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GEIFN | CONSOLIDATED | Information on Coronavirus (COVID-19) | Friday 1 October 2021

Fast Facts: COVID-19 Victoria & Australia

  1. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Pandemic Response
  2. VIC | VMC | ALERTING | All to watch out for these for these current scams
  3. AUST | MCA | OFFERING | MyAus COVID-19 app
  4. AUST | NDIS | SUPPORTING | Payments to Disability Support Coordinators and Providers for COVID-19 vaccinations
  5. AUST | NDIA | SUPPORTING | Meal Preparation and Delivery to the Disabled During COVID-19
  6. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural Communities during Coronavirus (COVID-19) third round of funding | applications now open
  7. VIC | GOV | ASSISTING | Family Recovery Program here to help CALD Victorians
  8. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | COVID-19 business support grants In-language information
  9. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Changing Places facilities grants | applications close 5 November 2021
  10. AUST | GOV | ADVISING | You may be eligible for financial support if restrictions have affected your work
  11. AUST | FECCA | GRANTING | CALD COVID-19 Health Small Grants | applications open now, closing end of January 2022
  12. CoPP | GOV | GRANTING | Community Grants Program 2021/22 | now Open
  13. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Solar for Small-Medium Business Program | applications open now
  14. VIC | VICPOL | RECRUITING | New police officers
  15. VIC | ECCV | RECRUITING | Sector Development Officer | applications close 5pm Wednesday 13 October 2021
  16. AUST | CitC | MEDITATING | Weekly With The Calm Collective | every Sunday until Sunday 19 December 2021 | 9-9.15pm
  17. AUST | IAE | TRAINING | Small Business Start-Ups - Free Workshops for People Living With Disability | running until 20 October 2021
  18. CoPP | GOV | CELEBRATING | Online Port Phillip Seniors Festival | 1-17 October 2021
  19. AUST | NCJWA | WEBINAR | Sex Trafficking and the Continuum of Sexual Violence | Tuesday 5 Oct 2021 | 8-9pm AEDT
  20. AUST | NDIA | WEBINAR | COVID-19 information sessions | Vic/Tas 5 October 2021 or National 14 October 2021
  21. AUST | GOV | CELEBRATING | National Carers Week | 10-16 October 2021
  22. VIC | NOHE | WEBINAR | COVID-19 information session with Northern Health | 12 October 2021 | 7pm
  23. WORLD | PWR | REVEALING | Featured Luminaries, Honouring Connection and Sharing The Memory of Those Lost | 16-18 October 2021
  24. VIC | PACE | OFFERING | Migrant Women's Leadership Program | every Friday for five weeks from 25 October 2021
  25. AUST | CRSA | SUPPORTING | The Refugee Group Mentorship Program
  26. VIC | VIIN | PROMPTING | When was your last eye health check-up?
  27. AUST | GOV | HEARING | Your say on proposed NDIS legislation changes | open until midnight 7 October 2021
  28. VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say on Victorian Disability Act 2006 review | submissions closing 20 October 2021
  29. VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say on Victoria’s New Mental Health System
  30. VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say on Victoria’s Mental Health Services
  31. VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say to help young Victorians get active and healthy
  32. AUST | ABC | CALLING | For Emerging Content Makers with Disability
  33. VIC | ECCV | CALLING | For Submissions from Presenters at FECCA 2022 | abstract submissions close 1 October 2021
  34. VIC | SVH | CALLING | Participants for Multilingual Health App Evaluation | conducted during October
  35. AUST | ASSO | CALLING | For Nominees for Asia Game Changer Awards | nominations closing Monday 11 October 2021
  36. CoPP | GOV | CALLING | For Members of the LGBTIQA+ Advisory Committee | nominations now open, closing Sunday 17 October 2021
  37. AUST | DCA | CALLING | Young Artists for Deaf Children Australia's Art Competition | submissions close 18 October 2021
  38. VIC | GOV | CALLING | Young Victorians aged 12-25 to join the 2022 Victorian Youth Congress | applications now open
  39. VIC | MESAC | CALLING | All photographers for Sense of Place photograph competition! | Open from August to October 2021
  40. VIC | GOV | CALLING | Participants to Join Anti-Racism Community Interest Group
  41. VIC | ECCV | CALLING | Participants for Disability and COVID Study
  42. AUST | CYDA | CALLING | Participants 15-25yo with Disability for Paid Opportunity in Focus Groups
  43. VIC | VEOHRC | SHARING | Research snapshots through the pandemic
  44. VIC | CEH | SHARING | 'Long COVID' translated factsheets and audio recordings
  45. AUST | MOPI | SHARING | Dementia awareness films for CALD Communities
  46. VIC | SES | ADVISING | What to do during an earthquake
  47. AUST | CUIN | EDUCATING | An interactive music program solution for remote learning during lockdowns
  48. VIC | VMC | SHOWCASING | Multicultural Film Festival 2021 winning films
  49. VIC | FCCV | RELEASING | Multifaith Calendar 2022
  50. AUST | Coronavirus hotline
  51. AUST | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way
  52. Acknowledgment to Sources
  53. Bye bye to Essentialists
  54. Self-Isolators, Non-Essentials And The Homebound


1. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Pandemic Response

Restrictions Metropolitan Melbourne 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  revised ) 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.
  •  revised  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.
  •  revised  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. 

2. VIC | VMC | ALERTING | All to watch out for these for these current scams

Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) advises it's a sad fact of life that there are people who seek to take advantage of the trust and goodwill of others for financial gain. Technological advances are helping scams are become more convincing, so it's important we all report scams when we suspect we're experiencing them. Below are two scams currently circulating.

Unaccompanied Children from Afghanistan
There is a scam circulating by phone regarding 300 unaccompanied minors from Afghanistan currently in quarantine in Melbourne. This is a scam. Please tell your community members that this is a scam and not to provide personal or banking information. 

Visa Videos in Your Language
Watch out for visa scams, where scammers tell you there are issues with your visa status or immigration paperwork. If you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be from a government agency telling you that you will be deported unless you pay a fine, hang up. If you have doubts about the legitimacy of a visa you hold, you can check your status at VEVO. You can report scams to ScamWatch.

Information about visa scams is available in  

3. AUST | MCA | OFFERING | 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. 

4. AUST | NDIS | SUPPORTING | Payments to Disability Support Coordinators and Providers 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. 

5. AUST | NDIA | SUPPORTING | Meal Preparation and Delivery to the Disabled During COVID-19

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. 

6. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural Communities during Coronavirus (COVID-19) third round of funding | applications now open

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 Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH) Funding Team, Multicultural Coronavirus Response Team on telephone 1300 112 755 or Multicultural.COVID.Taskforce@dffh.vic.gov.au

Webinar session RegistrationSession 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.  


7. VIC | GOV | ASSISTING | Family Recovery Program here to help CALD Victorians 

The COVID-19 pandemic has upended all of our lives, but some people have suffered more than others. Have you experienced job loss or a reduction in work hours because of the economic impact of the pandemic? Or have you contracted the illness yourself or been mentally affected by the ongoing threat?

If you are a member of Victoria’s culturally and linguistically diverse community and have been significantly impacted by COVID-19, you might be eligible for support from the Victorian Government's Family Recovery Program.

The Family Recovery Program can support you and your family with:
  • Finding work
  • Education and training opportunities
  • Mental health and health recovery
For more information call (03) 9448 6845. If you require an interpreter, phone 131 450 and ask them to call us on 9448 6845. Alternatively, email: frp@cohealth.org.au.


8. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | COVID-19 business support grants In-language information

The Victorian Government’s Business Costs Assistance Program offers grants of $4800 to eligible businesses that cannot fully operate remotely through lockdowns.

Please click below for translated information about the grant program, which has now entered its second round: 

9. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Changing Places facilities grants | applications close 5 November 2021

Grants of up to $110,000 are available through the Victorian Government Changing Places facilities program. Eligible organisations are invited to apply for grants to build additional Changing Places accessible toilets. Find more information on guidelines, specifications and how to apply on the DFFH website.

 

10. AUST | GOV | ADVISING | You may be eligible for financial support if restrictions have affected your work

You may be able to get the COVID-19 Disaster Payment if you can’t work due to a restricted movement order or lockdown.

