotidis, CEO and Founder of the ASRC, and Flor Sedighi, Head of Refugee Businesses, as they sit down and chat about the importance of our partnership with the University of Melbourne, the power of social enterprises and the delicious food offerings available at Journeys Café.

About ASRC

The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) is an independent not for profit whose programs support and empower 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.

ADVISING | Holiday Trading

A reminder that ASRC Catering and Journeys Café will be closed over the holiday period.
  • Our Fitzroy kitchen will close its doors on Friday 20 December 2024 and reopen on Wednesday 8 January 2025.
  • You may still place Online Orders for Catering during these closure dates
  • Journeys Café Parkville’s last day of trade will be Thursday 28 November 2024, reopening Monday 3 March 2025.
  • Journeys Café Southbank will trade until Thursday 19 December 2024 and be back to serve customers on Monday 13 January 2025.
Until then, bon appétit!

Kind regards,
ASRC Catering Team

MORE:

ASRC Catering
The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC)
Address: 214–218 Nicholson Street, Footscray VIC 3011
Tel:  +61 3 9939 6320

The ASRC acknowledges that we meet and work on the land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation, and pays respects to their elders; past, present and emerging.

CoPP | S2b | ADVISING | What's On | October-November 2024

[Edited extract from public address]

KICKING | Back with a Cup of Joe

There is almost a day to celebrate everything in 2024 so why not Melbourne's favourite brew?

International Coffee Day is a global celebration of coffee's journey from the farm to your local shop - an opportunity to honour the women and men who grow and harvest the coffee we love.

What happens on International Coffee Day? It's simple really, enjoy a cup of coffee (or two). Whats new? But it is also a perfect day to bring awareness to fair trade coffee. 

Space2b supports new migrants and refugees and we are proud to support Genet, who has started a small business offering freshly roasted organic Ethiopian Arabica beans and ground coffee which supports small family growers in Ethiopia. Genet's Kaffa Goat organic coffee is available from Space2b from $19.95. Happy International Coffee Day!

ENGAGING | Preschool Storytime

Space2b in partnership with City of Port Phillip are hosting an enriching and fun-filled story-time that celebrates diversity and fosters a love for reading and learning in:
Hindi   |   Arabic   |   Mandarin |   Amharic

Suitable for children ages 0-5 years.
Arabic Preschool Storytime | Wednesday 23 October 2024 | 11am-12pm
Join us for an enriching and fun-filled storytime that celebrates diversity and fosters a love for reading and learning in Arabic.
  • Suitable for children ages 0-5 years.
  • Where: Emerald Hill Library
  • Cost: Free
 
Hindi Preschool Storytime | Monday 28 October 2024 11am-12pm
Join us for an enriching and fun-filled storytime that celebrates diversity and fosters a love for reading and learning in Hindi.
  • Suitable for children ages 0-5 years.
  • Where: St Kilda Library
  • Cost: Free

Mandarin Preschool Storytime | Tuesday 5 November 2024 | 11am-12pm
Join us for an enriching and fun-filled storytime that celebrates diversity and fosters a love for reading and learning in Mandarin.
  • Suitable for children ages 0-5 years.
  • Where: Port Melbourne Library
  • Cost: Free

Amharic Preschool Storytime | Wednesday 6 November 2024 | 11am-12pm
Join us for an enriching and fun-filled storytime that celebrates diversity and fosters a love for reading and learning in Amharic.
  • Suitable for children ages 0-5 years.
  • Where: Emerald Hill Library
  • Cost: Free

EXHIBITING | Layers of Happiness | An Exhibition Sabrina Goria | Tuesday 1 October-Saturday 2 November 2024

Layers of Happiness is a reflection of Sabrina Goria’s journey – a fusion of colours, textures, and emotions that tell the story of her transformation. Her work is an exploration of freedom, joy, and discovery, with each layer revealing a new dimension of her artistic vision. 

Having returned to Melbourne with a renewed sense of purpose, Sabrina is excited to share her evolving journey through art, continuing to explore the depths of her creativity and invite viewers into her vibrant world.

