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GEIFN | CONSOLIDATED | Information on Coronavirus (COVID-19) | Saturday 1 January 2022

Fast Facts: COVID-19 Victoria & Australia

  1. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Pandemic Response
  2. AUST | FECCA | GRANTING | CALD COVID-19 Health Small Grants | applications open now, closing end of January 2022
  3. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Vaccination support for Local Communities | open until funding exhausted
  4. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural communities for priority response during coronavirus (COVID-19)
  5. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural Community Infrastructure Fund | applications now open, closing Monday 31 January 2022
  6. AUST | GOV | HEARING | Your say: Disability employment support program | submissions close 4 January 2022
  7. VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say: Victorian Government's Anti-Racism Strategy
  8. AUST | AHRC | HEARING | Your say: National Anti-Racism Framework | submissions closing Friday 4 February 2022
  9. WORLD | WIKIPEDIA | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for acquiring knowledge no matter what personal circumstances might be
  10. WORLD | STC | RAISING | Awareness, Access, Funds and Support for building a better world for and with children
  11. WORLD | PWR | RAISING | Awareness, contributions and support towards a peaceful, just, and sustainable world
  12. WORLD | IFD | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for LGTBIQA+ Channel
  13. AUST | THCO | RAISING | Awareness, Access, Funds and Support for Evidence-based Journalism
  14. VIC | GOV | CALLING | Nominees for the 2021 Volunteering Awards | nominations close 14 January 2022
  15. VIC | GOV | CALLING | Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll | nominations open until 16 January 2022
  16. VIC | GOV | CALLING | For Participants to Boards Victoria
  17. VIC | GOV | CALLING | Multicultural Communities Leadership in Action Program 2022 | applications now open
  18. AUST | ECCV | INVITING | Participants for FECCA 2022 Conference | 10-11 March 2022 | now open early bird registrations
  19. VIC | WAC | TEACHING | Aboriginal Change Makers – a resource for Victorian schools
  20. VIC | WLV | SLOWING | Down to save Australian wildlife
  21. VIC | MFF | SCREENING | Winning short film
  22. WORLD | PWR | ANNOUNCING | Statement on European Union Proposal to Require Deforestation-Free Products | Wednesday 15 December 2021
  23. AUST | Coronavirus hotline
  24. AUST | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way
  25. Acknowledgment to Sources
  26. Bye bye to Essentialists
  27. Self-Isolators, Non-Essentials And The Homebound


1. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Pandemic Response

Effective from midnight Thursday 30 December 2021 in Victoria, NSW, QLD with other jurisdictions to follow. This announcement was made Thursday 30 December 2021 Prime Minister Scott Morrison as a part of the decisions made by National Cabinet regarding close contacts and isolation periods for positive COVID-19 cases.

All Victorians are eligible for a booster shot five months after their second dose. Book an appointment as soon as possible as this will keep families safe during the holiday period and help slow the spread of the virus.


Hospitality venues
The government is recommending that venues “stick to seated” service for indoor patrons – particularly at New Year’s celebrations – and restrict dancing to well-ventilated outdoor spaces.

Workers must be fully vaccinated and service is restricted to fully immunised patrons.


Masks
Face masks are required for people aged eight and older in all indoor settings except for private homes.

They are also mandatory in the following circumstances:

  • Events with more than 30,000 attendees except when patrons are seated outdoors;
  • Travelling on public transport, taxis and rideshare services;
  • At airports and on board commercial flights;
  • Visiting a hospital or other care facility;
  • Awaiting the results of a COVID-19 test other than surveillance testing;
  • International arrivals and aircrew en route to their quarantine location.
  • Authorities strongly recommend wearing face coverings if people have any symptoms of COVID-19, are meeting with someone who may be vulnerable to the virus, or can’t physically distance.

Exemptions apply for children in grade 2 and under, those with a physical or mental health condition or a disability that makes masking up unsuitable, people communicating with someone deaf or hard of hearing, and couples getting married among others. No medical certificate is needed.

