Thanks to the impressive vaccine uptake rate, the Premier has issued the updated Victorian Roadmap. This sets out the way forward over the coming months.
Message from the Chairperson
Thank you all for the impressive work you've done in getting us here.
This week, we can finally show you our 2020-21 Annual Report, which was tabled yesterday in Parliament.
The VMC was involved in so many conversations, online meetings and roundtables, and helped in providing thousands of food parcels to multicultural communities across Victoria.
We also continued our advocacy efforts on many matters, including employment, family violence, mental health, racism and systemic barriers that prevent members of the multicultural communities to participate fully in society.
More on the VMC’s 2021 annual report.
Take care and stay safe.
Viv Nguyen AM, Chairperson
COVID-19 forum for parents | Thursday 28 October 2021 | 5.30-6.30pm
The Victorian Multicultural Commission, in partnership with the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH), invites you to an online information session this Thursday. The forum will explore support services available for parents who cannot look after their children due to COVID-19-related isolation or hospitalisation.
You will learn about the COVID Family Finding service, the Family Recovery Program, food relief and more.
Head to Health – mental health support
The ongoing impacts of the coronavirus pandemic have caused significant disruption for many Australians. It may have affected your work, family life or other plans. For some, life has returned to normal to a certain degree, but for others things remain uncertain.
Managing your mental health during this time of change and uncertainty can be an ongoing challenge.
If you are feeling impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in any way, the Australian Government's Head to Health page provides information, tips and resources to support you and your loved ones’ mental health.
It is also available to browse in the following languages:
Information webinar for Afghan community | Thursday 28 October 2021 | arrive online 5.50pm for 6-7.30pm
The Afghan Women's Organisation presents an online information session for the Afghan community in Victoria this Thursday.
The session will share advice on visa applications, pathways to settlement and settlement support, as well as support services available to the Afghan-Australian community.
There will also be presentations from David WIlden, First Assistant Secretary for the Department of Home Affairs, and Paris Aristotle AO, Chair of the Refugee and Migrant Services Advisory Council.
Nominate for the Top 50 Public Sector Women | nominations close 22 November 2021
Nominations for IPAA Victoria’s 2021 Top 50 Public Sector Women are now open.
Do you know an exceptional woman in the public sector who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in the COVID-19 response or in adapting and steering an organisation in the context of COVID-19?
Women in established leadership roles have stepped up, taking on new responsibilities, secondments and COVID project work. Others have embraced the opportunity they have been given to step in as emerging leaders in extraordinarily difficult circumstances. They have all demonstrated agility, resilience and the ability to adapt and learn on the job.
Help us to discover and recognise the public sector women from across Victoria in all levels of government who have made an exceptional contribution during COVID-19 – whether in front line work, supporting teams, rapidly adjusting business as usual programs or working behind the scenes.
Now is the time to acknowledge and celebrate these exceptional women across the public sector who exemplify leadership, commitment and strength.
'Fab Jab' promotes the vaccine in LGBTIQ+ communities
The Victorian Government has partnered with Joy FM on Fab Jab, an effort to increase COVID-19 vaccinations in LGBTIQ+ communities.
Check out the website for details on how to get vaccinated, as well as frequently asked questions and further support services.
National Anti-Racism Framework seeking submissions
The Australian Human Rights Commission is inviting submissions to inform the development of a National Anti-Racism Framework (the Framework).
The Framework will be a long-term, central reference point to guide actions on anti-racism and equality by government, NGOs, business, communities and other sectors.
The commission is very interested to hear from those with expertise and knowledge of anti-racism initiatives and in responding to racism at structural, institutional and interpersonal levels.
New payment to help women escape violent relationships
The Australian Government can provide women leaving a violent relationship with access to a one-off payment of up to $5,000 to help them establish a life free of violence.
Under the two-year Escaping Violence Payment trial, women will receive financial assistance of up to $1,5000 in cash with the remainder available for goods and services or direct payments of bonds, school fees or other support to help establish a safe home.
The Escaping Violence Payment will build on and complement existing programs offered by state and territories, as well as Australian Government support offered to women experiencing violence, including:
It's Children's Week! | Saturday 23 October–Sunday 31 October 2021
Before you chuckle and say, 'Every week is children's week' and go to your next email, you should know that the official Children's Week offers some fantastic free activities to keep the kids entertained.
Children's Week is a national celebration that recognises the talents, skills, achievements and rights of children. It is running this week with thousands of Victorian children taking part in festivities.
During Children's Week, local councils, not-for-profit organisations, schools and early childhood services organise open days, displays, special events, virtual spaces and online-based activities. These all celebrate childhood and showcase children's achievements.
All Children's Week events are free to families with children aged from birth to 12 years. It's a great opportunity for Victorian families to enjoy fun, engaging and educational experiences.
Coronavirus hotline
- Coronavirus hotline: 1800 675 398 (24 Hours).
- Interpreting service: If you need an interpreter, call TIS National on 131 450.
- Testing locations: Find a testing location near you.
- Triple Zero: Please keep Triple Zero (000) for emergencies only.
- Coronavirus in-language information
MORE:
Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)
Address: Level 3, 1 Macarthur Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: (03) 9651 5901
Email: contact@vmc.vic.gov.au