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GEIFN | CONSOLIDATED | Information on Coronavirus (COVID-19) | Tuesday 1 February 2022

Fast Facts: COVID-19 Victoria & Australia

  1. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Pandemic Response
  2. AUST | NEMBC | ANSWERING | Frequently asked questions about Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs)
  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. AUST | AHRC | HEARING | Your say: National Anti-Racism Framework | submissions closing Friday 4 February 2022
  6. CoPP | LSC | FLAGGING | Beach Access Program Summer 2021/22
  7. CoPP | U3A | CHECKING | Hearing Australia Talk | Monday 21 February 2022 | 10am
  8. CoPP | ACAC | WEBINAR | Access and Inclusion Training | Monday 21 February 2022 | 2-4pm
  9. AUST | ECCV | INVITING | Participants for FECCA 2022 Conference | 10-11 March 2022 | now open early bird registrations
  10. CoPP | MHFAA | E-LEARNING | Standard Mental Health First Aid | 18 and 25 March 2022
  11. AUST | BEHE | ADVISING | Surviving Extreme Heat In-language video
  12. AUST | CUIN | PRESENTING | Education Resources for the New Year 2022
  13. VIC | FCP | SCREENING | Love in Full Colour
  14. WORLD | PWR | UPDATING | Responding to Dharam Sansad, In Memoriam and More | Friday 14 January 2022
  15. AUST | Coronavirus hotline
  16. AUST | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way
  17. Acknowledgment to Sources
  18. Bye bye to Essentialists
  19. Self-Isolators, Non-Essentials And The Homebound


1. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Pandemic Response

From 11.59pm Wednesday 12 January night, new COVID-19 rules come into effect in Victoria

Critical Workers
Changes in requirements for essential workers, including these industries:
  • Supermarket and grocery
  • Abattoirs, food and beverage processing
  • Freight, transport, logistics
  • Food warehousing, storage
 

Close Contact Rules

  • Workers may be exempted from close contact isolation requirements to work if it is necessary for operation to continue and other options exhausted
  • Those workers to take daily rapid antigen tests for five days and must not enter shared break areas
  • The workers must wear face masks – N95 or P2 if available
  • Worker and employer must consent to return to work
 

Vaccination

  • Workers in key sectors who are already required to be be fully vaccinated must get third dose before working on site
  • Workers eligible for third dose on or before January 12 have until February 12 to get third dose. Workers not eligible must get it within three months and two weeks of deadline to receive second mandatory dose
 

Hospitals & Aged Care

  • Visitors to aged care residents must return negative RAT result. If no RATs available at facility, residents allowed up to two visitors (instead of five) a day
  • Hospital visitors must be fully vaccinated or return negative RAT result
  • Adult visitors not fully vaccinated must wear N95 mask


Changes to Victorian coronavirus rules from 11.59pm on Thursday 6 January 2022

Victoria recorded six deaths among a record-high daily COVID tally of 21,997 new cases on Thursday 6 January 2022, an increase on the previous record of 17,636, set Wednesday. The rising number of cases prompted the Victorian government to tweak some rules and implement new density limits, similar to the rules in NSW.

Under new pandemic orders that have come into effect, people who test positive on a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) will be considered probable cases and be subject to the same requirements as confirmed cases from a PCR test – they must isolate immediately for seven days and notify their contacts.

It will be mandatory to report the result of a positive RAT to the Department of Health through an online form or by phone – ensuring people can access the care and information they need, including monitoring for worsening symptoms and financial support for isolation.

Hospitality

Hospitality venues will be subject to a new density limit of one person per 2 square metres. The rule will apply to venues including:
  • restaurants
  • cafes
  • pubs
  • nightclubs
 

Entertainment

Venues will be subject to a new density limit of one person per 2 square metres. The rule will apply to venues including:
  • arcades
  • amusement parks
  • casinos
  • gaming venues
Cinemas and theatres will be exempt from the rule where patrons are seated and masked.

Testing

People who return a positive result on a rapid antigen test (RAT) will be considered a probable case and be subject to the same rules as someone who returns a positive PCR test.

It will then be mandatory to report their test result to the government through an online form or by phone.

As well as being covered by the same isolation rules as people whose infection was confirmed with a PCR test, Health Minister Martin Foley said that people who received a positive RAT result would be eligible for the same financial support and opportunity.

Work and study

The strong recommendation to work from home and study from home will remain in place until Australia Day and will be under continued assessment.

Surgery

Non-urgent elective surgery will be temporarily reduced to help hospitals cope with rising coronavirus demand.

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.


