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GEIFN | CONSOLIDATED | Information on Coronavirus (COVID-19) | Thursday 1 September 2022

Fast Facts: COVID-19 Victoria & Australia

  1. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Pandemic Response

     GRANTING 
  2. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | 2022 Universal Design Funding | funding round closes 2 September 2022
  3. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | 2022 Changing Places funding | funding round closes 2 September 2022
  4. AUST | PFA | GRANTING | LGBTQIA+ Refugees and people seeking asylum Fund | submissions close Friday 2 September 2022
  5. COPP | GOV | GRANTING | 2022/23 Cultural Development Fund (CDF) | closing 5 September 2022
  6. AUST | SCFO | GRANTING | Scanlon Foundation Annual Community Grants 2022 | applications close Friday 16 September 2022

     HIRING 
  7. VIC | POLICE | HIRING | Representatives through Aboriginal Diversity Recruitment Program
  8. MELB | COHEALTH | HIRING | Part-time positions for people living in public housing | applications close Thursday 1 September 2022
  9. VIC | ECCV | HIRING | Communications Officer | applications close Monday 5 September 2022
  10. VIC | ECCV | HIRING | Practice Lead, Mental Health | applications close Monday 12 September 2022

     ENGAGING 
  11. AUST | ABC NEWS | SEEKING | Diverse Voices for 'Experts' Database
  12. COPP | YAC | TRAINING | First Aid Workshop | Saturday 3 September 2022 | 10am-2pm
  13. VIC | ECCV | CONDUCTING | Multicultural mental health consultations | 5 September 2022 | 10am-12noon
  14. AUST | ETHNOLINK | WEBINAR | Effective Multicultural Communications Campaigns | Tuesday 6 September 2022 | 2-3pm AEST / 12noon-1pm AWST
  15. AUST | RUOK | INVITING | Hosts of events for R U OK? Day | Thursday 8 September 2022
  16. MELB | CISC | TALKING | Dumplings against Depression | Thursday 8 September 2022 | 6-8.30pm
  17. VIC | PPCfR | ENGAGING | Reconciliation Writing Competition 2022 | entries open, closing Friday 9 September 2022
  18. MELB | VAG | EXHIBITING | Banumbirr – Morning Star Installation by custodian Paul Buwang Buwang Gurruwiwi | on now, closing Saturday 17 September 2022
  19. MELB | COMMON | COMMEMORATING | UN International Day of Peace | Multifaith & Multicultural Celebration | Sunday 18 September 2022 | 11.30am-3pm
  20. COPP | PHAAA | CELEBRATING | 10 year anniversary and Peace Festival: Healing the Youth | Sunday 18 September 2022 | 3pm-5.30pm
  21. MELB | IPACA | PRESENTING | Indian Performing Arts Convention & Festival Australia | Monday 19-Sunday 25 September 2022
  22. VTMH | WEBINAR | Working in partnership with consumers towards a recovery and rights based mental health system | Wednesday 21 September 2022 | 3-4pm
  23. MELB | MWiB | SHOWCASING | Migrant Women in Business | Thursday 22 September 2022 | 5-9pm AEST
  24. MELB | ECCV | COMMEMORATING | 10th Walter Lippmann Oration | Thursday 13 October 2022 | from 6.30pm
  25. AUST | GiveOUT | CALLING | Organisations for GiveOUT Day | Thursday 20 October 2022 | applications now open
  26. COPP | TRANSV | TRAINING | LGBTQIA+ & Transgender Diverse Awareness | Tuesday 1 November 2022 | 9.30am-12.30pm
  27. AUST | EQPR | ENGAGING | Australia's 5th National LGBTIQ+ Conference: Better Together 2023 | 17-18 February 2023

     COLLECTING 
  28. CHUFFED | RAISING | Awareness and Funds for metal detectors in Ukraine
  29. WORLD | IFD | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for LGTBIQA+ Channel

     ANNOUNCING 
  30. VIC | GOV | OFFERING | Free kindergarten for Victorian children | enrolments for 2023 Kinder are currently open
  31. VIC | FCCV | RELEASING | Multifaith Calendar 2023
  32. VIC | GOV | ANNOUNCING | Winners of Annual Victorian Disability Awards
  33. VIC | VMC | ADVISING | VMConnect. Have you joined?
  34. MELB | METRO | ANNOUNCING | Five artists selected for new Metro Tunnel stations in Melbourne
  35. VIC | GOV | LAUNCHING | Victoria's new youth strategy – Our Promise, Your future
  36. MELB | GOV | LAUNCHING | New initiative for South Asian filmmakers - My Melbourne
  37. VIC | VMC | ANNOUNCING | 2022 Multicultural Film Festival Winners
  38. MELB | ECLC | SUPPORTING | Anti-racism leadership in Melbourne's East
  39. VIC | IBBACC | REPORTING | Police misconduct – You have the right to not remain silent
  40. VIC | SOUNDF | HEARING | Your say: Multicultural Victorians with hearing loss
  41. AUST | ECCV | SUBMITTED | To the Humanitarian Program
  42. AUST | TIS | REMINDING | Translating and interpreting services available
  43. WORLD | PWR | UPDATING | 2023 Parliament & More

     SUPPORTING 
  44. AUST | Coronavirus hotline
  45. AUST | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way

     ACKNOWLEDGING 
  46. Acknowledgment to Sources
  47. Bye bye to Essentialists
  48. Self-Isolators, Non-Essentials And The Homebound


1. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Pandemic Response

COVID-19 variants cause disruptions for our state, but there is a lot that we can do as individuals and as a collective to stop this spread.

