NAVIGATION

VMC | UPDATING | November reflections from the Chairperson of the Victorian Multicultural Commission | Monday 29 November 2021

[Edited extract from public address]

November has flown by, and we are seeing Victoria slowly but cautiously open back up. This month Victorians demonstrated collaboration achieving 80% and 90% double vaccination rates. These numbers demonstrate our commitment to protecting ourselves and our communities to save lives. Thank you.

As a result, it was wonderful to reconnect with some of you in-person.

Grassroots, community and faith-based organisations have been instrumental in recent weeks to help us reach our vaccination milestones. One example that stood out to me was the City of Hume which a few months ago was under pressure with its own Delta outbreak and lower vaccine uptake and is now one of the most vaccinated LGAs in the state, reaching 95% first dose and 91.8% second dose this week.

Congratulations to all involved, well-done for your incredible efforts to keep your community safe!

The VMC continues to advocate for targeted COVID-19 support for multicultural communities. Working with government and community partners, we were able to secure funding for ethnic communities’ councils (ECCs) to work with local public health teams in emergency and outbreak response. This is a significant recognition for multicultural communities in the regions.

Though there is still work to be done, community members are telling us they still require targeted, consistent and streamlined support to continue testing and vaccination efforts. We are working closely with Department of Health to elevate these concerns raised with us.

Through a turbulent year, multicultural communities have remained resilient. However, mental health support for multicultural communities needs to remain top of mind. The Victorian government has commenced implementing significant reforms in response to the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System.

The VMC co-hosted with the Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria a Multicultural Mental Health Forum Monday 29 November to explain the implications of the Royal Commission for multicultural communities. Our guest speaker was Professor Harry Minas, Head of the Global and Cultural Mental Health Unit at the University of Melbourne. 

We are also advocating to ensure Victoria’s economic recovery does not leave multicultural workers behind. We’ve been meeting with colleagues across Departments to advocate for greater support for people who have found it hard to find long term secure work, and ensure government is using existing tools like the social procurement framework, to enable greater employment opportunities for multicultural communities through their buying power.

As commissioner, I hear so many inspirational stories of local multicultural heroes. For that I am very much looking forward to formally recognising some of these individuals and organisations at the VMC’s annual Multicultural Awards for Excellence next month. Stay tuned for the announcement of our recipients on December 7.

With the festive season quickly approaching I wanted share with you a lovely event I attend year on year called Pillars of Light, in celebration of Chanukah providing multicultural Victorians to come together in unity. Held at Fed Square from 28 November – 5 December, you can find out more about their program here.

End of year wrap up event – Join us! | 13 December 2021 | 12noon-1pm
We look forward to seeing some of you at our end of year wrap up event – an opportunity to reflect on the year that was and the great achievements and learnings from the multicultural sector. Please join us if you can before we say goodbye to 2021! Find our more and register here.

Finally, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the outstanding members of our multicultural communities who were recognised through awards this month:
  • Ahmed Hassan, our Victorian Young Australian of the Year 2022
  • John Thuy for winning the Promotion of Multiculturalism Award in the 2021 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards 
  • The impressive list of women from culturally diverse backgrounds recognised in the Victorian Honour Roll of Women, including Emerging Leader inductee Shabnam Safa, Local Champion inductees Dr Sunila Shrivastava, Gulghotai Bezhan, Selba Gondoza Luka and Trailblazer inductees Professor Asha Rao and Dr Nouria Salehi AM. 
Take care and stay safe
Viv Nguyen AM, Chairperson

MORE:

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

ECCV | UPDATING | CALD NDIS Readiness Bulletin | Friday 26 November 2021

[Edited extract from public address]

WEBINAR | Multicultural Disability Forum | Wednesday 1 December 2021 | 10.30am-12.30pm

Multicultural Disability Forum: Living with COVID-19’ will bring together a range of speakers, including experts with lived experience from culturally diverse backgrounds and disability sector organisations, to discuss ways people with disability can stay safe in the community as COVID-19 restrictions ease in Victoria. 

WEBINAR | Speak My Language (VIC) podcast launch | Tuesday 7 December 2021 | 10.30-11.30am

To mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities, ECCV is holding a special online event to launch the Speak My Language (Disability) Victorian podcasts and talk about living well with disability. Victorian Speak My Language (SML) ‘storytellers’ and ‘travellers’ will discuss their experiences creating the podcasts and sharing their stories. The panel will also include a representative from the national Speak My Language team who will provide an overview of the program.

WATCH | COVID-19 Information Session

On Wednesday 17 November, ECCV hosted an information session for people from migrant and refugee backgrounds living with disability and their carers on COVID-19 vaccines, COVIDSafe practices and how to best protect our communities from the coronavirus. 

HEARING | Your say: Care and support sector consultations Stage 2 | submissions closing 17 December 2021

The Australian Department of Health is seeking feedback from consumers, families, carers, workers, providers and the broader community on aligning regulation across the NDIS, disability services, aged care and veterans’ care, as well as developing a common code of conduct across the care and support sectors.

To make a submission on the Consultation Paper and the draft Code of Conduct or to register for an upcoming workshop, visit the Ageing and Aged Care Engagement Hub.

HEARING | Your say: Disability employment support program | submissions close 4 January 2022 

The Department of Social Services (DSS) is running a public consultation on a new disability employment support program starting in July 2023, following the end of the current Disability Employment Services program on 30 June 2023. Individuals and organisations are invited to share their experience and help create the next disability employment support model. An accessible consultation paper has been developed to help guide submissions. Auslan translations and an Easy English guide have also been published.

RELEASING | NDIS Annual Report 2020-21

The NDIS Annual Report 2020-21 is now available. The report gives a summary of the NDIS performance and operations for the 2020-21 financial year. It includes a summary of the Annual Financial Sustainability Report 2020-21, which outlines the sustainability pressures facing the Scheme and has been reviewed by the Australian Government Actuary. The report is available in PDF and accessible formats on the NDIS website.

RELEASING | DRC new reports on disability

Earlier this month, the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability (DRC) released two new reports that provide historic insights into the experiences of people with disability in Australia.

The ‘Disability in Australia – Shadows, struggles and successes’ report looks at different cultural and social factors that have impacted the lives of people with disability over time. The ‘Agents of our own Destiny – Activism and the road to the Disability Royal Commission’ report is about the disability rights movement and the history of disability activism and advocacy in Australia.

COMMEMORATING | International Day of People with Disability | 3 December

International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) aims to increase public awareness and understanding of people with disability, and to challenge the way disability is thought about by society. Learn how to get involved and help break down barriers - both structural and attitudinal - for people with disability on the IDPwD website.

CALLING | For Participants to Boards Victoria

The Victorian Government is encouraging people from a range of diverse communities to join public boards, to ensure that government boards and committees reflect the rich diversity of the Victorian community.

Applications from people with a disability are encouraged. 

ONLINE TRAINING | 'A Right to Respect' – Drivers of Violence and Essential Actions | Tuesday 30 November 2021 | 10am 

Women with Disabilities Victoria is running three online training sessions on the prevention of violence against women with disabilities for people in the disability and social services workforce. For more information email tess.karambelas@wdv.org.au or call (03) 7065 1431.

SUPPORTING | IncludeAbility: employment for people with disability

IncludeAbility is an initiative of the Australian Human Rights Commission (the Commission), designed to support employers who want to create meaningful employment opportunities for people with disability, and people with disability seeking employment, developing a career or considering self-employment. The hub offers resource guides, factsheets and an employer network.

OFFERING | Disability Gateway Service

The Disability Gateway provides free information and services to help people living with disability, their families, friends and carers in key areas including finance, employment, health and equipment. Translated fact sheets and videos are available in Arabic, Greek, Italian, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese and Vietnamese. To access these or for other services visit the Disability Gateway website or call 1800 643 787 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm AEDT).

MORE:

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

BAHO | RAISING | Support and Funds to Give the Gift of Joy, Pride and Support to our Clients this Christmas

[Edited extract from public address]

The impact that we have all felt from the pandemic has been enormous.

The cancellation of the Christmas Concert is, perhaps, the most significant impact for our clients. This is because it means so much to them. We see how much they look forward to this event and unfortunately, every day, we now see the disappointment that the cancellation has caused.

We know that the sense of pride, achievement and joy that the clients get from performing in front of a large crowd at the concert is almost impossible to re-create.

Give the Gift of Joy, Pride and Support to our Clients

This Christmas, we are hoping that you can show your support for our clients by helping us virtually fill Australia’s largest seated theatre, The Palais.

Donate a single seat, seats for your family, or a whole row to share with friends.

