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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.

A showcase of intersectionality, bridge-building and making peace with inconvenient truths, from LGBTQIA+ Folk in Australia. 

Global Engagement in Friendlier Neighbourhoods (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?
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 share your reconcilings, 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:


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):

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

Originally, recordings were envisioned as being hosted individually on IFD website for global audience and matched with 2 others on GEIFN website for local audience. Reconciling evolving conditions, the episodes are now standalone 20mins episodes hosted on GEIFN's Youtube Channel.

STREAMING | Now

Watch, like or subscribe to the GEIFN YouTube channel or AUSSIEStory Playlist for these and future episodes.
  1. Vasu's Story (20 mins)
  2. Vive Julienne's Story (20 mins)
  3. Ro's Story (22 mins)

How to Support the Project?

  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

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.


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

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

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

How is it working out? 


Join us with 'humanising the other':

MORE:

AUSSIEStory
Global Engagement In Friendlier Neighbourhoods (GEIFN)
Website

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

Born Julian to loving parents, Vive Julienne learnt from Mum to not be afraid, to have fun and from Dad to work together, play hard and be courteous. 

Vive has 2 siblings, 2 daughters, 1 granddaughter and a long-term partner with a kimchi konnection. Join Vive as they recount their journey of discovery, life, love and joy while being a funeral celebrant.

How is it working out? 



Join us with 'humanising the other':

MORE:

AUSSIEStory
Global Engagement In Friendlier Neighbourhoods (GEIFN)
Website

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

Once upon a time, the fifth child and first son was born to a Hindu Brahmin family in Sri Lanka. His friends call him Vasu. 

Join Vasu on his quest for feeling at home.

When young, Vasu’s family fled war to India before resettling in Singapore. They worked hard to establish themselves, and the children had the chance to enjoy safety and education. A computer programming scholarship led Vasu to London, followed by work in Scotland and New York. A wish to be physically closer to family and change vocation resulted in studying, qualifying and becoming a Nurse in Australia. 

How is it working out?
Join us with 'humanising the other':

MORE:

AUSSIEStory
Global Engagement In Friendlier Neighbourhoods (GEIFN)
Website

--- GEIFN is based in City of Port Phillip, the traditional lands of the Boon Wurrung, Bunurong and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation. Respect is offered to past, present and future elders of all spiritual traditions. 
--- Services and program delivery is culturally safe to people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, aesexual and questioning (LGBTIQA+).
--- May we find together a generous way to accommodate those in need of refuge. Let us be cool, strive individually and together to overcome inequality, violence, disengagement, tragedy and injustice wherever it may be. Let us honour, savor and enjoy results of mindful effort so more thrive peacefully with less effort in our place called home.
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AUST | CITC | WEBINAR | Sharing 100 Days of Meditation, 100 Voices of Peace | Nightly, Saturday 13 June-Monday 21 September 2026 | 9-9.15pm AEST

[Edited extract from public address]

Something special arrived this week... We have two pieces of news to share with you today — and the first we are especially sharing with pure joy.

"What we cannot reach with words or action, we may yet touch in silence.”


RECEIVING | A Message from His Holiness the Dalai Lama

We are deeply honoured to announce that His Holiness the Dalai Lama has sent a personal message in support of Australia's 100 Days of Peace.

This Sunday 16 August 2026 evening, the message will be shared with the community by Mr Karma Singey, the representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia — joining us at 9pm AEST as our Voice of Peace for the evening.

The message will also be read aloud at the culminating gathering of the 100 Days of Peace — A Peaceful Morning Tea — hosted by the Speaker of the House of Representatives at Parliament House, Canberra, on Thursday 17 September 2026, UN International Day of Peace.

We do not typically announce our contributors in advance. This one is different.

That a message from His Holiness has found its way to an initiative born of quiet, daily collective silence — offered freely each evening by Australians from every walk of life — is something we could not have imagined when this began. We are grateful beyond words.

LAUNCHING | Voices of Unity — a new podcast series

The second piece of news is also wonderful in its own way.

Our contributor Dr Mujib Abid, Initiative for Peacebuilding, University of Melbourne, has launched Voices of Unity, a grassroots podcast series emerging from Melbourne, created in direct support of the 100 Days of Peace.

The series amplifies the often-unheard, everyday practices of peace, care and solidarity shaping community life — through short, intimate conversations, including a distinctive walk-and-talk format across neighbourhood spaces.

As the series unfolds in the lead-up to UN International Day of Peace, it reflects a simple but powerful idea: that peace is practised daily — in relationships, in communities, and in the shared spaces of everyday life.

Four episodes have already been released, with new episodes arriving weekly through to 21 September. 

Find it here:

Sixty-three evenings in. Thirty-seven still to come — and something especially special this Sunday.
You are always welcome.
This initiative is offered in partnership with Anglican Diocese of Melbourne.
 
