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

Fast Facts: COVID-19 Victoria & Australia

  1. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Pandemic Response
  2. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Flood Response

     GRANTING 
  3. AUST | GOV | GRANTING | New grants to promote community safety | applications close 9pm Thursday 12 January 2023
  4. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural Seniors Support Program | applications now open, close 28 February 2025
  5. CoPP | GOV | GRANTING | $1 Community Reservations at the Palais Theatre

     ENGAGING 
  6. CoPP | GOV | ENCOURAGING | All to Join Team Respect in #callitout
  7. CoPP | IDPwD | PERFORMING | Born to be Wild | Thursday 1 December 2022 | 12noon-1pm
  8. CoPP | IDPwD | TALKING | In conversation with Carly Findlay and Renay Barker-Mulholland | Thursday 1 December 2022 | 6.30-7.30pm
  9. VIC | VEOHRC | CALLING | For pledges of action for human rights this Human Rights Week | 2-9 December 2022
  10. COPP | HISTORICAL | WALKING | WEBINAR | The street where you live - Kerferd Road | Sunday 4 December 2022 | 10am-12noon
  11. CoPP | PPLS | GATHERING | BIG Summer Read Launch Party | Sunday 4 December 2022 | 11am-12noon
  12. VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say: Commonwealth Games villages | survey closes 4 December 2022
  13. VIC | ECCV | WEBINAR | Multicultural COVID-19 forum | Tuesday 8 December 2022 | 6.30-8pm
  14. VIC | CGEPS | HEARING | Your say: Caring and Workplace Gender Equality in the Public Sector Victoria
  15. VIC | MAUN | HEARING | Your say: Aboriginal women in Victoria public sector workplaces
  16. VIC | ECCV | HEARING | Your say: anti-racism research project
  17. AUST | EQPR | ENGAGING | Australia's 5th National LGBTIQ+ Conference: Better Together 2023 | 17-18 February 2023
  18. ASIA-PACIFIC | EAF | ANNOUNCING | 2023 Queer Displacements Conference | February 2023
  19. VIC | VMC | INVITING | Hosts for Cultural Diversity Week event | Saturday 11-Tuesday 21 March 2023

     COLLECTIVISING 
  20. AUST | CHUFFED | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds For Gifting books to Aboriginal children
  21. AUST | TSF | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds Christmas Appeal 2022
  22. AUST | CHUFFED | RAISING | Donations to complete a feature documentary of Australia’s offshore detention in Nauru
  23. TIMOR-LESTE | MMT | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for providing quality education to Timor-Leste communities
  24. UKRAINE | CHUFFED | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Ukraine deliveries of critical food kits and medical aid
  25. AUST | GOV | CALLING | Women Nominees for Australian Honours
  26. AUST | SBS | INTERACTING | How multicultural is your suburb? 2021 Census results | November 2022

     ANNOUNCING 
  27. VIC | VLA | LISTENING | Women in Leadership: VMC Chairperson Viv Nguyen podcast
  28. CoPP | GOV | ENABLING | Foreshore fun for all with accessible beaches
  29. AUST | SFRI | REPORTING | Mapping Social Cohesion 2022
  30. AUST | CUIN | UPDATING | Paving Pathways and Discovering Diversity | Thursday 3 November 2022
  31. WORLD | PWR | UPDATING | 2023 Parliament & More

     SUPPORTING 
  32. VIC | GOV | OFFERING | Victorian Sick Pay Guarantee
  33. VIC | GOV | TRANSLATING | Australian health and wellbeing information - free online library
  34. VIC | GOV | ADVISING | Polio immunisation factsheets
  35. MELB | PCKAF | SEEKING | South Sudanese Mentors for young people
  36. AUST | MOPI | OFFERING | Dementia information for multicultural communities
  37. AUST | Coronavirus hotline
  38. AUST | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way

     ACKNOWLEDGING 
  39. Acknowledgment to Sources
  40. Bye bye to Essentialists
  41. Self-Isolators, Non-Essentials And The Homebound


1. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Pandemic Response

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.


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.
  • Resist going 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: 

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.  

VIC | GOV | ADVISING | Eligibility for COVID-19 medication

People with a high risk of getting very sick with COVID-19 can get medicine to help them stay well. There are medicines to:Only people most likely to need hospital care can get COVID-19 medicines. This includes people who:
are aged 70 and over
  • are aged 50 and over with certain health conditions (or 30 if they're Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander)
  • have a weakened immune system, disability or are born with heart disease.
Most other people can manage COVID-19 safely at home without these medicines. COVID-19 medicines do not replace vaccination. 

2. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Flood Response

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 | CALLING | Those impacted by the floods or storms in Victoria

This is an important community update on how to get help if you've been impacted by flooding in Victoria. Please share this email with your networks, community groups, and anyone you may know who has been affected.
  • If your home is flooding and you need emergency assistance, please call 000. 
  • If your home is about to flood, please call VICSES on 132 500.
  • For family violence services, please contact the Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre on 1800 015 188. 
  • If you'd like to get in touch with the VMC, please email contact@vmc.vic.gov.au. 
 

VIC | SES | PROVIDING | Victorian State Emergency Service

  • Hotline: 132 500 and dial 9 for an interpreter
  • Information hotline: 1800 226 226
  • Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS): 1300 771 741
  • Interpreting service: If you need an interpreter, call TIS National on 131 450.
  • Triple Zero: Please keep Triple Zero (000) for emergencies only.
 

VIC | GOV | ADVISING | Flood Recovery Hotline - call if impacted

Flood Recovery Hotline is a single number that all Victorians impacted by the recent floods can call for help with:
  • temporary accommodation 
  • clean up
  • understanding what support is available
  • mental health and wellbeing support
If you need this support, please call the hotline on 1800 560 760.
The recovery hotline is open from 7.30am to 7.30pm every day.


