NAVIGATION

HOME | CONTACT | ABOUT US | GATHERS | RESOURCES

VIC | KOOYONG | Indigenous Voice to Parliament Information Night | Thursday 2 March 2023 | Arrive 6.15pm for 6.30pm start

[Edited extract from public address]

This year Australians will be voting in a referendum to alter the Constitution and establishes an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.

Join in an information night in Kooyong and hear from Indigenous community members.

The evening will commence with a Yidaki performance by Uncle Bart.

Featuring: 
  • Marcus Stewart, Yes Campaigner and Member of the Referendum Working Group
  • Thomas Mayo, National Indigenous Officer, Maritime Union of Australia. 
  • Dr Monique Ryan, paediatric neurologist, Member of parliament for the federal seat of Kooyong
There will also be an opportunity to find out how you can get involved in campaigning.

Where: Hawthorn Arts Centre, 360 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn VIC3122
Cost: Free

VIC | PFFF | ENGAGING | The 2023 Archie Roach Foundation Program! | 10-13 March 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

For tens of thousands of years the Pyipgil Gundidj clan has gathered in ceremony on this country. Since 1977 the Port Fairy Folk Festival has been celebrated each year on the land of the Pyipgil Gundidj clans – on Peek Whurrong country.Anchor

Last year one of Uncle Archie Roach’s proudest moments was when he officially opened the inaugural Archie Roach Foundation (ARF) stage on his mother’s ancestral land and Port Fairy Folk Festival (PFFF) festival-goers packed in to learn, listen and dance along to First Nations artists from all corners of the continent. This year, many of Uncle Archie’s long time musical collaborators, friends and family will come together to honour his legacy.

The ARF Stage is supported by the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria, the Australian Government through the Office for The Arts and the Australia Council for The Arts.

MORE:

Port Fairy Folk Festival (PFFF)

IAL | STARTING | An honest conversation about end of life after terminal diagnosis

 [Edited extract from public address]

Starting an honest conversation about end of life.

End-of-life care planning needs to become a routine part of everybody’s health care. 

Allow the important people in your life to listen to you with love, and to hear.Understand real palliative and end-of-life care experiences.
See how others have lived meaningfully after a terminal diagnosis.

Make a timely plan
The I Am Living public awareness initiative and campaign are brought to the Australian community by Calvary Health Care, Catholic Cemeteries + Crematoria and Mercy Health, with the valued and ongoing support of other organisations and many individuals.

MORE:

I am Living (IAL)
Calvary Health Care Sydney

VMC | UPDATING | Nominate someone for a Victorian Refugee Award, apply for a sporting club grant, tickets to the Multicultural Comedy Gala and more | Wednesday 22 February 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

It's World Interfaith Harmony Week

In honour of this, attend a local event or I invite you to review the Joint Harmony Statement that I recently co-signed. The Statement was drafted by various multicultural and multifaith community leaders, in solidarity with Victoria's Hindu and Sikh communities who have recently experienced incidents of violence, vandalism, disrespect and hate. 

I was proud to join these leaders in condemning this wave of hate, and encourage everyone to sign this Statement. 

There have been some important announcements in the past few weeks from our state and federal governments - particularly the long-awaited news of pathways to citizenship for TPV and SHEV visa holders. We know the profound impact this decision will have on individuals and families around the state, and thank those in the community who have advocated for this alongside us for many, many years. 

I was also pleased to see the Victorian government announce a new state-of-the-art mental health facility at the Northern Hospital. This facility is projected to provide almost 11,000 days of care to around 650 people annually and was designed in consultation with people who have lived experience of the mental health system. We look forward to communities in the northern suburbs benefitting from this expansion to the hospital. 

Finally, there is going to be some changes to the Monthly Reflection emails that are sent to our subscribers. We've decided to amend these to Quarterly Reflections, and I will be publishing them as a video message on our social media channels. Make sure you're following the VMC on our social media channels to view these videos!

Take care and stay well. 
Viv Nguyen, Chairperson, Victorian Multicultural Commission 

RELEASING | Tickets now on sale for the Victorian Multicultural Gala Dinner | Saturday 18 March 2023

The Victorian Multicultural Gala Dinner is the State’s pinnacle Cultural Diversity Week event.
Tickets are now on sale for a limited time only, so purchase today to secure your seat at this magical evening of food, entertainment and celebration! 

Initially planned for Saturday 11 March, the Victorian Multicultural Gala Dinner has had to be moved Saturday 18 March.
 

CALLING | Nominees for the 2023 Victorian Refugee Awards! | nominations close 11.59pm Tuesday 14 March 2023

Do you know someone who arrived in Australia as a refugee or asylum seeker, and has received excellent academic results, volunteered in their community, run a successful business, or supported other refugees to thrive?

For these reasons and more, nominate them today for a Victorian Refugee Award, and ensure their achievements are recognised and celebrated!

Multiple awards will be presented across four categories: Achievement, Leadership, Youth Leadership and Business.  The categories honour those who have excelled through study, work, entrepreneurship or volunteering in Victoria.  

If you need support with submitting a nomination, please call 03 8850 6164. 
 

CALLING | Submissions of films for the 2023 Multicultural Film Festival! | entries close Saturday 16 April 2023

In association with Swinburne University of Technology, the VMC invites emerging and established filmmakers to submit films for consideration in the 2023 Multicultural Film Festival (MFF).

We are seeking creative, original, non-formulaic short films about any aspect of cultural diversity created by Australians with a multicultural background (for example, they or their family arrived in Australia as migrants, refugees or asylum seekers) or filmmakers of any background who produce films that explore multiculturalism and promote social cohesion.

A Premiere Screening event of the winning films will be held later this year at ACMI, along with a virtual Premiere event for winners in the Young Filmmaker category. 

CELEBRATING | Pako Festa - Victoria's largest free celebration of cultural diversity | Saturday 25 February 2023

Pako Festa dates back to 1983, when the Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria joined Geelong West Traders and Geelong West City Council to deliver a community-driven party that celebrated the region’s diverse cultural communities.

Pako Festa celebrates and highlights the extraordinary contribution of individuals, cultural groups and multicultural communities in Geelong and across Australia.
 

BOITE | PERFORMING | Harp Stories at Fairfield Amphitheatre | Sunday 26 February 2023 | 6-8.30pm

The Boite presents Harp Stories as part of City of Yarra’s much-loved ‘Fairfield in Feb’ concert series at Fairfield Amphitheatre. ‘Harp Stories’ will showcase the harp, an ancient and multifaceted instrument found in many cultures from Chilean to Eritrean, Karen to Celtic, Paraguayan to West African. 

CALLING | Welcoming Cities - Awards for Change 2023 | nominations for the Awards close on Friday 10 March 2023

Welcoming Cities celebrate the social cohesion created in communities by organisations and local councils, giving everyone a chance to participate, belong and thrive. The awards celebrate leading practice and innovation in advancing welcoming and inclusive communities.  

Nominations are now open for the 2023 Awards for Change, with winners presented in the two categories of Local Councils and Organisations. 
 

GRANTING | Sporting Club Grants Program | Applications close 15 March 2023

Applications are now open for the latest round of the Sporting Club Grants Program.

Grants of up to $1,000 are available for uniforms and participation equipment, up to $2,000 for training of coaches, officials and volunteers, and up to $5,000 to create new participation initiatives and improve club operational effectiveness.

OPENING | 2023 Enrolments for Bachelor of Counselling

Consistently ranked #1 in Australia for student satisfaction, the University of Divinity is now seeking applicants to enrol in a Bachelor of Counselling degree.

There are 50+ Commonwealth Supported Places available for eligible applicants, including for asylum seekers and refugees, those who are the first in their family to study at a higher education institute, and those living in remote areas.

For further questions about the degree or application process, please email counselling@divinity.edu.au.
 

Multicultural Comedy Gala - regional tickets still available!

The Multicultural Comedy Gala features a star-studded line up of Australian comedians sharing stories from around the world. 

Tickets are still available for shows in Victoria commencing 17 March and include nights in Ararat, Shepparton, Horsham, Hamilton and Bendigo. 

The Comedy Gala is a hilarious celebration of diversity and multicultural Australian identity, with shows that leave you captivated, connected, and smiling at our proudly inclusive heritage.

Coronavirus hotline 


MORE:

Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)
Address: Level 3, 1 Macarthur Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: (03) 9651 5901

VTMH | WEBINAR | Approaching work with interpreters in mental health settings 2-Day (Non-Consecutive) Virtual Workshop | 28 March & 4 April 2023 | 3 hours per day: 9.30am-12.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

A workshop designed for all practitioners currently working with interpreters in mental health settings.

The workshop will explore challenges and realities in the interpreting environment, look at strategies for adapting practice for working with interpreters in a variety of mental health settings and consider key culturally responsive practices and principles, including cultural safety and cultural humility, in the context of working with interpreters.

Participants will receive hard copies of resources developed in the project (Approaching work with interpreters in mental health settings, VTMH, 2019), including a Practice Tips Poster and Report.

The workshop is delivered online via Zoom over 2 days, with a 3-hour session per day, and complimented with some self-directed learning activities.

Open to staff working in publicly funded mental health programs across Victoria, including staff in clinical and community mental health services, as well as people working within mental health programs in community health and social services. Visit the link below for more information about workshop eligibility.
  • Where: Online via Zoom — details to be sent to registrants in advance
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: essential. Spaces are limited. Please register early to secure a place. Online through VTMH

MORE:

Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH)
Address: St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, Level 1, Bolte Wing, 14 Nicholson Street, Fitzroy VIC 3065
Tel: (03) 9231 3300

PWR | REPORTING | The PoWR of Community: Building Up for the World’s Premier Interfaith Convening | Saturday 18 February 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

The report spotlights the organization's work in building up to the 2023 Parliament Convening and the communities answering the call to conscience, committing to a shared mission towards a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world.