Fines for flouting the rules vary from a few hundred dollars to more than $1000.


Close contacts
On Thursday, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced national cabinet had agreed to change the definition of close contacts in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and the Australian Capital Territory.

Under the new rules:

  • A person who lives with an infected person or who has spent more than four hours in an accommodation or care facility with a COVID-positive person is considered a close contact and must isolate for seven days.
  • School, social, and workplace contacts are no longer defined as close contacts and will not be mandated to get a test. They can monitor for symptoms and test if they develop symptoms.


Testing
The changes to the definition of close contacts has led to some changes in testing requirements. People in the following circumstances should get tested:

  • All close contacts, even without symptoms, must isolate for seven days. Symptomatic close contacts must get a PCR test. Asymptomatic contacts should use rapid tests. They should both use a rapid test on day six before leaving isolation.
  • Rapid tests are recommended for people attending big events, going to a sensitive setting or visiting the vulnerable.
  • COVID-positive people can clear isolation after seven days instead of 10 with a negative rapid test on day six.

People must continue to get tested and isolate for designated reasons like international travel or preparing for surgery.


Work from home
Authorities are recommending people use the festive season to work from home until more data on the spread of the Omicron variant can be examined by experts.

Workplaces are open, but people must be fully vaccinated if:

  • They work in a venue that is open only to fully vaccinated people such as recreation centres and restaurants;
  • They work in an industry where it is mandatory to have two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to work outside of home. See the vaccination section below.


Social distancing
Authorities recommend keeping a 1.5-metre distance from others where possible to reduce the risk of catching COVID-19. Using hand sanitiser while outside the home is also recommended.

People are advised to open windows to let fresh air in when meeting others and catch up with friends outdoors when possible.


Going out
Fully vaccinated Victorians can go to the following venues:

  • Restaurant, pubs and other hospitality venues.
  • Bars, nightclubs and other nightlife settings.
  • Entertainment venues such as cinemas and zoos.
  • Events such as festivals, fun runs and conferences.
  • Tourism venues including walking tours and tour buses.
  • Sporting events and recreation facilities.
  • Hairdressers and beauty salons.
  • Adult education facilities such as universities and TAFEs.
  • Casinos, gaming and adult entertainment venues.

While unvaccinated Victorians are not allowed to attend the venues listed above, they are able to:

  • Shop for essential and non-essential retail.
  • Get takeaway food and drinks.
  • Attend weddings, funerals and religious ceremonies.
  • Attend community sport.
  • Use a swimming pool or recreation centre for essential medial care.
  • Go to real estate inspections and auctions.


Visiting others
There are no limits on the number of people Victorians can gather at private homes and in public spaces, however, authorities recommend gathering with fully vaccinated people in both settings.


Weddings, funerals and places of worship
There are no vaccination requirements or capacity limits in place for weddings, funerals, and religious ceremonies.

However, if a wedding or ceremony is held in a venue that has vaccination requirements, such as a restaurant or an entertainment venue, attendees must follow these rules.


Travel
There are currently no limits on travel in Victoria, however, authorities recommend people staying in accommodation such as hotels and Airbnb are fully vaccinated.

While unvaccinated travellers are allowed to stay in hotels, vaccination requirements may apply in restaurants and gyms at their accommodation.

Victorians are allowed to leave the state without any restrictions but will be subject to the rules of their destination and could be refused entry if they don’t comply.


Vaccination
Authorities are recommending people get vaccinated as soon as they become eligible for their first, second, or third dose.

Vaccine mandates apply to workers, contractors, volunteers and students on placement in a variety of fields including accommodation, agriculture and forestry, welfare services, healthcare, construction, mining, funeral services, manufacturing and transport.

Read full list of professions.


Care facilities
High-risk settings such as aged care homes, alcohol and drug residential services and homeless shelters limit the number of people that can visit friends and relatives even if they are vaccinated.