You also may be able to get the Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment if you can’t work either because a state or territory health official has told you to isolate or quarantine because you’re a close contact of a confirmed case or have COVID-19, or you’re caring for someone with COVID-19. 

11. AUST | FECCA | GRANTING | CALD COVID-19 Health Small Grants | applications open now, closing end of January 2022.

The CALD COVID-19 Health Small Grants Fund will help multicultural community groups lead grassroots communication activities around COVID-19 and the vaccination rollout, targeting CALD communities.
Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA) will administer grants of $2,500, $3,500 or $5,000 to groups or organisations to fund short-term, one-off, communication and outreach projects that aim to achieve the following objectives:
  • Address barriers to accessing information on COVID-19 and the vaccination program
  • Provide the opportunity for communities to identify and respond to issues and concerns surrounding COVID-19 and the vaccination program
  • Provide accurate and culturally relevant information on the COVID-19 Vaccination Program
  • Foster community involvement and participation
  • Encourage partnerships among community organisations
Organisations must be a not-for-profit constituted body, such as an incorporated association, or groups must be auspiced by a not-for-profit organisation that is incorporated and be able to accept legal and financial responsibility for the project. 

Groups or organisations must be located within, or deliver a project within, the target community and must have evidence of direct benefit to people in the target community.

All projects must be completed by 31 March 2022. 

12. CoPP | GOV | GRANTING | Community Grants Program 2021/22 | now Open

City of Port Phillip (CoPP) Community Grants 2021/22 are now open to support eligible community groups and organisations to apply for funding.
Producing projects and programs that:
  • identify and meet existing and emerging community needs
  • strengthen capacity of local community groups, organisations, and networks
  • promote and encourage social connection, and participation in community life
  • address health and well-being inequities
  • create initiatives that enable access and inclusion for diverse communities
  • support sustainability initiatives and facilitate innovation.
There are five categories of funding for the Community Grants Program in 2021/22:
  1. Program Support: Supports small groups to initiate and run their activities; Up to $1000
  2. Diversity and Ageing Support: Supports seniors and CALD groups to initiate and run activities; Up to $1000
  3. Toyota Community Foundation/City of Port Phillip Equipment Fund: Funding for the purchase of equipment that is essential to project or service success; Up to $1000
  4. Social Inclusion Partnerships: Supports projects that involve two or more organisations working in partnership to increase social inclusion; Up to $5000
  5. Community Strengthening: Supports projects/program that strengthen community and organisational capacity; Up to $10,000
 

13. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Solar for Small-Medium Business Program | applications open now

Solar Victoria's Solar for Business rebates will remain at $3,500 until all 5,000 forecasted rebates for 2020–21 have been fully  allocated, and  will be up to $1,750 thereafter. 
This initiative  is designed  to  support Victorian small businesses  to reduce their energy costs by accessing  the benefits of renewable energy and reducing the upfront cost of the installation of an approved  small-scale solar PV system up to 30kW.    

To support the economic recovery of Victorian small businesses and the broader solar sector, 15,000 solar PV rebates will be available over the next three years. 

Rebates cover up to 50 per cent of the cost of a rooftop solar system with small businesses eligible for a maximum rebate of $3,500 to reduce the upfront cost of installing solar on their business premises. 

This means the total rebate amount will be capped at 50% or $3,500 of the cost on any approved system. For example, if the net costs of solar are $10,000, then the rebate value applied is $3,500 (not $5,000) or if the net costs are $4,000, then the rebate value applied is $2,000 (not $3,500). 

Solar for Business rebates will remain at $3,500 until all 5,000 forecasted rebates for 2020–21 have been fully allocated, and will be up to $1,750 thereafter. 

Net costs are inclusive of GST and any contribution from Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). 

Who is Eligible?
All entity types, including charities and not-for-profit organisations, are eligible for the Solar for Business rebates providing they meet the following eligibility criteria:   
  • Be the owner of a business that employs at least one person, not including the business owner, and less than 20 people 
  • Operate from premises that are non-residential. 
  • Operate from premises that are individually metered  
  • Have not previously received a Solar for Business rebate  
  • Have your system installed by a Solar Victoria approved solar retailer as detailed on Solar Victoria’s website   
  • Install a solar system with a PV capacity size up to 30kW, and detailed on the Solar Victoria approved product list.    
  • Businesses who own their premises and those who rent can apply for the Solar for Business rebate. A rental provider/landlord of the business premises cannot apply for the rebate on a business’s behalf. 
  • Additional information for business owners who rent their premises can be found in the Landlord and Tenant Guidelines and Consent form.  
The rebate is only available for installations that occur after program opening for applications on 28 May 2021. Systems installed prior will not be eligible for a rebate.  