Stay up to date on the latest health advice and please consider both the COVID-19 and flu vaccinations if eligible. If you need access to food or financial relief, there is information available for how to get this support.

Ongoing from 11.59pm Friday 24 June 2022:
  • Masks must still be worn on public transport, taxis, ride shares, and planes – but in line with the recent AHPPC statement, will no longer be required at airports. Masks are also still required in sensitive settings such as hospitals and care facilities.
  • Positive cases must still isolate for seven days from the day they took their test but may now leave home to drive a household member directly to or from education or work without leaving their vehicle. They can also leave home to get medical care, a COVID-19 test, or in an emergency, including the risk of harm.
  • Workers who interact with a vulnerable person will still require three COVID-19 vaccine doses. This includes residential aged care and disability care, healthcare, and custodial and emergency services, including police.
  • Government imposed third dose mandates in education, food distribution, meat and seafood processing and quarantine accommodation sectors will be lifted. In line with other jurisdictions around Australia, vaccination policies will be the responsibility of individual workplaces.
  • As almost 95 per cent of Victorians 12 and older have had two COVID-19 doses, rules requiring general workers to work from home, unless they are double-vaccinated are lifted. Employers will still be able to set their own workplace conditions.
  • Visitor caps to care facilities, including residential aged care and disability are removed, with residents able to see any number of people as long as they test negative on a rapid antigen test that day. If a test is unavailable, a person can only be present for limited reasons such as end-of-life visits. Centres may introduce their own visitor rules to respond to local risk.


Home Based Care Easing Pressure On Our Hospitals
Tens of thousands of Victorians are taking up the home-based care programs across the state – easing pressure on the health system – with nearly 56,000 people receiving care from the comfort of their home since Better at Home started last year.


Free RATS Program For People With Disability Extended
People with disability in Victoria can continue to access 20 free rapid antigen tests per visit from state-run testing sites and from Disability Liaison Officers, with the program extended until the end of September.

People unable to attend a state-run testing site can contact a Disability Liaison Officer who can help.  


To learn in other ways about Victoria's responses:
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.

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, return straight home.
  • Remember that the most important thing you can do is get tested, even if you have the mildest of symptoms.
  • Get vaccinated.

Updated COVID-19 communication resources for community stakeholders
The Victorian Government has developed resources in multiple languages with information about how you can stay COVIDSafe and get support if you need it.

This includes stakeholder packs with in-language, up to date material on:
  • Rapid Antigen Tests
  • What to do if you test positive
  • What to do if you are a household contact
Find more translated resources at the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing website.
Spread the word: help protect our communities
With winter around the corner, it's more important than ever that the most vulnerable in our communities are up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccinations. Consider sharing these Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) videos in 'Protecting Our Communities' series which features inspiring stories of how community leaders overcame misinformation and hesitancy to support seniors during the pandemic. 
VIC | GOV | CHANGING | COVID-19 food relief | from 1 July
Effective from 1 July 2022, there will be changes to how food relief is being delivered.

The changes will connect people to food relief providers and local health services that can become a part of an individual or family’s ongoing support network.

Once you have registered your positive COVID-19 result, you will be asked to complete a short survey on your care and support needs. Based on the survey response, you may receive a text message from the Department of Health that will allocate you to the COVID Positive Pathway program.

This program will connect you with the support you need to manage COVID-19 isolation, including access to food relief if eligible. 


 GRANTING 

2. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | 2022 Universal Design Funding | funding round closes 2 September 2022

The 2022 Universal Design Funding Round aims to improve access via small renovations to existing community facilities. The goal is to enable more people, including people with disability and dementia, to participate in community and social activities.

Local and state government entities, and community not-for-profit organisations who manage community facilities and public spaces are encouraged to apply.

Eligible organisations can apply for grants valued between $10,000 to $100,000 for minor fit outs or upgrades to existing community facilities and public spaces. 

3. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | 2022 Changing Places funding | funding round closes 2 September 2022

Grants of up to $180,000 are available to build thirty new Changing Places across Victoria.

Changing Places provide suitable facilities for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets, and allow those with high support needs to fully participate in the community. This may include people with an acquired brain injury, spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, and motor neurone disease, as well as many other people with a disability.

The grants are open to Victorian local government, not-for-profit and community organisations.  

4. AUST | PFA | GRANTING | LGBTQIA+ Refugees and people seeking asylum Fund | submissions close Friday 2 September 2022

The Pride Foundation Australia (PFA) Board of Directors and the Sidney Myer Fund are pleased to announce their next joint funding round, to the value of $20,000.