Secure a ‘virtual seat’ today with a $30 donation to Bayley House. With 2,894 virtual seats to fill, please consider your friends, family, colleagues and others by buying as many seats as possible. If we reach our target, our clients will feel an overwhelming sense of support, knowing that the community has rallied behind them.

Even better, all proceeds will go directly to providing creative arts projects for current and future clients.

So, please, if you can help us fill The Palais by purchasing your virtual tickets and encouraging those around you to give the gift of joy for our clients.

All virtual seats are 100% tax deductible and will be greatly celebrated and appreciated by everyone at Bayley House. 

If you would prefer to support the Concert of Dreams via telephone, please call (03) 9982 1500.

MORE:

Bayley House (BAHO)
Address: PO Box 113 or 52 Middle Crescent, Brighton Vic 3186
Tel: (03) 9982 1500

ECCV | WEBINAR | Mental Health Forum | Monday 29 November 2021 | 6.30-8pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Looking at the road ahead for mental health policy-making, mental health system design and service delivery.

ECCV and the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) invite you to an online Mental Health Forum to discuss how to best ensure reforms to Victoria's mental health system are inclusive and responsive to the needs of our multicultural communities.

Our guest speaker will be Professor Harry Minas, Head of the Global and Cultural Mental Health Unit at the University of Melbourne, who will speak about the Royal Commission Report, reforms, challenges and opportunities for the mental health system in Victoria.

The discussion will be facilitated by Eddie Micallef, ECCV Chairperson and Viv Nguyen, VMC Chairperson.

A Q&A session will give participants the opportunity to ask questions, provide feedback or make observations.

Where: an online event via Zoom. 
Cost: Free
Bookings: Registration is essential. Register Now

MORE:

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

VMC | UPDATING | Multicultural Mental Health Forum, Contribute to the Victorian Government's Anti-Racism Strategy | Tuesday 23 November 2021

[Edited extract from public address]

A huge thank you to everyone in our community for getting us to the 90% double vaccination rate. This milestone has allowed us to reconnect, share and celebrate together.  


Message from the Chairperson

Still, there are important updates we need to be aware of, and our COVID-19 information sessions outline these every fortnight. You can register for the Thursday session here.

Next Monday, the VMC is hosting an important Mental Health forum with the Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria. Our speakers will help explain the Royal Commission on Mental Health Report and its impact on multicultural communities. You can register for that here.

Take care and stay safe.
Viv Nguyen AM, Chairperson

FORUM | Multicultural Mental Health | Monday 29 November 2021 | 6.30-8pm

The Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) and the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) invite you to an online Mental Health Forum.

The session will explore how to best ensure reforms to Victoria's mental health system are inclusive and responsive to the needs of our multicultural communities.

This forum will look at the road ahead for mental health policy-making, mental health system design and service delivery.

Our guest speaker will be Professor Harry Minas, Head of the Global and Cultural Mental Health Unit at the University of Melbourne, who will speak about the Royal Commission Report, reforms, challenges and opportunities for the mental health system in Victoria.

The discussion will be facilitated by ECCV Chairperson Eddie Micallef and VMC Chairperson Viv Nguyen.

ENCOURAGING | Be Well Stay Well in-language videos

In September 2021, a team of six bicultural workers came together to produce several in-language videos to promote COVID-safe behaviour and wellbeing.

Over the past two months, the working group have held weekly meetings and worked collaboratively to co-design video messages and content. You can find links to the completed in-language videos below:

HEARING | Your Say on the Victorian Government's Anti-Racism Strategy | submissions close 6 December 2021

Together with Victoria's Anti-Racism Taskforce, Engage Victoria are developing Victoria's first ever Anti-Racism Strategy.

Due to be released in mid-2022, the strategy will seek to proactively prevent and address racism in Victoria and improve the lives of the state's multicultural and multifaith communities, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Over the next few months, the Anti-Racism Taskforce will be holding targeted consultations with communities, organisations, academics and subject matter experts.

It is vital that a wide cross section of the Victorian community provides input into the strategy development. Engage Victoria and the Anti-Racism Taskforce are now inviting Victorians to anonymously share their experiences of racism, as well as their ideas for reducing racism in our state. Your input will inform the focus and strategic direction of the strategy.

PLEDGING | Make human rights real

International Human Rights Day is observed every year on 10 December. On this day in 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Every year in December, the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) recognises and celebrates this day through a week of events, connection, and advocacy.

During Human Rights Week, VEOHRC invites all Victorians to engage in activities and start and continue conversations about human rights.

This year, they will be hosting a week of action to make rights real. You are invited to sign up to a week of small daily tasks. Each day, you will receive a small action you can take to help make human rights real.

Coronavirus hotline


MORE:

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

CoPP | THIS | Community Training Opportunities, Beach Access Program Summer, Have Your Say | Coming up in 2022

[Edited extract from public address]

Connecting and strengthening communities through inclusion and partnerships.

City of Port Phillip (CoPP) invites staff and volunteers from local community groups and organisations to participate in training. The training is free and places are limited. Use the TryBooking links below to secure your place in the training.

If you have any general queries, or access or support requirements that will enable your participation in these events, please contact the Community Building Team. Interpreters are available upon request.

Access and Inclusion Training | Monday 21 February 2022 | 2-4pm

Accessible Action will provide disability awareness training to improve access and inclusion in your community organisation. This training will ensure your learning outcomes provide a new perspective on the social model of disability, and shift mindsets to promote access and inclusion of people with disability in your organisation. Accessible Action facilitators are people with lived experience of disability in order to influence with authenticity and effect meaningful change.

Trainer Amanda Lawrie-Jones is a skilled Access & Inclusion Consultant with decades of organisational capability experience. Amanda has successfully created impact and meaningful change working in both government and non-government sectors.

Standard Mental Health First Aid | Friday 18 March and Friday 25 March 2022 

Learn how to assist adults who are developing a mental health problem, experiencing a worsening of an existing mental health problem or in a mental health crisis, until appropriate professional help is received or the crisis resolves. Participants are required to complete one E-Learning module and attend two x 2.5 hour Zoom sessions.

You will learn how to assist an adult who may be experiencing a mental health problem or mental health crisis until appropriate professional help is received or the crisis resolves, using a practical, evidence-based action plan.

Mental Health First Aid Australia is a national not-for-profit organisation that develops and evaluates training programs and trains and accredits Instructors.

Trainer Ronnie Kakaire is a Mental Health First Aid 'Principal Master' Instructor with a very strong passion for training and facilitating workshops. His energetic, engaging and yet entertaining style of delivering training has made him a favourite for most participants that have attended his sessions.

This course is based on guidelines developed through the expert consensus of people with lived experience of mental health problems and professionals.

Participants are required to complete one E-Learning module and attend two x 2.5 hour Zoom sessions.

About E-Learning
This is self-paced and takes approximately 3 hours if done in one session.

About Zoom sessions
These are very interactive and participants go through what they learned during e-learning and also practice skills.

Zoom Sessions Dates and Times:
Session One: Friday 18 March 2022
Time: Choose from either 10am - 12:30 pm OR 2pm - 4:30 pm

Session Two: Friday 25 March 2022
Time: Choose from either 10am - 12:30 pm OR 2pm - 4:30 pm


Jewish Immersion Day for Community Organisations | Thursday 24 February 2022 | 9am-1pm

The Program is a combination of engaging sessions with a diverse range of speakers and facilitators, as well as a visit to the Jewish Museum of Australia and St Kilda Hebrew Congregation.

The program will provide participants with helpful insights in order to develop a rich working understanding of the nuances of the Jewish community. The session covers a range of topics including; the diverse demographics of the Jewish community in City of Port Phillip, history of the Jewish community in the area, Jewish traditions and practice, Jewish responses to local challenges, and the Jewish experience in 2021/22. Within these topic areas we will address the experience of living with antisemitism and the perception vs reality of the community in Port Phillip and greater Melbourne.

For over 80 years The Jewish Community Council of Victoria has been the peak body of Victorian Jewry, Australia’s largest Jewish community. With 52 major communal organisations as its affiliates, the JCCV represents the mosaic of Jewish religious, political, cultural, welfare, educational and social associations serving the Jewish community in Victoria.
  • Where: Meet at St Kilda Town Hall, 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: places are limited to 15 people. Book online through TryBooking

City of Port Phillip New Residents Directory for new migrants

The City of Port Phillip New Residents Directory was created for new migrants and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who live, work and study in the Port Phillip area. We spoke to several current residents who arrived in Port Phillip as migrants, refugees and asylum seekers and asked them what information they wished they had known when they arrived in Port Phillip and during their first year. This directory includes what they told us.