If your home is your main place of business and you meet the eligibility criteria for the residential program, you may be eligible for a  Solar Homes rebate.   

14. VIC | VICPOL | RECRUITING | New police officers

Victoria Police (VICPOL) serve the Victorian community and uphold the law to promote a safe, secure and orderly society.

If you are considering taking on a new career, people from diverse backgrounds are highly valued at Victoria Police.

15. VIC | ECCV | RECRUITING | Sector Development Officer | applications close 5pm Wednesday 13 October 2021 

Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) are currently looking to recruit an experienced Sector Development Officer – Policy & Practice to lead our work in strengthening the capacity of multicultural, ethno-specific and community organisations to support older people, people with disability, and carers from migrant and refugee backgrounds.  

16. AUST | CitC | MEDITATING | Weekly With The Calm Collective | every Sunday until Sunday 19 December 2021 | 9-9.15pm

The Calm Collective is 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 host of the series will be Caroline Ward from The Optimist Heart series.

The Calm Collective is an initiative of Calm in the City (CitC) 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.  

17. AUST | IAE | TRAINING | Small Business Start-Ups - Free Workshops for People Living With Disability | running until 20 October 2021

The IgniteAbility Educate (IAE) 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. 

18. CoPP | GOV | CELEBRATING | Online Port Phillip Seniors Festival | 1-17 October 2021

Recognising the valuable contribution older people have made and continue to make to our community, the City of Port Phillip (CoPP) Seniors Festival program includes a singing/walking trail around Elwood, documentaries, webinars, virtual tours, art exhibitions and concerts with an amazing array of culture and talent.

Put on your dancing shoes and Join DK, Soul DJ (David Sharples) for a fun evening of dance, music requests, karaoke and games from 6.30 pm to 9 pm on 1 October. A mixture of dance music, including Disco, Motown and Soul and Pop from the 60s, 70s, and 80s will get the party well and truly started. The Virtual Disco also includes karaoke-style singalong sessions with “lockdown” themed songs from the same genres and eras. On-screen lyrics will help you sing along to your favourite songs.

The Port Phillip Writes Writing Awards Ceremony will be held online from 2-3 pm on 17 October. Now in its 17th year, this enjoyable session of literature includes the announcement of the Judges Awards. Festival highlights also include a U3A Port Phillip seminar and online art and photography exhibition. 

19. AUST | NCJWA | WEBINAR | Sex Trafficking and the Continuum of Sexual Violence | Tuesday 5 Oct 2021 | 8-9pm AEDT

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. 

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.

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

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

20. AUST | NDIA | WEBINAR | COVID-19 information sessions | Vic/Tas 5 October 2021 or National 14 October 2021

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. 

21. AUST | GOV | CELEBRATING | 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. 

22. VIC | NOHE | WEBINAR | COVID-19 information session with Northern Health | 12 October 2021 | 7pm

Northern Health (NH) 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.

Northern Health presenting this session with Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV)'s COVID-19 Multicultural Outreach Project. If you would like to organise an information session for your community group, please contact ECCV. 

23. WORLD | PWR | REVEALING | Featured Luminaries, Honouring Connection and Sharing The Memory of Those Lost | 16-18 October 2021

In October the global interfaith movement will gather online for the 2021 Parliament of the World's Religions. 

Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE was born on April 3, 1934, in London England. At the young age of 26, she followed her passion for animals and Africa to Gombe, Tanzania, where she began her landmark study of chimpanzees in the wild­ immersing herself in their habitat as a neighbor rather than a distant observer. Her discovery in 1960 that chimpanzees make and use tools rocked the scientific world and redefined the relationship between humans and animals.