This grant round will focus on supporting LGBTQIA+ Refugees and people seeking asylum.

Projects that are collaborations between refugee and asylum seeker agencies or groups and LGBTQIA+ agencies or groups are encouraged.  Where an LGBTIQ+ refugee-led group is partnering with another organisation we encourage equal partnerships and co-design. One of the organisations/groups must have DGR status 

5. COPP | GOV | GRANTING | 2022/23 Cultural Development Fund (CDF) | closing 5 September 2022

Who can apply? Individual artists with an auspice organisation, and arts, cultural or community organisations living or working  in the City Port Phillip for arts based projects. 

Applicants can find the community grant categories and applications online through the Smarty Grants website.

6. AUST | SCFO | GRANTING | Scanlon Foundation Annual Community Grants 2022 | applications close Friday 16 September 2022

Applications are now open for the Scanlon Foundation (SCFO) Annual Community Grants 2022. The grants will support projects that contribute to social cohesion by:
  1. Building pathways to employment; or
  2. Increasing applied English literacy.
Grants will provide funding up to a maximum of $30,000 for a 12 month project (implementation from January to December 2023). 

 HIRING 

7. VIC | POLICE | HIRING | Representatives through Aboriginal Diversity Recruitment Program

Victoria Police is committed to increasing the representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in their organisation and enriching their ties to community.

Round 3 of the Victoria Police Diversity Recruitment Program has now opened, seeking Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants living in Shepparton who are interested in a career with Victoria Police. 

The Program will help you to get ready for a policing role, prepare you for the recruitment process and support you as you hopefully start your career with Victoria Police. This includes mentoring, exam preparation, fitness and ongoing coaching during Academy training.  

8. MELB | COHEALTH | HIRING | Part-time positions for people living in public housing | applications close Thursday 1 September 2022

Cohealth is recruiting for 12 'Community Connector' positions for the newly funded Homes Victoria Community Connector program. 

The positions are specifically for residents living in public housing. Residents with language skills in Vietnamese, Cantonese, Mandarin, Arabic, Oromo and Somali are encouraged to apply. 

Community Connectors will work as a team to develop and deliver health promotion activities for communities in public housing. They will also give direct support to residents who need assistance accessing cohealth services.

People with strong community engagement, event planning and computer skills would be best suited for these roles. The teams will be located in Collingwood, Carlton and Flemington.  

9. VIC | ECCV | HIRING | Communications Officer | applications close Monday 5 September 2022

Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) is looking for a creative and driven Communications professional with a passion for multiculturalism and social justice to join our team. The role calls for excellent writing and editing skills, the ability to think critically and problem solve, and a flair for content creation and design. Suitably qualified applicants from migrant and refugee backgrounds are encouraged to apply. 

10. VIC | ECCV | HIRING | Practice Lead, Mental Health | applications close Monday 12 September 2022

Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) is seeking a proactive and experienced Practice Lead, Mental Health & Wellbeing to inform and drive the development and delivery of mental health reform activities in Victoria. The Practice Lead will be responsible for leading ECCV’s work with the Diverse Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Grants Program. 

 ENGAGING 

11. AUST | ABC NEWS | SEEKING | Diverse Voices for 'Experts' Database

The ABC News 50:50 project is focused on improving gender diversity across their news coverage. In 2019, a callout was made asking women with expertise in any subject to self-nominate as expert sources/talent for ABC stories. 

More than 4,000 women from all kinds of industries and backgrounds responded to the call and many of those women are now used frequently as experts across all kinds of programming!

The ABC is now seeking additional experts for their database, and especially encourage women with multicultural backgrounds to register. 

An 'expert' is considered to be anyone with subject matter expertise, a professional qualification, and/or lived experience in any area. No previous media experience is required, and the ABC is seeking representation from both capital cities and regional areas.



12. COPP | YAC | TRAINING | First Aid Workshop | Saturday 3 September 2022 | 10am-2pm

The City of Port Phillip’s Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) invites young people aged 15-18 to participate in a series of free workshops being held at the St. Kilda Library as part of the Victorian State Government Youth Festival initiative.

A free first aid workshop with Vic First Aid during which you will learn essential emergency life support skills including:
  • Management of the Unconscious Casualty
  • Basic Life Support - DRSABCD
  • CPR - Adult & Infant
  • Use of an Automated External Defibrillator - AED
  • Airway Obstruction
  • Asthma
  • Anaphylaxis
  • Bleeds management
Upon completion of the course you will receive a Statement of Attainment for the nationally accredited course HLTAID010 Provide Basic Emergency Life Support. 

13. VIC | ECCV | CONDUCTING | Multicultural mental health consultations | 5 September 2022 | 10am-12noon

Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) is working with KPMG and the Victorian Multicultural Commission to undertake consultations with researchers, service providers, policymakers, and consumers to collect multicultural mental health data. Information gathered at the consultations will inform the Department of Health’s reforms to make the collection of mental health data more culturally safe and accessible.  