Restrictions include:

  • Up to five visitors per resident per day, including dependents.
  • Visitors must wear a mask.
  • Visitors must sign a declaration stating they have not been in contact with a confirmed case in the past seven days if double vaccinated and 14 days if unvaccinated.

People must not visit people in aged care if they:

  • Have tested positive to COVID-19.
  • Are a household contact of a confirmed case.
  • Have COVID-19 symptoms.
  • Are waiting for a test result.
  • Are an overseas traveller or an international aircrew worker who just arrived in Victoria.

Authorities recommend residents and visitors are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.


Hospitals
Visits to hospitals are reduced to very few exemptions including for:

  • End-of-life visits.
  • Life-threatening conditions.
  • Essential care and support for a patient’s emotional and physical wellbeing.
  • Guardian or parent of a patient under 18.
  • Nominated person of a person with mental illness or dementia.
  • Interpreting services.
  • Need to support a patient upon their discharge.
  • Partner of a pregnant patient.
  • Accompanying a patient to the emergency department.
  • Accompanying the patient to an outpatient appointment.

Each patient can have up to two visitors at a time unless the dependant of a visitor or a patient in hospital are in the visitor group and care for the dependants can’t be arranged.

People are not allowed to visit patients in hospital if they:

  • Have tested positive for COVID-19.
  • Are a close contact of a confirmed case.
  • Have been in contact with a COVID-positive case in the past seven days and are fully vaccinated.
  • Have been in contact with a confirmed case in the past 14 days and aren’t fully vaccinated.
  • Are waiting for a COVID test result.
  • Are under 16 (unless providing end-of-life support).

Some hospitals may have additional visitation requirements.

 

New Directions

 

Rapid Antigen Test update:

As of Sunday 2 January 2022, the public will be able to access free RAT kits at the Melbourne Showgrounds testing site, after which free RATs will be available at all testing sites across the state as well as a selection of other locations.  
Please keep an eye on the website for further details

Third doses

If it has been four or more months since you had your second COVID-19 vaccination, and you are aged 18 or over, you are now eligible to get your third dose (booster).

A COVID-19 third dose is strongly recommended to help keep you and your loved ones protected from COVID-19.

Eligible people will receive the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. You can safely get either of these vaccines as your third dose, regardless of which COVID-19 vaccine you received for your initial doses.

 

5-11 year old vaccination

You can now book the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5 to 11 year olds at your local GP or pharmacy.

Getting kids vaccinated will help:

  • keep schools open, so kids can have more face-to-face learning and playtime with their friends
  • reduce the spread of COVID-19
  • protect them from getting sick from COVID-19.

Appointments are available at Victorian GPs, pharmacies, Aboriginal Controlled Community Health Organisations and family-friendly vaccination centres from January 2022.

 

Changes to COVID-19 contact tracing rules

There have been changes to the isolation requirements of people exposed to COVID-19. Contacts have now been sorted into differing groups, which have specific isolation and testing requirements.

Please see the new definitions below:

  • Household contacts: If you live with someone who has COVID-19 or have spent more than four hours with them at a private residence, accommodation or care facility.
  • Social contacts: If you know and spent time with someone who has COVID-19, and you aren't a household contact. They have informed you that you are a social contact.
  • Workplace contacts: If you’re a worker (including subcontractors) who has spent time indoors with another worker who had COVID-19. Your work has informed you that you are a workplace contact.
  • Education contacts: If you or your child went to school or childcare (including early childhood education) and spent time with someone who has COVID-19. Your education facility has informed you or your child is an education contact.