AUST | NEMBCM | TRANSLATING | Victorian Floods in Language audio

NEMBC Media (NEMBCM) has translated their news updates regarding the Victorian floods into 11 languages. The translations are available in:
  • Arabic
  • Greek
  • Hindi
  • Italian
  • Macedonian
  • Maltese
  • Mandarin
  • Sinhala
  • Spanish
  • Tagalog
  • Turkish
The files can be listened to on the website and shared on social media.  

AUST | LIFELINE | PROVIDING | Emotional support

It is normal to experience a range of physical, mental, emotional and behavioural reactions following an emergency or distressing event.
  • If you or a loved one needs support during this difficult time, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
 

VIC | GOV | TRANSLATING | Other Resources

 

AUST | GOV | SUPPORTING | Affected Victorians to claim a Disaster Recovery Payment or Disaster Recovery Allowance | claims close 17 April 2023

A $1000 Disaster Recovery Payment or Disaster Recovery Allowance is available to help people seriously affected by flooding around Victoria in October 2022. 

Those impacted have until 17 April 2023 to make a claim for either the lump sum payment or the allowance.

Only select Victorian regions are covered - please read the eligibility criteria for more information. 

For more information, please call the Flood Recovery Hotline on 1800 560 760.

VIC | GOV | SUPPORTING | Affected Victorians to claim a Personal Hardship Assistance Program

This program helps people experiencing financial hardship because of a natural disaster related emergency such as flood or severe storm.  

A one-off payment is provided to help meet immediate needs, including emergency food, shelter, clothing, medication and accommodation. Additional assistance may also be available for up to seven days after the emergency event.

Eligibility is determined by a needs assessment. Relief payments are not available to cover the cost of cleaning up fallen trees, replacing fences, repairing or towing vehicles, covering insurance excesses, or to cover business losses.  

VIC | GOV | OFFERING | Flood support for small businesses

The Small Business Immediate Flood Relief Program supports businesses directly affected by the October 2022 Victorian floods. There are two streams of support available under this program.

The first is the Immediate flood relief grant, a one-off $5000 grant to cover immediate expenses of businesses impacted in eligible local government areas. Applications for this grant close 4pm Friday 13 January 2023 or earlier if funds are exhausted. 

The second support available is the Business Relief Service which is a free service offering one-on-one support through a local business relief adviser. The adviser will guide business owners to the available Commonwealth, state and local supports. 

To access the Business Relief Service, please call the Business Victoria hotline on 13 22 15 and they will connect you with dedicated business relief advisers and support. The hotline operates seven days a week 

VIC | CSEFAP | GRANTING | Flood support for sporting clubs | applications open, closing 13 January 2023 or when funding exhausted

The Community Sport Emergency Flood Assistance Program (CSEFAP) will support sport and active recreation organisations directly affected by the October 2022 Victorian floods. 

$5,000 one-off grants are available to assist in the replacement of items that have been lost, damaged or destroyed. 

VIC | GOV | SUPPORTING | Affected Victorian flood-affected farmers

A support package is available for flood-affected farmers:
  • Primary Producer Clean-Up Relief Grants: $10,000 grants to cover the cost of the clean-up and get businesses up and running again
  • Primary Producer Concessional Loans: Up to $250,000 to restore or replace damaged equipment and infrastructure, or to cover the short-term business expenses.
  • Primary Producer Transport Subsidies: Up to $15,000 to support the transport of emergency fodder or stock drinking water, and the movement of livestock.
  • Learn more and apply
 

VIC | GOV | OFFERING | Financial assistance available - Translated resources on Victorian floods

You may be eligible for an emergency payment if you have been affected by the recent floods around Victoria. 

The Personal Hardship Assistance Program helps people experiencing financial hardship in emergencies. The program includes Emergency Relief Payments and Re-establishment Assistance.

Information about getting help is now available under Translated and Easy Englishresources. The resources have been translated into more than 10 languages.

Go to the Easy English section for information in Easy English. 

VIC | SES | ADVISING | Local flood guides

Local flood guides can help you better understand your flood risk, how flood warnings work and how to prepare yourself, your home or your business.

You can search for your local flood guide by suburb, postcode or council/municipality. 

 GRANTING  

3. AUST | GOV | GRANTING | New grants to promote community safety | applications close 9pm Thursday 12 January 2023

Eligible organisations are invited to apply for the Australian Government's Safe and Together Community Grants Program. 

The program funds communities and organisations to deliver activities supporting people who may be vulnerable to developing extremist views and behaviours. 

For those seeking help in preparing a grant application, three free community information sessions will be held on Tuesday 6 December at the Novotel Melbourne on Collins.



4. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural Seniors Support Program | applications now open, close 28 February 2025

Multicultural seniors’ groups can now receive financial help through the Multicultural Seniors Support 2021–25program.

This funding is for activities that benefit seniors' group members and build stronger community connections. For example, social and cultural activities, improving digital literacy and the running costs of the organisation. 

Grants of $2,000 will be available each financial year, up to 2024-25.

5. CoPP | GOV | GRANTING | $1 Community Reservations at the Palais Theatre

A City of Port Phillip (CoPP) initiative to increase access to the hiring of the Palais Theatre to groups that may not otherwise be able to utilise the venue due to hire costs.
Successful applicants for a community booking will have venue hire costs reduced to $1, enabling a range of users to experience this extraordinary venue.

The Palais Theatre is an iconic venue with a rich history as a key part of the cultural heritage of St Kilda, Melbourne and beyond. The venue has hosted some of Melbourne’s most renowned events, and continuously attracts national and international artists and promoters for performances ranging from all genres of music, through to opera and dance, comedy, gala events and more.

The Palais Theatre Community Purpose Reservations supports the City of Port Phillip’s Council Plan 2021-2031, specifically strategic direction Vibrant: a city that has a flourishing economy, where our community and local business thrive, and we maintain and enhance our reputation as one of Melbourne’s cultural and creative hubs.