14. AUST | ETHNOLINK | WEBINAR | Effective Multicultural Communications Campaigns | Tuesday 6 September 2022 | 2-3pm AEST / 12noon-1pm AWST

Creating a multicultural communications strategy across different channels can be challenging, especially one that resonates across cultures, languages and communication platforms. 

In this one-hour free webinar, Ethnolink CEO and Founder Costa Vasili and Senior Translation Strategist Cloé Bru will explore three well-executed multicultural communications campaigns. 

The course will include information regarding creating multilingual videos, websites, social media tiles, radio ads and brochures across multiple channels. 

15. AUST | RUOK | INVITING | Hosts of events for R U OK? Day | Thursday 8 September 2022

R U OK? Day is a national day of action when we are invited to ask, ‘are you OK?’ and start a meaningful conversation with people we know who are struggling. 

R U OK? has released resources, tips and ideas to help you drive genuine change in your workplace, school and community.

Hosting an event, sharing resources, or bringing people together online are great ways to celebrate R U OK? Day and share the R U OK? message.

All acts of support for this day, big or small, are welcome! 

16. MELB | CISC | TALKING | Dumplings against Depression | Thursday 8 September 2022 | 6-8.30pm

In honour of R U OK? Day, The Couch International Student Centre is hosting a free mental health workshop.

The evening will include a discussion of mental health and depression with a panel of experts, and a free dumpling dinner.

There will be also be an opportunity to meet other attendees, chat with the experts, and to participate in a Bollywood dance lesson to finish off the event!

Registrations are essential.  

17. VIC | PPCfR | ENGAGING | Reconciliation Writing Competition 2022 | entries now open, closing Friday 9 September 2022

Port Phillip Citizens for Reconciliation (PPCfR) is calling all Victorian adults and students in Years 9-12 are invited to submit entries - fact, fiction or poetry.
1500 words for adults, 600 for students or 50 lines of poetry for all, referencing this year’s NAIDOC theme, Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up! 

Prize money of $1000, $600 and $300 will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd placegetters in each category. 

Entries close Friday 9 September, so there is lots of time to start writing. 
  • If you would like more information about this Competition, please email Deb Stewart.
 

18. MELB | VAG | EXHIBITING | Banumbirr – Morning Star Installation by custodian Paul Buwang Buwang Gurruwiwi | on now, closing Saturday 17 September 2022

An installation of Banumbirr by Morning Star custodian Paul Buwang Buwang Gurruwiwi in association with Elcho Island Arts and Vivien Anderson Gallery (VAG).
Banumbirr, also known as Barnumbirr or Morning Star, is a creator-spirit in the Yolngu culture of Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory of Australia, who is identified as the planet Venus. In Yolngu Dreaming mythology, she is believed to have guided the first humans, the Djanggawul sisters, to Australia.
Where: Vivien Anderson Gallery, Ground Floor, 284–290 St Kilda Road St Kilda, Victoria 3182 Australia
Viewing: Tuesday To Friday 11am-5pm. Saturday 12pm-4pm. Also By Appointment


19. MELB | COMMON | COMMEMORATING | UN International Day of Peace | Multifaith & Multicultural Celebration | Sunday 18 September 2022 | 11.30am-3pm

Come and enjoy a delicious lunch & refreshments followed by a series of music presentations and workshops from various traditions
Program has 11.30am Lunch Followed by guest speakers and artists with a feature performance by Kate Ceberano

Centre of Melbourne Multifaith and Others Network (COMMON) and supported by WIN (Women's Interfaith Network) Foundation, Youth for Human Rights Victoria, and Somali Community Inc.

Where: Scientology Community Centre, 231-251 Mt Alexander Rd, Ascot Vale
Cost: Free
Bookings: Please RSVP via email


20. COPP | PHAAA | CELEBRATING | 10 year anniversary and Peace Festival: Healing the Youth | Sunday 18 September 2022 | 3pm-5.30pm

Come along and celebrate 10 year anniversary of Planetary Healing Artists Association of Australia(PHAAA) and Peace Festival: Healing the Youth.
This is a ticketed event for us to thank those who have contributed to the association over the years. We have much appreciated your support.

There will be food provided, entertainment and awards presented to some key contributors. 
  • Where: Mary Kehoe Community Centre, 224 Danks Street, Albert Park, VIC 3206
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: essential as space limited, RSVP by Wednesday 31 August 2022, online through Eventbrite 
 

21. MELB | IPACA | PRESENTING | Indian Performing Arts Convention & Festival Australia | Monday 19-Sunday 25 September 2022

The Academy of Indian Music Australia (AIM) in partnership with Monash University and Apasaras Arts Singapore is proud to present the Indian Performing Arts Convention 2022 (IPAC AUSTRALIA 2022). 

IPAC AUSTRALIA 2022 will include master classes, demonstration recitals, cross cultural concerts and feature performances by internationally acclaimed artists.

The convention opens on 19 September 2022 with masterclasses, and the performances open from 22 September 2022.  

