Thankfully celebrating 20 days of zero coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in Victoria. It has been incredible to see our communities continue to enjoy the easing of restrictions safely and responsibly.
Message from the Chairperson
I look forward to welcoming further easing of restrictions next week.Please continue to get tested, even if you only have the mildest symptoms, and ensure you stay home while awaiting your result.
In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in South Australia, the Victorian Government is closing the state's border with South Australia. From 11:59pm Thursday 19 November, a ‘hard border’ will be in place for 48 hours before a permit system comes into effect from 11:59pm Saturday 21 November. Read the Premier's statement for more detail on the restrictions.
I encourage small and medium sized businesses impacted by coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions to apply for the third round of the Business Support Fund that closes Monday 23 November.
The Small Business Digital Adaption Program is also open and can also support small businesses, sole traders and micro businesses to embed the use of practical digital tools in their business operations.
The Commission also welcomes the announcement by the Victorian Government on the historic $5.3 billion Big Housing Build and congratulates the Minister for Housing and departments and agencies involved. The Commission looks forward to supporting residents, many of whom are of different cultural backgrounds, to be involved in the co-design aspects as the projects gets underway.
Lastly, we're sharing in-language materials to help workers and employers understand their rights and responsibilities in the workplace in relation to coronavirus (COVID-19).
Stay well and look out for each other,
Viv Nguyen, Chairperson
Translated materials - COVID-19 support for the workplace
We all need to understand our rights and responsibilities in the workplace, and where to find support and information about coronavirus (COVID-19). The Victorian Government has translated information on issues such as where to get financial help if you can't access sick leave and what to do if you feel unwell.Download the translated materials — including social media posts and posters — and share this important information with your networks.
Download the stakeholder kit
Third round of the Business Support Fund closes Monday
One-off grants up to $20,000 are still available to support eligible small and medium sized businesses in specific sectors impacted by coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions. Applications for the Victorian Government’s third round of the Business Support Fund program close at 11.59pm on Monday 23 November 2020.Information about the program is also available in Arabic, Simplified and Traditional Chinese, Hindi, Punjabi, Somali and Vietnamese.
Learn more and apply now
Small Business Digital Adaption Program
The $20 million Small Business Digital Adaption Program is now open to help small businesses, sole traders and micro businesses build digital capability in their day-to-day operations. Eligible businesses will be able to trial and then receive access to digital products, tools and training such as website and e-commerce tools.Program guidelines, full details on eligibility and information on how to register are available on the Business Victoria website.
Learn more and register
Disability counselling and advocacy support
Free and independent emotional support is available for people with disability who have experienced violence, abuse, neglect or exploitation, and their families and carers. This support is also available for people who are engaging with or considering taking part in the Disability Royal Commission.The Department of Social Services have prepared fact sheets about this service in Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, French, Greek, Hindi, Italian, Spanish, Turkish, Urdu and Vietnamese.
Learn more and access the fact sheets
Rent Reduction and Rent Relief Grant Guide
Tenants Victoria have developed a guide to help members of the community who are experiencing rental hardship due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.The guide includes detailed steps on applying for a rent reduction or the Victorian Government rent relief grant of up to $3,000. The guide also includes help with letters to your real estate agent/landlord and tips on negotiating a rent reduction.
Learn more and access the guide
Coronavirus hotline
- Coronavirus hotline: 1800 675 398 (24 Hours).
- Interpreting service: If you need an interpreter, call TIS National on 131 450.
- Testing locations: Find a testing location near you.
- Triple Zero: Please keep Triple Zero (000) for emergencies only.
MORE:
Victorian Multicultural CommissionAddress: Level 3, 1 Macarthur Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: (03) 9651 5901
Email: contact@vmc.vic.gov.au
Website: multiculturalcommission.vic.gov.au