"The vast majority of our organization’s work in 2022 went into preparing for the 2023 Chicago Convening as we invited the religions of the world to come together to defend Freedom and Human Rights. I am happy to say that the invitation did not go unanswered.
...You will read much about the important work of PoWR and its staff, board, and volunteers in this report. Let’s celebrate these successes as we look to our work this year."
– Rev. Stephen Avino, Executive Director

MORE:

Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR)
Address: 70 East Lake St., Suite 230 Chicago, IL 60601 USA
Tel: (312) 629-2990

ICM | GATHERING | Bringing Our Multifaith Neighbours Together for Reconciliation: The Voice | Sunday 26 February 2023 | 5.30–7.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Attend this special World Interfaith Harmony Week event to hear clear information about a Voice to Parliament from First Nations People and from religious and community leaders who are working for Reconciliation. 

Questions will be welcomed.

Guest speakers: 
  • Professor Joy Wandin Murphy, AO, Senior Wurundjeri Elder of the Kulin Nation
  • Fr Frank Brennan, SJ AO, Senior Advisory Group Member, Indigenous Co-Design Process
  • Aunty Helen Bnads, Elder/Cultural Lead, Peninsula Health
  • Bishop Philip Huggins, Australian Centre for Christianity
  • Dr Diana Cousens, Buddhist Council of Victoria
  • Rabbi Gabi Kaltmann, Ark Centre
  • Mohamed Mohideen OAM, Islamic Council of Victoria
Registration essential as seats are limited. 
 

MORE:

The Interfaith Centre of Melbourne (ICM)
Address: PO Box 18335, Collins Street East, Melbourne Vic 8003 Australia
Enquiries: Rev Helen Summers OAM

ILF | PUBLISHING | Murli la - Songs and Stories of the Tiwi Islands

[Edited extract from public address]

Announcing that our newest title, Murli la - Songs and Stories of the Tiwi Islands is available to purchase through our website!

Murli la is a beautifully designed gift book that celebrates the culture of the Tiwi Islands through song. The songs presented in this book hold cultural, genealogical, geographical and spiritual knowledge that has been passed down through thousands of years of Tiwi storytelling, ceremony and in the songlines that circle the islands.

As custodians of the songs, the Ngarukuruwala Women’s Group in partnership with Dr Genevieve Campbell have recorded over 40 songs in language for the first time – each with an introduction and English translation.

MORE:

Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF)
Address: PO Box H328, Australia Square NSW 1215
Tel: (02) 9280 0644

VMC | UPDATING | Support for Türkiye and Syria, leadership opportunities for Women Of Colour and more | Tuesday 14 February 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

We are deeply saddened by the unfolding earthquake disaster in Türkiye and Syria; and we know our connected communities in Victoria will be hurting. On behalf of the 

VMC, our thoughts are with those whose loved ones are lost, injured or missing and to the emergency responders.

We also stand in solidarity with our Hindu and Sikh friends, whose communities are experiencing a wave of vandalism and hatred. The VMC condemns any form of violence in the community, and supports the continued efforts from faith leaders who are promoting harmony, peace, and social cohesion by visiting places of worship over the coming weeks.

We are strongest when we come together in moments of challenge or tragedy, and I encourage you to reach out to your neighbours to offer support and comfort at this time.

This week, I'd like to draw your attention to a few of our newsletter items below. As you will read, the VMC is in full swing for 2023 with the launch of the Victorian Refugee Awards, Multicultural Film Festival, and in our preparation for Cultural Diversity Week. These great programs recognise our culturally diverse communities' talent, strengths and contributions. I urge you to read about the programs below and share them with your family and friends.

I am also excited to promote a worthy program particularly close to my heart - the 2023 Women of Colour Executive Leadership Program. As the first program of its kind in Australia, it will support 20 Women of Colour, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, to navigate professional barriers and advance their careers. As a woman of colour, I know firsthand that so many women in our communities are already leaders but often lack formal recognition of their work. This program may well help, and I urge women to consider putting themselves forward using the details below.

Finally, to our communities in Shepparton, I invite you to provide feedback to your local council on their Greater Shepparton Multicultural Action Plan, by attending an in-person council drop-in session or by calling the council. It's a great way you can have your voice heard, and support inclusion in the wider community.

Take care and stay well.
Viv Nguyen, Chairperson, Victorian Multicultural Commission


RESCHEDULING | New date for the Victorian Multicultural Gala Dinner | Saturday 18 March

The Victorian Multicultural Gala Dinner is the State’s pinnacle Cultural Diversity Week event.

Initially planned for Saturday 11 March, the Victorian Multicultural Gala Dinner has had to be moved Saturday 18 March.

Those who have been offered first-round tickets have been emailed information about the date change, including the process for refunds. Those offered first-round tickets must purchase them by TODAY.

The VMC had a great response to seeking Expressions of Interest in tickets, which is now closed.

Information about public ticket sales will soon be shared on our website and social media.

CALLING | Hosts of events for 2023 Cultural Diversity Week | Saturday 11-Tuesday 21 March 2023

Cultural Diversity Week (CDW) is the largest celebration of multicultural Victoria in our state, and it's back!

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

CALLING | Nominations now open for the 2023 Victorian Refugee Awards! | nominations close at 11:59pm Tuesday 14 March 2023

Do you know someone who arrived in Australia as a refugee or asylum seeker, and has received excellent academic results, volunteered in their community, run a successful business, or supported other refugees to thrive?

For these reasons and more, nominate them today for a Victorian Refugee Award, and ensure their achievements are recognised and celebrated!

Multiple awards will be presented across four categories: Achievement, Leadership, Youth Leadership and Business. The categories honour those who have excelled through study, work, entrepreneurship or volunteering in Victoria.

CALLING | Submissions of film for the 2023 Multicultural Film Festival! | Entries close on 16 April 2023

In association with Swinburne University of Technology, the VMC invites emerging and established filmmakers to submit films for consideration in the 2023 Multicultural Film Festival (MFF).

We are seeking creative, original, non-formulaic short films about any aspect of cultural diversity created by Australians with a multicultural background (for example, they or their family arrived in Australia as migrants, refugees or asylum seekers) or filmmakers of any background who produce films that explore multiculturalism and promote social cohesion.

A Premiere Screening event of the winning films will be held later this year at ACMI, along with a virtual Premiere event for winners in the Young Filmmaker category. 

GRANTING | Leadership for multicultural LGBTIQ+ Victorians

The Victorian Government will support 25 regional LGBTIQ+ leaders to develop their skills and build their networks to address the unique experiences of regional LGBTIQ+ communities.

This year’s program prioritises work supporting LGBTIQ+ multicultural and First Nations communities, people with disability and regional rainbow communities.

Grants of up to $25,000 are available for new or emerging LGBTIQ+ groups and up to $50,000 for long-established LGBTIQ+ organisations.

GRANTING | Leadership for Women of Colour 2023 | applications open until Tuesday 28 February 2023 

The Victorian Government is helping more Women of Colour reach their leadership aspirations over a seven-month program beginning in May.

The program was designed by Women of Colour Australia and features workshops, mentoring and coaching, and an individual strategic challenge project to improve board capabilities.

GRANTING | Support for community events | applications close on 28 February 2023

Those organising small and medium events across Melbourne’s suburbs can apply for a grant with $3 million available to help attract more visitors to local events, support more jobs and boost local businesses.

Grants are available from $5,000 to $25,000 for organisers of small events (1,000 – 4,999 attendees) and from $25,000 to $50,000 to support the staging of medium events (5,000 – 10,000 attendees).

To be eligible, the event must be outside Melbourne City Council in a Local Government Area in Greater Melbourne and be held between 1 June 2023 and 31 December 2023.

HEARING | Your say: Racism and Discrimination in Aged Care

The Partners in Culturally Appropriate Care (PICAC Alliance) would like to hear from people of all backgrounds working in the aged care sector about their experiences with racism and discrimination.

The findings from this anonymous survey will contribute to a toolbox to promote cultural safety for workers in the aged care industry.

If you need this survey translated, please contact Heba or Gail via email on admin@mcci.org.au.

Coronavirus hotline 


MORE:

Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)
Address: Level 3, 1 Macarthur Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: (03) 9651 5901

THCO | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for explanatory journalism written by experts | Tuesday 14 February 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

The referendum on the Voice to Parliament could be the most important decision many Australians will make this year. 

To get it right we need a sober and informed public debate drawing on expertise and accurate reporting. This is where The Conversation has a vital role to play: we publish explanatory journalism written by experts that cuts through the hyperbole to provide clarity.

We are committed to playing a role that is non-partisan and educational and we don’t want to merely amplify the agendas set by others. That’s why this week we are sending readers a short survey with a simple question:  "What do you need to know about the Voice to Parliament referendum?" Your feedback will inform our coverage so please click on the link and let us know your thoughts. 

I’d like to tell you more about one key aspect of our Voice to Parliament coverage. Reports such as the 2022 Reuters Digital News Report tell us that social media platforms that feature video and animated content play a key role in engaging younger news consumers and those from diverse communities.  

These platforms are also fertile ground for misinformation and assumption. Recently, our multi-media team received a seed grant that will support the rollout of a civic education campaign across social media platforms, but we need more funding to build our digital resourcing and implementation. If you can help with this work, please consider making a donation today.

We’ve got a lot to do and I’d better get on with it.  If you want to know more about our plans, read on to find out when you can join a Conversation news conference. Questions and ideas following the conference are always welcome! 