22. VTMH | WEBINAR | Working in partnership with consumers towards a recovery and rights based mental health system | Wednesday 21 September 2022 | 3-4pm

The Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System recommended that non legal advocacy services should be available to all consumers who want it and hence the need for an opt out system.
Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) seminars are open to individuals, from all disciplines and working in all sectors, who are based in Australia and interested in diversity and mental health.  
    Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA) is a free state-wide non legal advocacy service for people at risk of or subject to compulsory treatment in Victoria. 

    Speakers:
    • Helen Makregiorgos, Civil Justice Program, Victoria Legal Aid
    • Simona, Lived Experience Expert, Victoria Legal Aid
    IMHA has been working with culturally and linguistically diverse communities for the past 7 years and identified that these communities are often not able to access culturally safe mental health services.

    The Royal Commission recommendation will provide opportunity for people from these communities to access non legal advocacy services that can support them to understand and enact their rights, including their rights to mental health services that are culturally safe and responsive.
    • Where: Online via Zoom — details to be sent to registrants in advance
    • Cost: Free
    • Bookings: essential. Spaces are limited. To secure a place, please register early via Trybooking
     

    23. MELB | MWiB | SHOWCASING | Migrant Women in Business | Thursday 22 September 2022 | 5-9pm AEST

    Migrant Women in Business Showcase (MWiB) is an event curated and hosted by Migrant Women in partnership with LCI Melbourne.

    MWiB Showcase allows nano and micro-businesses to connect and showcase their products on professional models while sharing their cultural stories.

    If you are a migrant woman or a designer of all things beautiful,  don't miss this opportunity to showcase your collections to potential partners, buyers, and retailers and to network with other migrant businesswomen.  

    24. MELB | ECCV | COMMEMORATING | 10th Walter Lippmann Oration | Thursday 13 October 2022 | from 6.30pm

    Join Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) for the 10th Walter Lippmann Memorial Oration taking place at the Wheeler Centre. This year's eminent speaker is The Hon Tony Pagone AM QC, a former Federal Court judge who has made a significant contribution to Australian public life during his distinguished legal career. 
    Tickets are limited, so registration is essential.  

    25. AUST | GiveOUT | CALLING | Organisations for GiveOUT Day | Thursday 20 October 2022 | applications now open

    Growing the pot of gold under the rainbow as registrations for GiveOUT Day 2022 are now open! 
    GiveOUT Day will see 80 LGBTIQ+ organisations and projects from around the country come together to participate in the only national day of giving to LGBTIQ+ communities in Australia.

    And the best part? Donations to LGBTIQ+ organisations on GiveOUT Day are doubled by GiveOUT and partners.

    What is GiveOUT Day? 
    We know that funding to LGBTIQ+ organisations is harder to obtain than ever. Recently released national research Where are the Rainbow Resources? highlights that demand for services from LGBTIQ+ organisations has grown by 30% in the last 12 months, whilst organisations have been forced to cut their services by one third due to lack of resources. 

    GiveOUT Day is a chance to celebrate the incredible work of LGBTIQ+ organisations, and a means to raise critical funds when they are needed most.
    • Read more about GiveOUT Day
    • LGBTIQ+ organisations can Sign up here to join GiveOUT Day and double your donations.
    • If you are not an LGBTIQ+ organisation, stay tuned for how you can be involved over coming months. Alternatively, reach out to us at info@giveout.org.au.
     

    26. COPP | TRANSV | TRAINING | LGBTQIA+ & Transgender Diverse Awareness | Tuesday 1 November 2022 | 9.30am-12.30pm

    This hybrid training is part of the Port Phillip Community Training Calendar. It is delivered in person but also accessible online. 

    The first half of this training provides an overview of LGBTIQA+ communities, issues and concerns and the second half delves into more detail about trans and gender diverse communities. We provide recommendations and tips for working with LGBTIQA+ and TGD clients, customers and staff.

    This training is delivered by Transgender Victoria and the trainers will be Nicole Shaw (they/them) and Zoe Walder (she/her).
    • Where: Council Chambers, St Kilda Town Hall, 99A Carlisle Street, St Kilda & online
    • Cost: Free
    • Bookings: essential, online through Trybooking

    27. AUST | EQPR | ENGAGING | Australia's 5th National LGBTIQ+ Conference: Better Together 2023 | 17-18 February 2023

    Since 2018, The Equality Project (EQPR)'s Better Together has created space for LGBTIQA+ communities, organisations, and advocates to gather for a unique 2-day experience.
    Attendees have described as "an extremely valuable and irreplaceable platform for LGBTIQA+ people and a "wonderful space for debate and critical thinking".

    Our 5th National LGBTIQ+ Conference, Better Together 2023, will be back in Adelaide at the Adelaide Convention Centre on 17-18 February 2023.

    We warmly invite you to join us for our biggest conference yet ahead of Sydney WorldPride!

    Dedicated to The Equality Project's mission of bringing our diverse communities and allies together to share our ideas and experiences; Better Together is about creating opportunities for meaningful connections so we can learn from each other, forge alliances, and advance the LGBTIQ+ movement to create positive lasting change.We're now inviting impactful individuals and organisations to be part of the conference by submitting their innovative and impactful ideas.