The Palais Theatre is a highly sought after venue for artists, community groups and event producers, however venue size and associated expenses can make it inaccessible for noncommercial operators. The City of Port Phillip and Live Nation have partnered to make the Palais Theatre more accessible to the community and are seeking Expressions of Interest from event organisers, cultural and community groups who meet the criteria.
 

 ENGAGING  

6. CoPP | GOV | ENCOURAGING | All to Join Team Respect in #callitout

Ending violence against women, girls and gender diverse people starts with equality. Help City of Port Phillip(CoPP) create equality on and off the field for 16 Days of Activism.

This year, with the support of Respect Victoria and their Sexism in Sport #callitoutcampaign, we are celebrating the 16 Days of Activism by chatting to some of our local sporting clubs about how they encourage and promote gender equality on and off the field. 

One in three Australian women have experienced physical violence since the age of 15, and one in five Australian women have experienced sexual violence. As part of creating an inclusive Port Phillip, we are working hard to address the stereotypes, disrespect and inequality that allow this violence to continue and are committed to advancing gender equality for the benefit of our whole community.  

Sport has a vital role to play in promoting equality and preventing violence against women at both an individual level and more broadly as influential organisations and workplaces. With a sizeable percentage of the Port Phillip community participating in some form of sport or physical activity, the attitudes and behaviours learned and displayed in sport can have a considerable influence on how our community behaves and has a significant impact on preventing gender-based violence before it occurs. 

This week we are lucky to be hearing from some young local athletes and their clubs about how they create an equal playing field for girls, women and gender diverse people in our community. As Megan from Middle Park Football Club tells us, “It's about creating a culture and an environment where people feel safe and calling out the behaviour that is not okay.”

Every person at every level of our sporting clubs; including management, coaches, umpires, volunteers, players, and fans; has a part to play in promoting equality and preventing violence against women. To help create an even playing field for all genders, we have collated a range of tools and resources that are available to support our sporting clubs to #callitout: 

7. CoPP | IDPwD | PERFORMING | Born to be Wild | Thursday 1 December 2022 | 12noon-1pm

Join Fog Theatre at the St Kilda library on International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) on Thursday 1 December for several pop-up creative performances. For one short hour put your browsing and borrowing aside to be amongst the balletic and majestic mayhem of Fog Theatre as they playfully bring life and vibes to different parts of the St Kilda Library.

Fog Theatre’s pop-up performances are held throughout the library, starting with an opening performance at 12noon in the library foyer and the closing performance will be at approximately 12.50pm in the story time area of the library.

Fog Theatre’s pop-up performances at the library are part of a program of events City of Port Phillip is hosting for International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD).
  • View CoPP IDPwD page for more information.
  • Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda VIC 3182. 
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: All welcome, no registration required.

8. CoPP | IDPwD | TALKING | In conversation with Carly Findlay and Renay Barker-Mulholland | Thursday 1 December 2022 | 6.30-7.30pm

This International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD), City of Port Phillip libraries are hosting a special author talk with Carly Findlay who will be interviewed by Renay Barker-Mulholland. Carly Findlay is an award-winning writer, speaker and appearance activist. Carly writes on disability and appearance diversity issues for news outlets. Renay Barker-Mulholland is an artist, writer, and creator. Renay is a proud disabled, Biripi / Dungutti woman, and a staunch feminist who is dedicated to fighting for disability justice.
  • Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda VIC 3182
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: Registration is required. To register, book online through Trybooking


9. VIC | VEOHRC | CALLING | For pledges of action for human rights this Human Rights Week | 2-9 December 2022

Human Rights Week is an annual event in December, facilitated by the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC).

This year, Victorians are invited to take a pledge to make human rights real for themselves and their communities. Each day you will be invited to take part in a small, achievable action.

These daily actions will challenge your knowledge of human rights and implement this knowledge in a practical way.


 
10. COPP | HISTORICAL | WALKING | WEBINAR | The street where you live - Kerferd Road | Sunday 4 December 2022 | 10am-12noon

Travel with Tobias Nash along Kerferd Road, Albert Park to the foreshore exploring the former tramline, historic personalities, architecture and design including the new Shrine to Sea Project.

11. CoPP | PPLS | GATHERING | BIG Summer Read Launch Party | Sunday 4 December 2022 | 11am-12noon

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) is kicking off the BIG Summer Read at St Kilda Library with a musical extravaganza! We have two local artists coming along to entertain the crowds and kick start this year's BSR with a bang.
Vocal adventurer, multi-instrumentalist and looping beatboxing songwriter, Mal Webbsings his brain-provoking songs using all sorts of vocal techniques.

Kylie Morrigan (who's played with Orchestra Victoria and the likes of Stevie Wonder and Barry White), provides a perfect balance to Mal's nuttiness.

Their arrangements are intricate and playful. Imagine Einstein, Dr Seuss and Paganini making pancakes.

Sign-up for the BIG Summer Read and receive a goodie bag, including BIG Summer Read freebies and activities.

This event is suitable for ages 3+.

BIG Summer Read goody bags are available for any participating child or young person between the ages of 0-18 years.
  • Where: St Kilda Library
  • Cost: This event is free, but bookings are essential.
  • Bookings: Get involved, online via PPLS

12. VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say: Commonwealth Games villages | survey closes 4 December 2022

The Victorian Government is seeking advice on the construction of the 2026 Commonwealth Games villages. The Games will see four villages constructed in Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, and Morwell. 

The community survey seeks to understand different perspectives on what makes the village sites special and what could help them transform into vibrant and sustainable communities in future. 

13. VIC | ECCV | WEBINAR | Multicultural COVID-19 forum | Tuesday 8 December 2022 | 6.30-8pm

Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) are hosting an online COVID-19 forum for multicultural communities. Presenting at the forum will be Dr Steven Lu, a specialist GP and a Clinical Champion for the Victorian Department of Health’s COVID Response Program. Dr Lu will share the latest public health advice on how to stay COVIDsafe during the current surge and take part in an audience Q&A. 