The directory is also be shortly available in Hindi, Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic and Mandarin (simplified) on City of Port Phillip Multicultural Community page
  • For further information, contact Council and ask for the Diversity Officer on Tel: 03 9209 6777.

StarHealth COVID Testing and Vaccination

Free COVID-19 Screening Clinic at the Prahran Town Hall for anyone experiencing symptoms.
Please note: As this is a walk-in clinic there may be an extended wait during busy periods.
Address: Prahran Town Hall, 255a Chapel St, Prahran.
Hours: 9 am – 5 pm, 7 days.
Closed daily between 12 pm – 1 pm for cleaning.

If you require assistance when visiting the clinic, or when waiting in line, please approach a staff member or security and they will be pleased to assist you. You can also register by calling us on 8644 3311 during business hours

Book a Vaccination or Booster appointment with Star Health Vaccination sites:
StarHealth is delivering three COVID-19 Vaccines:
  • AstraZeneca
  • Moderna
  • Pfizer

StarHealth Prahran Town Hall
180 Greville St, Prahran VIC 3181
Monday to Friday 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
Closed daily from 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Click here to book between 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Click here to book between 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Or call 8644 3311 to book over the phone

StarHealth Port Melbourne Town Hall
333 Bay St, Port Melbourne VIC 3207
Open Monday to Wednesday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Open Thursday to Friday 9:00 am -7:45 pm
Closed daily from 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Click here to book online
Or via the Coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398
Accepting walk-ins

StarHealth South Melbourne
341 Coventry St, South Melbourne 3205
Open Thursday 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
Closed between 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Click here to book online
Or call 9525 1300 to book over the phone

StarHealth Betty Day Community Centre
67 Argyle St, St Kilda 3182
Open Monday to Friday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Closed daily from 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Click here to book online
To book, contact the coronavirus hotline on: 1800 675 398

Assistance with Proof of COVID Vaccination

People will be required to show proof of vaccination while out in the community. This can be done using your COVID-19 digital certificate or immunisation history statement. For more information and advice visit How to get your COVID-19 digital certificate | Coronavirus Victoria

Types of Proof of Vaccination
There are two types of proof available. Both are free.
  1. A COVID – 19 Digital certificate, which shows you have received both doses of a COVID vaccine. For more information visit Getting help during coronavirus (COVID-19) - COVID-19 digital certificate as proof - Services Australia
  2. An immunisation history statement which lists COVID -19 vaccinations and all other vaccinations. For more information visit Australian Immunisation Register - How to get an immunisation history statement - Services Australia
It can take up to 10 days for information to be uploaded to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) after each dose of a COVID -19 vaccine.

It’s quick to get an immunisation history statement online. Download your statement now so you are ready to show it when you need to gain entry to places you want or need to visit.

If online is difficult for you or your residents, there are a few alternatives:
  • Call the Australian Immunisation Register and ask them to post your immunisation history statement, noting that it may take up to 14 days to arrive. Call 1800 653 809 from Monday to Friday 8 am to 5 pm.
  • Call Medicare on 13 20 11 and ask them to send you a printed copy. They are on the phones 24 hours 7 days a week. You can also ask for interpretation in your language when you call Medicare.
  • Ask someone who has internet access for help with online if you need it quickly who can help you to print it off. You will need a MyGov account (www.my.gov.au)
  • Ask at your GP clinic, pharmacy or community centre for help in printing your COVID certificate. 

Framing Age Message Guide

What is the Framing Age Message Guide?
To reduce the impact of ageism in the community a consortium of multi-agency Elder Abuse Prevention Networks (EAPNs) led by Southern Melbourne Primary Care Partnership engaged Common Cause Australia to develop the Framing Age Message Guide. The research and resulting tips will help everyone better understand how to communicate about age, ageing and issues affecting older people in a way that reduces ageist attitudes, stereotypes and behaviours.

The guide details research conducted by Common Cause Australia using their unique approach to community engagement. It identifies ways of communicating to shift persuadable audiences to a more supportive mindset.

​Based on this research, six ‘Top Tips for Messaging’ have been outlined, including practical ‘before’ and ‘after’ examples. Details on how to structure a persuasive story are also included.

There’s even a ‘cheat sheet’ at the end so you have the most important information all in one place!

ONLINE | Walking on water - South Melbourne | Sunday 5 December 2021 | 10-11am

Discover the heritage treasures and secret histories of Port Phillip with free online and in person guided walks.

Tobias Nash investigates how South Melbourne’s landscapes and hidden infrastructure reveal our adaption of water use from wetlands, streams, lagoons or springs.

Where: online.
Cost: Free
Bookings: essential, online through Trybooking

Beach Access Program Summer 2021/22 

The City of Port Phillip currently has two accessible beach locations, St Kilda Beach and Port Melbourne Beach. The Life Saving Clubs at these locations, St Kilda Life Saving Club (StKLSC) and Port Melbourne Life Saving Club (PMLSC) support the delivery of beach access equipment for hire during the summer lifesaving patrol season.

The beach access equipment includes a Mobi-chair beach wheelchair (MC) and Accessible Beach Matting (ABM). This equipment is FREE to hire and removes some of the barriers that can restrict people with a disability from enjoying beaches. Beach access equipment has been available at StKLSC and PMLSC since 2017.

The St Kilda Life Saving Club includes a Victorian Government funded Changing Places. Changing Places facilities have a height-adjustable, adult-sized changing bench, a tracking hoist system, and space for two people in a safe and clean environment.

To access the Changing Places facility, an individual or carer must have a Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK). This key enables people with a disability to gain 24-hour access, seven days a week to the facility. Eligibility for the MLAK is restricted to people with disability that have written authority from a doctor, a disability organisation or a community health centre. People with a disability can purchase an MLAK by contacting the Master Locksmiths Association on 1800 819 775.

Timing & Booking
Lifesaving patrol season: November 2021 to April 2022.
  • Accessible Beach Matting: Rolled out Tuesday 16 November 2021 at both locations, available everyday (except for each Tuesday 4.30 am – 10.30 am, to accommodate beach cleaning). No booking required.
  • Mobi-chair beach wheelchair: Available for hire from Saturday 27 November 2021. Bookings accepted from Wednesday 24 November 2021.

St Kilda Life Saving Club

Location: 34 Jacka Boulevard, St Kilda
Available: Saturday and Sunday during patrol times, 12noon-5pm, 1.5 hr hire limit

Port Melbourne Life Saving Club
Location: 38 Beaconsfield Parade, Port Melbourne
Available: Saturday and Sunday during patrol times, 12noon-5pm, 1.5hr hire limit

Help Shape Year 2 of the City of Port Phillip Council Plan

If you think you’d might like to be part of some deeper conversations in the new year about how we can continue to keep our City great, then we want to hear from you!

Register your interest before 23 December 2021 and we’ll keep you in the loop about future opportunities to participate in deeper conversations about some of the challenges and opportunities we’re considering as we continue planning for the future of this great City.

Current and upcoming consultations

Throughout November and December we’ll be asking for your feedback on a range of projects and initiatives across our City, including a play space upgrade, streetscape improvements and guidelines for our nature strips.

MORE:
City of Port Phillip (CoPP)
Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182
Email: news@portphillip.vic.gov.au

VMC | UPDATING | Honouring community award winners, Learn about prejudice motivated crime | Tuesday 16 November 2021

[Edited extract from public address]

This week the focus is on some outstanding people who have been recognised in our community through various awards. These people make tremendous contributions to all aspects of our society.

Message from the Chairperson

Recipients have displayed compassion, generosity and commitment to an inclusive, harmonious and equitable society. These values are a treasured part of our identity as Victorians.

I extend my congratulations to the winners and the highly commended, and give my thanks to those who nominated them.

As we approach December, I hope you’re enjoying the easing of restrictions. I look forward to meeting you in person soon.

Don't forget to keep getting tested if you have symptoms of COVID-19 and get vaccinated if you haven’t done so.

Take care and stay safe.
Viv Nguyen AM, Chairperson

Victorian Honour Roll of Women – 2021 inductees announced

Women leading their communities through disaster, helping address cybercrime and lifting-up vulnerable communities are some of the 23 remarkable inductees to the Victorian Honour Roll of Women this year.

Minister for Women Gabrielle Williams last week announced the 2021 Victorian Honour Roll of Women. Inductees included women from all walks of life who have made outstanding contributions to Victoria.

Two new categories were also introduced this year, to recognise young women in the early stages of their career and acknowledge women’s leadership in bushfire and COVID-19 response and recovery.

