NAVIGATION

NAVIGATION

CoPP | CALLING | For Members of the LGBTIQA+ Advisory Committee | nominations now open, closing Sunday 17 October 2021

[Edited extract from public address]

The City of Port Phillip Council endorsed the establishment of LGBTIQA+ Advisory Committee on 19 May 2021.

This was part of its ongoing commitment to members of City of Port Phillip 's lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and gender diverse, intersex, queer and asexual communities (LGBTIQA+).
 

Call for new member nominations

To ensure our City continues to be a safe, welcoming and inclusive place where people of all backgrounds and ages can thrive, we are inviting community members to join our LGBTIQA+ Advisory Committee. Council is seeking to fill up to 11 vacancies on this committee.
 
You will provide advice to Council on issues impacting LGBTIQA+ residents, visitors, businesses and the wider community to help steer the development and implementation of the Port Phillip LGBTIQA+ Action Plan.
 
Council will aim to ensure that members of the Committee reflect a balance between individuals and organisations and the community and business sectors.
 
Nominees must work, study, or reside in the Port Phillip and they are selected on the basis of their:
  • identification as LGBTIQA+
  • capacity to consult with the LGBTIQA+ community and represent a wide range of views
  • understanding of the needs of the LGBTIQA+ community
  • capacity to analyse information and provide advice on issues affecting the LGBTIQA+ community.
  • Submit a nomination

How to Apply

  • Nominate yourself by completing the Nomination Form by Sunday, 17 October 2021 midnight.
  • Assistance is available for translation into any language and completion of the application form (in English).
  • A Word version of the application form is also available upon request.
Please note that shortlisted nominees will be required to attend an interview in early November before the final selection is endorsed by Council at its December 2021 Council Meeting.

MORE:

Diversity Office, Community Building and Inclusion
The City of Port Phillip (CoPP)
Address: St Kilda Town Hall, 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
Tel: 03 9209 6694

ECCV | UPDATING | CALD NDIS Readiness Bulletin | Wednesday 29 September 2021

[Edited extract from public address]

ECCV to Conduct New Research On Disability From Cald Communities

ECCV has been contracted by the Victorian Government Office for Disability to undertake a research project aimed at understanding the experiences of people with disability from CALD communities in accessing support services, including disability advocacy, during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

ECCV will be consulting with people with disability from CALD backgrounds, their carers and families as well as disability advocacy organisations and other specialists to help inform the forthcoming State Disability Plan. For more information, or if you're interested in participating in our consultations, contact ECCV Policy and Practice Advisor Riccardo Armillei.

New Raise Our Voices Project Lead

ECCV welcomes Youssif Assafiri to the role of Disability Advocacy Project Officer, leading the Raise our Voices project. Since joining ECCV in November 2019, Youssif has gone through extensive professional development as a Disability Advocate and has worked on ECCV's National Community Connector Program and Disability Advocacy COVID project. ECCV is proud to be an organisation that offers people with lived experience of disability opportunities to lead on behalf of our communities. ECCV Speak My Language Traveller, Serap Filiz, will be joining the Disability Advocacy project as a Disability Advocate.

ECCV Disability and COVID Study

ECCV and Melbourne University are looking for people with disability from migrant and refugee backgrounds to speak about how they have received COVID-19 related information during the pandemic, and how they use this information to access services and supports. Participants in this study will receive a $50 gift voucher. An interpreter can be provided if needed. 
  • To register your interest, contact ECCV Policy Officer James Houghton by email or call 0408 997 097

Multilingual Health App Evaluation

We are looking for bilingual people to help evaluate a new multilingual health app, Talk to Me, by participating in a one-hour online focus group. If you're over 25, a confident English speaker and speak Arabic, Cantonese, Croatian, Hakka, Greek, Italian, Macedonian, Mandarin, Serbian, Spanish, Turkish or Vietnamese, you are invited to join small focus groups being conducted during October by St Vincent’s Hospital, City of Melbourne and ECCV. 

Speak My Language

ECCV has recruited five new 'Travellers' to interview people with lived experience of disability, and guest speakers in Spanish, Sinhala, Marathi, Hindi and Arabic languages for the Speak My Language program. 

The national program is producing podcasts featuring people from First Nations and CALD communities sharing their experiences and tips about living well with disability. Another five Victorian 'Travellers' are currently training with ECCV to produce podcasts in Greek, Punjabi, Urdu, Hindi, Cantonese, Mandarin and Turkish.

2021 Victorian Disability Awards

Congratulations to Margherita Coppolino, National Ethnic Disability Alliance (NEDA) President, on being inducted into the Victorian Disability Awards Lifetime achievement honour roll. Margherita is the Chair of ECCV’s recently-formed Statewide Disability Network for culturally diverse communities. We congratulate all the winners and inductees of the 2021 Victorian Disability Awards, which celebrate the achievements of Victorians making a difference for people with disability.

NDIS support payments for COVID-19 vaccinations

New payments for providers supporting NDIS participants to attend COVID-19 vaccination appointments were announced on 1 September. Support coordinators and providers are now eligible to directly claim up to $150 to cover the costs of supporting NDIS participants to receive COVID-19 vaccine offsite. 

For more information, visit the NDIS website or call the Disability Gateway on 1800 643 787. To speak to someone in your language, call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450.

COVID-19 support for meal preparation and delivery 

The NDIA has introduced a temporary COVID-19 support measure to allow participants in lockdown areas to use their funding to pay for alternative meal preparation and delivery services. The new measure, which will lower participant’s risk of exposure to COVID-19, will be in place until 1 December 2021.

Feedback on proposed NDIS legislation changes | open until midnight 7 October 2021

The Department of Social Services (DSS) is inviting submissions on proposed changes to the NDIS Act. Feedback on the new draft of the Act, released 9 September. Go to the DSS website for more information and to make a submission. You can find an Easy Read version of the ‘Changing the NDIS Act and Rule’.

Feedback on Victorian Disability Act 2006 review | submissions closing 20 October 2021

The Victorian Government has released the Review of the Disability Act 2006 consultation paper online, after public consultations held earlier in the year and work by the Disability Act Review Advisory Group. 

DRC report highlights COVID-19 vaccine rollout deficiencies

The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability draft report looks into the Federal Government's COVID-19 vaccine strategy and roll-out for people with disability. 