 Upcoming Workshops 

Diwali Flower Garland Workshop | Saturday 26 October 2024 | 10.30am-12.30pm

Join us in celebrating and learning about Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights. This colourful and nature inspired workshop will teach your how to make fresh flower garlands, a cultural practice that has been passed down for centuries, with Sujata, originally from Mumbai, India. **FREE homemade spiced chai included
  • Where: Space2b Social Design - 144 Chapel Street, St Kilda VIC 3182
  • Cost: $75
  • Bookings: online via ClassBento

The Art of Perfumery Workshop | Saturday 9 November 2024 | 11am-1pm

Join this workshop with Adla from The Perfume Workshop to learn about the art of perfumery by discovering your own scent and blending your perfume. As a special Space2b discount, participants will recieve a FREE body oil and personalised bottle of pure perfume to take home.
  • Where: Space2b Social Design - 144 Chapel Street, St Kilda VIC 3182
  • Cost: $150
  • Bookings: online via ClassBento

Opening  Hours

Space2B Shop
Tues - Fri 10am-5pm
Sat 10am-2pm
 
Flavours of Syria Cafe
Thursday-Friday 10am-2pm

Together we make a difference


MORE:
Space2b Social Design (S2b)
Address: 144 Chapel Street, St Kilda, Melbourne Vic 3182
Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube

Space2b acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land and the diverse nature of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Australia. We pay respect to the Elders, past, present and future, and celebrate their stories, culture and traditions.

VIC | VMC | UPDATING | Community, News and Information | Wednesday 16 October 2024

[Edited extract from public address]

I hope this message finds you well. As we prepare for upcoming cultural celebrations, I want to reflect on the significance of religious and cultural events we have recently observed, including the Jewish community’s High Holidays, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and the Mawlid al-Nabi, as well as the upcoming Diwali festival which is a five-day celebration, celebrated across many South Asian communities. 

These occasions are integral to Victoria’s cultural calendar, fostering community togetherness and contributing to our state’s economic prosperity. They remind us of the strength we draw from celebrating our rich and diverse traditions.

At the Victorian Multicultural Commission, we have been working with Deakin University and community partners on research which looks at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of public funding allocation for service providers who service diverse communities including migrant and refugee communities. It will be launched in late November. Stay tuned!

I’d also like to recognise the vital role of multicultural and ethnic media in our community, particularly in providing much needed information on programs, services and providing opportunities for civic engagement in a range of issues affecting our way of life, legislations and policy directions. Just as importantly, multicultural and ethnic media plays a role in keeping us informed and in that process reducing misinformation and disinformation. The VMC has been collaborating with the Melbourne Press Club (MPC) and Independent Multicultural Media Inc. (IMMA) to strengthen this sector and in keeping communities informed and have the knowledge to participate and engage fully and meaningfully. On this, don’t forget to have your say about the age limit on social media by completing the survey.

Lastly, as we approach local government elections, I want to acknowledge the diversity of the candidates who are taking an active part in the democratic process of our state and nation. I am pleased to see that many of the candidates have been leading and supporting diverse communities for many years, who bring their lived experience and professional expertise to the local government settings. And I am pleased to say that I have the opportunity to work with many of them in this role as Chairperson of the VMC on various projects and initiatives at different times. The dedication of these individuals is commendable, and I wish all candidates the very best in the upcoming elections.

Thank you for your continued support as we work together to build a stronger, more inclusive Victoria.
Viv Nguyen, Chairperson
 

 News and Events 

VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural media grants | applications open until 8 November 2024

The Victorian Government is supporting multicultural media organisations to continue their critical role reflecting the diverse voices, stories and experiences of Victorian communities and providing access to essential information.

Grants of up to $25,000 will be available through the 2024-25 Multicultural Media Grants program to support multicultural media organisations across the state. 

The grants will help multicultural media organisations with the cost of production and publication, equipment upgrades, and training and development for volunteers and staff.  
 

VIC | GOV | CALLING | Members for Ministerial youth advisory group

Expressions of interest are now open to young people aged 15 to 25 years with experience living away from their families in the Victorian care system, including foster, kinship, permanent, and residential care to give advice on:
  • Different experiences young people can have living in child protection and care.
  • What works well and how to improve child protection and care services for young people in Victoria.
The Ministerial Youth Advisory Group (MYAG) will meet with the Hon. Lizzie Blandthorn, the Minister for Children, 4 times per year.
 

VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say: age limits on social media | submissions close 5pm Friday 1 November 2024

The Victorian Government wants parents, teachers and young people to share their experiences with social media through an online survey before Friday 1 November.

You can have a say on national laws that will be developed to help protect the mental health and social development of young Australians and reduce the risk of online harm. Victorians can provide feedback individually, or as a group by hosting a self-guided discussion using the online guide on the Engage Victoria platform.