Angaangaq Angakkorsuaq is an internationally respected Elder and Shaman from Greenland, the only country in the world where man lives and there has never been war. His commitment to the environment and indigenous issues has brought him to 5 continents and 70 countries in the world. Angaangaq bridges the boundaries of cultures and faiths in people young and old as he advocates for a spiritual climate change. 

Sirena Huang, First-Prize winner of the 2017 Elmar Oliveira International Violin Competition, made her solo debut with the National Taiwan Symphony Orchestra at the age of nine, and has performed in seventeen countries across three continents. Motivated by a deep wish to inspire peace and harmony with her music, Huang has performed before world leaders, thinkers and humanitarians, including President Obama, Elie Wiesel and President Sarkozy.
 
H.H. Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni Ji is a versatile thinker, writer, poet and social reformer and has been continuously making efforts for National character building, development of human values and establishing non-violence, peace and mutual cooperation in the society for the last 33 years. Dr. Lokesh has been working tirelessly for interreligious and interfaith harmony.
 
Mother Maya Tiwari serves humanity by awakening the spirit of ahimsa, or harmony, in every person whose life she touches. She is an author and the founder of Wise Earth School of Ayurveda and Mother Om Mission, a charitable organization which serves at-risk communities in New York City. Belonging to the Veda Vyasa tradition, Maya was one of the first of this lineage to be bestowed the honor of monastic moniker, Her Holiness. In 2010, Maya made the courageous decision to drop her monastic moniker and walk a simple life in service of all.

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.

This growing list of featured luminaries at the 2021 Parliament of World's Religions include:
  • 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.
    That is our hope. Because if we all start listening and helping, then surely, together, we can make the world a better place for all living things. Can’t we?
     

    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".
    The 2021 Parliament of the World's Religions will cumulatively offer 48 hours of programming for attendees around the world and exclusive access to all recorded programming for 30 days after. Don't miss this historic Convening! 

    24. VIC | PACE | OFFERING | Migrant Women's Leadership Program | every Friday for five weeks from 25 October 2021

    The Multicultural Centre for Women’s Health are offering free interactive Zoom workshops for migrant and refugee women in Victoria. The PACE (Participate, Advocate, Communicate, Engage) Women’s Leadership Program builds on migrant women’s knowledge and experiences to take on leadership roles in their lives, work and community.

    PACE provides migrant women an opportunity to learn, practise and receive feedback to participate, advocate, communicate and engage. The program will run weekly.
    Spots are limited. 

    25. AUST | CRSA | SUPPORTING | The Refugee Group Mentorship Program

    Community Refugee Sponsorships Australia (CRSA) are expanding their Group Mentorship Program, after a successful trial last year.

    The program offers an opportunity for local community groups to provide practical support and friendship to newly-arrived refugee households in Australia while our borders are closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

    26. VIC | VIIN | PROMPTING | When was your last eye health check-up?

    It is estimated that over 230,000 Victorians aged 40+ currently live with vision loss, a figure forecast to increase by 33% by 2030 unless action is taken.

    While many eye conditions have no symptoms in the early stages, 90% of vision loss is avoidable or treatable if it’s identified early. The most important thing to support that early intervention is regular eye testing of at-risk populations.

    Eye tests can be arranged directly through an optometrist or by speaking with a GP, and are often covered by Medicare.

    Age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and refractive error are the main causes of blindness and vision loss in people aged over 40.

    Vision Initiative (VIIN) works with its partner organisations to deliver webinars and resources that are designed to respond to the needs of health professionals and organisations who care for and support people at risk of vision loss. 

    The have multilingual resources and videos available in 10 languages including Arabic, Burmese, Cantonese, Dari, Greek, Hazaragi, Italian, Mandarin, Tamil and Vietnamese. 

    27. AUST | GOV | HEARING | Your say 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’. 

    28. VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say 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.  

    29. VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say on Victoria’s New Mental Health System

    The development of Victoria's new Local Adult and Older Adult Mental Health and Wellbeing Services is at the heart of the mental health reform – allowing Victorians to get the care they need much sooner, and closer to their families and communities.

    The new services will act as a “front door” to the reformed mental health system – connecting Victorians to the care they need in their own community, and focusing on prevention and early intervention for adults who are experiencing mental illness or psychological distress as well as treatment for alcohol and drug addiction. 