Best wishes
Misha Ketchell

P.S. Professor Mark Scott AO was last week appointed the new chair of The Conversation board. Mark is the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sydney and was previously Managing Director of the ABC and Secretary of the NSW Department of Education. It’s hard to think of anyone better equipped to lead The Conversation’s next phase. We’re pleased to welcome him and also thank Professor Julianne Schultz AM FAHA for her three years of distinguished service as Chair.
 

CUTTING | Through the noise: Voice to Parliament

Support our digital education campaign. Our multimedia team are working hard to develop our digital storytelling to support our Voice to Parliament coverage. 

If you would like to help us seed the digital space with accurate and independent information that combats misinformation and encourages respectful discourse, please make a donation to The Conversation today.
 

WEBINAR | Join us for Conversation news conference | Monday 20 March 2023 | 9–11.30am AEDT

News conference is at the heart of how The Conversation works. It is where our editors pitch ideas, discuss the news agenda and latest research.

We invite our supporters to join us online for a peek at how The Conversation is made and hear more about our plans for 2023. Please note you will only be allowed to observe the news conference but please stay online after the conference has finished to hear directly from our editor Misha Kitchell. This will also be your opportunity to put your questions to our editor and share your thoughts on our work.

ASKING | Would you like to see more of us?

Supporters of The Conversation show us that what we do is valued. Contributions help us develop new approaches to digital storytelling, grow our editorial capacity and keep our content free of paywalls and ads.

We're not ones for glitzy gala dinners (we spend our funds on coverage, not canapés) but we would like to offer our valued donors an opportunity to meet our team and gain a deeper understanding of our work. Please let us know what kind of events you would value by answering two questions (click the button below to let us know your thoughts).
 

APPOINTING | Mark Scott Chair of The Conversation Media Group

"My observation as Vice-Chancellor is that The Conversation has afforded our scholars unique opportunities to engage in and lead public debate on key issues of vital importance to Australian society - from pandemic preparedness to gender equity in the workforce.

I also see the important role The Conversation plays in providing quality research to journalists and broadens access to deep disciplinary experts, particularly given the significant decline in subject matter experts in our nation's newsrooms."
Professor Mark Scott AO, recently appointed Chair of The Conversation Media Group

ENGAGING | Conversation events in Brisbane | 25 March 2023

Join The Conversation's Lee Constable at the World Science Festival in Brisbane for 'Ask me anything (about the human body)'.

Our panel of experts will tackle such gnarly questions as: Is there a right position to sleep in? Are sugar rushes real? And are manicures bad for your health?

Speakers:
  • Dr Mike Todorovic (Griffith University)
  • Lauren Ball (The University of Queensland)
  • Christian Moro (Bond University)
All our Friends of the Conversation receive a 20% discount.
  • Where: World Science Festival in Brisbane
  • Cost: Get 20% discount by visiting the WSFB website, adding tickets to your basket and using ‘WSFBGUEST23’ in the Promotion Code box and clicking 'apply'.
  • Bookings: Secure your tickets for this interactive evening that will illuminate the body from head to toe.

MORE:

The Conversation (THCO)
Address: Tenancy B, Level 5, 700 Swanston Street, Carlton Vic 3053

VTMH | WEBINAR | Change or suppression (conversion) practices: Information briefing | Wednesday 15 March 2023 | 3–4pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Join for this information session speaker Gregory Frank, Senior Engagement Adviser (Education and Engagement Branch), Victorian Equal Opportunity & Human Rights Commission

At this seminar, registrants will:
  • be briefed on the purpose of the Act and its objectives
  • learn what is a change or suppression practice under the Change or Suppression (Conversion) Practices Prohibition Act 2021
  • understand the harm caused by change or suppression practices
  • identify remedies that can be taken when someone has experienced a change or suppression practice
  • consider how to prevent harm and minimise vicarious liability.

More information about this legislation and change and suppression practices can be found here:

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.
  • Where: Online via Zoom — details to be sent to registrants in advance
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: essential as spaces are limited. Please register early to secure a place. Online through VTMH

MORE:

Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH)
Address: St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, Level 1, Bolte Wing, 14 Nicholson Street, Fitzroy VIC 3065
Tel: (03) 9231 3300

CUIN | UPDATING | Industries, Ideas, Innovation - Diversity Atlas Newsletter | Monday 13 February 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

Putting the spotlight on some exciting advancements in store for this year.  

  • We share an interview with our Projects and Partnerships Manager Lana Perello, who introduces our new accessibility app Inclusion Atlas, dedicated to building community belonging. 
  • We announce the launch of our curated Education and Experience brochures, which feature even more cultural presenters for 2023! 
  • We also highlight a significant upcoming holiday on our cultural calendar, Holi.

TALKING | Inclusion Atlas

We published an interview with our newest team member Lana Perello. In the article, Lana introduces our latest project, Inclusion Atlas. 

As our new Projects and Partnerships Manager for Inclusion Atlas,  Lana describes the app as an accessibility and inclusion platform which aims to ensure that every business, space and place is both aware and accommodating of every person’s unique needs and experiences.

The app encourages users to find, rate and review their experience in a variety of spaces in their community via a respectful forum. The rating  prompts are based on considerations ranging from baby changing-table availability to if a venue is LGBTQIA+ friendly.

Lana also shares with us new features to look forward to, including expanding the rating and reviewing prompts to support even more people, like those with autoimmune disorders, diverse food preferences, language needs and more.

Inclusion Atlas is a free-to-use app, designed with everybody in mind. 
"Our project is founded on the belief that comfortable access to shared spaces and respectful dialogue is a human right and this can be built through user-generated content."
– Lana Perello, Projects and Partnerships Manager for Inclusion Atlas
To get in touch with Lana for a discovery tour, or to enquire about Inclusion Atlas, email 
or contact their direct line on +613 9412 6610.   
     

PUBLISHING | Education and Experiences brochures     

Over the next couple of months, we will be rolling out our updated Education and Experiences brochures!

Each state in Australia has its own curated brochure as well as a specialised brochure for all pre-primary incursions around the country. Our new brochures feature all our available presenters, including some of our newest cultural presenters for 2023: Timorese Infusion; Indigenous Games; Dancing around India; and Melanesian Infusion!
     

ENGAGING | Timorese Infusion: VIC

In this workshop, singer Paulo, guitarist Gil and percussionist Zeca play traditional Timorese songs. Featuring singing, drumming and cultural stories, this Timorese trio draw from their rich musical heritage and share their experiences of living in Timor-Leste. 
     

ENGAGING | Indigenous Games: VIC, QLD

This highly interactive, activity-based program provides students with an engaging education in cultural ways of hunting, fishing and gathering, and provides important understandings. All of the materials and resources within the program are safe to use. 
     

ENGAGING | Dancing around India: NSW

This highly educational and interactive program engages students with diverse aspects of Indian culture. Students discover folk dances from all four corners of the Indian subcontinent – and develop a deeper understanding and awareness of the regional cultural differences. This program helps students to understand why each dance holds cultural significance through the exploration of food, festivals and landmarks from each region. Students will also have the opportunity to present their dances in traditional dress!
   

ENGAGING | Melanesian Infusion   

Melanesian Infusion is touring between March and May! Please enquire for more information if you are from VIC, NSW, QLD or SA.

Melanesian Infusion immerses students in the rich cultural experience of Solomon Islands and the traditional art forms untouched by the outside world. Natty is a prominent figure from the Lau Tribe with over 3 decades of professional music experience playing wooden log drums, bamboo instruments and traditional seed rattles/shakers. Through storytelling, traditional singing, chants, instruments and dance from the Solomon Islands, Natty aims to preserve the traditional cultures by sharing knowledge and providing a global experience and perspective unique to Melanesia.
     

COMMEMORATING | Cultural Calendar Spotlight: Ancient Hindu festival, Holi.

Holi is an ancient Hindu tradition occurring on March 8th each year. It is one of the most popular and important festivals in Hinduism and celebrates good harvests and the fertility of the land. Holi commemorates key figures in Hindu mythology, such as Radha Krishna and his eternal and divine love.
Holi celebrates the arrival of spring, the end of winter, the emergence of love and, for many, is a day to meet people and repair broken relationships. The festival often includes coloured water and bright powders. It is also known as the Festival of Colours, the Festival of Spring, and the Festival of Love.

Click the button below to check out our Cultural Calendar to discover even more significant cultural celebrations!

MORE:

Cultural Infusion (CUIN)
Address: Suite 2, 273-277 Wellington Street, Collingwood, VIC 3066

PWR | UPDATING | Luminary Announcement, Global Ethic Contest, and more | Friday 10 February 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

Rabbi David Saperstein, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, and Wa’el Alzayat to Address 2023 Parliament Convening

On Thursday 3 February 2023, the Parliament of the World's Religions announced the participation of Ambassador Rabbi David Saperstein, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, and Mr. Wa’el Alzayat as featured luminaries of the 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions, coming to Chicago, USA, 14-18 August 2023.

Global Ethic Essay Contest Opens for 2023 Parliament Convening 

The Parliament of the World's Religions invites essays that engage its signature document, “Towards a Global Ethic (An Initial Declaration),” also known as the Global Ethic, in the lead-up to the 2023 Convening in Chicago, USA.

The top three contest winners will receive a complimentary registration to the 2023 Convening and will give a reading of their essay in a dedicated program session.

SAVE THE DATE | Join Parliament Trustees for Webinar on “Interfaith Harmony & Environmental Justice” | 11am-12.30pm ET (USA)

On Saturday 11 February 2023, Green Hope Foundation is hosting a webinar in observance of World Interfaith Harmony Week. The webinar will feature the participation of Parliament Chair, Nitin Ajmera, and be moderated by Parliament Trustee and NextGen Task Force Chair, Kehkashan Basu.

This webinar will bring together expert panelists from different faiths to discuss how best we can work together to achieve interfaith harmony and environmental justice. Join Marie Daher, Hawa Diallo, Nitin Ajmera, Steve Chiu, Alieu J. Pusah, Pragna Vasupal, and Kehkashan Basu.