The consultation will consider the positive and negative impacts of social media on young people’s lives and ensure the voices of Victorians are represented in the reforms. The findings will also be used to develop a new resource for schools to keep young people safe online – Safe Socials

AUST | SFRI | LAUNCHING | 2024 Scanlon mapping social cohesion report | Tuesday 19 November 2024 | 8.30am-12noon

Join the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute (SFRI) for the launch of the 2024 Mapping Social Cohesion Report, which provides a comprehensive study of attitudes towards life in Australia.

Now in its seventeenth year, this annual report offers crucial insights into how Australians view and experience social cohesion, focusing on key issues including national identity, immigration, financial satisfaction, and trust in government.

The event will feature a detailed presentation of the report’s key findings by report author Dr. James O'Donnell (Australian National University), followed by a Q&A session facilitated by Anthea Hancocks, CEO of the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute.

After morning tea, a collaborative workshop introduced by Emeritus Professor Andrew Markus AO (Monash University) will provide attendees with the opportunity to explore the challenges and opportunities facing Australia in a rapidly changing social and economic landscape.

For further inquiries, please contact Celia Tran at info@scanloninstitute.org.au

CANTERBURY | SGG | GRANTING | Strathcona Girls Grammar scholarship | applications close Monday 11 November 2024

Strathcona Girls Grammar (SGG), 34 Scott St, Canterbury VIC 3126, is offering a full scholarship to a student in Year 7, 8, 9, or 10 commencing in 2025.
This scholarship aims to extend a Strathcona education to a girl from a limited financial background or challenging circumstances, reflecting the school’s legacy of inclusion, generosity, and empowerment.

For more information, contact the Registrar, Julie Drew, at Admissions@strathcona.vic.au.
 

MELB | VMC | RAISING | Funds, Awareness and Support for Project Us x VMC food drive | 13-14 December 2024 | 8am-5pm

The Project Us Foundation, in partnership with the VMC, is organising a food drive on 18 October and 13-14 December 2024 to provide fresh and nutritious food to those in need. This effort aims to alleviate hunger, enhance community well-being, and demonstrate how we can come together to support one another. 

Project Us Foundation is an Australian charity dedicated to providing fresh, culturally appropriate food to low-income and vulnerable communities.

Beyond food relief, the foundation focuses on empowering individuals through skill-building and community engagement, fostering long-term impact.
  • For more information and to participate please email engagement@vmc.vic.gov.au

VIC | VMC | ADVISING | Cyber security awareness month

October is Cyber Security Awareness Month, and the VMC is encouraging everyone to review their passwords.

Make your passwords long and unique. Longer is stronger.

Try making ‘passphrases.’ A passphrase is a password made up of 4 or more random words. They’re tricky for cybercriminals to crack, but easy for you to remember.

Examples:
glowering-armour-permanently-jackets
umbrella-spherical-thunder-lightbulb
magazine-bottle-alligators-escalator

VIC | CRT | HEARING | Your say: residential parks in Victoria | submissions close Friday 8 November 2024.

The Commissioner for Residential Tenancies (CRT) invites submissions regarding the experiences of residential park residents in Victoria. This initiative aims to inform the Victorian Government about issues affecting residential tenants.

Feedback is sought from park residents, local government, park operators, and support organisations about current conditions and improvements in the residential parks sector.

This Call for Submissions is part of a project by the Consumer Policy Research Centre (CPRC), which includes information gathering from other jurisdictions and interviews with stakeholders.
  • Submit to: info@rentingcommissioner.vic.gov.au
    with subject: Residential Parks Project Submission
  • For more information, please contact the office on tel 1300 029 783 or visit website

VIC | PROV | GRANTING | Grants to celebrate Victorian history | applications close 11.59pm Monday 9 December 2024

The Victorian Government's Public Record Office Victoria (PROV) is supporting community groups to preserve Victoria’s rich history by showcasing historical records and collections.

Community groups such as historical societies, museums and schools are all encouraged to apply for grants to assist with funding for their historical projects, with up to $15,000 available per grant.

MORE:

Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)
Address: Level 1, 3 Treasury Place, Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: (03) 9651 5901

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

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.

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 LGTBIQA+ 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 LGTIBQA+ teach you about your family, community and the world?
  3. When is your gift of being LGTIBQA+ been used in personal, professional or public life?
  4. Who is your message of reconciliation to?
  5. Why should Australia take a place, position and play on a spherical global playing field?
As IFD's existing Australian content is 12 stories, all by cis-gender males, this project is preferencing Australian-residing LGBTQIA+ Women or Women-identifying, First Nations, People of Colour/Migrants.