14. VIC | CGEPS | HEARING | Your say: Caring and Workplace Gender Equality in the Public Sector Victoria

The Commission for Gender Equality in the Public Sector (CGEPS) and the University of Melbourne are seeking participants for a research project on ‘Caring and Workplace Gender Equality in the Public Sector Victoria’.

Participants must be current Public Sector employees, and will be asked to complete a survey. This research project will examine how pregnancy, parenting and caring impacts organisational gender equality.

Survey responses will meet research goals, and may also help participants to better understand their rights and options in relation to care and work.

15. VIC | MAUN | HEARING | Your say: Aboriginal women in Victoria public sector workplaces

Macquarie University (MAUN) is seeking survey participants for a research project focussed on the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women who work in Victoria Public Sector workplaces. This includes cisgender and transgender women, and those with expansive definitions of womanhood.

The 15-minute survey invites participants to reflect on experiences of abuse, harassment, bullying or racism that they have experienced or witnessed as an employee.

The survey is anonymous, and is open to current and previous employees of Victoria Public Sector workplaces. 

16. VIC | ECCV | HEARING | Your say: anti-racism research project

Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) is partnering with the Islamic Council of Victoria and Victoria University to conduct a VicHealth-funded research project on the support available to people who experience racism. This data will inform recommendations on how to improve anti-racism support reporting pathways. 

17. 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. 

18. ASIA-PACIFIC | EAF | ANNOUNCING | 2023 Queer Displacements Conference | February 2023

The Queer Displacements conference is the first of it's kind in the Asia Pacific region designed to comprehensively foreground protection and settlement challenges of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) forcibly displaced people.

This conference is a space for awareness raising, solidarity, building alliances and engaging the whole of society in ensuring justice, protection and solutions for LGBTIQ+ people in forced displacement. The theme of the 2023 conference is Leadership, Partnership and Belonging.

The 2023 Queer Displacements Conference is organised in partnership with Equal Asia Foundation (EAF) and will take place in February 2023 in Sydney. 

19. VIC | VMC | INVITING | Hosts for Cultural Diversity Week event | Saturday 11-Tuesday 21 March 2023

Cultural Diversity Week (CDW) is the largest celebration of multicultural Victoria in our state, and it's back from 11-21 March 2023! 

The 2023 theme is Our Past. Our Future: Celebrating and reflecting on the contributions of Victoria's multicultural communities. This theme reflects on our strong past as a multicultural state, and looks to the future of our culturally diverse communities. 

All Victorians are invited to get involved by hosting an event or activity in your community, workplace or business. 

For event resources, ideas and inspiration, visit the Cultural Diversity Week webpage on the VMC website.

 

 COLLECTIVISING 

20. AUST | CHUFFED | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds For Gifting books to Aboriginal children

Chuffed advises when you sponsor a book in language for an Aboriginal child, not only are you helping that child to learn from something familiar to them. You are also empowering remote Aboriginal communities to share and preserve their unique culture, knowledge and identity for the next generation.
“Kids are seeing themselves reflected in these books. They want to pick them up and share them with their families.”

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in remote communities across Australia often have limited access to books. When they do, most stories describe a culture that is unfamiliar to them.

The Indigenous Literacy Foundation Book Supply is creating and translating books with the collective storytelling of First Nations authors, illustrators and Elders. All funds raised will go towards sending book packs that include First Language stories to 400 remote Communities across Australia.

This Festive Season, give an Aboriginal child a book that represents their culture and language.

21. AUST | TSF | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds Christmas Appeal 2022

1 in 6 children and young people in Australia are growing up in poverty.
By the time they're 15, students living in disadvantage are on average 2-3 years behind in reading and maths.
The Smith Family (TSF) has programs like:

Young ICT Accelerator Program

90% of future jobs will required digital literacy skills. This highly innovative program provides groups of students with the opportunity to work together to develop digital skills, problem-solving abilities, creativity and presentation skills – ad use all they've learned in a national Information and Communications Technology (ICT) competition.

Learning Clubs

A safe, local out-of-school learning environment. Participants receive ongoing help with literacy and numeracy skills from dedicated and volunteer tutors. Individuals are helped to catch up with learning, improve aptitude and build personal confidence with schoolwork. 84% of students say that attending Learning Clubs helps them do better in class.

Donate Today

  • Tel: 1800 024 069
  • Website: thesmithfamily.com.au
  • Post: The Smith Family, Reply Paid 89074, YOUR CAPITAL CITY
 

22. AUST | CHUFFED | RAISING | Donations to complete a feature documentary of Australia’s offshore detention in Nauru

Team Chuffed (CHUFFED) explains while detained on Nauru in Australia’s offshore detention, photos and footage were secretly taken that documented ongoing abuse and detention of children. 
This footage helped the Kids Off Nauru campaign to end detention for over 150 refugee children and their families, some having been born there. 

Now, Elahe wants to share never before seen footage from inside Nauru. Not only to expose the cruel architecture of detention, but to end this harmful system before it is copied by other countries like the UK. 
"The world’s refugee crisis knows no more sinister exercise in cruelty than Australia’s island prisons." New York Times
Elahe needs your support to complete a feature documentary, historical document and exposé of secrets, trauma, pain, and resilience. It will include a 3D model of the detention centre as well as testimonies from the men, women and children who were detained there. All funds raised will help to take this film through development and production. 

Chip in and help all Nauru refugees fight back and help abolish the cruel system of Australian offshore detention.

23. TIMOR-LESTE | MMT | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for providing quality education to Timor-Leste communities

Mary MacKillop Today (MMT) advises that children in remote and difficult to reach areas in Timor-Leste need your help to flourish by accessing quality education. 
Parents want their children to have the schooling opportunities they didn’t have, after growing up during the political violence of the occupation. Parents so committed join our parent training to help children learn at home.