In peace,
The 100 Days of Peace team

    MORE:

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

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

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    MELBOURNE | AELA | GATHERING | Many Faiths, One Planet – Together, Caring for our Common Home | Saturday 3 October 2026 | 8.30am-5pm

    [Edited extract from public address]

    Join us for a 1-Day Conference celebrating how the living world brings us together in faith, and in care.

    The Earth is crying out to us. We read reports of species becoming extinct and ecosystems under attack. It is easy to lose hope when confronted by the Biodiversity crisis before us. And none of us can face the challenges alone.

    In October, people from diverse faith groups, cultures and ecological sciences will meet in Melbourne to hear the cry of the Earth. We will listen, learn, reflect and grow in ecological consciousness together. 

    We come together because Australia's unique biodiversity matters. Together we will discover ways people of faith and the sciences collaborate to protect species and ecosystems before they disappear.


     Conference Speakers 

    Sherry Balcombe-Maloney | Finding Our Place On Country

    Many people have not had the opportunity to hear what First Nations people mean when they talk about Country. As a First Nations descendant, Sherry will open us up to a greater sense of what connecting to Country means — what it REALLY means in time, place, spirituality and relationship, especially for those of us who are disconnected from the natural world. 

    Sherry is an Olkola / Mularidji woman from Far North Queensland. Born in Narrm, she has an extensive experience in Social Justice with a faith-based approach, and has enjoyed numerous roles within the community including Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency, visiting First Nations youth in detention, Aboriginal Catholic Ministry for 20 years. She is a currently State Representative for NATSICC, board member of Jesuit Social Services, Aboriginal Visitor to Aboriginal community at Thomas Embling Hospital, cross cultural Educator, Story Teller with Djirra (Abororiginal women’s support service), and Aboriginal Heritage Walk tour guide at the Royal Botanical Gardens. Sherry also contributed to the book, "An Urgent Call: Laudato Si' and Indigenous Wisdom in Oceania", recently published by the Vatican.
     

    Prof Sarah Bekessy | Locating Ourselves In The Ecosystem

    Humans have the tendency to see Nature as a resource, and not something we are a part of. Australia is one of the most mega-biodiverse places on Earth and yet we have the highest rate of biodiversity loss in the developed world. Sarah will give a brief overview of what is causing this loss of our unique biodiversity and present some ways we can all care for it in the urban environment — together! 

    Sarah leads the ICON Science research group which uses interdisciplinary approaches to solve complex biodiversity conservation problems. She is particularly interested in understanding the role of human behaviour in conservation, in designing cities to encourage ‘every day nature’ experiences and in defining and measuring ‘nature positive’ development. Sarah is a Lead Councillor with The Biodiversity Council, which she helped to establish "to be a trusted, expert voice communicating accurate information on all aspects of biodiversity to the Australian people, to ensure biodiversity and Country prosper." She is Honorary Professor at RMIT University, and 2020 Winner of the City of Melbourne Design Challenge.


    Dr Michelle Maloney | Growing New Ways Of Being

    'Tinkering with the edges' is not enough, because the current systems have led us to this crisis point. We have become disconnected from the natural world. Michelle will speak on what Thomas Berry called the task of this century: "to carry out the transition from a period of human devastation of the Earth to a period when humans would be present to the planet in a mutually beneficial manner.” How can we understand our ecosystems and bioregions, and grow in our ecological consciousness for the care of our common home?

    Michelle manages the strategic direction and governance of the Australian Earth Laws Alliance (AELA), designs and manages AELA programs and events, and coordinates the work of staff, volunteers and collaborative networks. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (political science and history) and Bachelor of Laws (Hons) from the Australian National University, and an PhD in environmental regulation, from the Griffith Law Futures Centre. Michelle is also the Co-Founder and Director of Future Dreaming Australia; Adjunct Fellow, Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), and a member of the Advisory Council, Global Alliance for the Rights of Nature. She lives near Brisbane, Australia with her family and Ziggy the Wonderdog.


    Andrew Skeoch | Deep Listening To Nature

    In the attention economy, those with the loudest voice wins. How has the Earth been speaking to us? Can we learn to better listen to even the small voices? Andrew Skeoch will open our hearts and minds to deep listening in the natural world using some of the sounds he has recorded here and around the world, and share with us what he has learned about human behaviour from many years of listening and observing the more than human life.  

    Andrew is an educator, author, naturalist, environmental thinker, and one of Australia's best-known nature sound recordists. Over the last thirty years, he has documented the sounds of wild environments around the planet, and through his label, Listening Earth, published over one hundred recordings featuring habitats from most continents, attracting Spotify streaming figures in the many tens of thousands a week. His recordings are featured in the audio installation at Sydney Wildlife World, feature films, including Peter Gabriel's soundtrack to Phillip Noyce's 'Rabbit Proof Fence', and Disney's 2016 remake of 'The Jungle Book'. Andrew is a TEDx speaker and President of the Australian Wildlife Sound Recording Group.
     