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 email carey@caro.com.au

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:


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 in the space between.

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

MORE:

Global Engagement In Friendlier Neighbourhoods (GEIFN)
Join us with 'humanising the other' 
Carey Rohrlach (he/him), AUSSIEstory Team Member, Tel 0438 371 488

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.

AUST | GiveOUT | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for GiveOUT Day | Thursday 17 October 2024

[Edited extract from public address]

WELCOMING | GiveOUT Day on Thursday, 17 October 2024!

Here’s the deal: Most of the organisations participating are grassroots, run by passionate volunteers, and operating on shoestring budgets of less than $10,000 a year. These are the folks doing life-changing, life-affirming work for our rainbow communities, and they need your support now more than ever.

There are 110+ organisations that have asked for help.

Every donation, no matter the size, makes an impact. And your donation goes even further. You give $25, we make it $50! We’re doubling your power to make change!

Let’s make this day count and show up big for the LGBTQIA+ community. We’re all in this together! 

OFFERING | Heartfelt Thanks

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to: Thom (He/Him) - PrideAbility. AJ (They/Them) - Trans Pride. Australia. Maurice (He/Him) - Different Strokes Dragon Boat. Russ (He/Him) - ACON’s Love Project. Gian Carlo De Vera - (They/Them) - GiveOUT Day Ambassador. Jones Jones (They/Them) - Aurora Group Program Manager.

With immense gratitude to: Maggie Eudes (She/Her) @maggie_eudes (videographer) and Flick Smith (They/Them) @flickcine (animator)

CONTINUING | Standing with First Nations communities

This time last year, GiveOUT was proud to support a constitutionally enshrined First Nations Voice. We know that there is no substitute for the wisdom of lived experience when it comes to designing policies and programs.

We recognise the significant impact that the referendum process and result continues to have on First Nations communities.

Organisations at the intersection of First Nations and LGBTQIA+ communities are chronically underfunded. We must ensure these organisations have the resources they need to provide healing, support, and advocacy.

As we did in 2023, GiveOUT is offering First Nations-led participating organisations double the matched funding limit (i.e., up to $3,500 per organisation).

GiveOUT Day is proud to be supporting the below organisations working with Brotherboys, Sistergirls, and other LGBTQIA+ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

We commit to fighting and walking with First Nations communities towards reconciliation, self-determination, and justice.

Donate to these First Nations-led organisations

CELEBRATING | With us in-person on 17 October!

Take a short break from your work day and come show your support for rainbow communities! Registrations are a must, so don’t miss out! Join our special guests Louis Hanson, Aysha Buffet, Mon Schafter, Daddy Annie, Rachel Ball, Hank Paul, Jeremy Tang and Jain Moralee.

MEETING | Online your sector peers | Monday 14 October 2024 | 12-1pm

Calling all staff, volunteers and Board members from LGBTQIA+ organisations particpiating in GiveOUT Day!
Join this special virtual ‘Sector Meet and Greet’ using the interactive platform Remo and connect with peers working across the country. Plus hear from Jazz Money, GiveOUT Day Ambassador and queer Wiradjuri poet.

SPOTLIGHTING | Geographical Diversity

These jurisdictions often struggle to recieve the same access to funding and support compared to NSW and VIC, but have been leading the way when it comes to LGBTQIA+ rights!

Fun fact: These state and territories were the first jurisidction in Australia to do what???

TAS: First to introduce gender-optional birth certificate laws

ACT: First to legalise same-sex marriage!

SA: First to decriminalise homosexuality!

QLD: First to ban conversion therapy!

WA: First to grant full adoption rights to rainbow couples!

Unfortunately, Northern Territory organisations were unable to participate in GiveOUT Day this year due to capacity. You can donate directly via NTAHC and Top End Pride.

SUPPORTING | In Other Ways – activate your allyship as a fundraising champion!

We have just hit over 100 Fundraising Champions! These are epic individuals who help participating organisations DOUBLE their fundraising, by signing up for your very own Champion Fundraising profile. This means you receive a link to share with your networks, and raise funds for a cause close to your heart.

It takes only 5 minutes to LEVEL UP your allyship!
Huge thanks to our philanthropic partners, including the Sidney Myer Fund, Slingsby Foundation, Wyatt Trust, Fay Fuller Foundation, Reichstein Foundation, and Tripple, for making this possible.

MORE:

The GiveOUT Team (GiveOUT)

GiveOUT recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first inhabitants and traditional custodians of the lands on which we live and work. We pay our respects to all Elders past and present.