 

Changes to Temporary Graduate visa

The Australian Government announced measures to support the return of international students and graduates by:

  • Allowing Temporary Graduate visa holders, who have been unable to travel to Australia as a result of COVID-19 international border restrictions, to apply for a replacement visa;
  • Increasing the length of stay on Temporary Graduate visas in the Masters by Coursework and Vocation Education and Training (VET) streams;
  • Simplifying the requirements for Temporary Graduate visa applicants for VET sector graduates; and
  • Extending the existing measure for student and temporary graduates to recognise time spent offshore studying online to count towards qualifying for a Temporary Graduate visa application.

 

NSW And Victoria Remove 72-Hour Isolation Requirement For International Arrivals

Affective from the beginning of Tuesday 21 December 2021 all fully vaccinated international travellers and flight crew arriving in NSW and Victoria will be required to get a PCR test within 24 hours after arrival and isolate until they receive a negative result. Under existing arrangements they are also required to produce a negative pre-departure test, within three days of boarding their flight.


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

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

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.
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.  
AUST | GOV | 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. 
AUST | NDIS | 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 | 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.


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.
Check your eligibility for the vaccine in languages other than English


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. 
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. 
AUST | EVME | ENCOURAGING | Be Well Stay Well in-language videos
Evolve Media (EVME) and 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: 
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. 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.

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.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. 
 
AUST | GOV | 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.  

2. 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. 

3. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Vaccination support for Local Communities | open until funding exhausted

Local Communities Access Grants Program (LCAGP) is a $2 million grant program to deliver tailored support to Victorians who face additional barriers to getting vaccinated.

Eligible community organisations and neighbourhood houses can apply for up to $20,000 to deliver activities that:
  • reduce COVID-19 vaccine misinformation and hesitancy
  • remove practical barriers to accessing vaccines
  • support increased uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine among priority groups.
Applications will be assessed on a rolling basis until funding is exhausted. Early applications are strongly encouraged. 

4. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural communities for priority response during coronavirus (COVID-19) | closes once all funding has been exhausted

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. 

5. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural Community Infrastructure Fund | applications now open, closing Monday 31 January 2022

The 2021–22 Multicultural Community Infrastructure Fund (MCIF) offers grants to Victoria’s culturally diverse communities to help upgrade, renovate and maintain community infrastructure.

Having safe and secure places to celebrate and share cultural history and traditions ensures Victoria's multicultural communities continue to build connections and celebrate diversity.  

MCIF is for infrastructure projects that are ready to proceed and can be completed by 1 May 2023. Projects must:
  • Support the community to celebrate and share their history and traditions
  • Build community connections and networks to foster a more inclusive society.
 

6. AUST | GOV | 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. 

7. VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say: Victorian Government's Anti-Racism Strategy

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. 

8. AUST | AHRC | HEARING | Your say: National Anti-Racism Framework | submissions closing Friday 4 February 2022 

What can Australia do, as a country, to address racism? The Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) wants to hear your thoughts about what should be included in a national plan to make Australia free from racism.

The Commission invites you to make a submission to share your vision of a future where all Australians are treated equally, and with dignity and respect.

The Commission will analyse submissions and consider all the feedback it receives. This feedback will inform a conversation and consultation report and a revised Framework Concept Paper. This Report and revised Framework Concept Paper will be provided to government for consideration in mid-2022 and will be publicly released. 

9. WORLD | WIKIPEDIA | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for acquiring knowledge no matter what personal circumstances might be

Wikimedia Foundation was founded 20 years ago. Since then, our beloved encyclopedia has grown a lot, through good times and hardships, and today, more than ever, it is serving its true purpose. It helps millions of people study, discover, explore, and research.

Each day, Wikipedia gives readers a new chance to acquire the knowledge that is so rightfully theirs, no matter what their circumstances might be. 

We might not get a chance to blow out the candles in person together, but as we celebrate 20 years of Wikipedia throughout the year, know that donors are in the heart of everyone here at the Wikimedia Foundation.

Donors make this possible. Donors' support allows edits to be made, and articles to reach new readers; it gives our non-profit the means to stay true to its mission, even as Wikipedia has become one of the most visited websites in the world.

10. WORLD | STC | RAISING | Awareness, Access, Funds and Support for building a better world for and with children

Save the Children (STC) work hard to protect children from harm and help them access quality education and health services.
  • Health: improving the health of children and families so children no longer die of preventable illnesses and live past their fifth birthday.
  • Education: creating greater access to quality education and ensure that girls and boys are able to learn in safe and positive environments.
  • Protect: ensuring children are safe at all times and prevent their exposure to abuse, neglect, exploitation and violence.
  • Support: When disaster strikes, ensuring that children are given care and emotional support to survive, recover and continue to learn and live a normal life.
Support Save the Children

11. WORLD | PWR | RAISING | Awareness, contributions and support towards a peaceful, just, and sustainable world

Parliament of the World’s Religions (PWR) continues its work towards a peaceful, just, and sustainable world starting with individuals and communities making a commitment to change.

Statement on European Union Proposal to Require Deforestation-Free Products
The Parliament of the World’s Religions fully supports the new proposal by the European Union to require imports of goods and materials to be “deforestation-free.” Worldwide deforestation is a substantial cause of both climate change and loss of biodiversity. Forests produce much of the oxygen we breathe and are home to 80% of Earth’s terrestrial biodiversity. Closed canopy forests alone are home to more than 400 million people, many of whom are indigenous to these lands.
WATCH NOW | Faith & Climate Summit #2
On Wednesday December 8 Parliament's Climate Action Task Force Chair, David Hales, and UK COP26 Presidency's Director of Strategy, Charles Ogilvie, discussed outcomes, successes and challenges from the COP26 meeting. This was followed by an interactive discussion with attendees, led by David.
WATCH NOW | The 2021 Parliament Plenaries
The plenaries from the 2021 Parliament of the World's Religions are now available in full on the Parliament's YouTube Channel!
Interfaith Heroes: Exploring the Elijah Interfaith Track at the 2021 Parliament
At the 2021 Parliament of the World’s Religions, the Parliament partnered with the Elijah Interfaith Initiative to host a dedicated programming track, the Elijah Interfaith Track. The track featured a review of a selection of interfaith heroes, featured in video form, on the occasion of the release of Interfaith Heroes: Role Models and Spiritual Exemplars for Interfaith Practice, by Wipf and Stock publishers, especially in time for the 2021 Parliament Convening.

The publication and video series illustrated one of the salient theses it presents: it’s all about relationships, all about friendships.
#InterfaithNow
Breaking interfaith stories that inspire us. Check out some of the great work being done by our interfaith colleagues around the globe.
Support the Work of the Parliament
By contributing to the Parliament of the World’s Religions, you will be supporting interfaith harmony, combating climate change, resisting hate and intolerance, and promoting ethical religious literacy. 

12. WORLD | IFD | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for LGTBIQA+ Channel

I'm From Driftwood (IFD) collects LGTBIQA+ stories and publishes them on YouTube channel. Now been viewed over 35 million times. Not only that, but there are also over 121,000 subscribers, those numbers alone show the value and importance our stories have on people's lives. Every donation contributes to the continuance of collecting and sharing our life-changing stories, and reach even more people? We've set a $2,500 goal for the day and a donation any size will help us reach it. Donate Now

Support I'm From Driftwood any time you shop on Amazon at no cost to you
You simply shop at smile.amazon.com, choose I'm From Driftwood as your nonprofit, and every time you make a purchase from smile.amazon.com, Amazon will donate .5% of your total purchase amount to I'm From Driftwood. Set I'm From Driftwood as your Smile.Amazon nonprofit


13. AUST | THCO | RAISING | Awareness, Access, Funds and Support for Evidence-based Journalism

With a few exceptions, economists place a lot of weight on the combination of self-interest and incentives to drive behaviour. If there is a lesson to be drawn from 2021 it must surely be that this doesn’t come close to fully describing how people behave, or what it is reasonable to ask of our fellow-citizens.
The second year of Covid tumult has seen countless acts of sacrifice and kindness. Self interest may account for some success in driving vaccination rates over 90%, but surely not all. We are all in this together and many people have found many ways to rise to the moment.

We have seen this community spirit up close at The Conversation (THCO). A not-for-profit organisation that exists to serve the public with reliable information from experts. To our dedicated team nothing is more important, but we know life is full of competing demands.

In 2021 it has been humbling to work with health experts who continue to give up their nights and weekends to write The Conversation while spending their days doing vital work. The same applies to all the hard-working academics who give freely of their time.

We have also been encouraged by the support of our curious and passionate readers and the thousands of people who have made generous donations. Everyone who supports our efforts to make quality information freely available is contributing – selflessly – to bring about a better informed society.

Our continued growth is made possible by generous contributions from our university partners in Australia and New Zealand and a handful of visionary philanthropists. We also appreciate the work of our international colleagues and the generous contributions of time and expertise from our Chair and the eminent members of our Board and Editorial Board.

It is a privilege to work for a project that galvanises so much support from people who are willing to put others first. Thank you for reading and supporting us in 2021. Have a great break and rest assured we will work tirelessly to repay the faith you have placed in us in 2022.

Misha Ketchell, Editor and Executive Director 

14. VIC | GOV | CALLING | Nominees 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.  

15. VIC | GOV | CALLING | Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll | nominations open until 16 January 2022

The first ever Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll will recognise the efforts of individuals who have made exceptional and lasting contributions to multiculturalism in Victoria.

This program will focus on local champions of diversity, recognising the vital role that multicultural individuals have played to keep our communities safe and connected.

The Honour Roll replaces the Meritorious Service to the Community category from the Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence, which was held at Government House last week. 

16. VIC | GOV | 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.  

17. VIC | GOV | CALLING | Multicultural Communities Leadership in Action Program 2022 | applications now open

The Multicultural Communities Leadership in Action Program builds the capability of multicultural and multifaith community leaders to engage effectively with the government and their own communities.
It provides leaders with the tools and information to more effectively mobilise their communities, which is especially important in times of crisis and emergency; such as the COVID-19 pandemic. 
Developed and delivered using a genuine co-design approach with community, the program runs dedicated streams for women and young people, as well as a generalist stream. Participants complete two half-day sessions and are invited to a graduation event where they can build on their new network of hundreds of fellow participants and government stakeholders.    
Participants will learn how to: 
  • become influential and informed community advocates 
  • navigate and collaborate with government 
  • be more able to mobilise and educate their communities  
  • strengthen their civic and community engagement capability.
Participants will also:
  • join a network of hundreds of like-minded cultural and faith leaders 
  • develop great potential to create collaborative partnerships and projects 
  • be connected with government representatives  
  • be more likely to hold future roles in senior community service and on government boards and committees.
 

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

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.  

19. VIC | WAC | TEACHING | Aboriginal Change Makers – a resource for Victorian schools

Worawa Aboriginal College (WAC) has made a teaching resource for Victorian schools that presents amazing stories of political and social activity, self-determination, and empowerment, as well as the struggle for recognition in the face of another more dominant and colonising society. Aboriginal Change Makers will see students will embark upon a body of work that explores the stories and actions of strong, determined and committed Aboriginal Australians. Topics and concepts are presented with teaching notes and suggested activities to provide a flexible and practical learning guide. Throughout the resource, students are encouraged to explore personal and alternative perspectives and examine factors that influence understanding and bias.

This resource shares aspects of Aboriginal history that are little known in the broader community, including the harsh reality of life on an Aboriginal Mission or Reserve. It highlights the struggle of Aboriginal people to gain equal rights with other Australians - to create a future for new generations.

Available to view online or download as a free eBook.Both the online and eBook versions contain the complete resource. To view the eBook version, you'll need to use a free eBook reader, like Adobe Digital Editions or Apple's Books app.