SAVE THE DATE | World Peace Benefit Concert to Support the Mission of the Parliament

On Sunday 5 March 2023, join Musicians for Greater Good (MGG), in collaboration with the Parliament of the World’s Religions, for a benefit concert for World Peace. Leading musicians from different countries will perform at this concert, intended to draw attention to the need for a peaceful resolution to the many conflicts going on across the globe.

The concert will be a benefit in support of the Parliament of the World’s Religions to promote the mission of the organization in the advancement of peace and justice, human rights, and environmental sustainability.

Interfaith Harmony Observances | continue through 4 March 2023

The official United Nations observance of World Interfaith Harmony Week 2023 has officially come to an end, but interfaith harmony events continue through March 4th! The World Interfaith Harmony Week initiative invites organizers, communities, and individuals to carry on the celebration of global interfaith harmony.

Stay up to date with the work of the Parliament


Advance the mission of the Parliament of the World's Religions by supporting:


MORE:

Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR)
Address: 70 East Lake St., Suite 230 Chicago, IL 60601 USA
Tel: (312) 629-2990

CoGD | HIRING | Interfaith Network Executive Officer | applications close 28 February 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

Striving to achieve the vision of ‘Many Faiths, One People’.

Believing that peace, harmony and understanding have the power to prevent harm by uniting and including all people, bringing the stability so needed for the survival and development of humanity.

The City of Greater Dandenong Interfaith Network (IFN) strives for harm-prevention by educating and empowering people to work towards harmony, to come together and collectively engage in building trust aiming for relationships that endure beyond any differences. 
  • Where: Dandenong, Melbourne VIC
  • With: Community Development (Community Services & Development)
  • How: Part time
  • Remuneration: $42.25-$42.25 per hour
  • Read more

MORE:

City of Greater Dandenong (CoGD)
Enquiries: The Administration Officer
Tel: 03 8774 7662 

IoCA | ENGAGING | First Nations Wisdom for Regenerative Futures | Sunday 19 February 2023 | 11am-1pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Part of the National Sustainable Living Festival, explore deep listening practices that nurture First Peoples’ voice in place-making and the role of urban learning landscapes.

  • Lewis Cardinal, a Woodland Cree First Nations’ leader from Alberta and project manager for Canada’s first urban Indigenous ceremony grounds, will be joined by local First Nations’ leaders, 
  • Uncle Shane Charles, Yorta Yorta Elder 
  • Alana Marsh, Meriam Woman and regenerative practitioner and sharer of Wayapa Wuurrk
A collaboration between Initiatives of Change Australia (IoCA), in partnership with the Sustainable Architecture Forum at the Australian Institute of Architects. 

    MORE:

    Initiatives of Change Australia (IoCA)

    IFD | UPDATING | I’m From Driftwood News and updates | Thursday 9 February 2023

    [Edited extract from public address]

    I’m From Driftwood (IFD) recently surpassed 38 million views on our YouTube channel.

    I’m incredibly proud and grateful for all the storytellers who’ve been brave enough to share their personal stories with the world. 

    And of course to our video story producers, Damien Mittlefehldt and Antonia Colodro. They spend one-on-one time with each and every storyteller, helping them think of and craft their stories. Their hard work is reflected in the quality of the stories, as well as the views and comments on each one. Check out our most recent stories.

    We recently received a grant from the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council, making it 6 years in a row. We also received a grant from Wellspring Philanthropic Fund, now 5 years in a row. We simply could not continue our programming without their support.

    Towards the end of 2022 and at the beginning of this year, we’ve forged some crucial corporate partners, including Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Adobe, TD Bank, HuschBlackwell, Estee Lauder, Northwell Health, and JetBlue. Thank you! If you want your company to work with I’m From Driftwood, we can create a personalized program that fits your company’s needs, just respond to this email and let's get started.

    The I’m From Driftwood Podcast has published three seasons for a total of 44 episodes and is available on all major platforms. The Podcast ranked in the top 25% on Spotify in Society & Culture, as well as Top 25% Globally Shared on Spotify in 2022. Give it a listen and be sure to give us a 5-star rating and review!

    Looking ahead, I’m From Driftwood is continuing to publish a new Video Story every Wednesday. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for new story alerts. We’ll be filming stories in San Diego at the end of February and we also record stories remotely so if you or anyone you know might be interested in sharing a story with us, regardless of location, just let me know. 

    Thanks,
    Nathan Manske, Founder, Executive Director

    MORE:

    I'm From Driftwood (IFD)
    Address: 144 North 7th St., 356, Brooklyn, NY 11249

    ASAV | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for providing urgent food baskets to affected Syrians | Wednesday 8 February 2023

    [Edited extract from public address]

    A magnitude 7.8 earthquake has hit Syria killing hundreds of people and trapping likely thousands more, numbers which will escalate in coming days and weeks. 

    It is unimaginable that the refugees of this area, already such vulnerable people who have suffered so very much, now face this catastrophe. They need our help.
    "Wailing children, flattened buildings, and hospitals full of bodies following the devastating earthquake looked painfully familiar for Syrian families and rescuers worn down by nearly 12 years of bombardment and displacement. Families have been left exposed in near-freezing temperatures and heavy rains".  – ABC news
    With no shelter and no food.

    Your URGENT support is needed now to help save hundreds of lives and support those injured and affected by the earthquake.

    Right now, people are in the streets, digging with their hands to try to save people. Others, stranded in the cold with nothing left.

    There is no shelter. It is freezing winter.  And there is no food.

    The Australian Syrian Association of Victoria are coordinating Australian donations to provide urgent food baskets to affected Syrians.

    Just $45 will provide a food basket to a family in need. 

    MORE:

    Australian Syrian Association of Victoria (ASAV)

    CoPP | UPDATING | Community Sector News | 7 February 2023

    [Edited extract from public address]

    This City of Port Phillip Council (CoPP) Community Sector News has some wonderful capacity building resources and training for your community group or oganisation to take advantage of. 

    The City of Port Phillip Council is very proud to support, fund and facilitate the Community Training Calendar so make sure you book into any training early as it books out quickly. 

     Training and Professional Development 

    SEMINAR | Becoming a Carer Friendly Place | Thursday 9 March 2023 | 9.30–11am 

    This information and training session is for Community Groups and Community Centres such as Neighbourhood Houses to learn how to become a Carer Friendly Place. 

    Partnering with Neighbourhood Houses Victoria, Municipal Association Victoria and local councils, Carers Victoria is extending support to carers by providing opportunities to connect and engage in carer friendly communities in local, easily accessible spaces.

    Neighbourhood houses and local councils undertake specific training to develop greater awareness of the varied needs of carers, how they can better support carers, offer specific carer activities and provide pathways to carer supports and programs. On completion they become designated Carer Friendly places, easily identifiable by the Carer Friendly logo.

    In Carer Friendly places carers can:  
    • Meet in welcoming and warm spaces;
    • Find information about supports and services that exist for carers;
    • Connect with other people in their local community;
    • Participate in local programs and activities;
    • Enjoy spaces for support group meetings;
    • Connect to programs and pathways specifically for carers.
    This training is funded by the City of Port Phillip Community Training Calender
    • Where: Training Room - St Kilda Town Hall - entrance Carlisle Street, 99A Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
    • Cost: Free.
    • Bookings: essential, online through Trybooking

    SEMINAR | Running a successful community group | Thursday 27 April 2023 | 9.30am–12.30pm

    Are you a new community group, or been around for a while and are wanting tips for how you can improve your committee’s effectiveness? For a committee to be successful they need to function cohesively, be accountable for their direction, the way they function, and for achieving their short and long-term goals.

    Topics include:
    • Understanding the role of the committee
    • What good governance means for a community group
    • Identifying the entity’s legal structure and the implications for this
    • Appreciating what makes a committee and meetings effective (including a meeting template)
    • Knowing what specific skill sets and attributes are required for each committee role
    • A checklist for good governance
    • The committee’s role in planning and keeping an eye on the future.
    This session will help community groups to understand the role of a committee, their responsibilities, and what structures they need to have in place that provides the foundations for a successful community group.
    • Where: Council Chamber - St Kilda Town Hall - entrance Carlisle Street, 99A Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
    • Cost: Free (This training is funded by the City of Port Phillip Community Training Calender).
    • Bookings: essential, online through Trybooking

    TRAINING | Suicide Intervention for all people | Saturday–Sunday | 8.30am–4.30pm

    Griefline has recently become a provider of the LivingWorks Applied Suicide Skills Intervention Training (ASIST). ASIST is the most widely used suicide intervention model in the world, and we have scheduled three new workshops to deliver the training in the first half of 2023. 

    Any adult can attend and there are no prerequisites. ASIST is founded on the principle that everyone can make a difference in preventing suicide.

    This highly-sought after training will be delivered at Griefline's head office in St Kilda, Victoria on the weekends of the:
    • 18–19 March 2023
    • 15–16 April 2023
    • 20–21 May 2023
    ASIST workshops teach participants to recognise when someone may be at risk of suicide and work with them to create a plan that will support their immediate safety.

     Grants and Funding 

    Linden New Art | OFFERING | Juncture Art Prize | entries close 3 March 2023

    JUNCTURE will support two mid-career artists with a cash prize of $20,000 each to help them realise exciting new directions in their practices, culminating in an exhibition of new work in 2024. 

    The selection framework for JUNCTURE is defined by a demonstrated history of success, and the potential for future outcomes. It is designed to support radical thinking, conversations, and change, for both Artist and Audience.

     Events 

    STKILDA | Pathways for Carers - Monthly walk, talk and morning tea | 4th Tuesday of every month | 9.45am for a 10am start

    Are you a Carer needing peer support and gentle exercise?