The youngest ever inductee – Yasmin Poole, 22 (above) – is a national ambassador for Plan International Australia and a passionate advocate for young women being included in Australia’s political conversations. There were many other inductees from multicultural communities as well. Click the button below to learn more about their contributions.

Nominate for the 2021 Volunteering Awards | nominations close 14 January 2022

Victorians have pulled together like never before over the past two years to support each other through COVID-19. Now is the time to say thank you to the thousands of volunteers, organisations and leaders who have made a difference.

For the first time, the 2021 Volunteering Awards are being combined with the Premier’s Volunteer Champion Awards to recognise and honour the thousands of people across our state who give their time, energy, and skills to support others.

These awards recognise and celebrate volunteers, volunteer-involving organisations, and leaders of volunteers across the state, and thank them for building services and connections.

Anyone can nominate a team, leaders or individuals doing great work – and it’s quick and easy.

VMC Chairperson Viv Nguyen will be serving as a judge for the awards. 

Priority response to multicultural communities during coronavirus (COVID-19)

The CALD Communities Taskforce is working in partnership with organisations to develop locally delivered solutions to help slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Applications for funding through the Priority Response to Multicultural Communities during Coronavirus (COVID-19) phase 3 (PRMC 3.0) 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.

What COVID-19 has taught us about CALD communication | Thursday 9 December 2021 | 2pm (AEDT) / 11am (AWST) 

The pandemic has not discriminated by culture, language or ethnicity. Everyone has been impacted and translations of public health information has been more important than ever.

In this webinar, Ethnolink will explore the COVID-19 pandemic from the perspective of language professionals.

Hear from Ethnolink CEO, Costa Vasili, as he explores:
  • how COVID has affected CALD communities
  • strategies that Ethnolink employs to deliver translations
  • best practice tips for COVID-19 CALD communication campaigns
  • new research and data that informs CALD communication strategies.

Winners announced for Victorian Early Years Awards 2021

The exceptional work of Victoria’s early childhood education sector has been recognised and celebrated at the 2021 Victorian Early Years Awards.

Minister for Early Childhood Ingrid Stitt announced eight winners across seven categories – personally selecting the winner of the prestigious Minister’s Award from the list of finalists.

Winners were chosen from categories of improving engagement in learning, supporting parents, building collaborative community partnerships, improving health and wellbeing, exemplary practice in early childhood education, leadership, and significant service improvement.

The VMC would like to congratulate the Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture (Foundation House) for projects they ran in Whittlesea and Melton. The Whittlesea Refugee Background Community Advisory Group was a a finalist in the Improving Access and Participation in Early Learning category, while the Melton Refugee Background Communities of Practice won the Creating Collaborative Community Partnerships category.

Flooding alert

The Bureau of Meteorology has advised that there may be mild to moderate flooding in Victoria this week, particularly in the Gippsland region.

Flash flooding can occur quickly due to heavy rainfall and you may not receive an official warning. When riverine flooding is predicted, decide what you will do before flooding occurs. 

Here's what to do if a flood occurs near you:
  • Floodwater is dangerous. Stay safe by never entering floodwater.
  • Call 132 500 for emergency assistance from VICSES.
  • Call Triple Zero (000) in life-threatening emergencies
  • Stay informed – monitor weather warnings and forecasts at the Bureau of Meteorology website, and warnings through VicEmergency website, app and hotline (1800 226 226).

Learn about prejudice motivated crime

Victoria Police has launched new resources to help diverse Victorians understand how to report prejudice motivated crime (PMC).

PMC is any crime motivated by prejudice or hatred towards a person or a group because of a characteristic such as race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. These crimes can include harassment, threats to kill, verbal abuse, destroying or damaging property, and in more serious cases, physical violence. These crimes not only impact the victim’s sense of safety, but also the broader community.

The new resources, available for download from the Victoria Police website, are an animated video (2 min) and poster. The resources are available in English, Arabic, Chinese (Traditional and Simplified), Hindi, Korean, Persian, Punjabi, Somali, Urdu and Vietnamese.

Recognising Victoria’s outstanding seniors

For more than 25 years, the Victorian Senior of the Year Awards have recognised the volunteer work and community contributions of older Victorians. This year’s awardees highlight the resilience, compassion and commitment of senior Victorians, particularly during the pandemic.

Local leader John Thuy from Ashburton received the 2021 Promotion of Multiculturalism Award for his volunteer work to strengthen social connections and increase belonging among Vietnamese seniors, including through weekly online singing get-togethers during the pandemic.

First Nations Elders were also honoured. Warrnambool local and proud Gunditjmara man Uncle Locky Eccles received the Healthy and Active Living Award for his intergenerational leadership, sharing language, culture and his passion for sport with the community.

Aunty Frances Gallagher received the Ageing Well Award for her highly respected work supporting and mentoring young people and advocating and caring for fellow Elders, particularly those who are isolated or dealing with health issues.

Coronavirus hotline


MORE:

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

VMC | UPDATING | Have your say on the National Anti-Racism Framework, It's Remembrance Day this Week | Tuesday 9 November 2021

[Edited extract from public address]

The COVID-19 vaccine uptake rate continues to increase, while case numbers decrease. These positive trends provide optimism for the months ahead. There are many pop-up vaccine sites opening regularly too, which make it easier for you and your loved ones to get vaccinated.

Message from the Chairperson

I hope you enjoyed a bit of a break during Melbourne Cup week or took the chance to catch up with friends and family.

We encourage you to join the VMC’s fortnightly COVID-19 information briefings, hosted in partnership with the Department of Health. You can register for this Thursday's session here.

To those who celebrate, we hope you’ve had a wonderful Diwali. More cultural festivities will approach quickly as the year begins to wrap up, and we look forward to celebrating them all with you.

This Thursday also marks Remembrance Day. It’s a time to pay tribute to the many who served our nation in conflict and peacekeeping missions. It’s a matter very close to home for me, and I’ll join the Governor and other guests on Thursday to lay a wreath for the men and women who died protecting freedom. Lest We Forget.

Take care and stay safe.
Viv Nguyen AM, Chairperson

Have your say on the National Anti-Racism Framework | submissions open until 15 December 2021 

The Australian Human Rights Commission (the Commission) has launched a plan to develop a National Anti-Racism Framework. The Framework will be a long-term, central reference point to guide actions on anti-racism by government, NGOs, business, communities and other sectors.

The Commission would like to invite you to make a submission through its ‘Have your say’ portal.

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.

How to prove your vaccination

Being double vaccinated is our ticket to safely getting back to the things we’ve loved and missed.
  • It’s our ticket to seeing friends and family anywhere in Victoria
  • To shopping in real life
  • To watch movies and live music.
  • To getting fit at the gym and being together at our places of worship.
  • It’s our ticket to big hugs at family visits, and celebrating weddings together.

To get your proof of vaccination ticket, you have three options:
  1. Create a myGov account if you don’t already have one, and link your Medicare or Individual Healthcare Identifier (IHI) number. Then add your COVID-19 Digital Certificate to the Service Victoria app.
  2. Ask your vaccination provider for a printed copy.
  3. Visit the Services Australia website and request a copy to be mailed to you.

COVID-19 vaccine booster doses recommended for Australians aged 18+

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) have recommended a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine for people who are aged 18 years and over.

Everyone living in Australia aged 18 and over who has completed their primary two-dose course of vaccination at least six months ago is now eligible to have an additional booster shot.

The booster rollout program will initially target population groups that were prioritised for early vaccination, because the great majority of people within these cohorts are now ready for their booster vaccination, having had their second dose six or more months ago.

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination resources for community groups

With the easing of restrictions, Australians will need to access proof of their COVID-19 vaccinations to enjoy many freedoms. The Australian Government has produced some resources that can be shared in your workplace and with your community.

The resources include general information about the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, as well as information about how to get proof of your vaccinations.

DRC National Women's Forum

The Disability Royal Commission (DRC) National Women’s Forum will cover topics relating to the health and safety of women and girls. It will focus on the experiences of women with disability from asylum seeker, migrant and refugee backgrounds who have a lived experience of domestic or family violence.

Discussions will be wide-ranging and around important areas, including: inter-sectional discrimination, service system gaps and barriers, and the ways in which we can eliminate, prevent and better respond to experiences of violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation.

The DRC Engagement team are planning the forum and are wanting to hear from diverse voices from across Australia.

If you are interested in the session, which will take place online this Thursday from 1:30 pm, please reach out to Victoria Dias (at DRC Engagement) via email on the link below.