Imagine the joy, for both child and parent, of being able to read a story together. And the fun of playing math games while walking to the market.

Today, there are still many more children with loving parents around the world in need of education to break the cycle of poverty.
“Never see a need without doing something about it.”
- Australian Saint Mary MacKillop.
150 years ago, Mary and the Sisters of St Joseph travelled in full habit through the heat of the desert to some of Australia’s most remote communities. They were determined to set up schools so disadvantaged children could pursue an education.

Mary and her Sisters were with people every step of the way — from dire need to becoming a flourishing community.

At Mary MacKillop Today, 150 years after Mary MacKillop first formed the Sisters of St Joseph, we’re continuing her life-changing legacy – thanks to kindness of donors and sponsors. Just like Mary, you can help people to flourish through the power of literacy and education for life. Monthly gifts will help create opportunities for people to build a better life in the face of poverty.

24. UKRAINE | CHUFFED | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Ukraine deliveries of critical food kits and medical aid

Aussie expat, Daniel ‘Rusty’ Russell and his humanitarian aid drivers have covered some serious kilometres driving to newly liberated villages in Ukraine to deliver critical food kits and medical aid. 
Chuffed (Chuffed) advises often, they are the first people to arrive, only days after liberation. The local people are living under incredibly tough conditions, in mined areas, without electricity. 

The roads are treacherous. To reach recently liberated villages, Rusty and his team must tackle mines, decimated roads, ruined bridges and soft muddy tracks. Almost all other humanitarian aid drivers have stopped driving due to extreme road and weather conditions.

But with your support, Rusty and his team will not give up! 

So far, Chuffed donors have helped them to raise over 60% of the funds needed to bring some Christmas joy to those who have lost everything this year. 

As a UN World Food Programme distributor, funds will go directly to helping distribute food, warm clothes and hygiene products. Rusty and his team are determined to raise enough funds to also bring toys as Christmas gifts for the children.

Chip in and support Rusty to bring Christmas to devastated villages in Ukraine. He can’t do it without your support! 

25. AUST | GOV | CALLING | Women Nominees for Australian Honours

The Australian Honours and Awards system includes awards such as the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), and recognises the outstanding services and contributions of Australians. 

Recipients come from all states and cultural backgrounds, but only 30% of nominations are for women.

There are so many women with unique skills and experience enriching multicultural communities across Victoria. Acknowledging their contributions would place their achievements on the public record and create more visible role models. 

We encourage you to elevate the impact and influence of an outstanding woman in your life by nominating her for an Australian Honour and make a difference today. 


26. AUST | SBS | INTERACTING | How multicultural is your suburb? 2021 Census results | November 2022

SBS News (SBS) reports Australia is becoming even more multicultural. Around 28 per cent of people in Australia were born overseas and almost half had a parent born overseas.
The 2021 Census results, released this year, revealed more than one million new migrants have been welcomed into Australia since 2017, and around 220,000 came from India - the largest increase in country of birth outside of Australia. India has now overtaken China and New Zealand to become the third largest country of birth behind Australia and England.

 

 ANNOUNCING 

27. VIC | VLA | LISTENING | Women in Leadership: VMC Chairperson Viv Nguyen podcast

VMC Chairperson Viv Nguyen recently sat down with the CEO of Victoria Legal Aid (VLA), Louise Glanville, for the Women in Leadership podcast series.

Viv answered 5 questions that touch on her experiences as a refugee, woman and leader, and shared her advice for anyone facing personal or professional challenges.

You can watch Viv's interview, and the other Women in Leadership podcast episodes, on the Victoria Legal Aid YouTube channel.

28. CoPP | GOV | ENABLING | Foreshore fun for all with accessible beaches

An inclusive summer is on the way with free matting and floating wheelchairs at St Kilda and Port Melbourne beaches.
Under the fifth year of City of Port Phillip (CoPP)’s accessible beaches program, beach matting has been rolled out at the St Kilda and Port Melbourne Life Saving Clubs (LSC) until 28 April 2023.

The matting helps people who need extra traction on the soft sand when using a walking frame or wheelchair, for example, or pushing a pram. Bookings are not required to use the matting, which is rolled up on Tuesdays from 5 -11 am so the beach can be cleaned.

The Accessible Floating Beach Wheelchair can be booked until 25 April 2023. The chairs must be used during LSC patrol times and users need to have at least one support person with them – two if they plan to enter the water.

Accessible Beaches not-for-profit organisation officer Bern Walker praised the Port Phillip program for bringing beautiful beaches to many people with disability.

“Making beaches accessible is about being inclusive and enabling everyone to be included in life,” Ms Walker said.

“A day at the beach is a quintessential part of Australian life, which many take for granted. When councils are on board with beach accessibility, it sends a strong message that diversity is a high priority and that everyone in the community is valued.”

Ms Walker said regular feedback from people who would otherwise have missed out on a beach trip is moving. “One woman who visited Port Melbourne beach said she had not been in the water for a decade and that Council’s program allowed ‘a little miracle to happen’.”

Activist and writer Anthony Bartl loves visiting St Kilda for its energy, live music – and fantastic foreshore.

Mr Bartl, who guides an electric wheelchair with his chin, said beach accessibility programs make him feel more involved in community life.

“Being able to participate in activities takes a bit of my disability away,” Mr Bartl said.

The Victorian Government funded the Changing Places toilet facility at the St Kilda LSC, which has a changing table and electric hoist, “is a must” when Mr Bartl plans a beach day. As well as providing an accessible toilet, the facility’s hoist helps with transfers to the beach wheelchair.

“Without that, I wouldn’t be able to experience it. I want to do as much as I can and get really involved in summer – enjoying the sea breeze and being around other people.”

29. AUST | SFRI | REPORTING | Mapping Social Cohesion 2022

The results of the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute's (SFRI) 2022 Mapping Social Cohesion survey have been published.