AUST | NBCF | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Power of Pink Giving Day | Thursday 17 October 2024 | From 9am

[Edited extract from public address]

Our Power of Pink Giving Day is happening!

For 24 hours ONLY, starting at 9am on Thursday 17 October 2024, your donations will be doubled by our wonderful matching partners.

This means your power to change the future of breast cancer diagnoses will be multiplied.

For one day only, a gift of $50 becomes $100...a gift of $75 becomes $150, and a gift of $500 becomes a phenomenal $1000.

What is Power of Pink Giving Day?

The Power of Pink Giving Day is a day when amazing people \come together to empower critical, world-class research that gives real hope to people facing breast cancer.

Pink because it's a colour we often associate with breast cancer, and it's the colour of our amazing squad.

And power because of the strength and impact of our Pink Squad when we unite for our vision — a future with Zero Deaths from breast cancer.

It's an incredible 24 hours when YOU can help change the future of breast cancer diagnoses... by powering up your gift, and in turn, powering up breast cancer research.

I'm really excited about our Giving Day because I've seen the difference our community can make in just 24 hours.

 

Why donors are so important

We urgently need donors' help to raise more money for breast cancer research for one simple but powerful reason.

...because more people are dying from breast cancer than ever before.

And that's not OK with us.
  • Nine people die from breast cancer every day in Australia.
  • It's estimated 3,300 people in Australia will die from breast cancer this year.
  • And 58 people are diagnosed with breast cancer every day.
  • That's more than 21,000 in 2024 alone.

We know research is the answer.

Life-saving research has already achieved extraordinary breakthroughs. Since we began 30 years ago, committed people have helped reduce the death rate from breast cancer in Australia by over 40 percent.

Donors are one of the stars of our Giving Day, because it's determination and generosity that will help us achieve our vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer.

Last year, we saw just how powerful donors generosity is. Donors were a key part of the Pink Squad who smashed the fundraising target in our inaugural Power of Pink Giving Day
This year, we’re even more determined to make sure that no one has to die from breast cancer.
 
As well as Giving Day, here’s what can be done right now:
  1. Add Power of Pink Giving Day to your calendar.
    Add to your calendar
    Google Calendar | Microsoft Outlook | Office 365 | Yahoo! Calendar
  2. Tell others about this opportunity to change the future.
    Forward this email to friends and family so they can join the Pink Squad too!
  3. Be inspirational on social media.
    Use our posts on Facebook or Instagram to tag your friends or repost. You can inspire others to join in.
Like donors, I don't want anyone to die from breast cancer. And, like donors, I am determined to find the answers, so we reach our vision of Zero Deaths from breast cancer. The Power of Pink Giving Day means so much to me — and all the people donors help through research.

I’m excited about what we can achieve together!
Laura Edwards, Executive Director

MORE:

National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF)
Address: GPO Box 4126, Sydney NSW 2001 Australia
Tel: 1300 708 763

The National Breast Cancer Foundation would like to acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and their continuing connection to the land, sea and community. We pay our respects to their cultures and their Elders, past, present and emerging. We will respectfully use the terms, First Nations and First Peoples, interchangeably to refer to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

GLEN EIRA | GECC | WORKSHOPPING | Upstander Training: Action against Racism and Discrimination | Thursday 7 November 2024 | 9.30-11.30am

[Edited extract from public address]

A two-hour training session involving small group activities and collaborative workshopping using case studies drawn from relevant experiences.

Glen Eira City Council is pleased to partner with not-for-profit organisation Courage to Care Victoria to deliver a two-hour Upstander Training for service providers and community organisations.

This is part of Council continued commitment to Together We Stand and our pledge to work together across our communities for Action against Racism and Discrimination.

Participants will:
  • Understand the value of ‘Upstander’ behaviour and the obstacles to action.
  • Develop practical, effective, and safe strategies for ‘Upstander’ responses.
  • Gain insight through the discrimination cascade into how unacceptable behaviours are normalised.
  • Consider an ‘Upstander’ support framework with a view to supporting positive culture change in the workplace.
The purpose of the Upstander training is to transform bystander behaviour to Upstander action. 
  • Where: Caulfield Cup Room – Level One, Glen Eira Council Town Hall, Corner Glen Eira and Hawthorn Roads, Caulfield
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: online via Trybooking

MORE:

Glen Eira City Council
Address: PO Box 42, Caulfield South 3162 

The City of Glen Eira acknowledges the Boon Wurrung/Bunurong and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation as Traditional Owners and Custodians. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present. 