Time to start preparing for fire season

Who in your household is going to take on preparing your property for fire season?

With fire season around the corner now is the time to start talking about what you need to do and here is a start!
  • Keep your grass cut to less than 10cm
  • Remove flammable items from decks and verandahs
  • Move woodpiles away from your home
For more preparation advice, please visit Country Fire Authority's website.

Sign up to MyCFA to get local information on how to plan and prepare for fires and other emergencies in your area.

Australia Day grants now open | applications close at 5pm on Friday 19 November 2021 

The National Australia Day Council’s (NADC) Australia Day 2022 Community Grants Program are now open. The NADC is offering a total of $7.5 million in grants to Australian local government authorities and community organisations.

In 2022, Australia Day event hosts can apply for up to $30,000 to deliver events that use the National Australia Day Council’s ‘Reflect. Respect. Celebrate. We’re all part of the story.’ theme.

Applicants that collaborate with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to incorporate activities that reflect and respect the history of local indigenous people and celebrate their culture will be eligible to apply for an additional $10,000.

Coronavirus hotline


MORE:

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

JCCV | WALKING | Together - Jewish Community with First Nations | Sunday 5 December 2021 | Staggered starts from 3.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Get active and Walk Together in support of the wishes of the First Nations community to establish a Voice to Australian Parliament as called for by the Uluru Statement from the Heart

JCCV, B'nai B'rith Victoria, together with other Jewish organisations, are coordinating a number of community walks leading to the Fed Square, Eighth Night, Chanukah celebrations. 

JCCV invites you to a very special Chanukah event. Join us to celebrate the Eighth night of Chanukah, with a smoking ceremony and the lighting of the ArkCentre's 'Pillars of Light' Grand Menorah.

Event subject to covid regulations.

JCCV acknowledges the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land and community. We pay our respect to them and their cultures, and to the Elders, past, present and emerging.

Where: Different starting positions walking to Federation Square, Melbourne VIC 3000

MORE:

Jewish Community Council of Victoria (JCCV)

MIN | TALKING | Compassion | Sunday 21 November 2021 | 3pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Compassion lies at the heart of most religions and is the foundation for family and society. 

Yet, each religion understands and expresses compassion in its own way. These seminars are opportunities for discussion between the various religions so that we can understand each other better and work with each other more effectively. Seminar will start with a short meditation.

Prof Philip Hughes (Uniting Church) will discuss the Uniting Church emphases on compassion and social justice. This will be a face-to-face meeting (regulations permitting).

We anticipate that this series will continue in 2022, and will climax with an Interfaith Cafe on Sunday 20 March 2022. 

Where: Janssen Spirituality Centre, 22 Woodvale Road, Boronia VIC 3155
Cost: Free.
Bookings: Registration is encouraged. Online through Eventbrite

MORE:

Maroondah Interfaith Network (MIN)

MIG | WEBINAR | Domestic Violence, Silence is Not the Answer | Thursday 18 November 2021 | log in 6.50pm for 7-8.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Violence Against Women, what is it and what does it take to stop and eliminate this scourge from our society?

Join this virtual forum as part of Monash City Council’s “16 Days of Soul Searching to turn the tide on Domestic Violence”.
Keynote Speaker: Ms. Manpreet Kaur Singh, Award Winning SBS Journalist
Followed by Ruby Lampard, Development Officer Kara House

Where: Event will be online - details will come once you've booked
Cost: Free
Bookings: online through Trybooking

MORE:

Monash Interfaith Gathering (MIG)

GEIFN | MIXING | Media | November 2021

Best wishes for less Suffering, more Happiness with Good Health and Time to Enjoy it. Welcome to Gregorian Calendar year 2021.

Sharing a timely aspiration:
"I don’t know the answers. I just know how to go about life, and if that’s in the right direction, then let’s empower that. This is all our culture: something we all can celebrate and enjoy."
Patty Mills, Australian professional basketball player and Tokyo 2020 Boomers Gold Olympian (1988- CE)

If having no reason to celebrate this month, here are 3 prepared earlier:

This is also the Re:call edition.

Re:call; from Old English 16th Century, compounding via Norse kalla; from French rappeler (call back), from Latin revocare
re = again, intensify, focus; 
call = 

  • summon. Ie, call to mind
  • express. Ie, give voice to
  • determine. Ie. decided to call it a day
  • contact. Ie, I took a call today
  • result. Ie, the call went my way

Those who Re:call wisely have longer memories, clearer clarity-centres and use available means to do more work with less effort, moving smoother and faster towards stated goals.

The following monthly curation from publicly available information is offered below for consideration.



    Topics

    • Guest Sings
    • Street Jives
    • Wisdom Reconciles
    • Media Writes
    • TED Talks
    • Music Challenges
    • Acknowledgments


    Guest Sings

    Approx 5 min presentation
     

    Street Jives

    Approx 2 min presentation 

    Wisdom Reconciles



    Media Writes

    Approx 5 min reads

    Intro
    Kerrie O’Brien explores valuing on celebrating diversity, sharing secrets community and togetherness with Simon Abrahams, director of the Melbourne Fringe Festival "‘The happiest 29 minutes’: Fringe Festival thumbs its nose at lockdown” via The Age

    Benjamin Law explores dicey topics Politics, Death and Sex with "Nova Peris: ‘I’m in a category six cyclone here’” via The Sydney Morning Herald

    Yves Rees explores gender, systemic erasure and restoring equity, explaining why "‘I’m neither man nor woman, but I must pretend’” via The Age


    Intra
    Thea Calzoni explores parental or societal attitudes towards intimacy with her child’s relationships and sexuality, one mother’s reasons why "‘My duty lay in introducing my son to a sex worker’” via The Brisbane Times

    Jane Albert explores personal identity, familial expectation and religion coming to terms with diversity, "From denial to unconditional love, a mother rejoices in her trans child” via WA Today

    Daniel Brettig explores importance of leading visibility, diverse representation and addressing equity, reasons "‘I wanted white skin’: Why Khawaja went from changing himself to game changer” via The Brisbane Times


    Inter
    Fenella Souter explores spirited team work, living sustainably and loving service to humanity revealing why "For this climate campaigning couple, despair is a luxury they can’t afford” via The Age

    Nyadol Nyuon explores emotive language, freedom of choice and in the public interest, reasoning how "Anti-vaxxers hide privilege behind language of oppression” via The Sydney Morning Herald

    Anne Hyland explores citizenry, community service and motherhood, meeting remotely over lunch to discuss "When your kid gets COVID at school: Katy Gallagher on being prepared” via The Sydney Morning Herald


    Multi
    Tim Biggs explores the value of fresh eyes and insider knowledge put to advantage a growing number of beneficiaries, meet the "Aussie legal tech start-up takes digital courtroom to the US” via The Brisbane Times

    Lisa Jackson Pulver explores dedication, fearlessness an commitment to greater benefit, overcoming how "Trolling, abuse, death threats: a COVID scientist’s lot” via WA Today

    Olivia Campbell explores ignorance fuelled violence and combined strength from celebrated diversity, reasons why "My family’s tragedy is one among millions: a year 8 student’s plea against hate and persecution” via The Brisbane Times


    All
    Sam Purcell explores how a painful catalyst and insights gleamed from slow rehabilitation resulted in "A young couple, an old LandCruiser and 61,000 kilograms of rubbish” via Drive.com.au

    Parmy Olson explores integrity, cognitive dissonance and whistleblowing in a digital age, revealing "How whistleblower Frances Haugen left Mark Zuckerberg speechless” via The Age

    Nicholas Wilcken reflects on his brief glimpse from Sydney's COVID-19 frontline "‘These are really sick people’: My week working on a Sydney COVID ward” via The Age


    Togather
    Petra Stock and Ashleigh McMillan explores innovation, civic mindedness while creating nourishing neighbourhoods as "Feeding the soul: Everybody needs good neighbours, especially in lockdown” via The Age

    Konrad Marshall explores valuing purpose, place, perseverance, persistence and practice, revealing how "‘This is all our culture’: Patty Mills and his fight against racial injustice” via The Sydney Morning Herald

    Amanda Hooton explores a resurgence in rural media with three examples of why "‘We’re not all toothless farmers waiting out the drought!’” Via The Brisbane Times


    Nobly
    Sandra Hall explores a life-long American social justice hero Pauli Murray, whose life is revealed in "Terrific doco shines light on a hero who was far ahead of her time” via WA Today

    Neil McMahon explores self agency and using personal sphere of influence for a greater public good when "Solidarity Pancakes to show support for frontline health workers goes viral” via WA Today

    Melissa Cunningham explores collaborative approach, compassion and ongoing team work to "Help amid the heartache as Afghan refugees begin their new lives” via The Age


    TED Talks

    5-20 min presentations


    Music Challenges

    Approx 30 min presentation + reflection times

    If desired, a short selection of publicly available material on a chosen theme for personal reflection. 