The report, published on 27 September, highlighted deficiencies in the rollout, including the lack of sector consultation by the Department of Health, lack of transparency in decision-making, especially around the deprioritisation of vaccines for people in residential disability accommodation, and lack of accessible information.

Royal Commissions Amendment passes

The Australian Parliament passed the Royal Commissions Amendment (Protection of Information) Bill 2021 on 30 August. The amendments to the Royal Commissions Act 1902 protect confidential information given to a Royal Commission both during and after the inquiry. 

Submissions to the Disability Royal Commission are still open and can be made online, over the phone on 1800 517 199 or via email. For information in your language about making a submission, call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 and ask to be connected to 07 3734 1900.

NDIA COVID-19 information sessions

The NDIA invites Victorian and Tasmanian participants, their families and support networks to join them on 5 October at 12pm for an online information session about COVID-19. 

The session will cover the NDIS supports available for participants and providers during the pandemic and how to use these supports to access COVID-19 vaccines. 

If you’re unable to attend the Victorian session, the national session can be joined on 14 October at 6pm.

COVID-19 information session with Northern Health | 12 October 2021 | 7pm

ECCV invites residents in Melbourne’s outer north to join us for an online information session to learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones from COVID-19.

ECCV is proud to present this session with Northern Health as part of our COVID-19 Multicultural Outreach Project. If you would like to organise an information session for your community group, please contact us.

National Carers Week | 10-16 October 2021

National Carers Week 2021, themed ‘Millions of Reasons to Care’, will run with a variety of events and activities taking place around Australia. National Carers Week is an opportunity to recognise, celebrate, and raise awareness about the diversity of Australia's 2.65 million carers and their caring roles. To learn more or find events near you, visit the Carers Week website.

Paid opportunity: CYDA focus groups

Children and Young People with Disability Australia (CYDA) are hosting paid ‘LivedX’ consultation focus groups for young people with disability aged 15-25 to hear what an ideal future looks like for them. Expressions of interest are open for the September and October focus groups. Participants will receive a $75 gift card for their time.

Free small business start-up workshops | running until 20 October 2021

The IgniteAbility® Small Business Start-Ups program supports people living with disability to explore, start or grow a small business in Australia. The free two-day online workshops will help entrepreneurs with disability consolidate their ideas to build a strong, sustainable business.

'Long COVID' translated factsheets

CEH has translated a fact sheet about Long COVID into nine in-language written resources and five in-language audio recordings. The Long COVID project focuses on priority CALD communities particularly impacted by COVID-19 in 2020.

Multilingual Resources online library

Health Translations is an online library that helps health practitioners and those working with CALD communities find translated health information. Their September newsletter includes multilingual resources on COVID-19 vaccines, disability, mental health and more. If you're looking for specific in-language health information, or have a multilingual resource to add to the library, contact the Health Translations coordinator Anni Tillack-Benton.
 

MORE:

Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV)
Address: Suite 101, 398 Sydney Road, Coburg Vic 3058
Tel: (03) 9354 9555

PWR | WELCOMING | New Voices of PoWR Announced for the 2021 Parliament | 16-18 October 2021

[Edited extract from public address]

The Parliament of the World's Religions is thrilled to announce the latest Voices of PoWR joining the growing list of featured luminaries at the 2021 Parliament of World's Religions.

Atmarpit Nemiji is an ardent devotee of Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji, founder of Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur, which is a spiritual organisation with a following of hundreds of thousands of seekers globally and centres spread across 5 continents. This humble, young renunciate has a laudable background - rooted in spirituality, Atmarpit Nemiji is a global youth leader and passionate motivational speaker.
 
The Very Reverend Dr. Kelly Brown Douglas was named Dean of the Episcopal Divinity School at Union Theological Seminary and Professor of Theology at Union in September 2017. She was named the Bill and Judith Moyers Chair in Theology in November 2019. She also serves as the Canon Theologian at the Washington Nationa Cathedral and Theologian in Residence at Trinity Church Wall Street. Dean Douglas’ academic work has focused on womanist theology, sexuality and the Black church, and social justice.
 
Dharma Master Hsin Tao is the Abbot of the Wu-sheng Monastery on Ling-Jiou Mountain in Taiwan, the founder of the Ling Jiou Mountain (LJM) Buddhist Society, the Museum of World Religions (MWR), and of the Global Family for Love and Peace (GFLP). The Museum opened in 2001 as an educational platform to further respect, love and cooperation between the world’s religions, and through GFLP, has carried out numerous Interfaith activities, among them a continuous series of Buddhist-Muslim dialogues in 15 countries.
 
Kehkashan Basu is an iconic youth leader, global influencer, environmentalist, champion of women and children’s rights, winner of the 2016 International Children’s Peace Prize, TEDx speaker, Climate Reality Mentor, author, musician, peace and sustainability campaigner. Kehkashan is the Founder-President of global social innovation enterprise Green Hope Foundation, that works at a grassroots level in 25 countries, empowering young people.
The 2021 Parliament of the World's Religions is less than 17 days away. Don't miss over 100 luminaries, hundreds of programs, and thousands of grassroots organizers gathering online.

MORE:

Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR)
Website: https://parliamentofreligions.org

GOVV | UPDATING | Restrictions Metropolitan Melbourne and Mitcham Victoria | Tuesday 28 September 2021 | from 11.59pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Restrictions Metropolitan Melbourne and Mitcham Victoria | Tuesday 28 September 2021 | from 11.59pm

Getting vaccinated is our way out of this pandemic. The best vaccine you can get is the one that you can get today. Current Melbourne restrictions (with changes marked  new ) include:

Gatherings

  • If those over 18 years of age have had two vaccination shots, outdoor social gatherings, such as picnics, will be added to the list of reasons to leave the home. These gatherings will be allowed for up to five people from two households.
  • The gathering limit will be two people for people who are unvaccinated or have had one vaccination dose.

Exercise and recreation

  • Two people will be able to outdoors with a personal trainer, skate parks and outdoor communal exercise equipment will also reopen.
  • Indoor physical recreation and sport will be allowed for up to five people to allow for broadcast.
  •  new  Now allowed ‘contactless’ recreation at outdoor facilities, such as boating, tennis or golf. 

Time, Distance Limits and Curfew

  • The time limit for venturing outside the home for exercise of social gathering will increase from the existing two hour limit that applies on exercise to four hours.
  •  new  10km limit on most movement outside the home increases to 15km.
  • Exceptions to the distance rule include returning home from a primary residence, visiting an intimate partner or person in your single bubble, authorised work (except construction), caring and getting a COVID-19 vaccination.
  • The curfew from 9pm to 5am will remain.