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.
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 | NEMBC | ANSWERING | Frequently asked questions about Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs)

What are rapid antigen tests (RATs)?
  • RATs are tests you can do yourself at home to check if you have COVID-19.
  • Most tests take 15 to 30 minutes.
  • There are two types of tests:
    • Saliva tests which test saliva (spit); and nasal tests where you need to take a sample from both your nostrils.
    • Both tests are good at finding COVID-19, and tell you if you are likely to have COVID-19. RATs are faster but less accurate than a standard PCR test that you get at a COVID-19 testing site.
When to use a RAT?
  • If you have COVID symptoms.
  • If you are a household, social, work or education contact of a positive case and develop symptoms. (If you are a household contact you must do a test on the first and sixth day from when you started your self-quarantine.)
  • If you want to quickly check if you may have COVID for example before a social gathering or visiting someone sick or elderly.
  • If your school or work requires you to use them as part of regular screening for COVID.
  • If you have been told to get a RAT by the Department of Health or another medical professional.
When should I get a standard PCR test?
You should get a standard PCR test from a testing site:
  • If you CANNOT access a RAT.
  • If you have no symptoms, are not a contact but tested positive on a RAT.
  • If you have been told to get a PCR test by the Department of Health or another medical professional.
What should do I do if I test positive on an RAT?
  • If you test positive on a RAT you are a probable case, this means you are very likely to have COVID-19. People who are probable cases must follow the same rules as people who have received a positive PCR test.
  • You must isolate immediately for 7 days and tell people you have been in contact with recently.
  • Anyone who lives with a probable case will also have to isolate for 7 days. 
If you test positive on a RAT you must tell the Department of Health:
  • You can report over the phone on 1800 675 398. Press zero (0) if you need an interpreter.
  • Online
  • Or through your Services Victoria app
You will need to answer some short questions so the Department can make sure you get the right help and support while you are isolating.
 
This includes help with medical care, food and financial relief if you need it.
Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 can get the same support, no matter what kind of test they used.
 
What should I do if I test negative on an RAT?
  • If you get a negative result on an RAT it is less likely you have COVID-19. Monitor your symptoms and go about your day in a COVID-safe way.
  • If you do not have symptoms but are still concerned, then you can use rapid antigen tests again over a few days.
What should I do if I get an unclear result on a RAT?
  • If your test does not show a clear negative or positive result, it is invalid. You may not have used it correctly, or there may have been a defect with the test you used.
  • You will need to do another RAT.
  • If you have two invalid results on a RAT you should get a PCR test and isolate until you receive a negative result. 
How do I use RATs?
  • Before you use the test wash your hands and have a phone or clock nearby for timing
  • If you are using a saliva test do not eat or drink 30 minutes before doing the test.
  • Follow the instructions that come with the test – your test should have a QR code you can use to watch a video showing how to use it.
  • It takes around 15-30 minutes to get your result. Check your results as soon as the time is up according to your test instructions. 
Can children use RATs? 
  • It is safe to use RATs for children.
  • Children under 12 years old will need a parent or guardian to perform the test on them.
  • Children over 12 years old can do the test themselves if they want, with a parent or guardian supervising them.
Where can I get an RAT and how much do they cost? 
  • RATs are available from some supermarkets, pharmacies, or online. Most cost between $10-$15, depending on where you buy them.
  • People with concession and low-income cards will be able to get some free RATs from pharmacies.
  • This depends on supply, so it is best to call your local pharmacy to see if they have enough in stock.
  • Household contacts may also be able to get RATs from some testing centres. 
  • If RATs are not accessible and you are a contact, go to www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/checklist-contacts to see if you should get a PCR test or monitor for symptoms.
This information was produced by the National Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters Council (NEMBC).

To listen to this information in languages other than English, please click the button below. 

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. 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. 

6. CoPP | LSC | FLAGGING | Beach Access Program Summer 2021/22

The City of Port Phillip (CoPP) currently has two accessible beach locations, St Kilda Beach and Port Melbourne Beach. The Life Saving Clubs (LSC) 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, 12.00 pm - 5.00 pm, 1.5 hr hire limit 
To book: visit portphillip.vic.gov.au/accessible-beaches or phone 03 9209 6777

Port Melbourne Life Saving Club 
Location: 38 Beaconsfield Parade, Port Melbourne 
Available: Saturday and Sunday during patrol times, 12.00 pm - 5.00 pm, 1.5hr hire limit
To book: visit portphillip.vic.gov.au/accessible-beaches or phone 03 9209 6777

To book on the day: phone 9646 8773.