    For best results, sit comfortably with a straight back, have headphones in a shared space, after each clicked link, allow a little reflection with your personally-held view before clicking on the next link.

    Get ready to Reflect!
    Choose your playing level:
    Be introduced at 1.
    Be soothed at 2-4.
    Be shocked at 5.
    Be inspired at 6.
    Fuller illumination 1-6.
    You be the judge. Or not.

    Cryptic Clue:
    When overcoming barriers to sustainable team work, what is the role each individual plays?
    1. Inspire
    2. Perspire
    3. Collaborate
    4. Engage: Test for personal circumstances, if useful keep, if unuseful discard, if exceeds needs, share mindfully
    5. Endure: Adapt for present times without sacrificing intent
    6. Endear: (Inspiring Others To Tend the Flame) live/ demonstrate/ inspire/ teach experience with others

    tribute
    [trih’boot]
    From late Middle English from Latin tributum, neuter past participle (used as a noun) of tribuere = assign, bestow (originally ‘divide between tribes’), from tribus = tribe.
    1. an act, statement, or gift that is intended to show gratitude, respect, or admiration. Ie, the video is a tribute to the musicals of the 40s. Ie, a symposium organized to pay tribute to Darwin. 
    2. something resulting from a particular quality or feature and indicating its worth. Ie, the player's victory in the championship was a tribute to their persistence. 
    3. denoting or relating to a group or musician that performs the music of a more famous one and typically imitates them in appearance and style of performance. Ie, an Abba tribute band. Ie, a tribute show. 
    4. historical payment made periodically by one state or ruler to another, especially as a sign of dependence. Ie, the monarch had at personal disposal plunder and tribute amassed through warfare. 
    5. (historical) a proportion of ore or its equivalent, paid to a miner for his work, or to the owner or lessor of a mine. 

    contribution
    [con’trih’boo’shun]
    From late Middle English (denoting a tax or levy): from late Latin contributio(n-), from Latin contribuere = bring together, add; from con- = with + tribuere = assign, bestow + -ion = energy, exchange
    1. a gift or payment to a common fund or collection. Ie, the agency is mainly financed from voluntary contributions. 
    2. the part played by a person or thing in bringing about a result or helping something to advance. Ie, the major contribution of social scientists to the understanding of political life. Ie, there was scarcely a branch of art to which the artist did not make a contribution. 
    3. a piece of writing submitted for publication in a journal, book, etc.. Ie, local historians are requesting contributions for a forthcoming book on the history of the community. 

    retribution
    [reh’trih’boo’shun]
    From late Middle English (also in the sense ‘recompense for merit or a service’): from late Latin retributio(n-), from retribut- = assigned again, from the verb retribuere, from re- = back + tribuere = assign, bestow
    • punishment inflicted on someone as vengeance for a wrong or criminal act. Ie, employees asked not to be named, saying they feared retribution. Ie, Minos threatened war against Athens in retribution for his son's death. Ie, divine retribution.

    attribution
    [at’trih’boo’shun]
    From late 15th century: the noun from Old French attribut; the verb from Latin attribut- = allotted: both from the verb attribuere, from ad- = to + tribuere = assign, bestow.
    1. the action of regarding something as being caused by a person or thing. Ie, the electorate was disillusioned with the Elected Member's immediate attribution of the bombings to a separatist group. 
    2. the action of ascribing a work or remark to a particular author, artist, or person. Ie, the study of Constable is fraught with problems of attribution. Ie, the attribution to Mozart on the title page is correct. Ie, none of the texts in the collection contained author attributions. 
    3. the action of regarding a quality or feature as characteristic of or possessed by a person or thing. Ie, the attribution of human emotions to inanimate objects. Ie, attributions of false motives, especially of greed, are commonplace.

    distribution
    [dis’trih’boo'shun]
    From late Middle English: from Latin distribut- = divided up, from the verb distribuere, from dis- = apart + tribuere = assign, bestow.
    1. the action of sharing something out among a number of recipients. Ie, the government released about 74,000 tonnes of rice for distribution among people affected by the cyclone. Ie, unequal distributions of income and wealth. 
    2. the action or process of supplying goods to retailers. Ie, a manager has the choice of four types of distribution. Ie, an established distribution channel. 
    3. (Bridge) the different number of cards of each suit in a player's hand: strength has two ingredients, high cards and distribution. 
    4. the way in which something is shared out among a group or spread over an area. Ie, changes undergone by the area have affected the distribution of its wildlife.

    [Practice]

    Optional
    -- Chant Mantrastyle

    In a busy modern world, it is sometimes difficult to know why a tribute should be made and when individual contribution falls due. Is it well known that there is appropriate and proportional retribution for those who fail to do their fair share? How and who will you count in the resulting number of beneficiaries from the attribution and distribution.

    Why? Why not?
    Start today. 
    As the case may be.
    Or not.



    Same Difference Equals



    Acknowledgments

    Reconciliation
    Acknowledging traditional inhabitants of Cities of Port Phillip and Glen Eira are the Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri peoples of the Kulin NationRespect is offered to 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, savor and enjoy results of mindful effort so more thrive peacefully with less effort in our place called home.

    Invitation to Support Content Creators
    The music/stories/videos have been sourced from public domain. If you like any of the content, please consider buying directly from online marketplaces to support creators and truth telling in the public interest.

    Caretaker Disclosure
    Words and concepts are conditional things that point to a 'reflection of experience'. They are limited and do not adequately describe the 'full lived experience'. Like the moon's reflection on a lake's surface, it is not the moon, nor the experience of gazing up at the darkened sky transformed by the presence of a full moon. It is in the eyes/ears/nose/mouth/touch/cognisance of the beholder.

    This curation is an interpretation of the universal basis of re:lig:ion (Latin = again:uniting:energy). This email invites a sharing of countless thoughts, words and actions wishing, causing and receiving less Suffering and more Happiness. For benefit initially of the individual increasing in beneficiaries until it includes all across the 3 times and 10 directions. As each case may be. Or not.

    It is not personal, it just the way things are.

    Click to go to Emily Wurramara Interview

    GEIFN | CONSOLIDATED | Information on Coronavirus (COVID-19) | Monday 1 November 2021

    Fast Facts: COVID-19 Victoria & Australia

    1. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Pandemic Response
    2. AUST | GOV | ADVISING | You can now get vaccinated at pharmacies
    3. AUST | GOV | CALLING | Community Leaders to make your own COVID-19 vaccination video
    4. VIC | ECCV | OFFERING | Community Information Sessions
    5. VIC | CEH | OFFERING | Long COVID Workshop
    6. VIC | GOV | PROMOTING | 'Fab Jab' vaccination in LGBTIQ+ communities
    7. AUST | GOV | SUPPORTING | Head to Health – mental health support
    8. AUST | VMC | SUPPORTING | Community Hubs – building thriving communities through a pandemic
    9. VIC | VMC | UPDATING | Fortnightly COVID-19 Forum | 7-8.30pm
    10. VIC | ECCV | CALLING | People with disability from CALD communities and Access to Advocacy Consultants | 5, 8 & 11 November 2021 | 10am
    11. AUST | SBS | HEARING | Your Say in Language Services Review | 5 October to 12 November 2021
    12. VIC | ECCV | OFFERING | COVID-19 Multicultural Information sessions | 17 November 2021
    13. AUST | ONEMDA | The Silos Project workshop series | Thursday 25 November 2021 | 2-5pm
    14. AUST | AHRC | HEARING | Your Say on National Anti-Racism Framework
    15. AUST | GOV | RECRUITING | Overseas workers for Opportunities in Australian Agriculture
    16. VIC | GOV | RECRUITING | Applicants to Victorian Skills Authority
    17. VIC | ECCV | RECRUITING | Chief Executive Officer | applications close 3 November 2021
    18. VIC | WDV | RECRUITING | Women with broad range of disability for NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commissioncampaign
    19. AUST | GOV | GRANTING | New payment to help women escape violent relationships
    20. VIC | GOV | SUBSIDISING | New Jobs in Victorian Small Business
    21. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Changing Places facilities grants | applications close 5 November 2021
    22. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Youth Engagement Grants | open now, submissions close 13 December 2021 at 4pm
    23. AUST | FECCA | GRANTING | CALD COVID-19 Health Small Grants | applications open now, closing end of January 2022
    24. AUST | SSI | OFFERING | Refugee Scholarships | applications for 2022 academic year now open
    25. CoPP | GOV | GRANTING | Community Grants Program 2021/22 | now Open
    26. AUST | GOV | ADVISING | You may be eligible for financial support if restrictions have affected your work
    27. VIC | GOV | CALLING | New Members to Mental Health and Wellbeing Interim Regional Bodies
    28. VIC | GOV | CALLING | CALD Members to 2022 Active Citizenship Leadership Program
    29. VIC | VPTA | CALLING | Members to Join the VPTA board
    30. VIC | ECCV | CALLING | Members to Join the Statewide Disability Network
    31. VIC | IPAAV | CALLING | For Nominations for the Top 50 Public Sector Women | nominations close 22 November 2021
    32. AUST | NDIS | SEEKING | Feedback for Annual Pricing Review 2021-22
    33. VIC | GOV | TOURING | Premier's spirit of democracy study tour
    34. AUST | ECCV | INVITING | Participants for FECCA 2022 Conference | 10-11 March 2022 | now open early bird registrations
    35. VIC | ECCV | ANNOUNCING | New Speak My Language podcasts - living well with disability in a range of community languages
    36. VIC | GOV | TRANSLATING | New guidance on rent relief in your language
    37. VIC | ECCV | RELEASING | Access & Support Service Practice Guide
    38. VIC | ECCV | ANNOUNCING | Latest edition of Golden Years out now
    39. VIC | CCV | RECOMMENDING | Improving Respect of diversity in the coronial process
    40. AUST | Coronavirus hotline
    41. AUST | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way
    42. Acknowledgment to Sources
    43. Bye bye to Essentialists
    44. Self-Isolators, Non-Essentials And The Homebound