    Join us on a monthly walk on the 4th Tuesday of every month around the nature and beach paths of St Kilda. Every month there will be a guest speaker providing information and resources. Morning tea is included.

    Meeting place/Morning tea venue: Victorian Pride Centre, 79-81 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda

    Dates:
    • Tues 28 February
    • Tues 28 March 
    • Tues 25 April
    • Tues 23 May
    • Tues 27 June

    Time: 9.45 am for a 10 am start. Morning tea from 10.45am for those unable to participate in walk.

    Contact person: Simone - Simone.Jamieson@portphillip.vic.gov.au

    Download the flyer for your community notice board

    MIDDLE PARK | Heritage Talk: Albert Park: Gardens to the Sea | Tuesday 28 February 2023 | 6.30–8pm

    Join us for a discussion on Middle Park History Group’s most recent publication, Albert Park: Gardens to the Sea.

    Editor Gary Poore’s talk will concentrate on the pre-European environment and touch on how the area has changed, exploring the environment and Aboriginal inhabitants before European settlement.

    Copies of the book will be available for purchase at the event.
    • Where: Emerald Hill Library & Port Phillip Heritage Centre, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
    • Cost: Free
    • Bookings: essential, online through Trybooking

     Other Programs 

    HEARING | Your Say: Positive ageing in the City of Port Phillip | submissions close midnight Monday 20 March 2023 

    Council has developed a Draft Positive Ageing Policy which will guide future decisions about how it can respond to the needs and aspirations of people aged 60 years and older.

    Council is now seeking feedback on the draft Positive Ageing Policy.

    It is anticipated that a summary of community feedback and any revisions to the policy will be presented for Council consideration in May 2023.

     Community Profile 

    Phillip Citizens for Reconciliation (PPCfR)

    Today we dive a bit deeper into learning about this local community group by talking with their co-Chair Rosemary Rule.

    What is the name of your group and when did it start?   
    Port Phillip Citizens for Reconciliation (PPCfR) established in 1997.

    What is your group’s elevator pitch?
    To promote reconciliation and raise awareness of issues relating to First Nations people and the wider the community.

    How many active members do you currently have?
    Currently around 30-50 active members, along with 300 others on our database.

    How can someone become a member?                     
    Anyone interested is most welcome to join PPCfR. Details are on our website.

    What was the group’s proudest achievement in 2022?
    Two if allowed! First, a public forum on the Referendum for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament, St Kilda Town Hall, 3 November; 2nd, our annual community lunch to comemorate National Sorry Day, 26 May following a two-year hiatus due to Covid.

    What project or activity is coming up that you want everyone to know about? 
    Lunch for National Sorry Day to be held 25 May and potential forums to promote the Indigenous Voice to Parliament.

    Can you tell us one thing that works really well in your group and why it works well? 
    A committed Committee and core group of members who work brilliantly together as a team, have links with organisations and schools throughout the community and whose enthusiasm inspires and encourages newcomers.

    For more information visit PPCfR website or follow them on Facebook.

    MORE:

    City of Port Phillip (CoPP)
    Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182
    Email: news@portphillip.vic.gov.au

    PESC | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for building community-led language revival program | Tuesday 7 February 2023

    [Edited extract from public address]

    Ngetya-kenha Pmera: A home for our language - Pertame School on Country Learning Hub 

    Pertame is a severely endangered Central Australian Indigenous language from the Country south of Alice Springs. 

    There are only around 20-30 fluent speakers of Pertame still with us, all within the grandparent and great grandparent generation. Without serious action, Pertame will be lost within the next generation.

    The Pertame School is a community-led language revival program empowering Pertame Elders to pass their language and cultural knowledge onto the next generation.
    “We are doing this now for the legacy of our Elder Christobel Swan and all our Pertame Elders who are no longer with us. We want Nana Chrissy Swan to be there to see her dream become a reality. We need to be on Country to breathe life back into our language. Our language evolved from the land-based lifestyle of our ancestors. There is no place our language makes more sense than on Country. For our children to truly know their language, they need to know their country and for them to truly know their country, they need to speak to it in its language”.
    In order to fulfil their dream of saving their ancient language, Pertame Elders plan to build an on Country learning hub where they can host their language school. But they need help to raise the funds.

    Can you chip in and help save this ancient language and culture before it's too late?

    MORE:

    Pertame School (PESC)

    PWR | UPDATING | Rabbi David Saperstein, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, and Wa’el Alzayat to Address 2023 Parliament Convening and more | Saturday 4 February 2023

    [Edited extract from public address]

    Welcoming the participation of Ambassador Rabbi David Saperstein, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, and Mr. Wa’el Alzayat as luminaries of the 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions.

    The 2023 Parliament Convening is gathering the global interfaith community in Chicago, USA from 14-18 August 2023. Offering keynotes, prayers, and performances on the plenary stage, the featured luminaries at our 9th global Convening are committing to a vision of a world where democracy, freedom, and human rights are at the heart of the interfaith movement.

    Luminaries Answering the Call to Conscience
    • Mr. Wael Alzayat is the CEO of Emgage, a national civic engagement organization for Muslim Americans, who served with distinction at the U.S. Department of State for a decade.
    • The Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton is the Presiding Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and serves as the chief ecumenical officer of the ELCA.
    • Rabbi David Saperstein is the Senior Advisor on Policy at the Union for Reform Judaism and served as US Ambassador for Int'l Religious Freedom in the Obama Administration.
    Join Rabbi Saperstein, Rev. Bishop Eaton, and Mr. Alzayat in answering the Convening's call to conscience to defend freedom and human rights.
    Don't miss what past attendees have deemed "a life-changing experience" with thousands of faith, spiritual, and civic leaders from around the world gathering in a shared mission toward justice, peace, and sustainability.

    Register by 31 March 2023 and save with the Advance Rate, additional savings are available for students with ID and groups.

    MORE:

    Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR)
    Address: 70 East Lake St., Suite 230 Chicago, IL 60601 USA
    Tel: (312) 629-2990

    S2B | HIRING | Volunteer Opportunities With Training

    [Edited extract from public address]

    Volunteering is a flexible and great way to develop skills, connect with your local community, make new friends and be a part of something bigger.

    Learn new skills with our team & make a difference.

    We are looking for a series of volunteers who have a keen interest in being involved with Space2b, want to acquire new skills and share existing expertise with our team.

    Available Positions:
    1. Retail & Visual Merchandising
    2. Community Events Support
    3. Online Shop Coordinator

    No skills required, just ability, desire & dedication

    Minimum of 5 hours per week for 6 months

    MORE:

    Space2b Social Design
    Address: 144 Chapel Street, St Kilda, Melbourne Vic 3182
    Email: info@space2b.com.au
    Website: www.space2b.com.au

    GiveOUT | HIRING | Chief Executive Officer - Flexible Location

    [Edited extract from public address]

    We’re looking for an inspiring and adaptable leader who is interested in doing ambitious systems-level work across the breadth and depth of LGBTIQ+ communities. 

    After two exciting years, Tracey is stepping down as CEO of GiveOUT. We’re so grateful for her expertise in leading and growing GiveOUT. She has taken the organisation to new heights — more than doubling the amount raised on GiveOUT Day, launching the Amplify Pride Fund, and building strong foundations to ensure the organisation is set up for success in the long run.
    • What: Permanent part time, Flexible between 3-4 days a week.
    • Where: The incumbent will ordinarily be required to work in the city where they are based (preferably Melbourne or Sydney) but may be required to travel to other Australian cities and regional centres from time to time.
    • Reports To: GiveOUT Chair and the GiveOUT Board.

    CHUFFED | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for #DadvsAdani in Supreme Court

    [Edited extract from public address]

    The Traditional Owners of much of the land in Queensland’s Galilee Basin, have long been fighting to protect their Country from the Adani Carmichael mine.

    “We are not happy that Adani keeps using the police and the government and the laws to prosecute us and persecute us and cause harm to us.” – Adrian Burragubba and members of the Wangan & Jagalingou people
    This fight sent Elder Adrian Burragubba bankrupt by enforcing court costs he could not pay. Gautam Adani however, became the second richest person in the world.

    Adrian Burragubba is now supporting Ben Pennings defend a similarly vicious $17 million lawsuit from Adani, designed to threaten the right of all Australians to peaceful protest.

    Ben Pennings fears Adani could end up bankrupting his family as it has done with Adrian. People's power MUST match Adani’s billions.

    Without the generous support of donors, land defenders like Adrian and Ben cannot match Adani's billions in court.

    Chip in and help to finance Ben's defence in this unprecedented court case to protect the political freedoms of all Australians. 

    MORE:

    Team Chuffed
    Address: Level 2, 60 Martin Place, Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia
    Website: www.chuffed.org

    PPCfR | RAISING | An Indigenous Voice To Parliament | February 2023

    [Edited extract from public address]

    A Voice to Parliament will give Indigenous communities a route to help inform policy and legal decisions that impact their lives. 

    Giving First Nations People a say will lead to more effective results and embedding a Voice in the constitution will recognise the special place of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People in Australia’s history, and importantly will also mean that it can’t be shut down by successive governments. 

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has put forward a possible Referendum question: “Do you support an alteration to the Constitution that establishes an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice?”, aiming to put the question to Australians in a referendum in the final months of 2023 and to set up a body to be called the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice with the power to “make representations to parliament and the executive government” on matters relating to First Australians. His plan centres on an amendment to the constitution that would say: “The parliament shall, subject to this Constitution, have power to make laws with respect to the composition, functions, powers and procedures of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.”

    An Indigenous Voice to Parliament would ensure Indigenous people were consulted on policies such as education, health and housing. It will not be a funding body. It will not run programs. It will simply be a source of advice to government. 