Masks

  • The rules on masks have not changed so must be carried at all times outside the home and worn in all indoor and outdoor settings for anyone over 12 years of age.

Property

  • Real Estate Inspections will resume by appointment only. The current occupant cannot be present and the real estate agent must remain outside. Real estate auctions remain available only remotely.

Entertainment

  • Up to five people will be able to attend a venue (indoor fixed seated, outdoor fixed seated, non-seated indoor and non-seated outdoor) to broadcast a performance.
 

Additionally

  • You can leave home if there is an emergency.
  • You can leave home if there is family violence or violence by another person in the home, and you are at risk. If you are stopped by police, tell them you are feeling unsafe at home and they will help you. Safe accommodation and support for family violence is available. Call safe steps on 1800 015 188 or email safesteps@safesteps.org.au for help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • If you need to leave home, you must wear a face mask, unless you have a lawful reason for not doing so.
 

Other ways to stay safe

  • Always wash your hands before you leave, and when you return home.
  • Keep at least 1.5 metres between yourself and others.
  • Never, ever go out if you are unwell unless it is to get tested.
  • After you get tested, you must go straight home.
  • Remember that the most important thing you can do is get tested, even if you have the mildest of symptoms.
  • Get vaccinated.
 

To learn more about Victoria's restrictions

 

 Relief and Community Support links:


COVID-19 Resources

Exposure sites

There are new coronavirus exposure sites across Melbourne as well as some regional areas. If you, or your friends or family, went to any of the exposure sites listed here at the times indicated, please follow the advice given for that particular site. 


Vaccinations

Getting vaccinated is our way out of this pandemic. The best vaccine you can get is the one that you can get today.

Is it true? With new COVID-19 vaccine developments every day, it’s normal to have questions or concerns, and possibly feel hesitant about getting a vaccine. That's why accurate, evidence-based answers to questions is available about COVID-19 vaccines. 
Find out more about COVID-19 vaccines ⁠–⁠ Is it true?

Have you booked your vaccine? Everyone in Australia can get the vaccination when it's their turn. Currently in Victoria, anyone aged 40 or over is eligible for the free vaccine, along with people with particular underlying conditions 

Resources for disability service providers

This Federal Department of Health's dedicated COVID-19 vaccine webpage has comprehensive information and resources for people with disability. This includes a readiness toolkit with resources designed to assist disability service providers during the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines. 

Immediate Eligibility for NDIS participants and carers aged 16 years and over

All National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participants aged 16 years and over and carers aged 16 years and over of NDIS participants of any age became eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine from 8 June. NDIS participants will be able to find a vaccination site using the Department of Health's eligibility checker. 

AUST | GOV | Arm yourself against COVID-19

The Australian Government has launched a new campaign to encourage eligible Australians to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

The Arm Yourself campaign urges Australians to protect themselves, their loved ones, the people they care about, and the wider community by getting the COVID-19 vaccine. 

Use the COVID-19 vaccine eligibility checker in 15 languages to find out when you can book your vaccination and arm yourself. 

VIC | GOV | It's a no brainer Vaccination Video

Thursday Island resident Elsie Seriat OAM is a proud mum, runner and graduate from the Indigenous Marathon Foundation. In a new video, she explains how important it is to protect yourself and your family against COVID-19 by getting the vaccine when you can.

The video is part of a raft of resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples explaining the importance of the vaccination. You can browse other resources here 

VIC | VCOSS | Getting Back To The Good Things and Performance Of A Lifetime Vaccination Videos 

The Victorian Council of Social Service (VCOSS) videos feature ordinary Australians talking about the special moments in life they are looking forward to when life can be 'normal' again.


MELB | NWMPHN |  Goodbye COVID Vaccination Video

North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) worked with local community leaders to encourage people to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Getting vaccinated protects yourself and your loved ones. When enough of us are vaccinated, life will be better for everyone.

Goodbye COVID videos are in 20 languages, along with scripts and more information. 

AUST | GOV | CALD and Aged Care vaccination videos

Watch new videos from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) community members speaking in Mandarin, Cantonese, Nepali, Vietnamese and Dinka about why they got their COVID-19 vaccine.

Aged care residents have also shared their experience getting the COVID-19 vaccines. Videos come with captions in Arabic, Chinese Simplified, Chinese Traditional, Greek, Hindi, Italian, Korean and Vietnamese. 

AUST | GOV | Showing proof of vaccination

After you get vaccinated, your vaccination provider adds your details on the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) within 10 days. Most people can get their proof using their Medicare online account through myGov. You just need to make sure you’ve got a myGov account set up and that you’ve linked it to Medicare. 

MORE:

Office of the Premier
State Government of Victoria (GOVV)
Address: 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne Victoria 3002 Australia

VMC | UPDATING | Watch the Refugee Awards, Join Anti-Racism Community Interest Group | Tuesday 28 September 2021

[Edited extract from public address]

Thanks to the high vaccination rates, we will see some restrictions ease midnight Tuesday 28 September 2021.

Message from the Chairperson

Perhaps most significantly, people living in Metropolitan Melbourne will be able to travel 15km from home and there will also be further forms of recreation allowed. You can learn more about the Roadmap here.

If Victorians continue to get vaccinated at this speed, we will see more restrictions relaxed soon. So, let's keep it up. If you haven't already, please book your vaccination at a vaccination centre, or get in touch with your GP to see if they have supply.

I am continually inspired by the ongoing work by community and faith organisations to support others through this difficult time. The number of phone calls, health and wellbeing sessions and food parcels delivered over the past weeks has been staggering. Thank you.

Two important COVID-19 community sessions happening this week include one for Latin communities on Thursday, and another for the South Sudanese community this Friday evening at 6pm (no registration, just click this link when the session begins).

Last Wednesday, many of us felt the earthquake that struck close to Mansfield. While some buildings were damaged, thankfully there were no reports of serious injuries. My thoughts have been with those who have lived through more severe earthquakes. I know experiencing this unexpected event in Victoria may have brought up fear and traumatic memories in the moment. For anyone who found themselves unsure of what to do when the earthquake hit, the SES has developed a list of safety instructions for different scenarios. 