    We invite advocates, leaders, educators, artists, social workers, researchers, and others in the community to attend and run workshops, host panel discussions, or take part in our new initiative Better Think.

    Better Think
    Introducing a new format: Better Think is a showcase of speakers presenting impactful and well-formed ideas that will help us “think better”.

    Inspired by the short and powerful format of the TED Talk, the aim of Better Think is to share great ideas in under 20 minutes!

    Do you have a new and surprising idea that we have not heard about? Or a basic idea but with a compelling new argument behind it that challenges beliefs and perspectives?

    If this sounds like you, we’d love you to be part of Better Think.

    Propose A Session
    Submit a proposal to run a session with the aim of exploring the current issues facing the LGBTIQ+ movement in Australia.
    Register Early And Save!
    Do You Need A Scholarship?
    Up to 47% of conference delegates attend on a full or partial scholarship. If you need help with your 2-day conference ticket, we encourage you to apply.
    We're passionate about this work and we'd like you to join us.

     COLLECTING 

    28. AUST | CHUFFED | RAISING | Awareness and Funds for metal detectors in Ukraine

    More than 12 million Ukrainian refugees have been displaced inside and outside of Ukraine. They want to go home.
    But it is estimated that MILLIONS of landmines have been left across vast areas of Ukraine and that de-mining operations could take decades. 

    Team Chuffed is supporting Canberra resident Nathan Burraston who launched a crowdfunding campaign to help Aussies fund quality metal detectors and get them into the hands of troops on the ground in Ukraine.
    "I learnt about the problem concerning landmines in Ukraine and decided to come up with a solution to help in some way. We have coordinated a supplier, a discount, and a transport means to provide some humanitarian relief - now I need your support."
    Nathan has already managed to raise over $25,000 of the $39,000 needed. Can you chip in and help get the next crate of metal detectors on the way to Ukraine? 

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

    Every dollar donated to I’m From Driftwood before the end of August will be matched by the generous folks at Tito’s Handmade Vodka.
    Your support will help I’m From Driftwood continue creating professionally-produced, first-person LGBTQIA+ video stories to send a powerful message to queer and trans people everywhere: You are not alone. Through YouTube comments and direct feedback, we are reminded on a daily basis about the importance of these stories. Here’s a recent message we received from our site:
    "I want to first say Thank You for the positive videos. Being gay in a Christian conservative, rural state and also black in a majority white community is hard enough. Knowing that part of my story mirrors so many of the stories on I'm From Driftwood encourages me to keep living my best life in truth. When understanding friends are few, I find hope in the videos and stories of others. Thank You!" Kevin J.
    We’re currently just over ⅓ of our way to our goal of US$15,000 and only have 9 days left.And if you haven’t yet had a chance to check out our new site, go explore the new I’m From Driftwood site now.

     ANNOUNCING 

    30. VIC | GOV | OFFERING | Free kindergarten for Victorian children | enrolments for 2023 Kinder are currently open

    The Victorian government has announced that from 2023, Free Kinder will be available for all Victorian three and four year old children at participating services. 

    Free Kinder funding will be available in both standalone kindergarten and long day care settings for children enrolled in a funded kindergarten program.

    A 15-hour per week program will be available to four-year-old children and a 5-to-15-hour program will be available to three-year-old children per week.


    31. VIC | FCCV | RELEASING | Multifaith Calendar 2023

    The Faith Communities Council of Victoria (FCCV) have published their annual multifaith calendar outlining major holy days and festivals for Baha'i, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, Judaism and Sikhism.

    Whilst this list is not exhaustive it is comprehensive to represent each of the religions in good faith. 

    32. VIC | GOV | ANNOUNCING | Winners of Annual Victorian Disability Awards

    The 2022 Winners of the Victorian Disability Awards were announced last Wednesday in an online ceremony hosted by comedian Alistair Baldwin.

    The awards showcase the positive impact made by people who work to improve accessibility, advocate for the rights of people with disability and build more inclusive workplaces and communities.

    The winners and inductees for the 2022 Victorian Disability Awards include: 

    33. VIC | VMC | ADVISING | VMConnect. Have you joined?

    VMConnect is the Victorian Multicultural Commission's exciting online community!

    It's a great way for Victoria’s multicultural communities to connect with each other, with service providers and with government. 

    There are already over 700 members of this free online community – and they all want to hear from you!

    Join today to share programs, promote events, find grants and services, discuss topics or ask questions. 

    It’s all about multicultural Victoria, and it’s all about you!   

    34. MELB | METRO | ANNOUNCING | Five artists selected for new Metro Tunnel stations in Melbourne

    Five prominent artists have been selected to create large-scale permanent artworks for each of the Metro Tunnel’s new underground stations.

    They join Yorta Yorta/Wamba Wamba/Mutti Mutti/Boonwurrung artist Maree Clarke, who was announced in 2020 as the artist commissioned for a work spanning all 5 stations.