WORLD | CUIN | UPDATING | Diversity Atlas Shaping Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and more | October 2024

[Edited extract from public address]

Taking action, make a difference in diversity!

September was a busy month for Diversity Atlas! From our participation in a range of events across Australia and the UK, we’ve shared insights and broadened discussions around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) globally. 

We’re also excited to announce that Melbourne City Mission (MCM) has been certified as our first Diversity Data Leaders, highlighting their commitment to cultural diversity through data-driven strategies. 

As we step into a new month, we look to expand our impact in Asia Pacific, with upcoming engagements in Malaysia and Australia, continuing our mission to drive cross-cultural understanding and DEI excellence.
   

 News and Announcements 

CERTIFYING | Our First Diversity Data Leader – Melbourne City Mission (MCM)

The  Global Diversity Data Leaders Certification is  a groundbreaking step in DEI 2.0. This certification recognises organisations using Diversity Atlas’s holistic data insights to help them manage their diverse workforces with more skill and awareness. 
 
We are proud to announce that our very first certified organisation is  Melbourne City Mission (MCM).  This certification underscores their dedication to inclusivity, meaningful impact, and workplace wellbeing. 
   

 Upcoming Events 

PRESENTING | At Digital Gateway to SEA

Diversity Atlas will be participating in  this year's trade mission to Malaysia, organised by Global Victoria in partnership with Austrade.
   

PRESENTING | At APAC DEI Summit 2024

On a mission to rebalance humanity, we are proud to partner with LeadWomen Sdn Bhd as Summit Allies at their first APAC DEI Summit in Malaysia!
   

PRESENTING | At DEI Reframe Summit

We will be a part of this summit that focuses on enhancing the competencies and skills of stakeholders responsible for implementing DEI strategies. Stay tuned for more updates!

PRESENTING | At DEI Summit in Melbourne | 15 November 2024

Our CEO Peter Mousaferiadis recently attended the Diversity and Inclusion Summit in Perth, where he shared key insights on using data to drive inclusion. 

This Summit is coming to Melbourne for the first time on 15 November 2024, featuring Michael Walmsley as a keynote speaker. With engaging sessions like the Neurodiversity Panel and the Inclusion Innovation Showdown, it's set to be an impactful event. 

Don't miss out on an exclusive 15% discount— use code 15PARTNER and save over $100. Read on for more details and grab your tickets today!
   

 Past Events 

PRESENTING | At 17th Inclusive Museum Summit

Our EU Cultural Ambassador, Mario, presented the research paper for the 'Diversity in Museums as a Catalyst for Peace' project at the 17th International Conference on the Inclusive Museum, held in Vienna from 13 to 15 September 2024. 

He highlighted Diversity Atlas’s inclusive approach to analysing visitor diversity at the Johannesburg Holocaust & Genocide Centre and announced the project’s expansion to centres in Cape Town and Durban. This project is pioneering the use of Diversity Atlas and it's extensive Global Database of humanity to help museums better understand their audiences and foster inclusivity.
   

PRESENTING | At SIETAR Virtual Event

Multiculture: What does it mean for you? An exploration from the grassroots. Not from the top down, but from the bottom up this time.

Big Data LDN

Is big data clean data? Navigating diversity and inclusion through the big data and AI landscape

 More Announcements 

WELCOMING | Our Newest Team Member

Niraj Kataria is a seasoned C-level financial executive with 30+ years of experience in corporate America and startups, specialising in fundraising, financial management, and strategic planning. 

He worked at Gartner Group during its Initial Public Offering (IPO), and Moldflow (Australia) in preparation for a NASDAQ IPO. At HACE, he was instrumental in growing revenues over 80% during COVID. He previously served as Chairman of DiversityInc, driving growth from startup to USD10M. Niraj holds an MBA and BA in Accounting and Economics from the University of Bridgeport and has also taught in Houston's public schools. 
 
Niraj joins us as Vice President of Sales & Strategy, and as our first full-time staff  situated in Houston, Texas, USA. 
   

KNOWING | Your organisation better!

Start to look into your organisation´s diversity today.

HIGHLIGHTING | Cultural Event: World Food Day | 16 October 

World Food Day heightens public awareness of world food issues and strengthens solidarity in the struggle against hunger, malnutrition and poverty. Beginning in 1979, World Food Day was established by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations. The day is observed widely amongst organisations concerned with hunger, food security and the protection of agriculture.

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

Cultural Infusion respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation and pays respect to their Elders, past and present and future custodians In continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practises of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia.