VMC | UDPATING | Happy New Year! Honour Roll and Leadership Program submissions closing soon | Wednesday 5 January 2022

[Edited extract from public address]

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year! For those who had the opportunity to take some time off, hopefully you were able to relax with family and friends.

Message from the Acting Chairperson

I appreciate that many cultures observe the new year at different times and we look forward to celebrating with you in the coming months.

I am hopeful, and quietly confident, that 2022 will be a better year than the last couple have been. Although COVID-19 case numbers are at their highest ever, there are many indications that a third dose can provide excellent protection. If you haven't already, I encourage you to book your third dose as soon as you are eligible, which is currently four months from the date of your second dose.

If you would like more information on the latest updates regarding the Omicron strain of COVID-19, please read the Community Update we sent out last week and consider signing up for Thursday's COVID-19 Forum.

In other important news, we have two major VMC initiatives closing for submission soon. There is a final information session for the Multicultural Leadership in Action Program next Monday, before applications close on Thursday 13 January. The Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll also closes for nominations on 16 January, so please submit your nominations for individuals who have made incredible efforts to promote multiculturalism in this state.

Thank you all and have a great week
Bwe Thay, Acting Chairperson

Multicultural COVID-19 Community Briefing with the Department of Health | Thursday 6 January 2022 | 7-8.30pm  

In partnership with the Department of Health, the VMC invites you to an online information session to present the latest information on the Coronavirus pandemic to multicultural communities

Both Prof Ben Cowie, Acting Chief Health Officer, Department of Health and

Dr Thomas Schulz, Senior Medical Officer, COVID-19 Vaccination Program, Department of Health will be present to answer your questions.

Their updates will include information on the Omicron variant of COVID-19, Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs), vaccinations for 5-12 year-olds and more.

• Please register in advance

Multicultural Communities Leadership in Action Program 2022 | applications closing Thursday 13 January 2022

The Multicultural Communities Leadership in Action Program builds the capability of multicultural and multifaith leaders to engage effectively with the government and their own communities.

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.

• Apply now

Nominations closing soon for the Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll | nominations closing 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, acknowledging 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.

• Self-nominations are welcome. Nominate now

Coronavirus hotline 

• Coronavirus hotline: 1800 675 398 (24 Hours).
• Interpreting service: If you need an interpreter, call TIS National on 131 450.
• Testing locations: Find a testing location near you.
• Triple Zero: Please keep Triple Zero (000) for emergencies only.
• Coronavirus in-language information

MORE:

Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)

Address: Level 3, 1 Macarthur Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

Tel: (03) 9651 5901

Email: contact@vmc.vic.gov.au

Website: www.multiculturalcommission.vic.gov.au