    Early Bird Pricing extended till August 10th, BOOK NOW!
    Please register for the conference as soon as possible.

    Space is limited.
      
    Families welcome. Please contact us if you have any special needs.

    We aim to create a safe and inclusive space for people from all cultural backgrounds, and beliefs.

    Post-Conference Dinner Tickets will be available here closer to the conference, please keep an eye out for details
     
    Hosted by The Australian Earth Laws Alliance (AELA) and the Faith Ecology Network (FEN)
      
    Early Bird Tickets until Monday 10 August 2026
      • Waged: $120
      • Concession/Unwaged/Students: $80
      • Children under 18 attend free. 
    Prices From Tuesday 11 August 2026
      • Waged: $140
      • Concession/Unwaged/Students: $95
      • Children under 18 attend free. 
    • Bookings: online via Trybooking

    MORE:

    Australian Earth Laws Alliance (AELA)

    The Australian Earth Laws Alliance acknowledges that the sovereignty of the First Nations People of the continent now known as Australia was never ceded by treaty nor in any other way. AELA acknowledges and respects First Nations Peoples’ laws and ecologically sustainable custodianship of Australia over tens of thousands of years through land and sea management practices that continue today.
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    AUST | MYA | CALLING | Diverse Talents, Shared Achievements: Honouring the Brillance of Multicultural Youth | nominations close 31 August 2026

    [Edited extract from public address]

    Across Australia, multicultural young people are leading, creating, advocating, volunteering, competing, performing, building businesses, supporting their communities and inspiring those around them.

    Know a change maker? Now is the time to recognise them.

    Celebrate their story. Honour their impact. Open the door to what comes next.
    The Multicultural Youth Awards celebrate young people aged 16 to 25 from multicultural, migrant, refugee and diverse cultural backgrounds who are making a meaningful impact across their communities.

    Whether they are leading in the classroom, volunteering behind the scenes, excelling in sport or the arts, advocating for change, supporting their family, building something new, or simply showing others what is possible, their story deserves to be celebrated.


    Why Nominations Matter? 

    • Build Confidence
    • Create New Connections
    • Validate Contribution
    • Open Future Opportunities

    Who Can Nominate?

    Anyone can submit a nomination.
    You might be a teacher, parent, youth worker, mentor, coach, friend, community leader, colleague, organisation, or someone who knows a young person whose efforts deserve to be acknowledged.
    Young people can also nominate themselves.


    Want To Get Involved? 


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    Multicultural Youth Awards (MYA)
    Address: 215 Bell St, Preston VIC 3072

    The Multicultural Youth Awards up would like to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the Aboriginal land, on which we all live, work, and play.​ We pay our deepest respect to Elders past and present, and any First Nations members who are part of the Multicultural Youth Group Industry. We acknowledge that sovereignty has never been ceded. This land always was and always will be Aboriginal land.​

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    CoPP | PHAAA | CALLING | Artists for ‘Healing with Compassion’ Art Exhibition | Saturday 12-Tuesday 29 September 2026 | 1-6pm

    [Edited extract from public address]

    Inviting artists, volunteers, and community members to be part of our community celebrating creativity, connection, and peace. 

    This has been another exciting year for Planetary Healing Artists Association Australia (PHAAA). 

    Don't miss our upcoming Peace Festival celebration and join our Art Exhibition 'Healing with Compassion' if you have not already done so.

    Whether you'd like to exhibit your artwork, volunteer, or simply join the celebration, we'd love to have you involved. Together, we can create an inspiring event that brings our community together through the power of art. We look forward to celebrating with you!
     
    Proudly supported by City of Port Phillip and the Baptist Church, St Kilda


    CALLING | Artists – Sharing Your Creativity. Inspiring Connection. Celebrating Peace.

    Welcoming artists from all cultures, backgrounds and creative disciplines to be part of our International Day of Peace 2026 celebration.

    We welcome submissions on the theme Healing with Compassion from:
    • Painters
    • Sculptors
    • Photographers
    • Ceramic artists
    • Textile and fibre artists
    • Mixed media artists
    • Indigenous and First Nations artists
    • Digital artists
    • Installation artists
    • Emerging and established artists 
    This exhibition is an opportunity to:
    • Exhibit your work in a welcoming community setting.
    • Connect with fellow artists from diverse cultural backgrounds.
    • Engage with new audiences.
    • Celebrate the power of art to bring people together Simply email your enquiry to: exhibit@planetaryhealingartists.org 

    CALLING | Volunteers – Being Part of Something Meaningful

    Would you like to make a difference in your community while gaining valuable experience and meeting wonderful people?