There is also a special presentation by Dr Lois Peeler AM, Principal of Worawa Aboriginal College, celebrates the release of Aboriginal Change Makers in July 2021. Dr Peeler is joined by Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Colin Brooks to recognise the unique collaboration between Worawa Aboriginal College and the Parliament of Victoria that has brought about this much-needed resource.

Teachers may find that this video provides a useful context for the Change Maker stories, which could be used as a starting point when introducing them to students. 

20. VIC | WLV | SLOWING | Down to save Australian wildlife

Wildlife Victoria (WLV) is encouraging us to slow down and stay alert can save lives. As we all take some well deserved time off and see what Victoria has to offer, remembering that because you’re not just on the road – you’re in the home of Australian native animals.

Slow down particularly between dusk and dawn when you drive through regional areas.

Please call 03 8400 7300 if you have or see a wildlife collision. You won’t get into trouble.
A safe drive saves Australian native animals. 

21. VIC | MFF | SCREENING | Winning short film

VMC has released two Multicultural Film Festival (MFF) winning films that explore human rights issues. You can now watch them online.
First up is La Tansouna (7 min), which translates to 'Don't Forget Us'. La Tansouna is an Arabic short film following the life of newly arrived refugee Nour, who seeks asylum in Australia.

22. WORLD | PWR | ANNOUNCING | Statement on European Union Proposal to Require Deforestation-Free Products | Wednesday 15 December 2021

Worldwide deforestation is a substantial cause of both climate change and loss of biodiversity. Forests produce much of the oxygen we breathe and are home to 80% of Earth’s terrestrial biodiversity. Closed canopy forests alone are home to more than 400 million people, many of whom are indigenous to these lands. The Parliament of the World’s Religions (PWR) fully supports the new proposal by the European Union to require imports of goods and materials to be “deforestation-free.” 

The implementation of the European Union proposal will be a major step forward in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss globally, as well as in protecting the rights and welfare of the 25% of the world’s population who live in and depend on the world’s forests, including the Indigenous peoples for whom their forests are their ancestral lands.

One of the most effective actions individuals can take to reduce climate change is to think of each expenditure we make as a vote for or against a healthy planet. Policies which leverage consumer spending in favor of climate action and sustainability are among the most effective and cost-effective actions governments can take.

Markets for soy, beef, palm oil, wood, cocoa, and coffee, and derived products such as leather, furniture, and chocolate are major drivers of forest destruction through agricultural expansion. Under the new proposed regulations, products that European Union residents buy, use, and consume will have to come only from lands and supply chains that have not contributed to forest destruction or forest degradation since 31 December 2020.

This proposal sets mandatory due diligence rules for companies seeking to place goods on the 27-country EU market; these rules require proof that the origins and supply chains of all products are deforestation-free; companies not in compliance can be fined up to 4% of their turnover in an EU country. The proposal was announced on 17 November and will need to be approved by the European Parliament and by European member states before coming into force, which is anticipated to be in 2023.

PWR hopes that the EU proposal will serve as an example to all developed countries in which consumer demand contributes to deforestation. As Executive Vice-President for the European Green Deal Frans Timmermans said of the proposal: “To succeed in the global fight against the climate and biodiversity crises we must take the responsibility to act at home as well as abroad.”

The Parliament of the World’s Religions is a founding Partner in the Interfaith Rainforest Initiative (IRI), which brings the commitment, influence, and moral authority of religions to efforts to protect the world’s rainforests and the Indigenous peoples who serve as their guardians. We encourage all people, partner organizations, and national sovereignties of goodwill to support the EU proposal and make every effort to enact these regulations in their own lives, constituencies, regions, and countries.

Mr. Nitin Ajmera, Chair of the Board of Trustees,
Rev. Stephen Avino, Executive Director,

23. 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.


24. AUST | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way

     

    25. 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.

    26. 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.

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

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

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