    1. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Pandemic Response

    From 6pm Friday 29 October, as Victoria moves beyond “locking people down to locking people out”, restrictions changed including a small sample as follows:

    • travel restrictions within Victoria ceased
    • density limits at hospitality venues increased only for fully vaccinated people
    • retail centres reopened
    • Universities, swimming pools, nightclubs and gyms will reopen
    • restaurants will be allowed more indoor diners
    • outdoor stadiums can welcome up to 5000 vaccinated people
    • and crowds at weddings and funerals will be permitted from Friday

    Masks:
    From Friday evening, masks will no longer be required outdoors. They will be mandatory indoors, but only recommended outdoors where physical distancing is not possible, such as busy streets or outdoor markets. 

    When Target Reached of 90% Double Dose Vaccination

    Victoria is now expected to hit the 90 per cent double dose vaccination target for people 12 years and over – around Wednesday, November 24.

    At this point, caps or density quotients will be removed for all settings. There will be no restrictions for indoor and outdoor events provided they follow COVIDSafe rules including vaccination requirements.

    There will be no limit on how many people can gather in a home or outdoors. 

    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. AUST | GOV | ADVISING | You can now get vaccinated at pharmacies

    Getting your COVID-19 vaccination just got easier. The Australian Government is rolling out 440,000 doses of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine through pharmacies across the country..

    Like the Pfizer vaccination, Moderna is currently recommended for people between 12 and 59 years old. 

    3. AUST | GOV | CALLING | Community Leaders to make your own COVID-19 vaccination video 

    The Australian Government Department of Health is committed to making information on COVID-19 vaccines available to everyone in Australia. The Department of Health is asking community leaders for their support in sharing this critical information via video.

    The COVID-19 Vaccination – How to make your own video guide is designed to help community leaders develop their own videos to share vaccine information with their communities. 

    4. VIC | ECCV | OFFERING | Community Information Sessions

    Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV)'s Multicultural COVID-19 Outreach Program is working alongside health experts to run community information sessions to increase vaccine uptake across multicultural communities. Information sessions for people with disability from migrant and refugee communities can be delivered in partnership with disability service providers and community groups.  

    5. VIC | CEH | OFFERING | Long COVID Workshop

    The Centre for Culture, Ethnicity and Health (CEH) is offering a Long COVID workshop until the end of November to help raise awareness of Long COVID and how it can affect your community. The workshop, funded by the Victorian Department of Health, covers the symptoms and effects of Long COVID and includes group activities, videos, and lots of opportunity for questions.  

    6. VIC | GOV | PROMOTING | 'Fab Jab' vaccination 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.  

    7. AUST | GOV | SUPPORTING | 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:



    8. AUST | VMC | SUPPORTING | Community Hubs – building thriving communities through a pandemic

    The National Community Hubs Program supports migrant and refugee families, particularly mothers with young children. They connect women with their children’s schools, with each other and with organisations that can provide health, education and support. 

    The Community Hub at Dandenong West Primary School has been one of Victoria’s leaders in building a thriving virtual community through the pandemic.  

    The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) caught up with the school’s principal, Bev Hansen and Community Hub co-leaders Rahima Rizai and Abby Rezek, to learn how they turned their Hub into the focal point of the school’s new migrant community, despite six lockdowns. 

    9. VIC | VMC | UPDATING | Fortnightly COVID-19 Forum | 7-8.30pm

    The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC), in partnership with the Department of Health and Services Victoria invites you to an online community information session discussing Victoria’s current COVID-19 status, from Wednesday 20 October 2021. 

    These updates have been held every fortnight throughout the pandemic.The intention of the information session is to keep you informed on the latest developments relating to easing of restrictions, the Moderna vaccine and vaccine certificates. 

    10. VIC | ECCV | CALLING | People with disability from CALD communities and Access to Advocacy Consultants | 5, 8 & 11 November 2021 | 10am

    Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) is looking for people to participate in consultations for a new research project on the experiences of people with disability from CALD communities accessing support services during the pandemic.

    Funded by the Office of Disability, the project is being conducted by ECCV, with online focus group consultations taking place. One-on-one interviews via phone or Zoom can also be arranged if you are unable to attend these sessions. Participants will receive a $50 voucher for their time.
    • For more information or to register your interest, please contact ECCV Policy and Practice Advisor, Dr Riccardo Armillei, on 0430 330 908 or email: rarmillei@eccv.org.au
     

    11. AUST | SBS | HEARING | Your Say in Language Services Review | 5 October to 12 November 2021

    The Language  Services  Review  is a process undertaken every five years in line with the  national  Census, as part of SBS’s ongoing commitment to continue evolving to meet the needs of Australia’s rapidly changing and increasingly diverse society.

    The Language Services Review is a detailed process that occurs over a seventeen-month period, beginning with the Australian Census on Tuesday 10 August 2021.

    SBS is hosting a public consultation from 5th October to 12th November inviting audiences, communities and stakeholders to provide feedback on the draft Language Selection Criteria. 

    12. VIC | ECCV | OFFERING | COVID-19 Multicultural Information sessions | 17 November 2021

    Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) COVID-19 Multicultural Outreach Project team has held 21 Information sessions to date, working with health experts to support community groups. The team in partnership with Women's Health West will present next session with Northern Health.  

    13. AUST | ONEMDA | The Silos Project workshop series | Thursday 25 November 2021 | 2-5pm 

    The Silos Project is an online regional workshop series funded by the NDIS organised by Onemda and research partner, Australian Catholic University. The workshops are aimed at building regional capacity to support students with a disability to enter the world of work while they are at school.  

    14. AUST | AHRC | HEARING | Your Say on National Anti-Racism Framework

    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. 

    15. AUST | GOV | RECRUITING | Overseas workers for Opportunities in Australian Agriculture

    The Australian Government is offering the Australian Agriculture visa to address workforce shortages in the agriculture sector. The Australian Agriculture visa is being designed for primary industry sectors including horticulture, meat processing, dairy, wool, grains, fisheries (including aquaculture) and forestry.

    The program will be operated by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, leveraging their experience managing the successful Pacific Labour Scheme.

    The Seasonal Worker Program and Pacific Labour Scheme will remain the priority source of temporary migrant workers for Australia’s agriculture sector. The Australian Agriculture visa will address any labour gaps that cannot be filled by Australian and Pacific labour. 

    16. VIC | GOV | RECRUITING | Applicants to Victorian Skills Authority

    The new Victorian Skills Authority is seeking talented applicants with expertise in community engagement, data, policy and programs to help strengthen links between industry needs and high quality skills for all Victorians.

    Work with the new Victorian Skills Authority to really make a difference to skills-based training pathways that align with what businesses, communities and individuals need.
    Applications close for several ongoing roles soon.  