    Planetary Healing Artists Association Australia is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help deliver our International Day of Peace Saturday 19 September 2026 celebration.

    Our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do.

    We are looking for people who enjoy working as part of a supportive team and would like to contribute to a welcoming, inclusive community event.

    Volunteer opportunities include:
    • Event support on day
    • Artist liaison
    • Exhibition setup and pack down
    • Visitor welcome and information
    • Registration and administration
    • Photography and videography
    • Marketing and social media
    • Logistics and general event assistance
    No previous experience is necessary. What matters most is a positive attitude, reliability, a willingness to learn, and a desire to contribute.

    Volunteering with PHAAA is an opportunity to:
    • Meet new people and build lasting friendships.
    • Develop practical skills and experience.
    • Contribute to an intercultural community event.
    • Support artists and creativity.
    • Make a meaningful difference while being part of something inspiring.
    We believe that great events are created by people who care.

    If you'd like to join our volunteer team, we'd love to hear from you.
    All welcome. All cultures. One humanity.
      
    Together, we can create an event that celebrates creativity, culture, compassion and community. 
    Whether you're an artist, volunteer, sponsor or visitor, there's a place for you at the International Day of Peace 2026. Join us as we come together through the universal language of the arts to build understanding, foster connection, and celebrate our shared humanity. Email us

    MORE:

    Planetary Healing Artists Association of Australia (PHAAA)
    Address: PO Box 2067, St Kilda West, VIC Australia 3182
    Tel: 0415 552 488

    Planetary Healing Artists' acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we operate and pay our respects to all Elders past, present and emerging.

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    VIC | VMC | UPDATING | Community, News and Information | Wednesday 12 August 2026

    [Edited extract from public address]

    The Hon. Ben Carroll MP, Premier of Victoria announced the appointment of Hon. Paul Edbrooke MP as the new Minister for Multicultural Affairs, taking over from Ingrid Stitt MP last week. 

    On behalf of the VMC, I would like to welcome Minister Edbrooke to this critically important portfolio. With experience as a firefighter and teacher, Minister Edbrooke previously held the portfolios for Consumer Affairs, Cost of Living, Renters and Men and Boys and before that was parliamentary secretary to the Treasurer and Minister for Mental Health. 

    I thank Ingrid Stitt MP for her tireless work as Minister for Multicultural and Multifaith Victoria since October 2023 and for all she has achieved for multicultural communities. I wish her all the best as Minister under her revised portfolios.
    Recently, I spoke at an information session delivered by the VMC in partnership with Mortgage Stress Victoria. One of the most significant concerns we hear from communities across Victoria is about cost-of-living pressures and affordable housing. For many migrants and refugees, owning a home represents security, stability and hope for the future. But for many, the dream of owning a home turns into heavy mortgage stress. Last week’s information session emphasised that help is available for those in need and that issues can be tackled before problems become crises. 
    If you've been following passage of the Multicultural Victoria Amendment Bill 2026, you can read the second reading speech and stay updated on its passage through Parliament here. The Bill seeks to establish a new entity, Multicultural Victoria, to bring together what we hear in communities with the development of policies and programs across government. I hope to provide further updates on the Bill in a subsequent newsletter.

    Lastly, we’re pleased to announce that a very limited number of tickets have become available for the upcoming Premier's Multicultural Gala Dinner. These last minute tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with a maximum of two tickets per person. If you were hoping to attend, this is a final opportunity to secure your place. Book your tickets online via Humanitix.

    Warm regards,
    Louise Perry, Chairperson

     

     News and events 

    VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Local Anti-Racism Initiatives (LARI) grant program | apply now, closes 27 August 2026

    Forming a part of Victoria’s Anti-Racism Strategy, the program offers community organisations grants of up to $40,000 to deliver anti-racism programs.

    The Victorian Government has launched the next round of the LARI grant program.

    The funding will support First Peoples, multicultural and multifaith organisations to deliver tailored programs and activities that meet the needs of their local communities. While eliminating racism in Victoria is everyone’s responsibility, First Peoples, multicultural and multifaith communities have the expertise, lived experience and specialised knowledge to effectively deliver community-driven responses to racism.

    VIC | GOV | GRANTING | 2026-27 Multicultural Festivals and Events grant programs | apply now, closes 31 August 2026

    Applications are open for Round 2 of the 2026-27 Multicultural Festivals and Events (MFE) and Regional Multicultural Festivals and Events Fund (RMFEF) grant programs.

    Organisations can apply for up to $50,000 to host festivals and events that celebrate Victoria’s cultural diversity. Funding is available in small, medium or large streams.  

    This program aims to connect communities by making it easier for Victorians from multicultural and multifaith backgrounds to come together and celebrate their heritage and traditions.