    Legal scholars say the Voice cannot extinguish sovereignty but a Treaty can. Uluru Dialogue Co-Chair Professor Megan Davis says Indigenous sovereignty co-exists with the Crown and sovereignty can’t be achieved through the Australian Constitution because the Constitution is an order that's imposed upon people, and First Nations People haven’t ceded sovereignty to that order. She says it would be a disaster for the Constitution to embed a fully-fledged model for the Voice because then any changes would also require a referendum. Polling on the yes or no question currently shows majority support in a majority of states – the threshold required for the referendum to succeed.

    Information

    The leading YES campaign organisation, From the Heart, officially launches a grassroots field campaign this month, coordinating organisations supporting an Indigenous Voice to Parliament, recruiting volunteers, door-knockers and grassroots groups with toolkits and resources . Also visit Reconciliation Australia

    Viewpoints

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the Voice would ensure Indigenous People were consulted on policies such as education, health and housing. “A Voice to Parliament will not be a funding body. It will not run programs. It will simply be a source of advice to government,” he said. “This is a chance for something positive to happen, to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in our nation’s birth certificate. 
    And I’m confident that Australians will take up that opportunity.”

    Noel Pearson, Indigenous leader and a key architect of the Uluru Statement from the Heart, referring to the Oppositions call for ‘more details’, says details were a matter for parliament to determine after the Referendum on the Voice. “The Referendum is about the constitution. Legislation is for the parliament,” he explained.
    “2023 was the most important year for Reconciliation since the arrival of the First Fleet...We’ve got to understand what is at stake – and that is the chance for Reconciliation,” he said. “And if the Referendum is kiboshed through game playing and a spoiling game by the Opposition, we will lose the opportunity forever.” Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has repeatedly called for more detail about the Voice, accusing the PM of being ‘very tricky’ for dead-batting questions about whether Labor might legislate the Voice in the event the Referendum to constitutionally entrench it fails.
    He has also suggested legislating the Voice before the Referendum, which Albanese ruled out, and called for the release of a draft bill, at least, which experts advising the government warned risks confusing voters.

    Leader of the Opposition of Australia Mr Dutton says voters will be asked ‘one question’ in the Referendum not ‘two separate questions’ about constitutional recognition and the Voice and has accused Labor of “trying to give moral cover to the Voice through constitutional recognition”, labeling that a ‘cheap political trick’.

    The Federal Greens have expressed broad support for the Voice, while seeking to progress Treaty and Truth processes with the Federal Labor Government.

    Prominent critics, including Warren Mundine and Senator Jacinta Price, plan to visit every state for community events against the Referendum. Lidia Thorpe, former Victorian Greens’ Senator, has described the proposed Voice to Parliament as a ‘waste’. 

    The Australian Electoral Commission is preparing a major public education campaign around voting processes, warning of misinformation and a ‘huge knowledge gap’ among Australians who have never voted in a Referendum.


    MORE:

    Port Phillip Citizens for Reconciliation (PPCfR)
    Tel: 9699 8804 

    GEIFN | CONSOLIDATED | Community Information | Wednesday 1 February 2023

    Fast Facts: COVID-19 Victoria & Australia

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

       GRANTING 
    3. COPP | GOV | GRANTING |  Quick Response Grant Program
    4. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural Seniors Support Program | applications now open, close 28 February 2025

       ENGAGING 
    5. VIC | MCG | TOURING | Multicultural Comedy Gala | until March 2023
    6. VIC | MIFE | ENGAGING | Midsumma Festival | until Sunday 12 February 2023
    7. CoPP | GOV | WEBINAR | Perfecting your plan for your non-profit website | Tuesday 7 February 2023 | 11am-12noon
    8. CoPP | GOV | SEMINAR | Marketing using social media for your Community Group | Thursday 9 February 2023 | 9.30am-12.30pm
    9. AUST | EQPR | ENGAGING | Australia's 5th National LGBTIQ+ Conference: Better Together 2023 | 17-18 February 2023
    10. MELB | BOITE | 'Harp Stories' at Fairfield | 19 & 26 February 2023 | 6-8.30pm
    11. ASIA-PACIFIC | EAF | ANNOUNCING | 2023 Queer Displacements Conference | 22-23 February 2023
    12. VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Approaching work with interpreters in mental health settings – 2-Day (Non-Consecutive) Virtual Workshop | 27 February & 6 March 2023 | 3 hours per day: 9.30am–12.30pm
    13. VIC | MCG | GATHERING | Multicultural Comedy Gala - tickets available now!
    14. VIC | BOITE | PRESENTING | Upcoming events
    15. VIC | VMC | INVITING | Hosts for Cultural Diversity Week event | Saturday 11-Tuesday 21 March 2023
    16. VIC | VMC | CALLING | Nominees for 2023 Victorian Refugee Awards | nominations close 11.59pm Tuesday 14 March 2023
    17. AUST | IICCS | GATHERING | Making Connections: Multiculturalism and Interculturalism in Australia Conference | 9-10 March 2023

       COLLECTIVISING 
    18. AUST | CHUFFED | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Aboriginal Players to Represent Their Nation | Wednesday 11 January 2023
    19. AUST | YMAC | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for building Strong Families and Strong Communities
    20. AUST | RLIMCF | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds of Scholarships for First Nations Midwives

       ANNOUNCING 
    21. VIC | MAG | ISSUING | Statement from the Multifaith Advisory Group - Recent vandalism of Hindu temples | Monday 23 January 2023
    22. YEF | UPDATING | Fitzroy North Battery, Community Batteries for Household Solar Grant and more | Tuesday 31 January 2023
    23. WORLD | PWR | UPDATING | 2023 Parliament & More

       SUPPORTING 
    24. VIC | GOV | PROTECTING | Your community during extreme heat
    25. VIC | GOV | ADVISING | Stay safe in the water this summer
    26. VIC | GOV | SUPPORTING | Wellbeing for small business owners
    27. VIC | GOV | OFFERING | Free RATS Now Available to everyone through your local council
    28. AUST | Coronavirus hotline
    29. AUST | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way

       ACKNOWLEDGING 
    30. Acknowledgment to Sources
    31. Bye bye to Essentialists
    32. 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: 

    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 | 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 English resources. 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. COPP | GOV | GRANTING |  Quick Response Grant Program

    The Quick Response Grant Program are small grants available at short notice to eligible organisations (up to $2,000) and individuals (up to $500) throughout the year. The grants support the establishment and delivery of valuable services, programs, activities, and events to the City of Port Phillip community. 

    Individuals and organisations can apply by the first Monday of every month. The following dates are the closing dates until June 2023:
    • Monday 6 February 2023
    • Monday 6 March 2023
    • Monday 3 April 2023
    • Monday 1 May 2023
    • Monday 5 June 2023.
    Guidelines and resources can be found on the City of Port Phillip Funds, Grants and Subsidies page.

    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. 

     ENGAGING 

    5. VIC | MCG | TOURING | Multicultural Comedy Gala | until March 2023

    Tickets are now available for the Multicultural Comedy Gala (MCG), featuring a star-studded line up of Australian comedians sharing stories from around the world.

    The Comedy Gala is a hilarious celebration of diversity and multicultural Australian identity, with shows that leave you captivated, connected, and smiling at our proudly inclusive heritage.

    The tour will commence in March 2023 at Cardinia Cultural Centre in Pakenham, with regional and metropolitan Melbourne dates available.



    6. VIC | MIFE | ENGAGING | Midsumma Festival | until Sunday 12 February 2023

    Australia's premier queer arts and cultural festival returns in 2023, running between 21 January and 12 February, with Midsumma Pride March on Sunday 5 February.

    LAUNCHING | Midsumma Extravaganza | Saturday 21 January 2023

    Midsumma Festival 2023 is kicking off with a fabulous evening of divine queer excellence under the stars at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. Hosted by queer comedy royalty Joel Creasey and RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under favourite Kween Kong, this year’s Extravaganza promises to be the biggest yet. 

    REVEALING | Midsumma and Australia Post Arts Award Finalists | Tuesday 31 Jan–Sunday 12 Feb 2023

    Since 2016, Midsumma Festival and Australia Post have collaborated to present Australia's leading queer visual arts award! The award has quickly established itself as a vital award within the arts industry.  

    SHOWCASING | Midsumma Presents Events

    Our Midsumma Presents program returns, with a fresh suite of collaborations between Midsumma Festival and some of VIctoria's most revered cultural institutions. Explore a range of events at ACMI, the NGV, Melbourne Museum, Sidney Myer Music Bowl, and many more. 

    INTERACTING | Midsumma X Ignite Melbourne

    Midsumma X Ignite Melbourne is a wave of interactive public artworks and installations combined with music, performance, and culture across iconic locations in Melbourne's CBD, in summer '23.

    Ignite will intrigue you, and encourage you out of your regular programming as each activation takes you on an immersive and interactive journey. 

    The six productions that makeup Midsumma X Ignite Melbourne have been created and curated by quintessential Melbourne Artists, each piece will share with you their expression of A Safe(R) Space and the beautiful intricacies of intersections of a diverse community.

    This will be the first time these works have ever been experienced at this scale. 

    LISTENING | Music for your ears

     

    CREATING | A Safe(R) Space

    A Safe(R) Space, produced by Midsumma, is an artistic exploration of intersectional identity between different facets of Queer communities. The program will uncover a range of work from artists across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum and how artists come together to collaborate and create within a resourced environment. 

    SHOWCASING | Midsumma Festival Hubs

    We are proud to introduce to you our Midsumma Hubs for the 2023 Festival. These Midsumma Hub venues are dedicated to providing you with a diverse showcase of events, across the 23 day festival, to enrich your Midsumma Festival 2023 experience. Never miss a beat, with Midsumma Hubs there is something to see or do every day of the week. 