7. CoPP | U3A | CHECKING | Hearing Australia Talk | Monday 21 February 2022 | 10am

Hearing Australia are offering 15 minute free hearing checks in City of Port Phillip (CoPP). A hearing check is a screening that may help people who may have hearing loss. Free Hearing Checks available after talk

Where: U3a Port Phillip - Mary Kehoe Centre, Room 1, 224 Danks Street, Albert Park VIC 3204

For more information call Maria on 0459 863 145 or 8610 4300.


8. CoPP | ACAC | WEBINAR | Access and Inclusion Training | Monday 21 February 2022 | 2-4pm

Accessible Action (ACAC) 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.

About the provider
Accessible Action creates action for access. Our purpose is to enable our customers to progress their access and inclusion journey by developing strategies, policies and processes to include people with disability from a customer, community and employee perspective.

About the 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.

Where: Online Zoom
Cost: free
Bookings: Places are limited to 15 people. TryBooking: Access and Inclusion Training
You will be sent a Zoom link once you book


9. 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.  

10. CoPP | MHFAA | E-LEARNING | Standard Mental Health First Aid | 18 and 25 March 2022

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

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.

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.

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

About the provider
Mental Health First Aid Australia (MHFAA) is a national not-for-profit organisation that develops and evaluates training programs and trains and accredits Instructors.
About the 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.

Where: Online
Cost: free
Booking: Places are limited to 15 people. TryBooking: Standard Mental Health First Aid
You will be sent a Zoom link once you book.


11. AUST | BEHE | ADVISING | Surviving Extreme Heat In-language video

Did you know that heat kills more Australians than any natural disaster? Heat can cause illnesses such as heat cramps and heat exhaustion, which can lead to the life-threatening condition, heatstroke. Heatstroke is fatal in up to 80% of cases.

Those most at risk are older people, young children and people with a medical condition.

Better Health (BEHE) has put together a web page with information to help Victorians better manage hot days. You can watch a video about the effects of heat by choosing a language below: 

12. AUST | CUIN | PRESENTING | Education Resources for the New Year 2022

Presenting the latest multicultural events, new opportunities and educational insights to assist educators around Australia and the world promote global harmony. 

Cultural Calendar of Events
To help teachers and educators plan for 2022, Cultural Infusion (CUIN) has created a cultural calendar of events that are perfect to celebrate with students. Explore events from around the globe and discover new reasons to celebrate every week. At Cultural Infusion, we help educators deliver cultural programs that promote intercultural understanding and Indigenous histories and culture. 

Harmony Week in March and NAIDOC Week in July are our two busiest months of the year with many of our popular programs already booking up quickly. Remember to get in early to ensure your date to celebrate is locked in.
Lesson Plans
Cultural Infusion (CUIN) education strategist and music teacher Nisha Feik has created more than 20 new lesson plans. 

Each is practical and standalone with video links as well as connecting to a particular Cultural Infusion show. It’s been a difficult time for schools and as a result we will be offering an expert intercultural understanding visit to schools to provide either professional development for teachers or an activity for students.
Invitation to those aged between 12 and 25 years to join our FReeZA youth committee
To deliver safe, youth-friendly events for young Victorians, Cultural Infusion (CUIN) is working with the State Government’s 2022-2024 FReeZA program. 

To ensure our events reflect the needs of young people, we are asking those aged between 12 and 25 years to join our FReeZA youth committee. Under the guidance of our specialised team, you could have the opportunity to plan, manage, market, and publicise our events. 

As a committee member, you will learn in-demand skills, and gain an enhanced reputational profile and visibility for yourself and issues that matter to you. An industry leader delivering cultural programs since 2002, Cultural Infusion has built strong relationships with communities across the country as part of our mission to build harmony through intercultural action.
February Dates to Celebrate 
Capturing so many significant events within the shortest day of the year. 

Lunar New Year is a highlight of the months with its celebrations and fireworks reaching nearly every corner of the globe, especially among the large Chinese, Malaysian, Korean and Vietnamese communities here in Australia. 

A Cultural Infusion Lion Dance is an ideal way to celebrate this significant date.
  • Lunar New Year, 1 February
  • World Interfaith Harmony Week, 1 to 7 February
  • World Hijab Day,1 February
  • World Wetlands Day, 2 February
  • World Cancer Day, 4 February
  • Children's Mental Health Week, 7 to 13 February
  • Anniversary of National Apology Day, 13 February
  • International Mother Language Day, 21 February
 

13. VIC | FCP | SCREENING | Love in Full Colour

Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected at school, at work and in their communities, regardless of who they love or how they identify. 
But LGBTIQA+ people in Australia continue to be confronted with stigma, prejudice and discrimination across multiple areas of their lives.

A holistic, proactive approach is needed to reforming schools, laws and workplaces to create a world where LGBTIQA+ youth are safe, respected, equal and included.

The Full Colour Project (FCP) is a unique doco series and campaign for LGBTIQA+ equality. It started in 2012 with the documentary Love in Full Colour. 

It followed 12 queer teenagers over several years, and captured their experiences of being bullied, falling in love and attending the Minus18 Queer Formal. 
“Brilliant filmmaking. A powerful argument for the role schools can  play in accepting - and celebrating – same sex and gender diversity in  our society as a whole.”
 - Meredith Peace, President, Australian Education Union, Victoria

10 Years in Full Colour reconnects with those teenagers who stole our hearts a decade ago – now in their 20s, and just as the world has changed in momentous ways in that time, so have they. Some of them have transitioned, led huge equality campaigns, become engaged, became quite famous! They have lived through and actively shaped an extraordinary time in our history.

The aim is for this to become an ongoing series which tracks the lives and loves of our queer participants every 10 years. It's an Australian first.


14. WORLD | PWR | UPDATING | Responding to Dharam Sansad, In Memoriam and More | Friday 14 January 2022

Statement on Dharam Sansad and Hate Speech
Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR) is distressed to learn that the name of the Dharam Sansad -- “assembly of religions'' — is being rendered in English as “Parliament of Religions.” The 17-19 December 2021 meeting held in Haridwar by the Dharam Sansad is widely reported to have included hate speech and calls for lethal violence against certain religious groups by Hindu leaders, as recorded on video. 

PWR vehemently disavow any association with such speech and the views it expresses. We have no connection with the organization sponsoring this meeting and we further request that the Dharam Sansad not be referred to as “Parliament of Religions.”
Holocaust Remembrance and Anti-Semitism, Silence is Not an Option
27 January marks the annual observance of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 60/7 which designated this day as the UN observance of International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

As we join the Jewish community and other persecuted communities in remembrance of the millions of lives lost, the Parliament reaffirms our commitment to the eradication of hate, war, persecution, and genocide as outlined in our foundational document, Towards a Global Ethic.
Yale Forum on Religion and Ecology Announces New Online Courses through Yale/Coursera 
These Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) explore the ecological dimensions of the world's religions, and feature the Parliament's book Faith for Earth—A Call for Action, published jointly with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

Faith for Earth describes the environmental traditions and teachings of the world’s faith communities and provides an introduction to Earth’s major ecosystems and the climate and sustainability crises facing humanity.
Parliament Welcomes Trustee Class of 2024
The Parliament of the World’s Religions is honored to welcome eight new members to the Board of Trustees. The Class of 2024 began their term on January 1st of this year, joining the Parliament in its mission to cultivate a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world.
Statement in Observance of Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday
At a time where the rights of ethnic and religious minorities are threatened around the world, including the right to vote in Dr. King’s own country; the Parliament wishes to reinforce its commitment to the Global Ethic, the dignity and rights of all human beings, the practice of non-violence, and the teachings of Martin Luther King Jr.

We call upon all leaders and all people of faith and conscience to join us in this ongoing commitment. Together we can build a better world through the values that Dr. King embodied.
We're Hiring!
The Parliament of the World's Religions is hiring for the position of Director of Climate Action.
5 Ways to Observe UN World Interfaith Harmony Week 2022
The 2022 World Interfaith Harmony Week (WIHW) observance kicks off on January 29th and ends on March 3rd. UN World Interfaith Harmony Week encourages grassroots events that link people together in a global wave of understanding, respect, and action. 

Join thousands of interfaith organizers around the world in supporting the World Interfaith Harmony Week, here are 5 ways you can get involved!
In Memoriam: Rev. Dirk Ficca
The Parliament of the World's Religions is saddened to report that Rev. Dirk Ficca has passed away. Dirk Lewis Ficca, 66, of Oak Park, IL, passed away on Tuesday 21 December 2021. Throughout his career, Dirk had many roles in the global interfaith movement; as a minister, professor, and thought leader.

Rev. Ficca served as the Executive Director of the Parliament, organizing the 1999 Parliament Convening in Cape Town, the 2004 Parliament Convening in Barcelona, and the 2009 Parliament Convening in Melbourne.
In Memoriam: Archbishop Desmond Tutu
The Parliament of the World’s Religions was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Archbishop Desmond Tutu on December 26th.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu was a South African Anglican religious leader renowned around the world for his work and dedication to peace and justice. A Nobel Laureate, he was a major keynote at the 1999 Cape Town Parliament Convening and a dedicated faith leader in the local and global interfaith movement.
#InterfaithNow
The work of the Parliament is only possible with the on-going support from generous individuals like you. 

15. 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.


16. AUST | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way

     

    17. 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.

    18. 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.

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

    Meanwhile, if with a surplus of time, this and the following 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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