    VIC | GOV | OFFERING | 20% off your vehicle registration | closes 31 August 2026

    The Victorian Government’s 20% off vehicle registration rebate has been extended until 31 August 2026. 

    If you live in Victoria and own a vehicle, you can get 20% back on your vehicle registration for the 2025-26 financial year. You could receive up to $186 per vehicle.

    To apply for the rebate, you must have a Service Victoria account and apply online through Service Victoria. If you do not have a Service Victoria account, you can create one now through the Service Victoria app or website: service.vic.gov.au/account

    If needed, help is available applying for the rebate, including translated resources, an easy read English guide, and posters or fact sheets.
     

    VIC | GOV | OFFERING | Half price and contactless travel

    Public transport in Victoria is half price for everyone until 1 January 2027. Half price fares apply automatically to all public transport services statewide and to all passengers, including concession holders.

    Transport Victoria has also rolled out contactless payment across trams and train stations where myki is accepted, for full fare customers only. Concession card holders should keep using their concession myki to ensure they are charged the correct fare.

    If you are a concession card holder and accidentally tap on with a phone or bank card, wait 30 seconds and tap off with the same device so you are not charged. Any customers who make a mistake and are incorrectly charged should contact the Transport Victoria Contact Centre on 1800 800 007 to discuss reimbursement options.

    AUST | MYA | CALLING | Nominees for 2026 Multicultural Youth Awards | nominations close 31 August 2026

    Nominations are open for the 2026 Multicultural Youth Awards (MYA), a national celebration of the leadership, creativity and resilience of multicultural youth aged 16–25 across Australia. 

    With 13 exciting award categories, MYA recognises young people driving change in education, community leadership, arts, entrepreneurship, advocacy, and more. 
     

    AUST | SCFO | GRANTING | 2026 Community Grant Round | applications close Friday 28 August 2026

    These Scanlon Foundation (SCFO) community grans will provide up to $50,000 per year, for two years, for projects that foster connections and strengthen communities by engaging local businesses with potential employees living in their area.

    MORE:

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

    VMC acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country and pay our respect to them, their culture and their Elders past and present.

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    VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Balancing personal spirituality with mental health care. Is there a tension?" | Tuesday 6 October 2026 | 10.30am-12noon

    [Edited extract from public address]

    Identifying and exploring challenges when spirituality or religion comes up during encounters with consumers.

    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.

    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 — details to be sent to registrants in advance
    • Cost: Free
    • Bookings: essential as 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.

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    VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Integrating spiritual care in mental health assessment and recovery. How do we do it? | Tuesday 8 September 2026 | 10.30am-12noon

    [Edited extract from public address]

    Identifying and exploring challenges when spirituality or religion comes up during encounters with consumers.

    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.

    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 — details to be sent to registrants in advance
    • Cost: Free
    • Bookings: essential as spaces are limited. To secure a place, please register online via VTMH. 

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

    VTMH acknowledges it is located on the traditional lands of the Boon Wurrung and Woiwurrung (Wurundjeri) peoples of the Kulin Nation.

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    WORLD | WIKIPEDIA | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds so everyone can have equal access to knowledge

    [Edited extract from public address]

    Wikipedia only exists because donors make it exist. It’s a beautiful example of what’s possible when millions work towards a common goal, despite their differences.

    My name is Bernadette Meehan and I’m CEO of the Wikimedia Foundation. Thank you. Donors' generosity keeps Wikipedia strong, benefiting people all around the world.

    I am truly inspired by the fact that volunteers from around the world, from all backgrounds and nationalities, choose to help us build this global encyclopedia each day. Wikipedia is now available in 326 languages and receives 5.67 edits every second!

    Beyond the statistics, every edit and article reflects a human story of dedication, passion, and generosity—just like yours. Donations will help us ensure that Wikipedia can continue to grow and unite people in their pursuit of knowledge. It will help us make sure our technology remains at the highest standard to meet the needs of every reader or volunteer – whether that’s by developing new online tools or supporting Wikipedia in different languages so more people can create and access knowledge in their mother tongue.

    What does donations do?
    • Sustains and improves the technology that runs Wikipedia and the other Wikimedia knowledge projects.
    • Empowers the 265,000+ volunteers, organizations, and groups who share their knowledge with the world.
    • Advances our global mission of sharing knowledge with everyone, everywhere.
    Thank you again for helping us build a world where people everywhere have access to free and fair information. We couldn’t do this without you.

    With gratitude,
    Bernadette Meehan, Chief Executive Officer

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    Wikimedia Foundation

    Wikipedia is hosted by the Wikimedia Foundation, a non-profit organization that also hosts a range of other projects.