The national survey has been undertaken since 2007, and measures social cohesion, immigration and population issues. 

The surveys aim to further understanding of the social impact of immigration to Australia and our increasingly culturally diverse society. 

30. AUST | CUIN | UPDATING | Paving Pathways and Discovering Diversity | November 2022

PUBLISHING | Multi-Instrument Detection in Culture Musics Using Machine-Learning Models 

In November 2022, Cultural Infusion (CUIN) published an article based on the research paper 'Multi-Instrument Detection in Culture Musics Using Machine-Learning Models', written by our Chief Technology Officer Rezza Moieni and University of Melbourne data science student Kaile Wang.

The research paper looks at the universalisation of music. Rezza has developed an instrument-detection system using machine-learning technology that is able to provide information on under-recognised traditional musical instruments and sounds sourced from Cultural Infusion's Sound Infusion. 

Globalisation has increased the spread of cultures around the world, each with their own unique histories and traditions. More and more people are becoming interested in exploring new musical instruments and their associated culture, but struggle to retrieve information on them due to their under-representation in mainstream music and media. 

The aim for the project is to fulfil an unanswered demand to identify and acknowledge cultural instruments by building a website capable of distinguishing up to 200 musical instruments embedded in sounds and music from cultures all round the world.

Unlike popular applications currently on the market such as Shazam and PixelPlayer, Rezza's system can detect isolated cultural instruments and sounds for the purpose of conducting further learning journeys. 

DEVELOPING | Inclusion Atlas app

We are excited to announce that the beta version of our accessibility application, Inclusion Atlas, is set to launch later this month!

Inclusion Atlas is an app designed to inform its users on the accessibility and inclusive features of buildings and spaces, created by our Project Coordinator and UX Specialist Saman Akbaryan and Chief Technology Officer Rezza Moieni.

As a wheelchair user himself, Saman drew on his lived experience to develop the concept behind this project, finding new and innovative ways to support those belonging to minority communities, including people with disability, the LGBTQIA+ community, people of diverse cultural, linguistic and/or religious backgrounds, and anyone with diverse needs.

The unique platform draws on User Generated Content, whereby users actively contribute by rating venues, uploading photos and providing up-to-date information  based on accessibility features, service standards and experiential quality. The platform seeks to support diverse ability and cultural needs in the physical world across venues ranging from restaurants, to retail, to recreational spaces, via a respectful and constructive space of dialogue.

The beta version will be launched on a number of platforms including our browser-based website, Google Play and the Apple App Store.

Saman is also scheduled to speak at the University of Melbourne's Ableist Cities Symposium next month. 

ATTENDING | 7th International Conference on Global Citizenship Education: Platform on Pedagogy and Practice

Our Education Strategist Nisha Feik recently presented Cultural Infusion learning resources for the 7th International Conference on Global Citizenship Education: Platform on Pedagogy and Practice, in partnership with UNESCO.

The international conference involved keynote speakers, workshops and case presentations as well as virtual exhibitions to engage members from diverse sectors and encourage the exchange of perspectives, experiences and partnerships.

In her presentation, 'Resourcing Intercultural Understanding: Cultural Infusion in Action', Nisha shared the importance of teaching intercultural understanding in schools to promote comprehensive mutuality, reciprocity and equality.

She discussed Cultural Infusion's cultural incursion programs, lesson plans, learning lands and online resources, including Sound Infusion and Diversity Atlas. Nisha also offers teacher training with professional learning webinars, workshops and access to education-based conference material. 

COMMEMORATING | Harmony Day | 20-26 March 2023

Next year, Harmony Day is taking place between 20-26 March. March 21st is the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, created to commemorate the 1960 Sharpeville massacre in South Africa. We mark the day with intercultural programs and workshops. 
 
Harmony Day occurs on 21 March every year. Harmony Week is an extension of this day, highlighting the importance of cultural diversity, equity and inclusion.

To mark Harmony Week, Cultural Infusion offers Multicultural All-Day and Half-Day incursions that are available for in-person and virtual delivery to schools across Australia. 

Our cultural incursions cater to all year levels and audiences, providing programs that are interactive, vibrant and memorable. There are many programs to choose from, celebrating diversity and culture from around the world.

We also offer cultural workshops and programs for early learning centers and community organisations. 

Due to high demand, we recommend booking in advance to secure your program.
  • To explore the available cultural programs in your state, view our new digital brochures or filter your search on our website.
 

ATTENDING | Tech Week Singapore

This month, Diversity Atlas's Chief Experience Officer Michael Walmsley and Chief Technology Officer Rezza Moieni travelled to Singapore for Tech Week, hosted by Big Data & AI World.

Tech Week Singapore is one of Asia's largest and most prestigious big data, analytics and artificial intelligence events. This year, the award-winning event connected over 17,000 tech strategy leaders from across the world. The attendees expertise ranged from cloud computing, artificial intelligence, big data and information security. 

Tech Week was a great opportunity for the Diversity Atlas team to share their unique contributions to innovation and were the only organisation hosting a booth on data-driven technology. 
The team were honoured to represent Global Victoria  and shared meaningful connections and conversations with likeminded organisations to enhance business performances, strategies and impacts.

PUBLISHING | Research Papers

Our CTO Rezza Moieni recently developed two research papers, 'Multi-Instrument Detection in Culture Music's using Machine Learning Models' and 'A Study on Diversity Prediction with Machine Learning and Small Data', set to be published shortly!

Rezza, alongside Cultural Infusion intern, Kaile Wang, wrote 'Multi-Instrument Detection in Culture Music's using Machine Learning Models' discussing the instrument detection system Rezza developed using machine learning technology.

Rezza and his team tested a variety of sound processing systems, discovering that a system called the Mel Frequency Cepstral Coefficients (MFCC), worked best. The MFCC’s purpose is to perform basic processing on the audio signal to obtain pure audio in a suitable file format. The system is able to provide information and distinguish up to 200 under-recognised traditional musical instruments and sounds.

'A Study on Diversity Prediction with Machine Learning and Small Data' was written alongside Rasoul Amirzadeh and Leyla Roohi, and examines recent discussions about the importance of diversity in the media to minimize gaps between minorities and majorities. In order to see if a community is making progress in minimizing these gaps and to measure success, there is an interest in being able to predict the diversity of communities. 
" Companies, plan their diversity strategies and goals for the long term. It takes years to know if these strategies are actually working and companies are keen to know the trends in their diversity."
- Rezza Moieni CTO
For example, an organisation may want to know how long to close the gender gap, or, what the diversity of their team will look like in the next 5 years.

Diversity data collection is a fairly new concept with little data sets currently available. The paper studies the different models for forecasting diversity in Australia, using Net Overseas Migration (NOM) and census data. The available data is used to predict the country of birth, language and religion of residents of Australia from 2022 to 2025. The model can be applied to predict diversity of the same pillars in organisations with an acceptable error rate. 
  • To read more from Rezza, view our listed research papers on the Diversity Atlas website.
 

LAUNCHING | Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) courses

We are excited to announce that our first suite of professional development Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) courses have officially launched!

Our capacity building programs are the perfect opportunity for business leaders and practitioners to enhance their DEI understanding, skills and strategies. The courses are comprehensive, expanding your understanding of diversity across multiple pillars such as mutuality, representation, cultural heritages, languages and more. 

In partnership with Tech Diversity Academy and Cahoot learning, the programs are expertly crafted by our Executive Director, Programs Veronica Pardo and Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Roman Ruzbacky.   

CO-SPONSORING | 2023 World Gay Boxing Championships

Cultural Infusion is proud to be a Bronze Level Sponsor of the 2023 World Gay Boxing Championships. At this event, Diversity Atlas' advanced surveying platform is set to map the diversity of all boxers at the event. 

From 18-22 February 2023, the World Gay Boxing Championships will be taking place as part of Sydney WorldPride. WorldPride Sports is putting on the world's first amateur boxing match for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies. 

The event will run for 5 days with early evening and afternoon sessions, hosting boxers competing to win a world championship title. Alongside the boxing matches, there will be entertainment shows including drag queens, DJ sets and more!

Diversity Atlas will be mapping the diversity across all participants and boxers. With the mapping and case study, we hope to highlight how gender expression and sexual orientation intersect with other dimensions of diversity including appearance, age, ancestral heritage, language, country of birth, culture, identity and many other dimensions. 

COMMEMORATING | UNESCO'S International Day Against Illicit Trafficking in Cultural Property

This month, we're spotlighting UNESCO'S International Day Against Illicit Trafficking in Cultural Property in our Diversity Calendar. The past year has seen the largest repatriation to date of museum items in Scotland, with artefacts being returned to Nigeria, India and Lakota people. 

Established by UNESCO, this day is a public reminder that theft, looting and illicit trafficking in cultural property takes place globally and robs people of their culture, identity and history; this day promotes united efforts to combat this crime. Illicit trafficking of cultural property is often transferred through black market networks and auctions worldwide. 

The art market and institutions can do their part to fight this by raising awareness, being informed and engaging ethically when buying and selling art and cultural objects, enacting and respecting laws, and protecting cultural heritage and property.  

STAYING | Up to date and finding out more about our cultural initiatives? 

Like us on social media for the latest news and events.

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

PWR | ISSUING | Official Statement Standing in Support of Environmental Organizations Gathering at Sharm el-Sheikh

The Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR) Stands in Support of Environmental Organizations Gathering at Sharm el-Sheikh
In November 2022, the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt will host the 27th Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC (COP 27), with a view to building on previous successes and paving the way for future ambition to effectively tackle the global challenge of climate change.

The Parliament of the World's Religions condemns the actions of the Government of Egypt in restricting access and meaningful participation by civil society in the COP27climate summit as entirely unacceptable. The silence of the United States and other nations concerning Egypt's authoritarian control of participation is equally unacceptable.

The Parliament calls on governments attending COP27 to publicly condemn Egypt's authoritarian and undemocratic actions. The Parliament also calls for the Conference of Parties to set clear standards, both substantive and procedural, for consideration of the locations of future COP events. Paramount among those standards must be respect for human rights and openness to civil society participation.

While fully supporting the location of COP27 on the African continent – as the first COP to be held there – our apprehensions of possible authoritarian actions by the Egyptian presidency to limit civil society participation have been realized. This decision, when made, should have ensured the full and meaningful participation of African civil society, but on the contrary, those voices have now been limited.

The 7 October 2022 statement by the Special Rapporteurs of the UN Human Rights Council clearly summarizes the failings of the Government of Egypt:
“Arrests and detention, NGO asset freezes and dissolutions and travel restrictions against human rights defenders have created a climate of fear for Egyptian civil society organizations to engage visibly at the COP27… A lack of information and transparent accreditation criteria for Egyptian NGOs, a coordinated increase in hotel room rates, undue restrictions to freedom of peaceful assembly outside the COP27 venue, and unjustified delays in the provision of visas to those travelling from abroad were the main concerns for civil society activists, the experts said. Civil society plays an essential role in the advancement of climate action, and the experts underscored that Egypt should ensure safe and meaningful participation at COP27, including for independent civil society. Instead of further limiting their rights, civil society actors and human rights defenders, including those working on climate rights, must be given an opportunity to raise awareness about their views and protection needs.”
The Parliament strongly endorses the 2 November 2022 statement by UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, who concludes that it is “essential that everyone, including civil society representatives, is able to participate meaningfully at the COP27 in Sharm el-Sheikh. Decisions about climate change, including at this meeting, need to be transparent, inclusive and accountable, particularly for those most affected.”

“The climate crisis is both universal and existential -- everyone is affected, and the wellbeing of everyone is threatened,” said Nitin Ajmera, Chair of the Parliament’s Board of Trustees. “There is no challenge for which openness and participation are more critical.”