    The station artworks are currently in the development stage, in a process involving the artists, architects and engineers. 

    35. VIC | GOV | LAUNCHING | Victoria's new youth strategy - Our Promise, Your future

    With thousands of young Victorians, the Victorian Government has created a new youth strategy to make our state the best place for young people called Our promise, Your Future: Victoria's youth strategy 2022-2027.

    The strategy will give young people better access to opportunities and support them to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

    The youth strategy recognises that all issues that matter to Victoria, matter to young people. Over the next five years, this work will build on and strengthen existing investment in young people and set out new ways of engaging and supporting them.  

    36. MELB | GOV | LAUNCHING | New initiative for South Asian filmmakers - My Melbourne

    My Melbourne is a new Victorian government initiative, to be delivered in partnership with the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. It will support local South Asian screen talent to progress their careers, by creating short films based on diverse migrant experiences.

    The initiative is looking to support film creators to showcase diverse stories addressing race, gender, sexuality and disability while also investing in the careers of South Asian screen talent in Melbourne. 

    Local talent will be mentored by high-profile Indian film directors Kabir Khan, Rima Das, Imtiaz Ali and Onir as they develop and produce their short films. The four short films will be released as a feature length anthology and will screen at the 2023 Indian Film Festival. 

    37. VIC | VMC | ANNOUNCING | Winners of 2022 Multicultural Film Festival 

    On Wednesday 24 August 2022, stories of multicultural Victoria were brought to ACMI cinemas in a celebration of diverse filmmakers at the 2022 Multicultural Film Festival (MFF). 

    Hosted by the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) in partnership with Swinburne University of Technology, it was a glamorous evening complete with a red carpet and premiere screening of 11 shortlisted films! 

    The MFF showcases multicultural talent and offers different perspectives of lived experiences of multiculturalism through the lens of short film.

    Award winners were announced under the categories of Fiction, Non-fiction, Emerging Filmmaker, Open Category and, for the first time in the main competition, Young Filmmaker (4-11 years).  

    The VMC is keen to hear from organisations interested in holding a screening of the films for their staff or broader communities – please get in touch via email 

    38. MELB | ECLC | SUPPORTING | Anti-racism leadership in Melbourne's East

    The Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC) is supporting culturally and linguistically diverse community leaders to become Anti-racism Ambassadors in partnership with IndianCare, the Centre for Holistic Health and the Communities’ Council on Ethnic Issues.

    The Amplifying Community Voices in the East project has supported community leaders to participate in workshops which focus on challenging racism and sharing their voices and experiences of racial discrimination.

    These sessions provided community leaders with knowledge on Australia’s Human Rights Framework, advocacy techniques and using their knowledge and lived experiences to speak out against racism 

    39. VIC | IBBACC | REPORTING | Police misconduct – You have the right to not remain silent

    All Victorians deserve to be treated fairly by police, no matter where you live or what your circumstances are.

    The Independent Broad-Based Anti-Corruption Commission (IBBACC) is Victoria's independent body responsible for preventing and exposing police misconduct. 

    IBAC's campaign, You have the right to not remain silent, empowers Victorians to speak out against police misconduct to ensure all police are held accountable.

    You can report anything police do to deny your rights to IBAC. All information IBAC receives from the public is helpful.  

    40. VIC | SOUNDF | HEARING | Your say: Multicultural Victorians with hearing loss

    Soundfair (SoundF) and the University of Queensland are undertaking research to identify current barriers to access and uptake of hearing health services for people with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds in Australia.

    Participants in this research project will attend an hour-long interview (hosted via videoconferencing).

    This research will provide valuable insights that will improve access to hearing health services. In recognition of your contribution, you will receive $50 at the end of your interview. 

    41. AUST | ECCV | SUBMITTED | To the Humanitarian Program

    Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) has made a submission this month to the Australian Government's Humanitarian Program 2022-23, which reflects long-standing concerns about the direction of the country's immigration policy. The submission makes a number of key recommendations, including increasing our refugee intake to 30,000, and urgently abolishing temporary visas for people who arrive by boat. 


    42. AUST | TIS | REMINDING | Translating and interpreting services available

    The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) is an interpreting service provided by the Department of Home Affairs for people who do not speak English and for agencies and businesses that need to communicate with their non-English speaking clients.

    TIS National has more than 70 years' experience in language services and access to more than 2700 interpreters in more than 150 languages. 

    The TIS National immediate phone interpreting service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year for the cost of a local call for any person or organisation in Australia who needs an interpreter.


    43. WORLD | PWR | UPDATING | 2023 Parliament & More

    INVITING | Answers to the Call for Programs, It's Your Chicago Parliament to Create!
    On Monday 3 October 2022 the Call for Programs for the 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions is coming to a close.

    In a recent blog, Parliament Staff explored the legacy of the City of Chicago in the global interfaith movement, the critical importance of defending freedom and human rights, and the call to communities and individuals to make the 2023 Convening their own.