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    AUST | RACS | UPDATING | Community News, and more | August 2026

    [Edited extract from public address]

    In breaking news, the Government is expected to introduce "devastating" migration changes. 

    Reports suggest Tony Burke is planning to announce:
    • Work restrictions and appeal limitations for humanitarian visa applicants
    • Curbing the ability of refugees to reunite with family already in Australia
    • Sweeping migration cuts
    RACS's Sarah Dale had this to say:
    "These reports becoming reality would have catastrophic effects on the community RACS support. Deliberately denying people agency in their own lives, stripping the right to work and leaving them with no option but to rely on charity is deliberate indignity.
    Our migration program must be robust, but it also must be fair and compassionate. Focusing on people seeking asylum and those separated from their families, having their rights curtailed, is bad policy and senselessly cruel."
    It has been 75 years since the signing of the Refugee Convention: a cornerstone of refugee protection and a legal document that remains as relevant as ever. RACS was founded on the fact that it’s legal to seek asylum. It was the Refugee Convention that set this fact in stone - and set out the obligations states like Australia have to protect refugees.

    The first LGBTQI+ refugee has arrived in Australia through the Bridge to Safety program. This was a momentous milestone for the nation-first program, which was designed by our friends at the Forcibly Displaced People Network (FDPN) to help queer refugees from Asia and Southwest Asia find safety. RACS is proud to be FDPN's legal partner in this vital work. 

    If you’d like to help more queer refugees reach safety in Australia, you can donate to Bridge to Safety here.

    There are thousands of stateless people in Australia, living in legal limbo. Experts, including our partners at the Peter McMullin Centre on Statelessness, are calling for the introduction of a national framework. The Peter McMullin Centre's study into statelessness in Australia – the first of its kind – has just been launched. 
     

     What We've Been Up To 

    LAUNCHING | Statelessness report

    We celebrated the launch of the Peter McMullin Centre on Statelessness's landmark report on statelessness in Australia. Rohingya artist, poet and activist Asma Ullah and RACS lawyer and head of our Stateless Children program Ahmad Sawan spoke, alongside report authors Michelle Foster, Katie Robertson and Amelia Walters.


    CELEBRATING | Queer Habibi one year Ambassador anniversary 

    Social media star Queer Habibi celebrates 1 year as a RACS Ambassador for the LGBTQI+ Safety program! 

    SHARING | Family reunion opportunities for refugee students 

    RACS lawyer Ahmad was in Melbourne to speak with newly arrived refugee students! He provided important information on how they could bring their families to join them in safety, as they start their university degrees through the Skill Path Australia program.


    SHARING | A day in the life of a RACS helpline volunteer

    In this blog post, intern Noah writes about his time spent on the RACS "front-end" and how it gave him a crucial insight into the importance of the services RACS provides refugees and people seeking asylum.

     

    REVIEWING | RACS | last chance, survey closing soon

    Your opinion matters to us. Please help us understand what you care about and how you prefer to be involved with RACS. 
    • Take the RACS Supporter Survey.


    AUBURN | RACS | TALKING | Information session for Sudanese community

    RACS is running an information session on humanitarian visas and family sponsorship for the Sudanese Community on Saturday 8 August at Auburn Centre for the Community. If you know someone who would find this session helpful, let them know! Registration here. 
     

    SURRY HILLS | RACS | TALKING | Who gets to belong? Culture, rights and a fairer Australia | Monday 21 September 2026 | arrive 5.30pm for 6.30pm-8pm AEST

    Join writer and broadcaster Benjamin Law, Rohingya human rights advocate Noor Azizah, Plate It Forward founder Shaun Christie-David and Walkley award-winner Sarah Malik as they explore what belonging means in Australia today, how our understanding of identity and community is shaped, and what we really mean when we talk about Australian values. 

    BLUE MOUNTAINS | RACS | TREKKING | For Refugees | Saturday 19-Sunday 20 September 2026

    We're partnering with Emu Trekkers once again for a two-day hike along the Six Foot Track in the Blue Mountains. Accommodation and meals, including wine tasting and lunch at a local vineyard, are included!

    What is included?
    • A spectacular out and back hike along the Six Foot Track 
    • Accommodation and welcome drink at the Six Foot Track Eco Lodge
    • All meals (2 x lunch, 1 x breakfast, 1 x dinner; vegetarian options available)
    • Wine tasting and lunch at a local vineyard on Day 2
    • Experienced volunteer guides
    • Proceeds go to RACS


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    Refugee Advice and Casework Service (RACS)
    Address: Eora Country, 30 Botany Street, Randwick, NSW, 2031
     
    We acknowledge the Traditional Owners, Custodians and Elders of the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation, past, present and future, on whose traditional land we work.

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    AUST | THCO | UPDATING | Awareness, Funds and Support for independent media and more | August 2026

    [Edited extract from public address]

    Our mission at The Conversation is simple, so simple it can be easy to miss the scale of our ambition. 