In better news, the Victorian Government has announced that more food support will be available to multicultural communities as part of the ongoing pandemic response. Grants are now open to organisations able to deliver food relief in a COVID-safe manner. I particularly want to thank Minister Spence, the Minister for Multicultural Affairs, for her deep understanding of issues experienced by diverse communities.

I have previously written about the Anti-Racism Taskforce. You can now stay up to date with what the Taskforce has been discussing, and have your say on the statewide Anti-Racism Strategy we are helping develop. To join the Anti-Racism Community Interest Group, please email antiracism.taskforce@dffh.vic.gov.au.

Finally, we will be broadcasting the online presentation of winners for the Victorian Refugee Awards tomorrow night, Wednesday 29 September 2021. We had booked dates for an in-person presentation at the Immigration Museum, but unfortunately lockdowns have forced several cancellations. Please join us in celebrating the incredible achievements of Victorians from refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds tomorrow from 6pm.

Thank you, as always, for taking the time to read our Community Update. Let's hope this week is a little less eventful than the last.

Take care and stay safe.
Viv Nguyen AM, Chairperson 

Victorian Refugee Awards streaming live | 29 September 2021 | from 6pm AEST

The VMC's Victorian Refugee Awards recognise people, businesses and organisations who have excelled through study, work, entrepreneurial or volunteer efforts. 

The presentation of winners will stream live on Zoom tomorrow night from 6pm. If you would like to view the broadcast, you can register by clicking the button below.
 

What to do during an earthquake

If you suspect you are an experiencing an earthquake, there are some precautions you can take to better protect your personal safety. Dropping to the ground, taking cover and holding on are the three most important steps to remember. 

The SES has compiled instructions on their website for various scenarios you may find yourself in when an earthquake hits.
 

More food support coming for multicultural communities

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence has announced the opening of $2.7 million in grants through the Priority Response to Multicultural Communities during Coronavirus program.

Applications are open to organisations providing emergency food relief to ensure culturally appropriate food and essential goods continue to reach Victoria’s multicultural and faith communities.

Almost $23 million has already been invested through the program since it began in August last year, which has to date provided support to more than 500,000 Victorians.

Early applications are highly encouraged.
 

Join Anti-Racism Community Interest Group

The Victorian Government will be launching its first statewide Anti-Racism Strategy next year. The strategy will set out a clear and targeted roadmap to reducing racism and faith-based discrimination in Victoria, guided by strategic advice and recommendations from the Anti-Racism Taskforce.

You can join the Anti-Racism Community Interest Group to receive regular updates on the latest developments of the Taskforce and the strategy, and find out how to have your say.
 

Get the MyAus COVID-19 app

Migration Council Australia (MCA) has developed MyAus COVID-19. It is a multilingual app for Australia’s culturally and linguistically diverse communities focused on COVID-19, its impact and available support.

MyAus COVID-19 app supports access to information in a user-friendly format, including via short animations. The app is supported by the Australian Government and is currently available in 29 community languages.

MCA has also updated its standard MyAus App, which includes 500 articles and 40 short videos with information to assist newly arrived migrants to settle in Australia. It now includes Dari, Hazaragi and Urdu translations. Work is currently underway to translate the app into Pashto.

The app is also available in Arabic, Chinese, Spanish, Turkish and English and can be downloaded from the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
 

Coronavirus hotline 


MORE:

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


WHISE | WEBINAR | Covid-19: Looking After Your Well-Being | Wednesday 29 September 2021 | 12noon-1.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Migrant woman in Southern Metro Melbourne are invited to join a free online health education session!

Connect with others in a friendly space and discuss physical and mental well-being during lockdown.

We will discuss:
  • how to build vaccine confidence with friends and family
  • current vaccination trends
  • local support services
Join us for an interactive opportunity to learn a few Bhangra dance moves!

Location: online through Zoom
Considerations: Participants will receive a $10 Coles Voucher
Bookings: To register please contact Trishula Nagarajan, Community Engagement Coordinator, Email: tnagarajan@whise.org.au or Tel: 0447 906 801

MORE:

Women's Health in the South East (WHISE)
Address: Level 1, 70 St Kilda Road, St Kilda, VIC 3182
Tel: (03) 9794 8677

PWR | ANNOUNCING | New Voices for the 2021 Parliament | 16-18 October 2021

[Edited extract from public address]

Additional featured luminaries will share their deep commitment to service for humanity, action-based change, and investing in communities to build better for the future. 

Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II is the President & Senior Lecturer of Repairers of the Breach, Co-Chair of the Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call For Moral Revival; Bishop with The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries; Visiting Professor at Union Theological Seminary; and the author of four books: We Are Called To Be A Movement; Revive Us Again: Vision and Action in Moral Organizing; The Third Reconstruction: Moral Mondays, Fusion Politics, and The Rise of a New Justice Movement; and Forward Together: A Moral Message For The Nation.
 
Dharma Master Cheng Yen was born in 1937 in a small town in Taichung County, Taiwan. When she was 23 years old, she become a Buddhist nun. Her mentor, Venerable Master Yin Shun, instructed her to work “for Buddha’s teachings for sentient beings.”
In 1966, she founded a charity which later became the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation.
 
Lord Karan Bilimoria, CBE is the first ever Zoroastrian Parsi to sit in the House of Lords, the founder of Cobra Beer, Chairman of the Cobra Beer Partnership Limited, and Chairman of Molson Coors Cobra India. 
Lord Bilimoria is the Founding Chairman of the UK India Business Council, a Deputy Lieutenant of Greater London, a former Chancellor of Thames Valley University; he was the youngest University Chancellor in the UK when appointed.
 
Dr. Vandana Shiva is trained as a Physicist and did her Ph.D. on the subject “Hidden Variables and Non-locality in Quantum Theory” from the University of Western Ontario in Canada.  She later shifted to inter-disciplinary research in science, technology and environmental policy. She founded an independent institute, the Research Foundation for Science, Technology and Ecology in Dehra Dun dedicated to high quality and independent research , and in 1991 she founded Navdanya, a national movement to protect the diversity and integrity of living resources.
The 2021 Parliament hosts and features over 500 programs, more than 100 global luminaries, and countless opportunities to connect with the global interfaith movement. 
Don't miss this inspiring Convening, happening in less than 20 days!