    INCLUDING | Victoria's Pride Regional Activation Program

    To ensure statewide representation of LGBTQIA+ arts and cultures. Victoria's Pride commissioned community groups, organisations and artists in regional Victoria to facilitate involvement in Victoria's Pride event activities, either in the lead-up to or on the day of the Victoria's Pride one-day street party in Melbourne’s inner north. 

    MARCHING | Midsumma Pride | Sunday 5 February 2023

    Parade, pride and party come together once a year in Melbourne's iconic march celebrating solidarity in gender and sexuality diversity. A chance to tie up your bootlaces or throw on your heels, and join the spectacular act of unity that is Midsumma Pride March. Whether you join the fanfare by foot or by wheel, with workmates or with family, with friends or with lovers, as ally or as queer, Midsumma Pride March is for you.

    Join over 53,000 people to celebrate Midsumma Pride March 2023! Bring your friends, family, and loved ones to celebrate our diversity together in this day-long event as we strut down Fitzroy Street with ferocity, uniqueness, and diversity with the ones we love.

    Grab your friends, family, and loved ones to flaunt your pride at Midsumma Pride March this year! Whether you join the parade by foot or wheel, with workmates or with family, with friends or with loved ones, as an ally or as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Midsumma Pride March is the place to celebrate all gender expressions, sexualities, experiences, and personalities with colours, sparkle and style.

    March with ferocity, uniqueness, and pride down Fitzroy Street in a kilometre-long parade route to Catani Gardens. The march begins with the roaring motors of the Dykes on Bikes as per tradition. The march itself is led by the Boon Wurrung Elders, Rainbow Aboriginal Float, LGBTQIA+ youth and followed by the Premier of Victoria, Minister for Equality, and the Creative Industries & Commissioner for Gender and Sexuality.

    Be greeted at the end of the march with free entertainment, and festivities, including DJs and live performances by the iconic St Kilda beachside.

    Marching because we are fierce, fabulous, loved, diverse and proud. Join the Midsumma Pride March to march with those who can, and in solidarity for those who cannot. 

    ANNOUNCING | Line-Up For Victoria's Pride Street Party | Sunday 12 February 2023

    We can't wait for these artists! Keiynan Lonsdale (aka Rainbow Boy), Casey Donovan, Jawbreakers and Alter Boy. Banoffee, Chela, Jaguar Jonze, Cry Club, and The Lost Girls, an sooooo many more to come!  

    7. CoPP | GOV | WEBINAR | Perfecting your plan for your non-profit website | Tuesday 7 February 2023 | 11am-12noon

    Does your website look like it was built in 1999?  Have you shifted so much as an organisation that your website no longer represents what you’re about? Perhaps you're thinking of a redesign or complete overhaul? Whatever you’re considering, don't move forward without a PLAN!


    8. CoPP | GOV | SEMINAR | Marketing using social media for your Community Group | Thursday 9 February 2023 | 9.30am-12.30pm

    Social media and online activities are now part of our everyday. They are an efficient way to communicate with your group, members and key stakeholders, however the challenge is to understand the audience you are targeting, so you can decide which platform will have the greatest impact and reach this audience.

    This interactive session will provide a basic overview of marketing, understanding what you are marketing and who you are marketing to. Then in turn, an understanding of the most popular social media platforms used in Australia and insights on the best way they can be used effectively to engage and communicate with your target audience.

    Topics include:
    • Understanding marketing and its jargon
    • Using social media as a platform to market to your group » Understanding your target audience
    • The pros and cons of social media platforms
    • Selecting platforms
    • Ideas for creating content
    • Communicating the right messages
    • Tips and hints for preparing a social media plan.

    This session will be most beneficial to groups new to promoting their organisations through social media channels.
    • Where: Council Chambers, St Kilda Town Hall, 99A Carlisle Street, St Kilda VIC 3182. Enter via Carlisle Street and please wait in the foyer to be collected
    • Cost: Free
    • Bookings: essential, online through Trybooking


    9. 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.


    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. 

    10. MELB | BOITE | 'Harp Stories' at Fairfield | 19 & 26 February 2023 | 6-8.30pm

    The Boite presents Harp Stories as part of the City of Yarra’s much-loved ‘Fairfield in Feb’ concert series at Fairfield Amphitheatre. ‘Harp Stories’ will showcase the harp, an ancient and multifaceted instrument found in many cultures, from Chilean to Eritrean, Karen to Celtic, and Paraguayan to West African. Fairfield Amphitheatre is at Fairfield Park Dr, Fairfield. These are free outdoor performances. 



    11. ASIA-PACIFIC | EAF | ANNOUNCING | 2023 Queer Displacements Conference | 22-23 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.  

    12. VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Approaching work with interpreters in mental health settings – 2-Day (Non-Consecutive) Virtual Workshop | 27 February & 6 March 2023 | 3 hours per day: 9.30am–12.30pm

    A workshop designed for all practitioners currently working with interpreters in mental health settings.
    This Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) workshop will explore challenges and realities in the interpreting environment, look at strategies for adapting practice for working with interpreters in a variety of mental health settings and consider key culturally responsive practices and principles, including cultural safety and cultural humility, in the context of working with interpreters.

    Participants will receive hard copies of resources developed in the project (Approaching work with interpreters in mental health settings, VTMH, 2019), including a Practice Tips Poster and Report. 

    The workshop is delivered online via Zoom over 2 days, with a 3-hour session per day, and complimented with some self-directed learning activities.

    Open to staff working in publicly funded mental health programs across Victoria, including staff in clinical and community mental health services, as well as people working within mental health programs in community health and social services. Visit the link below for more information about workshop eligibility.  
    • Where: Online via Zoom — details to be sent to registrants in advance
    • Cost: Free
    • Bookings: essential. Spaces are limited. Please register early to secure a place. Online through VTMH
     

    13. VIC | MCG | GATHERING | Multicultural Comedy Gala - tickets available now!

    Tickets are now available for the Multicultural Comedy Gala (MCG), featuring a star-studded line up of Australian comedians sharing stories from around the world.

    The Comedy Gala is a hilarious celebration of diversity and multicultural Australian identity, with shows that leave you captivated, connected, and smiling at our proudly inclusive heritage.

    The tour will commence in March 2023 at Cardinia Cultural Centre in Pakenham, with regional and metropolitan Melbourne dates available. 

    14. VIC | BOITE | PRESENTING | Upcoming events

    The Boite is Victoria's iconic multicultural music organisation that supports artists from over 100 cultural backgrounds. Throughout the year, they present unique cultural experiences, foster cultural understanding, and encourage active community participation in the arts.

    The 2023 program is now available on their website, which includes festivals, events, radio programs, music releases and performances from 25 January 2023. 

    Book your tickets today to support Victoria's impressive and diverse multicultural arts community.  

    15. 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. 

    16. VIC | VMC | CALLING | Nominees for 2023 Victorian Refugee Awards | nominations close 11.59pm Tuesday 14 March 2023

    Do you know a person with a refugee or asylum seeker background who has achieved great things? They could be a terrific leader, skilled academic, talented musician or run a business that supports other refugees or asylum seekers. If so, check out the award categories on the VMC's website  and nominate today! 

    The VMC coordinates these annual awards to recognise Victorians who arrived in Australia as a refugee or asylum seekers and have gone on to excel through study, work, entrepreneurship, or volunteering.   

    17. AUST | IICCS | GATHERING | Making Connections: Multiculturalism and Interculturalism in Australia Conference | 9-10 March 2023

    Over two days, practitioners, stakeholders, policymakers and academics are invited to join in conversation with international and local experts to explore the complementarity of multiculturalism and interculturalism and the experience of intercultural cities in Australia, Canada and Spain.

    An International Intercultural Cities Comparative Study (IICCS) conference hosted by Swinburne University. 

     COLLECTIVISING 

    18. AUST | CHUFFED | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Aboriginal Players to Represent Their Nation | Wednesday 11 January 2023

    Sponsor an Aboriginal player to be proud and represent their mob, and you are not only sponsoring their health. 
    You are also supporting all of the jobs created for First Nations people in their community including coaches, food vendors, dancers, groundskeeping, referees and much more.
    "I was just waiting for them to get a girls team in. When mum told me I was so excited, I just want to be proud and represent my Nation."
    East Coast Tribal League needs your help to buy land back so that the Aboriginal Mid-North Coast Community can build and self govern their own sporting ground. Their league already includes teams from Gumbayingirr, Dunghutti, Thunghutti, Ngaku, Birpai, Biripi Tribes.

    Chuffed encourages your support to provide a hopeful alternative to ongoing mental health concerns in the area for their young people by bringing together over 600 Aboriginal players and community members for a regular modern day corroboree.  

    Chip in to this mob-led initiative for healthier lives and community. 

    19. AUST | YMAC | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for building Strong Families and Strong Communities

    Yeddung Mura Aboriginal Corporation (YMAC) was initially started to address a number of gaps identified by Aboriginal elders in the community. It is a grassroots organisation that works directly in the community to meet the needs of Aboriginal people. 
    Yeddung Mura means good Pathways in Ngunnawal language.

    Yeddung Mura has been delivering Aboriginal services since 2008 and delivering Aboriginal prison services since 2014. Our goal is to build strong families and strong communities.

    Donations build hope, putting someone’s life on a good path with projects including:
    • Crisis Support
    • Drop-in-Center
    • Training
    • Employment
    • Accommodation
    • Chaplaincy
    • Mentoring
    Our guiding principle is ‘Everyone deserves another chance’. Ultimately, our aim is to bring about positive change in the lives of our clients by instilling a greater sense of purpose and value in them.