    We exist to unlock the knowledge of academic experts and make that knowledge freely available to anyone who wants to access it. That’s what we do every day when we contact academics and ask them to write articles on issues in the news. That’s what our editors do when they take a technically sophisticated journal article and rewrite it into plain English.

    Those are the simple tasks of our daily work, but the ambition behind them is huge. It is nothing less than to save the world from the disastrous fracturing of trust that comes with misinformation and disinformation disseminated on an industrial scale. 

    In the age of AI, this could not be more important. As The New York Times publisher A.G. Sulzberger pointed out in a recent speech, AI companies are consolidating their control of our data and our attention. “At the same time they are failing to embrace a core responsibility that comes with this power – to ensure that the public has access to trustworthy news and information.”

    The key word here is trust. Without trusted sources, news becomes a choose-your-own-adventure. Without trust, all the wisdom and knowledge that we have accumulated over centuries of science and civilisation comes to naught, drowned out by yesterday’s misleading meme or tweet or bleat.

    That’s why we value hearing how our articles are trusted by you and many in our community. Our authors tell us how their published articles have led to conversations with schools, informed local governments and NGO’s. We see their work amplified through media interviews and republished in industry publications.
    These may seem like small contributions, but at a time when trust is increasingly fragile, every informed conversation, every evidence-based decision is a step towards a more cohesive society and a healthier democracy. And that’s a grand ambition worth pursuing.

    P.S Over the next few months editors of The Conversation will be attending events all over the country. If you can join us at one of these events, please come and say hello!
      
    Preferred source on Google
     

     Upcoming Events 

    ADELAIDE | TALKING | Democracy Innovation Week | Tuesday 18 August 2026 | 5-6pm

    Walking the Talk on Democracy - Panel 1 How should we talk about Democracy
    Misha Ketchell, Editor, The Conversation with Josh Lerner and Nsyra Khanna

    BYRON BAY | TALKING | Bryon Writers Festival

    Political Animals | Saturday 15 August 2026 | 9-10am
    Misha Ketchell, Editor, The Conversation with Bob Carr, Amy Remeikis, Debbie Whitmont

    Cultural Touchstones | Saturday 15 August 2026 | 3-4pm
    Suzy Freeman-Greene, Books & Ideas Editor, The Conversation with Rafaeil Frumkin, Kári Gíslason, Julie Janson

    BRISBANE | TALKING | Brisbane Writers Festival | Thursday 8 October 2026 | 4.30-5.30pm

    Dr Norman Swan: The Brain Cliff

    Liz Minchin, Executive Editor & Business Editor, The Conversation in conversation with Dr Norman Swan
     

    AUST | TRANSITIONING | From Reader to Supporter

    "After I first read and enjoyed The Conversation I realised the value of such informed and trustworthy communication. And, it was for free! I felt that if I donated a small amount it would not only help in some small way but signal the value of The Conversation to me and perhaps encourage you in the endeavour. " – Monthly donor, Martyn H

    SHARING | Stories of Impact

    The Conversation's mission is to amplify the work of academics so it can inform better decisions that affect our everyday lives. So it's encouraging to hear that more than 60% of our expert authors are contacted after publication - for interviews, policy advice, collaboration or public engagement. 
    Please take a look at our latest Impact Report to discover some of the ways these conversations lead to real-world impact. 
     

    ANNOUNCING | Some exciting news from us

    The Mumbrella Publish Awards celebrate the best work in consumer, B2B and custom publishing across print and digital and we're delighted to be shortlisted in four categories!

    Misha Ketchell has been shortlisted for Editor-in-chief and CEO Lisa Watts for Publish Leader of the Year.  And we're nominated twice for the Award for Innovation (Editorial):  for our unique model that pairs professional journalists with academics to produce evidence-based articles that help inform decision-making, and the other for our interactive story ‘How boys get sucked into the manosphere’.

    Support from our donors gives us the capacity to invest in ambitious storytelling like this. Thank you for helping make this work possible.

    Thank you to Friends of The Conversation.
     
    With warm wishes,
    Misha Ketchell, Editor
     

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

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

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    AUST | RGA | CALLING | GiveOUT Day registrations | now open

    [Edited extract from public address]

    It’s that time of year again: GiveOUT Day is back on Thursday 15 October 2026.

    Registrations are now open for organisations and projects looking to take part.
    GiveOUT Day is Australia’s national giving day for LGBTQIA+ causes, proudly presented by Rainbow Giving Australia.

    Each year, GiveOUT Day brings together over 100 not-for-profits in a single campaign, making it easier to support and celebrate rainbow communities.

    In 2025, we collectively raised over $635,000.