MORE:

Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR)
Website: https://parliamentofreligions.org

PWR | UPDATING | Luminaries & News, In Memoriam and More | 16-18 October 2021

[Edited extract from public address]

Diverse voices will share special prayers highlighting the diversity of their faith and spiritual traditions on the plenary stage.

The Parliament of the World's Religions is honored to announce that Yacop Cohen, Yangjin Lamu, Swami Ishatmananda, and Mena Suvari join the growing list of featured luminaries at the 2021 Parliament of World's Religions.
  • Yangjin Lamu A preeminent spiritual musician, meditation teacher, and author.
  • Yacop Cohen The representative of the Samaritan community.
  • Swami Ishatmananda A senior monk of the Ramakrishna Order.
  • Mena Suvari A critically acclaimed American actress, comedian, and model.

New luminaries are added weekly

Did you miss our previous announcement featuring Angaangaq Angakkorsuaq, Sirena Huang, H.H. Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni Ji and Mother Maya Tiwari?

Explore the Enriching Features of the 2021 Parliament Film Festival

The Film Festival at the 2021 Parliament offers registrants a unique opportunity to enjoy documentaries from award-winning directors like Mission: Joy, heartfelt stories of faith like Spiritual Audacity: The Abraham Joshua Heschel Story, profound stories of justice like Glimpses into the Spirit of Gender Equality, and outstanding interfaith stories like Tango Shalom.
 

2021 Parliament Grief Plenary To Honor the Memory of Those Lost

The Parliament invites attendees and members of the movement to submit the name and photo of those who passed away between 2018-2021 as part of a special memorial ceremony that will be presented live on Sunday 17 October 2021.

In Memoriam: Swami Atmatattwananda

The Parliament of the World's Religions is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Swami Atmatattwananda on Monday 13 September 2021.

Compassion in Action: Exploring Theme & Purpose of 2021 PoWR

On Thursday 23 September, Religions for Peace USA hosted a special webinar exploring the theme and purpose of the upcoming 2021 Parliament.

Building Forward Equal for Peace, Freedom, & Democracy 

On Wednesday 15 September, the Parliament's Next Generation Task Force hosted a special program on "Building Forward Equal for Peace, Freedom, & Democracy".

MORE:

Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR)
Address: 70 East Lake St., Suite 230 Chicago, IL 60601 United States

NCJWA | WEBINAR | Sex Trafficking and the Continuum of Sexual Violence | Tue 5 Oct 2021 | 8-9pm AEDT

[Edited extract from public address]

The topic of men's violence against women has been receiving increasing attention in the Australian media, sparking long-overdue discussions about the attitudes that men hold about women and girls.

Join this NCJWA and Coalition Against Trafficking in Women Australia (CATWA) insightful webinar about the never-ending issue of sexual violence towards women.

One form of male violence that has received considerably less public attention is sex trafficking. Often hidden from public sight, the trafficking of women and children for sexual exploitation is part of a broad continuum of men's sexual violence. Australia is a key destination for the trafficking of women from South-East Asia, which has been found in both licenced and unlicensed brothels throughout the country.

In this interactive event, we'll discuss sex trafficking as a form of male violence against women and offer both legislative approaches and grassroots ways we can all help to fight it.

Be aware and informed - and help end violence against women. Register for our session via the button below.

Where: online through Zoom. A Zoom link will be sent out 24 hours and 1 hour prior to the event.
Cost: Free
Bookings: Online through Humanitix.

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National Council of Jewish Women Australia (NCJWA)
Address: PO box 104, Balaclava VIC 3183 Australia

CitC | CALLING | Participants in The Calm Collective | weekly from Sunday 26 September-Sunday 19 December 2021 | 9-9.15pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Launching a special initiative called The Calm Collective - a collaborative network to bring together committed meditators, faith leaders and well-wishers from all backgrounds and walks of life.

“The world is a projection of our collective consciousness. If our collective consciousness reaches that place of peace, harmony, laughter and love, it will be a different world.” – Deepak Chopra
The aim is to establish a collective, silent intentional space that gathers the power of presence for 10 minutes. These focused spaces are designed to generate atmospheres of calm, healing and hope.

Gathering from 9-9.15pm, each Sunday evening to support Australia and our planet during some difficult times ahead.

The holding of these weekly spaces will be accompanied by a couple minutes of inspirations and reflections by a long-term faith and/or meditation practitioner.

The first week, we are so pleased to have long term meditator and Head Coach of the Australian Men's Cricket Team - Justin Langer. Then, in the following week, we will have the lovely Dr Tami Roos sharing a couple of minutes of inspirational reflections before our 10 minutes of holding a silent intentional space.

The host of the series will be Caroline Ward who some of you will also know from The Optimist Heart series that she hosted last year (as well as the UN Peace Day event this week).
"You, me, us, all - holding the light - together" – The Calm Collective
 

Join The Calm Collective

We warmly welcome any individuals (meditators or not) who feel inspired to join The Calm Collective and become part of a growing number of people dedicated to using the power of meditation, prayer and pure intentional thoughts to serve and uplift our world in these most challenging times.

By becoming a member, going forward, you will be invited to hold these silent intentional spaces with The Calm Collective community. Whilst you may not be able to always attend online, nevertheless, your individual presence or ‘tuning in’ is valuable and contributes to the power of the gathering.

More about The Calm Collective

The Calm Collective recognises the silent transformative power of meditation, prayer and pure intent. The hope is that, no matter what background we come from, in moving forward, we unite and are one in our intentions of peace, upliftment, hope and compassion – and that these specific intentions and feelings held collectively have the ability to create powerful waves of positive influence throughout Australia and across our world.

The Calm Collective is an initiative of Calm in the City in collaboration with the Faith Communities Council of Victoria (the peak body of faith communities in Victoria) and the Meditation Association of Australia (the peak body of meditation teachers in Australia).

Calm in the City is a not-for-profit venture supported by Brahma Kumaris Australia which listens and engages with the city communities to bring calm into the heart of the city. 

Please contact us if you would like to add your name to the list of supporting organisations. Your support is so welcome.

MORE:

Calm in the City
Address: Meditation Centre, Bookshop and Quiet Room, 256 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy

EQPR | RAISING | Awareness, Community and Funds on GiveOUT Day | 15 October 2021

[Edited extract from public address]

The LGBTIQ+ sector is one of the most underfunded in Australia and this GiveOUT Day we hope to harness the power of a national fundraising campaign to raise funds that will help us continue our work.

Participate in GiveOUT Day 2021 to raise money to bring our community together.