    17. VIC | ECCV | RECRUITING | Chief Executive Officer | applications close 3 November 2021

    Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) is seeking an experienced and inspirational CEO to build on their legacy and history in multicultural affairs. Over-seeing all aspects of the organisation, the CEO will ensure ECCV continues to be a leading voice shaping multicultural policy across Victoria and supporting members, community, business and government to build an inclusive and diverse society. 

    18. VIC | WDV | RECRUITING | Women with broad range of disability for NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission campaign

    Women with Disabilities Victoria is looking for people across the broad range of disability to photograph and film for an information campaign about the NDIS Code of Conduct. Filming will take place between 6-17 December and you will be paid $500-$1000 for your time.  

    19. AUST | GOV | GRANTING | 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:
    Learn more about the payment

    20. VIC | GOV | SUBSIDISING | New Jobs in Victorian Small Business

    Scores of Victorians are finding permanent work each week with the help of a Victorian Government program that pays part of the worker’s wage – providing a major boost to small businesses gearing up as the economy re-opens.

    More than 800 businesses across Victoria have successfully applied for a wage subsidy of up to $20,000 for some 1,300 new workers – including hairdressers, warehouse staff, bookkeepers, solar technicians and butchers.

    The wage subsidies are part of a landmark $619 million investment in Jobs Victoria that is helping to connect people looking for work with employers seeking staff. 

    21. 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.

     

    22. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Youth Engagement Grants | open now, submissions close 13 December 2021 at 4pm

    Small multicultural and Aboriginal clubs and community organisations are invited to apply for grants of up to $50,000 to support young people make positive life choices and reach their potential.

    The Youth Engagement Grants are an initiative under the Victorian Government’s Crime Prevention Strategy. The grants provide funding to support projects that use cultural connection, sport, arts, music or other creative activities to engage young people aged 8-24 years old.

    The program will involve an initial expression of interest (EOI) process, followed by support for selected organisations to plan activity and develop a quality grant proposal, which will be assessed for funding suitability. 

    23. 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. 

    24. AUST | SSI | OFFERING | Refugee Scholarships | applications for 2022 academic year now open

    Settlement Services International (SSI) Allianz scholarships directly support people from refugee backgrounds in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria to achieve independence. The scholarships have been created to minimise the financial barriers experienced by refugees as they participate in the education system.

    SSI, with the generous support of Allianz, continues to aim to achieve its vision of a society that values the diversity of its people. These scholarships help promote meaningful social and economic participation, and assist individuals and families to reach their potential. 

    25. 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
      

    26. 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. 

    27. VIC | GOV | CALLING | New Members to Mental Health and Wellbeing Interim Regional Bodies

    Exciting opportunities are available for members of the Victorian public to shape the future of mental health and wellbeing in Victoria.

    The Chairs of Interim Regional Bodies are at the forefront of the Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System's vision for regional governance in Victoria. They will have a pivotal role establishing regional planning systems, leading engagement with stakeholders and communities.

    They will also plan for the transition to enduring governance under the structure of Regional Boards. 

    28. VIC | GOV | CALLING | CALD Members to 2022 Active Citizenship Leadership Program

    The Active Citizenship  Leadership Program provides an opportunity for up to 25 emerging leaders (18 years +) from Victoria’s culturally and linguistically diverse communities to develop their leadership skills, capabilities, and confidence to champion active participation in the democratic process within their communities.  

    This highly interactive learning program will include working on collaborative community projects, listening to guest speakers sharing their active citizenship experiences, and access to an extensive network of peers and supporters. The program content is a mix of leadership-related learning, hands-on skills for community engagement, and active citizenship program content.  

    Opportunities to apply to join the Victorian Electoral Commission as a casual Democracy Ambassador will be provided at the end of the program.  

    29. VIC | VPTA | CALLING | Members to Join the VPTA board

    The Victorian Public Tenants Association (VPTA) is currently seeking Expressions of Interest from people who are interested in joining their Board.

    They're particularly keen to hear from people who have lived, or currently live, in public housing in Victoria.

    Membership of the VPTA Board is voluntary, and suited to people who have a strong interest in public housing and homelessness, as well as (ideally) some previous governance experience. 

    30. VIC | ECCV | CALLING | Members to Join the Statewide Disability Network

    Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) invites people with lived experience of disability, their carers and families and multicultural and ethno-specific organisations to join ECCV Statewide Disability Network for Culturally Diverse Communities. The network was established to capture the voices of people with disability from culturally diverse backgrounds during the COVID-19 response and recovery period.  

    31. VIC | IPAAV | CALLING | For Nominations for the Top 50 Public Sector Women | nominations close 22 November 2021 

    Nominations for Institute of Public Administration of Australia Victoria’s (IPAAV) 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.  

    32. AUST | NDIS | SEEKING | Feedback for Annual Pricing Review 2021-22

    Submissions are open for the Annual Pricing Review 2021-22. The NDIS is seeking feedback about price limits and policy for the 2022-23 financial year to help identify options to improve the flexibility for participants to purchase supports to pursue their goals. There is also an opportunity to contribute to working groups as part of the Review.  

    33. VIC | GOV | TOURING | Premier's spirit of democracy study tour

    The Premier's Spirit of Democracy (PSoD) Study Tour explores the origins of democracy, building a deeper understanding of the influence that democracy has on contemporary Victorian and Australian society. It is an annual competition open to students enrolled in Years 9, 10 and 11.

    PSoD offers up to 22 students and up to four teacher chaperones the opportunity to take part in a five-day study tour of Melbourne and Canberra during the Term 1 school holidays. 

    Students will gain the skills and understanding needed to participate in our democratic structures and institutions so that they can use their voice to lead positive change in their communities and shape the future. 

    34. AUST | ECCV | INVITING | Participants for FECCA 2022 Conference | 10-11 March 2022 | now open early bird registrations

    Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) is inviting early bird registrations to FECCA 2022: Advancing Multicultural Australia conference, which ECCV is co-hosting in Melbourne. The biennial conference is Australia's premier conference on diversity, migration and multiculturalism. The line-up includes activist and journalist Behrouz Boochani, chair of Harmony Alliance Nyadol Nyuon, and host of SBS's Insight, Kumi Taguchi.  

    35. VIC | ECCV | ANNOUNCING | New Speak My Language podcasts - living well with disability in a range of community languages

    The first Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) (ECCV) Speak My Language podcasts are now available, featuring people sharing stories and practical advice about living well with disability in a range of community languages. The Somali episodes were produced by ECCV Multicultural Outreach Project Worker, Abdikadir Osoble, who is part of the Victorian team creating podcasts for the series, which is being produced in up to 25 languages.Looking for Storytellers: Do you have a story tell about living well with disability? Does your organisation have a great inclusiveness initiative you want to showcase?  We are looking for people to be interviewed in-language for the Speak My Language Podcast series, which feature people sharing stories and practical advice about living well with disability in a range of community languages.   

    36. VIC | GOV | TRANSLATING | New guidance on rent relief in your language

    Victoria’s small business tenants and landlords can now access the Victorian Small Business Commission’s latest guidance on rent relief in Simplified Chinese, Arabic and Vietnamese.

    Learn more about the Commercial Tenancy Relief Scheme, how to negotiate rent relief and how to access free help where a fair agreement can’t be reached.  

    37. VIC | ECCV | RELEASING | Access & Support Service Practice Guide

    Funded by the Commonwealth and State Governments, the Victorian Access & Support program assists older people, people with disability and carers facing barriers to accessing culturally safe services to remain living independently in their homes and communities.  

    Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV)'s Practice Guide for A&S support workers provides information on the A&S service and its role in a client’s journey when navigating aged care, disability and other support systems in Victoria.  

    38. VIC | ECCV | ANNOUNCING | Latest edition of Golden Years out now

    The Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV)'s Spring edition of Golden Years, a quarterly eMagazine on positive ageing for CALD communities, is out now! Read about the Australian Human Rights Commission report on ageism, how to support people from diverse backgrounds in accessing aged care services, COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in multicultural communities, and the latest news, events, and resources for multicultural aged care.  

    39. VIC | CCV | RECOMMENDING | Improving Respect of diversity in the coronial process

    The Coronial Council of Victoria (CCV) has reported recommendations to The Victorian Government on improving the experiences of multicultural and multifaith communities during the challenging coronial process.

    Its consultations identified ways to better respond to cultural and religious considerations throughout the coronial process, as well as how to improve communication with families.

    This includes abiding by cultural and religious practices during investigations, ensuring timelines for release of the body better meet religious and cultural needs and favouring non-invasive post-mortem examinations where possible. 

    40. 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.


    41. AUST | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way

       

      42. 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.

      43. 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.

      44. 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.