    "Make no mistake: this conference does not present the notion of religious freedom as a shelter for the nationalist or anti-woman lobby among faith communities, it rather walks the line of religious freedom as a human right...But it’s also convening in a moment to celebrate that at 130 years, the Parliament is still growing, holding space in new hearts, and continuing to impact generations that only knew of a Parliament of the World’s Religions in historical memory.

    It’s now their Chicago Parliament to create."
    Don't miss the opportunity make your mark in the 2023 Parliament Convening, make history as part of the cohort of presenters at the Parliament of the World's Religions!
    SAVING THE DATE | Monthly It’s Time to Talk | Thursday 29 September 2022
    The Buddhist-Catholic Dialogue on Climate Change welcomes you back to It’s Time to Talk, a dialogue grounded in deep listening.
    RESPONDING | PWR Women’s Task Force Releases Statement on Dobbs Decision Overturning Roe v. Wade
    On 1 August 2022, the Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR) Women's Task Force released an official statement responding to the US Supreme Court's Dobbs decision overturn Roe v. Wade.
    “We affirm that the dignity and human rights of women and girls begin with their bodily autonomy and their right to reproductive control and healthcare…We must mobilize to protect women and healthcare institutions in our communities. We must stand with religious communities affected by these restrictions. We must defend freedom and human rights for women and for all, in America and across the globe.”

    RESPONDING | International Interfaith Organizations and Their Prayer: Zaporizhzhia 
    Three of the world's largest international, interfaith organizations – Charter for Compassion, Parliament of the World's Religions, and United Religions Initiative – fully endorse the 11 August 2022 statement of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres. In the statement, Guterres calls for all military action in the vicinity of Zaporizhzhia to cease immediately, and he urged the withdrawal of all military personnel. Further, he – and we – support the critical work of the IAEA to safeguard the operations in Zaporizhzhia.
    CONTINUING | Global Ethic Census Aims to Gain Insights & Explore Commitment 
    The Parliament of the World's Religions' signature document, Towards a Global Ethic: An Initial Declaration will be celebrating its 30th anniversary next year. The world has changed in many ways since “the Global Ethic” was first endorsed at the 1993 Parliament of the World's Religions, and in the run-up to the anniversary celebrations we are asking anew: Who is “the Global Ethic” for? How does “the Global Ethic” foster interfaith collaboration and action? What must our timeless moral traditions now speak into 21st century realities?

    All members of the public with a general interest in ethics are invited to partner with us in this important re-evaluation by taking the first-ever Global Ethic Census, now live on our website.
    COLLECTING | Parliament Reaches #ACommunityThrives Fundraising Challenge Goal
    Between July 18 and August 12, the Parliament of the World's Religions participated in A Community Thrives. Generous supporters of the Parliament helped reach and surpass that goal with a total of $6,683 donated.
    REPORTING | Parliament Joins Emerging Leaders Summit Hosted by Interfaith America
    Earlier this month members of the Parliament Staff joined hundreds of emerging leaders at the 2022 Interfaith Leadership Summit hosted by Interfaith America in the City of Chicago.
    Let’s Make the Chicago Parliament’s Third Act the Best Yet 
    By 2023, organizers hope a 9th Parliament of the World’s Religions will be remembered in keeping with the legacy of earlier convenings. Reaching “most significant yet” is a thrill to imagine.

    Key Performance Indicators may say the Parliament featured the biggest mainstream audience to date, secured enough funding, and garnered positive global media coverage. But it’s also convening in a moment to celebrate that at 130 years, the Parliament is still growing, holding space in new hearts, and continuing to impact generations that only knew of a Parliament of the World’s Religions in historical memory.

    It’s now their Chicago Parliament to create.
    WATCH NOW | Nuclear Prayer Day 2022
    6 August     marked the 77th anniversary of the first atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima, Japan. Voices for a World Free of Nuclear Weapons (URI) in partnership with the Parliament of the World’s Religions, UNIFY, Religions for Peace International, Charter for Compassion, SINE Network, UNITY Earth, the Global Security Institute, Pathways to Peace, International Academy for Multicultural Cooperation, May Peace Prevail on Earth, and SGI Office for UN Affairs hosted the first annual Nuclear Prayer Day.
    CATCH-UP | News and updates you might have missed from the Parliament in between newslettersStay up to date with the work of the Parliament at ParliamentOfReligions.org/latest-news


    MAKE | The success of the 2023 Parliament Convening – possible with the support from individuals like you!
    Book Your Ticket
    Take advantage of the Early Bird Rate for the 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions and save 40% off the regular rate.Propose a Program
    The Parliament is calling organizers around the world for it's Call for Programs, now accepting proposals for presentations, workshops, performances, religious observances, art exhibits, and films.Book Your Exhibit Space
    Connect with thousands of global attendees at the heart of the 2023 Parliament Convening, book a booth and become an exhibitor at the world's premier interfaith convening.

     SUPPORTING 

    44. 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.


    45. AUST | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way

     

     ACKNOWLEDGING  

    46. 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, public domain and individuals, received with gratitude.

    47. 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.

    48. 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.