[Edited extract from public address]
Message from the Chairperson
Last week I had the pleasure of attending the book launch for Undefeated, where I met the amazing mother and daughter duo, Ruchika and Saavan, who co-authored the book. Undefeated is a collection of stories written by 90 migrant women and women of colour, and it is both inspiring and captivating.
Savaan (who is only in grade 5!) contributed an illustration to the book, entitled ‘Women and emoticons’. The illustration takes readers on a journey through the varied emotions and phases of a woman's life depicted through a mix of drawings and emoticons (emojis). I encourage everyone to read this book.
On the topic of books, I'd like to draw your attention to a community event on Tuesday 15 November at 6pm, hosted by the Turkish Heritage Society and Merri-bek City Council. The event launches the book Coburg Mosque - A Journey of Turkish Settlement. If you are interested in attending, please email nail.aykan@gmail.com.
On the topic of powerful women, I recently took part in a podcast with Louise Grandville, CEO of Victoria Legal Aid. Our conversation was part of their Women’s Leadership Series which asks 5 questions of 5 women. You can listen to the podcast on their YouTube channel - my episode will be out soon!
Until we next meet, take care and be well.
Viv Nguyen AM, Chairperson
VIC | GOV | ADVISING | Mental Health Support for those affected by 2022 Victorian floods
Victorians across the state continue to experience significant flooding which has devastated communities.
It is normal to experience a range of physical, mental, emotional and behavioural reactions following an emergency or distressing event. If you have been impacted, support for the wellbeing of you and your family is available.
Services include:
- Lifeline – 13 11 14 – crisis support available 24/7 via phone, text or online chat
- Parentline – 13 22 89 – for parents and carers
- Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800 – for kids, teens and young adults
- NURSE-ON-CALL – 1300 60 60 24 – expert health information and advice
- Australian Psychological Society Referral Service – 1800 333 497
- Safe Steps – 1800 015 188 – family violence specialists available 24/7
- Orange Door – for adults, children and young people experiencing family violence
- Mental Health & Wellbeing Hubs – 1300 375 330 – appointments for anyone feeling overwhelmed or in need of support with mental health.
- DirectLine alcohol and drug counselling - 1800 888 236 - confidential drug and alcohol counselling and referral
- More support
VIC | GOV | ADVISING | Health Risks for those affected by 2022 Victorian floods
Our state's significant flooding has created many hazards. This includes the spread of diseases through rodents, animals, mosquitoes and contaminated food and water.
It also includes environmental hazards such as injury, asbestos and mould exposure, carbon monoxide poisoning (from portable generators or gas heaters) and animal hazards including snake and spider bites.
The Department of Health has published a resource with health advice, to help communities recover from floods and manage related health risks. Information is also available on protecting yourself from disease carried by mosquitos and how to obtain relevant vaccinations against illness if you live in Northern Victoria.
VIC | GOV | OFFERING | Victorian Sick Pay Guarantee
The Sick Pay Guarantee provides 38 hours a year of sick and carer's pay at the national minimum wage ($21.38 per hour).
It is available to eligible casual and contract workers in certain jobs, and helps workers when they need to take time off because they're sick, or need to take care of a loved one. You don't need to be an Australian citizen or permanent resident to sign up.
Information about the Sick Pay Guarantee is now available in 19 different languages.
MELB | RMIT | GRANTING | Interpreter Scholarship program - applications close 30 November 2022
RMIT university is now offering scholarships to students studying Interpreting in 2023.
Qualified interpreters play an important role in our state, supporting culturally and linguistically diverse communities to stay connected, and access crucial government services, such as health care and housing support.
Your application for the preferred RMIT University course and the documentation required for the scholarship must be completed by 30 November 2022.
MELB | MQFF | SCREENING | Melbourne Queer Film Festival | 10–21 November 2022
Melbourne Queer Film Festival (MQFF) will showcase the latest and greatest in queer film from around the world and run special events over 12 exciting days.
The festival venue partners include ACMI, Village Cinemas Jam Factory and Cinema Nova along with a new venue, the Victorian Pride Centre Rooftop, where MQFF will be holding an outdoor cinema.
The full program will feature 49 feature films and documentaries, 12 short film packages, 35 Australian premieres and four Melbourne premieres.
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