“The deliberations of the Parties are deeply consequential to everyone alive today and to future generations.  Egypt’s unwillingness to accommodate openness and participation in the Conference of Parties was imminently predictable,” Ajmera continued. “Excluding the people of the world from these critical climate deliberations is a great deal more than an uncomfortable inconvenience — it’s an unacceptable violation of the rights of all to participate in decisions that will profoundly affect their very existence and wellbeing.” 

As people of faith and ethical conviction, we have a duty to speak out on violations of human rights and dignity and on all actions that affect the well-being of the natural world and Earth, our common home, as stated in the Parliament's signature document, The Global Ethic.  

WEBINAR | Monthly Buddhist-Catholic Dialogue | Thursday 1 December 2022

The Buddhist-Catholic Dialogue on Climate Change welcomes you back to It’s Time to Talk, a dialogue grounded in deep listening, focusing on the question, What is it of our traditions that compels us to confront the climate crisis? 

WEBINAR | Monthly Member Meditation and Meet-Up | Sunday 4 December 2022 

Join Reb Brian Yosef Schachter-Brooks, a Jewish spiritual teacher and musician, as he walks attendees through Iyun Ayin – “Immersion is Spaciousness” – a transformative teaching, heart-opening chanting, and deep silence, followed by Q & A, sharing, and dialogue.

ADVISING | Early Bird Savings for 2023 Parliament Convening Continue | until 15 December 2022

The Early Bird Rate for the 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions is ending on Thursday 15 December 2022! With the 2023 Convening less than 10 months away, take advantage of the lowest prices available for general admission.

Additional savings are available for groups, secure the group rate NOW and finalize the registration for individual group members at their convenience.

EXHIBITING | Parliament Team to Host Booth at the SBL AAR Annual Meetings in Denver, Colorado

The Parliament of the World's Religions is joining the Exhibit Hall at the 2022 Annual Meetings in Denver, Colorado, 19-22 November 2022, hosted by the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) and the American Academy of Religion (AAR).

Join our Director of Communications and our Director of Development at Booth #909 to explore the theme of the 2023 Parliament of the World’s Religions “A Call to Conscience: Defending Freedom & Human Rights” and learn how to get yourself and your institution involved in the Chicago Convening.

VALE | In Memoriam: Rev. Donald Senior, C.P.

The Parliament of the World’s Religions extends our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Rev. Donald Senior, C.P.

Rev. Donald Senior, C.P., President Emeritus and Chancellor of the Catholic Theological Union died 8 November 2022 at the age of 82. A priest and member of the Passionist Congregation, Fr. Senior was an internationally recognized biblical scholar, author, educator, and sought-after participant in ecumenical and inter-religious dialogue. He served as a member of the Board of Trustees at the Parliament of the World’s Religions during the 2015 Parliament Convening in Salt Lake City, Utah.

WATCH NOW | The Global Ethic: A Common Moral Foundation for a World in Conflict

On 16 November 2022 expert panelists discussed the history and purpose of "The Global Ethic", in addition to empowering participants with pathways for engaging with "The Global Ethic" and applying it to their own interfaith endeavors.

Featuring Dr. Stephan Schlensog from Stiftung Weltethos / Global Ethic Foundation, Charline Manuel, Dr. Myriam Renaud, and Kaleb Nyquist.

HEARING | Your say: Global Ethic Census Welcomes Feedback

All members of the public with a general interest in ethics are invited to partner with the Parliament of the World's Religions in this important re-evaluation of the foundational document, Towards the Global Ethic. 

Stay up to date with the work of the Parliament 

 

Advancing the mission of the Parliament of the World's Religions is made possible with the support from individuals like you!

 

 SUPPORTING 

32. 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. 

33. VIC | GOV | TRANSLATING | Australian health and wellbeing information - free online library

Health Translations is a free online library of over 28,000 high-quality translations of Australian health and wellbeing information.

Made for Australian health practitioners and people who work with culturally and linguistically diverse communities, the online library provides quick access to a wealth of reliable resources.

Resources are regularly reviewed to ensure quality and accuracy. Information can be found by searching for a language, organisation or topics such as COVID-19, flood recovery and mental health. 

34. VIC | GOV | ADVISING | Polio immunisation factsheets

Polio can re-emerge in any country, including Australia. So it is important to receive your immunisation against polio. 

New cases of polio in Australia are rare, but the disease remains a health risk for people travelling to some countries of the world. As an adult, you need several doses of the polio vaccine before you are fully protected from infection.

In Victoria, the polio vaccine for children is combined with vaccines. Better Health channelhas produced a fact sheet that can be downloaded from their website which explains the importance of receiving the vaccine.

35. MELB | PCKAF | SEEKING | South Sudanese Mentors for young people

The Paramount Chief Kuol Adol Foundation (PCKAF) aims to improve the livelihoods of South Sudanese communities through programs in both South Sudan and Melbourne.

The Foundation is now accepting applications for their Starbase Mentoring Program, which supports South Sudanese people aged 12 to 15 living in Melbourne's West, who have older siblings engaged in the criminal justice system. 

The program assists the mentees to establish and achieve goals, and develop positive relationships with their mentors. The program will launch with a 3-day camp in mid-January 2023. 

If you are interested in becoming a mentor, email admin@pckaf.org or call 0493 072 191. 

36. AUST | MOPI | OFFERING | Dementia information for multicultural communities

Moving Pictures (MOPI) produces films and animations for multicultural communities to use to raise awareness about dementia and dementia prevention.

Their newest resource is called the Moving Pictures Genie, which includes links to global resources and websites that have dementia information in over 60 languages other than English. 

Please email the Moving Pictures team if you know of a resource about dementia or dementia care in a language other than English, and it will be added to the database.



37. 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.


38. AUST | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way

 

     ACKNOWLEDGING  

    39. 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.

    40. 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.

    41. 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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