    30. VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say on Victoria’s Mental Health Services​

    In March 2021, the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System released its final report. The report contains 65 recommendations, set over a 10-year reform vision, in addition to nine recommendations from the Royal Commission’s interim report. The Victorian Government has committed to implementing these recommendations in full.

    The Royal Commission recommended that Victoria establish up to 60 new Local Adult and Older Adult Mental Health and Wellbeing Services (Local Services). Local Services are a new service stream and by the end of 2022, the first six Local Services will be set up in Benalla, Brimbank, Frankston, Greater Geelong, Latrobe Valley and Whittlesea.

    Over the coming weeks, Engage Victoria will be engaging with individuals and organisations on how they can ensure the Local Services provide the best possible treatment, care and wellbeing supports for people with mental illness or psychological distress.

    If you would like to take part in one the focus groups (General Community, CALD, LGBTQI+, People with a  Disability or Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander), please register here. 

    31. VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say to help young Victorians get active and healthy

    If you’re a young Victorian aged 18-25 or a parent of kids, health promotion foundation VicHealth wants to hear your reality and your ideas to build a healthier future together.

    What would support Victorians aged 0-25 to better connect, be active, and enjoy food that’s good for them and the planet? Share your experiences about being active, connected and healthy by filling out this quick survey. 

    32. AUST | ABC | CALLING | Emerging Content Makers with Disability

    International Day of People with Disability (IDPWD) have partnered with the ABC to showcase the work of emerging content makers with disability. The ABC is looking to commission a series of factual stories to be published and broadcast across ABC platforms for 2021 IDPWD (3 December). To be eligible, you must live in Australia, be over 18, have a disability and be available to work on your content between September and November 2021.  

    33. VIC | ECCV | CALLING | For Submissions from Presenters at FECCA 2022 | abstract submissions close 1 October 2021

    Do you have a vision to help shape multicultural Australia? Applications are open for presentations at the FECCA 2022 conference, co-hosted by Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV), in Melbourne in March 2022. Share your ideas, innovative and strengths-based solutions, and new and emerging issues faced by migrant and refugee communities.  

    34. VIC | SVH | CALLING | Participants for Multilingual Health App Evaluation | conducted during October 

    Bilingual people are sought 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.  

    35. AUST | ASSO | CALLING | For Nominees for Asia Game Changer Awards | nominations closing Monday 11 October 2021

    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. 

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

    City of Port Phillip Council (CoPP) 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
    Ensuring a continuing safe, welcoming and inclusive place where people of all backgrounds and ages can thrive, community members are invited 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. 

    37. AUST | DCA | CALLING | Young Artists for Deaf Children Australia's Art Competition | submissions close 18 October 2021

    For young deaf and hard of hearing artists, there are two $1000 prizes on offer in an inaugural art competition launched by Deaf Children Australia (DCA). The theme is “This is Me” and the opportunity for 12 to 23 year-olds to showcase their talents. All sorts of submissions are welcome from paintings and pottery to video art and animation.


    38. VIC | GOV | CALLING | Young Victorians aged 12-25 to join the 2022 Victorian Youth Congress | applications now open

    This is a unique opportunity for young Victorians aged 12 to 25 to work with the Victorian Government to advise on the development of policy and programs relevant to young people. 
    The 2022 Victorian Youth Congress will play a key role in implementing the new Victorian Youth Strategy, due to be released later this year.

    The Victorian Youth Congress is the Minister for Youth’s advisory body and gives young Victorians the chance to learn more about government, positively influence change, develop professional skills and build networks with other young people interested in making change.

    It is the aim of the Victorian Youth Congress to represent the diversity of Victoria’s young people and be a safe and inclusive environment for all members. The recruitment and selection process will be tailored to meet young people’s needs, and provide supports to ensure all members can participate fully. 

    39. VIC | MESAC | CALLING | All photographers for Sense of Place photograph competition! | Open from August to October 2021

    Your most loved views of nature and country; above or below the waterline, intertidal or coastal zone. Allow your creativity to run wild! COVID is challenging for all of us on many fronts, however Marine Education Science and Community (MESAC) has a refreshing lockdown tonic for you! Let’s all get out into our beautiful marine environment and take some inspiring photos!
    • All welcome, especially amateurs! Images from any device welcome!
    • Prizes for the top three voted by our judges.
    • Free entry – three images per person.
    Images will be published on the MESAC website and winners in the MESAC Coastal Connections Newsletter, and also inclusion in the Coastal Connections Nature Lovers Journal 2022.