If this pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that we need each other more than ever, and we need opportunities and spaces to meet, gather, learn and connect. 

The Equality Project has set a lofty target this year, and we need your help to reach it!
 
Reasons to Donate
  • We're working hard to connect LGBTIQ+ communities in 2021 and beyond. Better Together 2021, brought over 620 LGBTIQ+ people together, including 30 First Nations LGBTIQ+ people and we’re hoping to increase that number in 2022 when the Better Together 2022 Conference will be held in Far North Queensland in June.
  • We're really proud that this year, we were able to cover the cost of partial and full registration for nearly 300 attendees at the conference.
  • We want to bring together as many of our LGBTIQ+ First Nations people as possible and to do that, we need to fundraise $60,000 towards travel costs.
  • We're a tax-deductible charity. You can donate to our GiveOUT Day Campaign today or on 15th October 2021.
  • Your donation will be doubled by GiveOUT and their sponsors.
We understand that this is a very difficult time for many people right now, but if you are in a position to donate money to our GiveOUT Day Campaign, we’d really appreciate your support.


We're really looking forward to continuing our work and to seeing you at one of our events.
In the meantime, please take care of yourselves and each other.

MORE:

The Equality Project (EQPR)

Creating LGBTIQ+ Leaders for Change. The Equality Project is on the land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation.

CUIN | REVEALING | An interactive music program solution for remote learning during lockdowns

[Edited extract from public address]

An essential learning resource, Sound Infusion is the solution for remote learning during lockdowns.

Our online virtual studio contains: 
  • An interactive music program enabling students to combine sounds of instruments from many cultures 
  • More than 5000 tracks of 300 traditional instruments from nearly 100 countries 
  • 50 lesson plans for Years 1 to 10 linked to IB 
  • Register now for a free trial

Sound Infusion and Blended Learning Webinar

Sound Infusion hosted a networking session for SIETAR Europa, the International Society for Intercultural Education, Training and Research. The event highlighted where people, culture and music come together.

Sound Infusion's Digital Audio Workstation also featured as part of a recent webinar for the Association of Music Educators (aMuse), available to watch online.

MORE:

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

PWR | HONOURING | Connection and The Memory of Those Lost | 16-18 October 2021

[Edited extract from public address]

In a year of unprecedented hardships facing the world, we mourn millions of lives lost, connecting people of faith and spirituality committed to peace, justice, and sustainability. 

The 2021 Parliament of the World’s Religions and its theme of “Opening Our Hearts to the World: Compassion in Action” is organized at a time of great sorrow for our world.

This virtual Convening, ambitious and historic for the organization, aims to celebrate and connect with the global interfaith movement in the midst of the pandemic. But it is also an observance of the deep loss felt by every individual, congregation, community, organization, and nation since the 2018 Parliament.

At the Plenary on Grief, the Parliament intends to honor those lost in solidarity with our global interfaith community.

We invite attendees and members of the movement to submit the name and photo of those who passed away between 2018-2021 as part of a special memorial ceremony that will be presented live on Sunday 17 October 2021.

MORE:

The Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR)

GOVV | GRANTING | Applications for the third round of funding Multicultural Communities during Coronavirus (COVID-19) | now open

[Edited extract from public address]

Applications for funding through the Priority Response to Multicultural Communities during Coronavirus (COVID-19) phase 3 program are now open.

The program will ensure organisations can respond to the current health crisis and the impacts on multicultural and multifaith communities most in need, while operating in a COVIDSafe way. It will also promote the capacity building of local community networks and organisations.

Organisations can use program funding for activities that benefit Victoria’s diverse multicultural and faith communities, including:

  • emergency relief essentials (including food and other essentials)
  • food vouchers for community members affected by COVID-19, as approved by the Department
  • staffing and oncosts to support the provision of emergency food relief services (up to 10 per cent of grant funds), which the department approves
  • transport and logistics costs (up to 10 per cent of grant funds), including rental of vehicles for delivery of food, which the department approves
  • promoting the program to connect with community members and support their access to food relief services (up to 5 per cent of grant funds), which the department approves.

How to apply

  • Complete the online application form.
  • Organisations are encouraged to apply for PRMC 3.0 funding as soon as possible.
  • The program will close once all funding has been exhausted.
  • Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
For help with your application, please read the information, attend a webinar information session or contact the Funding Team, Multicultural Coronavirus Response Team:
Phone: 1300 112 755

Webinar sessions Registrations

Sessions will be delivered in English. If you have accessibility requirements or require a translator, please contact the Multicultural Coronavirus Response Team by emailing Multicultural.COVID.Taskforce@dffh.vic.gov.au.  

MORE:

Funding Team, Multicultural Coronavirus Response Team
Department of Families, Fairness and Housing
State Government of Victoria (GOVV)
Phone: 1300 112 755

VMC | UPDATING | How to show proof of vaccination, UN Peace Day Vigil, Mid-Autumn Festival | Tuesday 21 September 2021

[Edited extract from public address]

Over the weekend, the Premier laid out the roadmap to reopening Victoria. Hopefully we can all see the way out of lockdown ahead of us now, and look forward to coming together again in person.

Message from the Chairperson

To get there, though, we first need to get vaccinated. This past week saw excellent gains in vaccine rates, so I'm confident we are on track to hit the targets quickly. We're also seeing diverse leaders stand up and encourage their communities to get the jab. Last week, we held a vaccination forum for the Lebanese community, the Oromo community and many others online to keep their communities engaged and informed. This week I am attending sessions held by several other communities, including a presentation by Dr Stephen Lu for the Chinese community and another for the Hmong Community (next Monday 7pm).

I am grateful to these leaders for helping so many multicultural Victorians better understand that vaccination is safe, effective and necessary to move beyond the pandemic.

In this week's update, we show you how to prove your vaccination status. This will likely be an important part of working onsite, shopping, dining and enjoying many other activities in the coming months. 

We also invite you to join a vigil for UN Peace Day Tuesday 21 September 2021 as well as a mental health forum next week, which will feature VMC Commissioner Dr Judy Tang. You can nominate someone as an Asia Game Changer, and we share some new dementia awareness films in several languages.

Finally, I would like to wish a blessed Mid-Autumn Festival for those who observe the holiday. It's sad we can't be together in person, but I hope you can find a way to celebrate this special time with family and friends. 

