The school holidays have begun, and with it brought warmer weather to our state!
Message from the Chairperson
For those of you planning school holiday activities for the young people in your life, I hope they are culturally relevant, accessible and inclusive. Please do visit your local government's website for suggested activities in your area!
For my message this week, I'd like to draw your attention to the recent legislative changes regarding the banning of the Hakenkreuz. Thank you to the members of the VMC's Multifaith Advisory Group for your input and advice on this important piece of legislation. While the display of the Hakenkreuz is now a criminal offence, the Bill recognises the continued significance of the swastika as a symbol of peace and good fortune for the Buddhist, Hindu, Jain and other faith communities.
This legislation is one of the many recommendations made by the Legislative Assembly Legal and Social Issues Committee in their Inquiry into anti-vilification protections. Tabled in Parliament in March 2021, the VMC put forth a submission for this inquiry, following consultation with Regional Advisory Council members.
Regarding the same inquiry, the VMC also provided a follow-up submission on racism emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact of the global 'Black Lives Matter' movement and in response to the shocking number of First Nations People who have died in custody since 1991.
The importance of legislation such as this cannot be overstated - it is the result of a collective community effort to combat racism and hate, and to work towards a more equitable and harmonious society.
Until we next meet, take care and stay well.
Viv Nguyen AM, Chairperson
VIC | VMC | INVITING | You to join a VMConnect Group
There are now over 900 members of the VMC's exciting online community, VMConnect, and you're invited to join the conversation!
There are many ways to get involved- you can check out our noticeboard, add a community event to our calendar, list your business on the service directory or join one of our Groups!
VMConnect Groups cover many different identities and interests - including multicultural young people, LGBTIQ+ people, and mental health and volunteering.
Connect with like-minded multicultural Victorians and representatives across the sector today.
VIC | MWC | CALLING | Applicants for Bicultural Work Rights Ambassadors Program | applications close Sunday 25 September 2022
Applications are now open for the fifth round of this Migrant Workers Centre (MWC) program which employs and trains Victoria's multicultural leaders to deliver education sessions on workplace rights and safety.
This is important, because those born overseas are more likely to face wage theft, unsafe work, and other forms of exploitation.
If you are involved in initiatives that support members of your community, we encourage you to apply!
VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural Communities and People with Disability COVID-19 Grants Program | applications close 3 October 2022
This program offers grants for eligible not-for-profit organisations to support their communities in protecting themselves from COVID-19 through:
- Getting vaccinated
- Wearing a face mask
- Staying home if unwell
Activities funded through the Program must support people with disability or those with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Grants of up to $50,000 are available, and funded projects must be completed by 31 December 2022.
To confirm your eligibility to apply, or for any other questions relating to the grants program, please email.
VIC | GOV | HIRING | Young Multicultural Victorians as Paid Internships | apply today
Paid internships are now available through Jobs Victoria for 60 young people with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds
In partnership with the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Youth Activating Youth, this program offers internships to young people finding it difficult to secure their first job. Participants will be paid to gain valuable work experience, learn new skills and make contacts that could lead to a job.
The internships are offered across many different industries, and will last for up to eight weeks. Free pre-employment training and up to 12 weeks of post-internship support will also be provided.
The program will commence in October and roll out across Victoria over the next 12 months.
VIC | GOV | INVITING | Mental Health for Culturally Diverse Communities to Join the Conversation
You can support the mental health and wellbeing of all Victorians by joining a series of community conversations this October.
The Department of Health would like to hear from people with culturally diverse backgrounds, LGBTIQ+ people and people with disability who have a lived experience of mental illness either as a family member, carer or supporter.
They'd also like to hear from people who work with one of the above diverse communities in health, community, services or related settings.
The group conversations will be two hours long, with online and in-person options available.
SUNSHINE | WPARC | OPENING | New Prevention and Recovery Centre for women in North-West Melbourne
The North-West Women’s Prevention and Recovery Care centre (WPARC) at Sunshine Hospital in Melbourne is now open.
It will provide vital mental health services to women who need short-term mental health care, supporting up to 150 women each year.
The centre offers around-the clock clinical care, communal kitchen, dining and living areas, and outdoor space for leisure and recreational activities. It is the first purpose-built Prevention and Recovery Care centre for women in the western suburbs.
It will also be the first in the state to provide accommodation for women to stay with their children during recovery and remain connected with their family.
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