    Terms and Conditions: By entering the competition you agree that MESAC may use your images with full credit to yourself as the photographer. 

    40. VIC | GOV | CALLING | Participants to 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. 

    41. VIC | ECCV | CALLING | Participants for Disability and COVID Study

    Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (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
     

    42. AUST | CYDA | CALLING | Participants 15-25yo with Disability for Paid Opportunity in 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. 

    43. VIC | VEOHRC | SHARING | Research snapshots through the pandemic

    The COVID-19 pandemic has compounded existing inequalities facing parents, carers and workers with disability. New research from the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) shows this period provides important lessons for employers on how to create more inclusive workplaces.

    A survey of 1500 Victorians and targeted follow up interviews were used to create the commission’s two new research snapshots – Supporting workers with disability and Juggling parenting, caring and work during the pandemic.  

    44. VIC | CEH | SHARING | 'Long COVID' translated factsheets and audio recordings

    Centre for Culture, Ethnicity & Health (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. 

    45. AUST | MOPI | SHARING | Dementia awareness films for CALD Communities

    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 has launched 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. 

    46. VIC | SES | ADVISING | What to do during an earthquake

    In the event of an earthquake, there are some precautions you can take to better protect your personal safety. Dropping to the ground, taking coverand 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. 

    47. AUST | CUIN | EDUCATING | An interactive music program solution for remote learning during lockdowns

    An essential learning resource, Sound Infusion is the solution for remote learning during lockdowns. Cultural Infusion (CUIN)'s 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. 

    48. VIC | VMC | SHOWCASING | Multicultural Film Festival 2021 winning films​

    Film has a unique capacity to connect audiences to other points of view. Though we may have different backgrounds, when we immerse ourselves in stories of cultural heritage and identity, it’s easy to see that there is more that unites us than divides us.

    The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) Multicultural Film Festival showcases short films that explore stories of diversity and inclusion, and this year it went online.  

    49. VIC | FCCV | RELEASING | Multifaith Calendar 2022

    The Faith Communities Council of Victoria (FCCV) have issued their annual multifaith calendar outlining major holy days and festivals for Baha'i, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, Judaism and Sikhism. 

    50. AUST | Coronavirus hotline

    • Coronavirus hotline: If you are concerned, call the coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398 (24 Hours).
    • Coronavirus in-language information
    • If you are an NDIS participant you can also call the national hotline on 1800 020 080.
    • Information and referrals for people with disability and their supporters about Coronavirus: Contact the Disability Information Helpline on 1800 634 787. 
    • If you are deaf, or have a hearing or speech impairment, you can also call the National Relay Service on 133 677.
    • Interpreting service: If you need an interpreter, call TIS National on 131 450.
    • Testing locations: Find a testing location near you.
    • Call-to-Test-at-Home service, providing in-home coronavirus testing to Victorians who would otherwise be unable to get tested, call the DHHS Coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398.
    • Triple Zero: Please keep Triple Zero (000) for emergencies only.


    51. AUST | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way

       

      52. Acknowledgment to Sources

      This is a consolidated account of information current at time of issuance, sourced, collated and provided by Victorian Multicultural Commission, Victorian Jewish Community COVID-19 Taskforce, Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria, various Government Authorities, community organisations and public domain, received with gratitude.

      53. Bye bye to Essentialists

      Us non-essentialists will endeavour to manage our expection of miracles and do our best to follow rules while staying out of the way. 

      Contact your closest friendly non-essentialist if you need anything that can be done remotely. Bye bye to Essentialists for now, please leave to attend to the essential work. That is all from GEIFN Caretaker at this time.

      54. Self-Isolators, Non-Essentials And The Homebound

      Meanwhile, if with a surplus of time, this is offered. Discuss with sincerity. Deny untruth. Dismiss unuseful. Accept useful. Adapt to change. Adopt least effort most benefit. Adept with sharing. Enjoy throughout. As each case may be. Round about. And again. Or not.

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