Take care and stay safe.
Viv Nguyen AM, Chairperson

How to show your proof of vaccination

It’s easy to find the best way to get proof of your vaccinations using Services Australia's COVID-19 tool. Your immunisation history statement and COVID-19 digital certificate both show proof of your COVID-19 vaccination status.

After you get vaccinated, your vaccination provider adds your details on the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) within 10 days.

Most people can get their proof using their Medicare online account through myGov. You just need to make sure you’ve got a myGov account set up and that you’ve linked it to Medicare.
 

UN Peace Day 2021: Online Vigil for Peace

Each year the International Day of Peace is observed around the world on 21 September 2021. The 2021 theme for the International Day of Peace is 'Recovering better for an equitable and sustainable world'.

In the face of the pandemic, as we move towards recovery and healing, Calm in the City invites you to come together today at 5:30pm, in unity, to light a candle for peace.

The half hour event will include a gentle guided meditation, and will celebrate compassion, resilience, courage and hope within the community.
 

Nominate for Asia Game Changer Awards 

Do you know someone making a positive impact on Australia’s relationship with Asia? Nominate them as a Game Changer.

The Melbourne Asia Game Changer series, run by the Asia Society, seeks to identify, recognise and celebrate those Australians who make a positive impact in Asia and Australia by celebrating their achievements.

A Game Changer could be a work colleague, role model or someone in public life who makes Australia’s relationship with Asia richer. While Melbourne will host the awards, a Game Changer could be an Australian anywhere in Australia or Asia.
 

Watch these dementia awareness films 

In Australia, limited awareness of dementia in people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds often results in delayed diagnosis, poorer prognosis, and a higher burden of care on families and health systems.

Moving Pictures, an innovative multimedia project, aims to change this through the production of short films co-produced with people from CALD backgrounds.

The project has launched today with 12 new short films aimed at raising awareness about dementia, and the importance of early diagnosis to enable better treatment and quality of life.

The films also provide practical tips, as well as information about services that are available to families caring for someone living with dementia.
 

Multicultural mental health forum | Wednesday 29 September 2021 | 2.30-4pm AEST

The 'What About the “other” 21%?' online forum will be an open discussion focusing on lived experiences and practical steps mental health organisations can take to close the communication gap with multicultural communities.

Panellists include Niharika Hiremath from the National Mental Health Commission, Dr Judy Tang from Jurmaine Health and the Victorian Multicultural Commission; Yamiko Marama from Orygen; Sammy Huynh, a school counsellor and mental health clinician, and Ingrid Ozols, a life experience mental health and suicide prevention consultant.

Following this event, Polaron will publish an impact report to be shared with Australian mental health organisations on how to better support multicultural communities, with findings based on the discussion and feedback from the online forum.
 

Please stay home for Mid-Autumn Festival

The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for some Asian communities to celebrate – a time when we’re usually together. We know it’s difficult to not be with our loved ones at this important time. But celebrating at home is the best way to keep ourselves and our community safe.
While we may be physically apart, we can stay connected with family and friends in other ways.
 

Coronavirus hotline 


MORE:

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

GEIFN | AWAKENING | Compassion in Uncertain Times | COMMEMORATING | UN International Day of Peace | Tuesday 21 September 2021

GEIFN | AWAKENING | Compassion in Uncertain Times

In This Section

  • GEIFN | Aspiring
  • UN | COMMEMORATING | International Day of Peace | 21 September
  • UNHCR | UPDATING | Forcibly Displaced, Refugees & Stateless | Figures at a Glance | 18 June 2021
  • Engaging Privilege, Inequality, Equity and Society
  • Supporting Global Engagement in Friendlier Neighbourhoods
  • Sharing Downloadable PDF Statements
  • Dedicating Merit and Best Wishes for Less Suffering with Vajrasattva Mantra



GEIFN | Aspiring

GEIFN was formed in early 2011 with representation from many faith groups. Currently in caretaker mode with Carey Rohrlach attending. In keeping with these simpler times, please note the new geifn website and email addresses.

  • Promoting harmony and respect for faiths, values, cultures and traditions in our shared community.
  • Providing opportunities for dialogue, understanding, harmonious interaction, co-operative community service and events that highlight positive contributions in the community.
  • Demonstrating respect for others belief’s, cultures and traditions. This desire arises from our common humanity and our being people of faith.
  • Recognising neighbours, that we have responsibilities to ourselves, community and the world.
  • Encouraging citizens, all to put aside intolerance, prejudice and divisiveness to attain peaceful and fruitful co-existence.
  • Acknowledging traditional inhabitants of Port Phillip, Glen Eira and surrounds are the Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri peoples of the Kulin Nation.
  • Respecting 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, savour and enjoy results of mindful effort so more thrive peacefully in our place called home.

This annual supplement is a curation from information in public domain. Thankyou to all the many exemplars who have shared their aspiration, experience and results to be the peace making they wish to see in the world. Received with gratitude.


UN | COMMEMORATING | International Day of Peace | 21 September

The International Day of Peace was established in 1981 by the United Nations General Assembly. Two decades later, in 2001, the General Assembly unanimously voted to designate the Day as a period of non-violence and cease-fire.

Each year the International Day of Peace is observed around the world on 21 September. The UN General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.

In 2021, as we heal from the COVID-19 pandemic, we are inspired to think creatively and collectively about how to help everyone recover better, how to build resilience, and how to transform our world into one that is more equal, more just, equitable, inclusive, sustainable, and healthier.

The pandemic is known for hitting the underprivileged and marginalized groups the hardest. By April 2021, over 687 million COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered globally, but over 100 countries have not received a single dose. People caught in conflict are especially vulnerable in terms of lack of access to healthcare.

In line with the Secretary-General’s appeal for a global ceasefire last March, in February 2021 the Security Council unanimously passed a resolution calling for Member States to support a “sustained humanitarian pause” to local conflicts. The global ceasefire must continue to be honoured, to ensure people caught in conflict have access to lifesaving vaccinations and treatments.

The pandemic has been accompanied by a surge in stigma, discrimination, and hatred, which only cost more lives instead of saving them: the virus attacks all without caring about where we are from or what we believe in. Confronting this common enemy of humankind, we must be reminded that we are not each other’s enemy. To be able to recover from the devastation of the pandemic, we must make peace with one another.

And we must make peace with nature. Despite the travel restrictions and economic shutdowns, climate change is not on pause. What we need is a green and sustainable global economy that produces jobs, reduces emissions, and builds resilience to climate impacts.

