It was so encouraging to hear that almost 10 million QR code check-ins were registered in Victoria this past weekend. It means that people are getting out and going about their lives, while doing their part to limit the spread of COVID-19.
Message from the Chairperson
I hope you are all well. There has been talk about the threat of a national outbreak, and while we shouldn't panic, we must take every precaution necessary. That means when you visit any business, community venue or place of worship, you must check in via the QR code.
Personally, when I work at the VMC's office, I must scan the QR code at the entrance and wear a mask indoors. I must also maintain social distance from colleagues and wash my hands regularly. Following these guidelines, and getting vaccinated, gives us the best chance of minimising more interruptions to our lives.
In this week's update, we've got confirmation the successful applicants for the cultural festival grant program have been notified. Congratulations to all those incredible community groups who will deliver some exciting festivities that celebrate diversity this year.
We also have some in-language information about the Census, which is coming up soon. Governments and businesses use the information gathered from the Census to make important decisions about transport, schools, health care, roads, buildings and more. So, it's important we all take part.
For those who work with young people, I would like to point you to an upcoming free webinar about legal rights. The session will aim to show you how to communicate effectively with young people and deliver legal information that is easy for them to understand and act on.
I would also like to share news of further support for African Victorian students and jobseekers, an upcoming online discussion about vaccines from a multi faith perspective, and a Migrant Settlement Committee meeting that will feature Welcoming Australia CEO Aleem Ali as keynote speaker.
Take care and stay safe.
Viv Nguyen, Chairperson
Every business or venue you enter, check in. Every time.
Checking in is the best way to stop the spread of coronavirus, and act fast to protect our businesses, communities, and each other.Now, every time you go to work or school, enter a business, or visit a community venue or place of worship, you need to check in.
Cultural festival grant winners announced
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence has announced $1.45 million in funding for 252 festivals and events of cultural significance to be held in the second half of 2021.Funding will support large-scale events such as the African Music and Cultural Festival and the Sunshine Lantern Festival, alongside smaller events including the Murga Madre’s South American Winter Celebration.
All events will adhere to COVIDSafe settings, with a majority of events taking place in person.
Free webinar on helping young people understand their legal rights | Thursday 22 July 2021 | from 10.30am
Community legal education plays a vital role in raising awareness of legal services and the justice system so that people are better placed to resolve their legal problems.In this free webinar, speakers from Youthlaw and Gateway Local Learning and Employment Network will share their experiences engaging with young people about their legal rights and responsibilities. Find out about the approaches they have used, what has worked well and the strategies that have been less effective.
The Census is coming this August
Every five years, the Australian Bureau of Statistics counts every person and home in Australia. This is called the Census of Population and Housing.The Census is the most comprehensive snapshot of the country and tells the story of how we are changing. It includes around 10 million households and over 25 million people.
Census data tells us about the economic, social and cultural makeup of the country. It will not be possible for any one person or household to be identified from the statistics.
You don't have to fill anything out yet, but if you would like to read in-language information about the Census, click the button below.
State government announces further support for African-Victorian students and job seekers
Hundreds more Victorian students of African heritage will receive extra support to stay engaged in school, and work towards their goals, thanks to the extension of Victoria’s popular Homework Club program.In other good news, the Employment Brokers program has now announced the organisations that will provide the training and education for African-Victorians who are looking to build pathways to work.
You can read the latest Victorian Government announcement, or hit the button below to learn more about the full African Communities Action Plan.
A religious discussion on vaccinations | Sunday 11 July 2021 | 3-5pm
The Council of Christians and Jews Victoria are hosting a discussion about vaccinations from religious perspectives next month. The event will be hosted online via Zoom.Rabbi Alexander Tsykin of Brighton Hebrew Congregation will provide an Orthodox Jewish perspective, while Reverend Melissa Clark of the Parish of Woodend-Trentham will provide an Anglican Christian response.
Where: The discussion will be broadcast online on.
Welcoming migrants and refugees to your local area | Friday 6 August 2021
Melbourne’s Eastern Region Communities' Council on Ethnic Issues will explore the role of local councils in migrant settlement and community cohesion at their next Migrant Settlement Committee (MSC) Zoom meeting.If you are not a regular MSC participant, but would like to join this meeting, just email the MSC Convenor at chair.msc@gmail.com with 'Migrant Settlement Committee' in the title. Meeting papers and a Zoom link will be sent to you closer to the time. Everyone is welcome.
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.
- Coronavirus in-language information
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Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)
Address: Level 3, 1 Macarthur Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: (03) 9651 5901
Email: contact@vmc.vic.gov.au
Address: Level 3, 1 Macarthur Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: (03) 9651 5901
Email: contact@vmc.vic.gov.au