    This year, we’re inviting everyone to make their move for a cause they love. From mid-September, supporters can Give, Gather or Gush… but more on that to come!

    Book for Online Information Workshops

    Get ready to multiply the love this GiveOUT Day.

    As always, participation is free and eligible donations will be doubled thanks to our generous partners. (Limits apply.)

    So if you’re leading a not-for-profit organisation or project that specifically benefits LGBTQIA+ communities, your first move is to sign up!

    P.S. Register your cause for GiveOUT Day now, so you’re ready when early donations open in mid-September. 

     
    With love, 
    Lee Crockford (he/him), Head of Operations and Impact

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    Rainbow Giving Australia (RGA)

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

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    AUST | NJP | UPDATING | Community News | August 2026

    [Edited extract from public address]

    When policing causes harm, what needs to change?  

    Videos of police violence, stories of misconduct and growing calls for accountability have once again forced a national conversation about policing and public trust.

    But alongside questions about what happens when policing causes harm, communities across Australia are asking something much bigger: what does genuine public safety look like?

    For many people, safety means more than enforcement. It involves access to housing, healthcare, community support, youth services and systems that respond to harm without causing further harm.

    In this edition of the Justice Journal, we explore both sides of that conversation. We look at the reforms needed to strengthen police accountability, and we hear from people working to build community-led approaches to safety.
     

    Prioritising care over force

    We work alongside people, families and communities seeking answers and accountability after harmful interactions with police. We’ve seen the lasting impact these experiences can have when the systems meant to keep people safe instead cause harm.

    That's why we've contributed to the NSW Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) review, calling for stronger oversight, greater transparency and more effective accountability.

    Accountability matters, but it's only part of the picture. Building safer communities also means investing in approaches that prevent harm before it happens and make sure people get the support they need when they need it.
     

    Communities leading the way: Beyond Survival Project

    Every day, community organisations are already doing the work and supporting people across Australia who have been failed by the system.

    At our Alternative First Responders’ recent Action Webinar: VIC Elections 2026, Lauren Caulfield from the Beyond Survival Project spoke about the project's work supporting people who have experienced family violence policing harms through legal assistance, family violence support and community advocacy.

    Lauren also shared findings from the Harm in the Name of Safety, a report based on a survey of more than 270 family violence workers across Victoria. The report highlights widespread concerns about policing responses to family violence and reinforces the need for greater investment in community-led responses that keep people safe.

    Watch the full webinar to hear Lauren and other advocates discuss the community-led solutions already making a difference across Victoria.
    "We are calling for a redistribution of resources to frontline and family violence services, to build and strengthen community pathways, and for funding for an Alternative First Responders pilot in Victoria." – Lauren Caulfield, Beyond Survival Project
     

    In conversation with... the Alternative First Responders team

    As communities question whether police should be the default response to every crisis, the Alternative First Responders campaign is calling for community-led, health-focused alternatives that prioritise care over force.

    What gives this movement its momentum?
    People are wanting to grow the conversation. This isn’t just about personal opinions. This is common sense approaches and policy and people can see that. The deep desire people have to have those in their communities responded to with care and dignity gives me hope that this will become the status quo for what shapes policy investment.
    – Jacinta Wright, Policy & Projects Officer

    Why are more people questioning policing as the default response?
    The growing use of force by police is institutional, cultural and strengthened by a growing ‘tough on crime’ policy agenda. We are not experiencing a rise in crime across the country. We are experiencing a safety net crisis where people are being allowed to fall through widening cracks. While social, community and health supports remain underfunded, governments continue to invest in policing as the primary response. More people are questioning this approach because they're seeing its impacts firsthand.
    – Chloe Fragos, Project Lead

    What gives you hope as you work towards alternatives to policing?
    Seeing people come together to drive change, and the immense efforts that are in action and happening on the ground. There's so much love in this space, and there's a lot of grit too. I am constantly in awe of organisations and individuals who fiercely embody the principles of alternative first responders, who have done so for a very long time and who we continue to rally alongside in the call for dignity and care in the first response. The people united will never be defeated.
    – Zoe Edema, Campaign Content & Advocate
     

    How to take action

    • Join hundreds of people who are calling for care, not force by signing the Alternative First Responders pledge. Sign
    • Download the Kitchen Table Conversation Toolkit and start meaningful conversations about community safety. Read
    • Tell your local MP why community-led, health-focused crisis responses matter using our ready-made templates. Write
     
    Kind Regards,
    The National Justice Project Team

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    National Justice Project (NJP)
    Address: PO Box 123, Broadway NSW 2007
    Tel: +61 2 9514 4440

    We acknowledge that we live and work on the lands of First Nations Peoples, and we pay our respects to their Elders past and present. Our Sydney office is located on the lands of the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation, whose sovereignty was never ceded. This land always was, and always will be, Aboriginal land.

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