The 2021 theme for the International Day of Peace is “Recovering better for an equitable and sustainable world”. We invite you to join the efforts of the United Nations family as we focus on recovering better for a more equitable and peaceful world. Celebrate peace by standing up against acts of hate online and offline, and by spreading compassion, kindness, and hope in the face of the pandemic, and as we recover. More

COVID-19 Response
This is a global health crisis unlike any other — one that is spreading human suffering, destabilizing the global economy and upending the lives of billions of people around the globe. Vulnerable populations in countries with weaker health systems, facing existing humanitarian crises are at great risk. The United Nations is committed to ensuring all people have access to all the tools to defeat COVID-19. Global solidarity is not only a moral imperative, it is in everyone’s interests. More




UNHCR | UPDATING | Forcibly Displaced, Refugees & Stateless | Figures at a Glance | 18 June 2021

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the UN Refugee Agency, is a global organization dedicated to saving lives, protecting rights and building a better future for refugees, other forcibly displaced communities and stateless people. 

At least 82.4 million people around the world have been forced to flee their homes. Among them are nearly 26.4 million refugeesaround half under the age of 18.

There are also millions of stateless people, who have been denied a nationality and lack access to basic rights such as education, health care, employment and freedom of movement.

At a time when 1 in every 95 people on earth has fled their home as a result of conflict or persecution, UNHCR's workis more important than ever before.



UNHCR personnel are the backbone of UNHCR. As of 31 December 2020, UNHCR employed 17,878 people, of whom around nearly 91 per cent are based in the field.
We work in 132 countries and territories, with personnel based in a mixture of regional and branch offices and sub and field offices. Our teams work hard to help the displaced, specializing in a wide range of disciplines, including legal protection, administration, community services, public affairs and health.

UNHCR is funded almost entirely by voluntary contributions, with 85 per cent from governments and the European Union. Three per cent comes from other inter-governmental organizations and pooled funding mechanisms, while a further 11 per cent is from the private sector, including foundations, corporations and the public. Additionally, we receive a limited subsidy (one per cent) from the UN budget for administrative costs, and accept in-kind contributions, including items such as tents, medicines and trucks. For up to date information about UNHCR’s financial needs visit Global Focus website.



Engaging Privilege, Inequality, Equity and Society


ABC: Australian Story: Spanish flu vs COVID-19: An Australian perspective of a pandemic (33 mins)

Kings and Generals: Muslim Schism: How Islam Split into the Sunni and Shia Branches (19 mins)

History of China: The Qing Dynasty Harem System - Imperial Concubines (14 mins)

Origin of Everything: Why Did Europeans Enslave Africans? (10 mins)

Xuan Zang (2 hours)
Chinese + English Subtitles
A reconstructed account of the historical 16th CE Chinese monk who journeyed to the West (India).


Supporting Global Engagement in Friendlier Neighbourhoods

In This Section
  • Badges
  • Photocards
  • Coffee Mugs
  • Contemplations
  • Inspirations
  • Sharing Downloadable PDF Statements
  • Dedicating Merit and Best Wishes for Less Suffering
  • Update Your Contact Details
Consider obtaining and distributing from the growing range of collateral below. (Any receipts go towards production costs and ongoing service provision.)


Badges

For equity: YES, I am
Badges
Description:
Size: 56mm diametre, safety-pin clasp
Pack Contains: 20
Cost: $40 until stocks last
Includes Postage to Australian Addresses

OR download free digital version here for adding to your documents:


Photocards

Reconciliation? “I know that women deserve the right to choose their own future. Whether black or white.” Emily Wurramara, Wanindilyakwa Woman, From Minya Birran Interview April 2020

Photocard

Description:
High quality high gloss 1 sided on photographic paper
Individual Size: 15x10cm
Pack Contains: 10 cards
Cost: $6 until stocks last
Includes Postage to Australian Addresses

OR download free digital version here:


Coffee Mugs

View 1: Lost Piece in the presence of Desire, Envy, Anger, Pride and Confusion? 
View 2: Found Peace: If it was easy, everybody would be doing it.
Coffee Mugs
Description: 
White ceramic 325ml mug with wrap-around image
Pack Contains: 1 Mug
Cost: $20 ea until stocks last
Includes Postage to Australian Addresses



Contemplations

Take Away Contemplation (Front):
We give thanks for the precious nature
of life.

We give thanks for the precious nature 
of the lives of those we care for
and who care for us.

We give thanks for the precious nature 
of the many interconnected conditions
that come together today
to allow us to enjoy this place, 
this company, 
this purpose, 
this potential, 
this time.

We give thanks for the precious nature 
of all Teachers, Teachings and Opportunities to Share.

We give thanks for the precious nature 
of my/your/our life. 

May all beings enjoy such benefits
or if not, have less Suffering until planting the seeds for growth. 

For the benefit of all, thankyou.

Daily, before meals or anytime


Contemplating Departure (Back):
Please forgive me 
For anything I did or said 
Or failed to do or say, 
That hurt you or upset you, 
Whether I did them intentionally or unintentionally

I forgive you
For anything you did or said
Or failed to do or say
That hurt me or upset me,
Whether you did them intentionally or unintentionally

May all live in Peace, Wellbeing and Happiness

Daily, after meals or at the closing

Contemplations

Description: 
High quality laserprinted 2 sided leaflet
Individual Size: 21x10cm
Pack Contains: 12 leafs
Cost: $6 until stocks last
Includes Postage to Australian Addresses

OR download free digital version here:


Inspirations

Be Aspiring, Change View (Front):
Found Peace. If it was easy then everybody would be enjoying it.

Beat Time, Check Source (Back):
Re:lig:ion = again/back : join/unite : energy

Inspirations

Description:
High quality laserprinted 2 sided leaflet
Individual Size: 21x10cm
Pack Contains: 12 leafs
Cost: $6 until stocks last
Includes Postage to Australian Addresses

OR download free digital version here:


Sharing Downloadable PDF Statements



Dedicating Merit and Best Wishes for Less Suffering


“May all our positive energy today
Extend out like a great ocean
Bringing less Suffering, peace and happiness to all.
May less Suffering and great peace begin here.”



Update Your Contact Details For GEIFN:

Glen Eira Interfaith Network (GEIFN)
Email: caretaker@geifn.org

Website: www.geifn.org