    Help Keep Mob Out of the Prison System Appeal
    The trauma of being incarcerated is often made worse by the exclusion and lack of opportunity people experience when released. The incarceration of Aboriginal people disconnects families and communities and often it may seem to mob that there is no good pathway. 

    Yeddung Mura is an Aboriginal grassroots organisation doing our best to help all our brothers and sisters who have been inside the prison system to find their own good pathway.  We know that anyone with strong community support and connections will not be involved in criminal life. Yeddung Mura is registered as an Aboriginal Corporation with the office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC).  The corporation is also registered as a charity (public benevolent institution) with the ACNC. Yeddung Mura is also endorsed as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR).

    20. AUST | RLIMCF | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds of Scholarships for First Nations Midwives

    Rhodanthe Lipsett Indigenous Midwifery Charitable Fund (RLIMCF) was established to make a contribution to both ‘a better start in life’ and ‘Closing the Gap’ for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers and babies.
    Rhodanthe Lipsett’s dream is for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women to have improved pregnancy and birth outcomes by having the benefit of care from Aboriginal and  Torres Strait Islander midwives.

    The fund is inspired by the stories from Indigenous women in Australia, New Zealand and Canada, where Indigenous midwives provide culturally appropriate care in the same language as that of the women accessing care. 

     ANNOUNCING 

    21. VIC | MAG | ISSUING | Statement from the Multifaith Advisory Group - Recent vandalism of Hindu temples | Monday 23 January 2023

    Places of worship mean everything to people of faith.

    Places of worship are where we seek illumination, belonging and comfort. More than buildings, they hold the memories of our families and friends. They are the places where loved ones may be raised and nurtured, married and buried.

    Places of worship nurture our deepest yearnings and our highest hopes.

    To be safe and feel safe in our place of worship is not only beautiful, it is fundamental to our lives.

    Being able to safely come together in a place of worship is the essence of civilised living and accords with the UN Declaration on Human Rights, specifically those articles pertaining to religious freedom. It is also supported by Victoria’s Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities, which protects our rights to freedom of religion and belief and to peaceful assembly and freedom of association.

    Some of us have come from places where these rights and freedoms have been violated. We have also seen the anguish overseas when other people's safety in worship has been violated.

    Even in recent times, as Multifaith Advisory Group (MAG) members we have gathered in prayerful vigil and solidarity after such sufferings. Ensuring that all Victorians feel safe and truly are safe in their place of worship is one of the MAG’s fundamental purposes.

    This was reaffirmed when we met on Friday 20 January 2023 after the deeply distressing incidents at Hindu Temples. Our honest and gracious conversation has produced new ideas and positive initiatives which we will take together in the period ahead.

    Our next steps are being developed through further consultation. We hope to share our collaborative and positive plans shortly.

    We strongly condemn these incidents of religious vilification, and our hearts go out to our Hindu friends, and we assure them of our loving prayers and meditations.

    The Multifaith Advisory Group (MAG)
    • All Nations Presbyterian Church of Australia Mulgrave
    • AMAFHH Federation - Shi'a Organisation
    • Australian Intercultural Society
    • Australian Muslim Women's Centre for Human Rights
    • Anglican Diocese of Melbourne
    • Hindu Council of Australia (Vic)
    • Hindu Society of Victoria
    • Islamic Council of Victoria
    • Jewish Community Council of Victoria
    • Lutheran Church of Australia
    • National Council of Churches in Australia
    • Presbyterian Church of Victoria
    OFFICIAL
    • Baha’i Community of Victoria
    • Board of Imams Victoria
    • Rabbinical Council of Victoria
    • Buddhist Council of Victoria
    • Catholic Social Services Victoria
    • Coptic Orthodox Diocese of Melbourne
    • Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria
    • Faith Communities Council of Victoria
    • Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, Melbourne and Northcote Districts
    • Rabbinical Council of Victoria
    • Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne
    • Russian Orthodox Church
    • Sikh Interfaith Council of Victoria
    • The Interfaith Centre of Melbourne
    • Uniting Church in Australia, Synod of Victoria and Tasmania
    • Victorian Council of Churches
    • Victorian Multicultural Commission
    • UNESCO


    22. AUST | YEF | UPDATING | Fitzroy North Battery, Community Batteries for Household Solar Grant and more | Tuesday 31 January 2023

    More Fitzroy North Battery Publicity
    Seeing our beautiful Fitzroy North Community Battery on ABC News was definitely a nice surprise last week.

    It's fantastic to know that the project is being used as a shining example to the entire country as the Australian Governments 400 battery roll-out gets underway.The battery was also featured on The Climate Councils 'Friday Good News' Instagram post last week. 

    This continued publicity and increase public knowledge surrounding these technologies reinforces our vision and dedication towards our future community battery projects. We are extremely excited to see what 2023 has in store for the community battery space.

    AUST | GOV | GRANTING | Community Batteries for Household Solar Program Funding The Yarra Energy Foundation are very pleased to see the first portion of the Australian Government’s $200 million ‘Community Batteries for Household Solar program’ open this week.

    Organisations are able to apply for grants between $100,000 – $500,000 per location to facilitate the deployment of community batteries across the country, soaking up excess solar and providing thousands of households access to more renewable energy storage.
    VIC | ENGAGING | New Year, New Battery Presentations!
    It was great to have Chris Wallin present at Flinders Zero Carbon event a few weeks back at Flinders Bowls Club.

    Chris was explaining YEFs community battery model, and how we could potentially assist Flinders in getting their first community battery. We are always thrilled to present to communities about the benefits of community batteries, and it is great to see the interest developing across Melbourne.

    Taryn Lane from Hepburn Power also presented a 'pathway to net-zero'.

    A big thanks to all those who attended!
    AUST | SHARING | YEF Featured in Renew
    Our 'Guide to Solar for Apartments' has been featured in the latest edition of Renew magazine. 
    "Solar is now our nation's fastest growing generation type as more and more Australians seek to void soaring power costs, increase their energy self-sufficiency and take strong climate action.

    Yet this success has so far been largely confined to detached houses or new-build sustainable housing. Even though apartments make up 16% of Australian dwellings and multi-unit residential buildings are common across our urban areas, solar uptake by this sector has been relatively slow."
    You can get grab a copy of Renew from your local newsagents or subscribe to Renew's mailing list.
    ADVISING | Solar for Your Home
    If one of your resolutions for 2023 is to reduce your personal carbon footprint and energy bills or to improve the energy efficiency of your home, visit Yarra Energy Foundation (YEF) 'advice for your home' webpage.

    It's full of relevant and useful information for those considering:You can find out more about our services on the Yarra Energy Foundation website. These include:
    • Feasibility studies
    • Community battery strategies for local councils
    • Consulting & advice
    • Project management 
    • Bulk buy services
    We have a small team of extremely passionate energy experts with decades of combined industry, governmental, business, and sustainability experience.

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

    ANNOUNCING | Rt. Rev. Paula E. Clark, Rev. Jim Wallis, and Navkiran Kaur Khalra to Address 2023 Parliament Convening | Friday 6 January 2023

    Experience the world's largest and most diverse interfaith event coming to Chicago in August of 2023! Luminaries Answering the Call to Conscience
    The Parliament of the World's Religions is honored to announce the participation of the Right Rev. Paula E. Clark, Rev. Jim Wallis, and Navkiran Kaur Khalra as featured luminaries of the 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions, taking place in Chicago, USA, 14-18 August 2023.
     
    The Rt. Rev. Paula E. Clark is the thirteenth bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Chicago and the first Black person and the first woman to serve as diocesan bishop.
     
    Rev. Jim Wallis is the inaugural holder of the Endowed Chair in Faith and Justice and the founding Director of the Georgetown University Center on Faith and Justice.
     
    Navkiran Kaur Khalra is a human rights advocate dedicated to upholding Sikh Human Rights in Punjab, the heart of India's Sikh community. 

    Join thousands of faith, spiritual, and civic leaders from around the world in a shared mission toward justice, peace, and sustainability.

    Register by March 31st and save with the Advance Rate, additional savings are available for students with ID and groups. 

    In Memoriam: Swami Varadananda

    The Parliament of the World's Religions is saddened to report the passing of Swami Varadananda, who according to the Vivekananda Vedanta Society of Chicago, left his body at on Friday 30 December 2022 at the age of 78.

    Swami Varananda was one of the founding members of the Parliament of the World's Religions, then known as the Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions, and served as a trustee for a number of terms between 1993 and 2018. A committed interfaith leader, he also represented Hinduism on the Council of Religious Leaders of Metropolitan Chicago for decades until his passing. Swami Varananda is remembered for his passion for the interfaith movement and his commitment to the Ramakrishna Order. 

    Welcoming the Trustee Class of 2025

    The Parliament of the World’s Religions is honored to welcome nine new members to the Board of Trustees. Rev. Traci Blackmon, Dolly Dastoor, David Hales, R. Sidney M. Helbraun, Dr. Laurel Kearns, Congressman Bobby Rush, Sharan Singh, Ann Smith, and Prof. Michael Trice are the members of the class of 2025, joining the Parliament in its mission to cultivate a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world. 

     Parliament Responds to United Nations Call for New Agenda for Peace

    On Thursday, January 12th the Parliament of the World's Religions announced its official response to the United Nations Secretary General's call for comments from civil society on the new Agenda for Peace, Our Common Agenda.

    The Climate Action Program at the Parliament of the World's Religions answered the Secretary General's request by calling for an amendment of the Charter to repurpose the Trusteeship Council in order to focus on next-generation rights and responsibilities in a special statement submitted through UN channels. 

    UN World Interfaith Harmony Week 2023 Kicked Off 28 January 2023

    The annual observance of World Interfaith Harmony Week (WIHW) kicks off on 28 January 2023. Join organizers worldwide by hosting an observance of World Interfaith Harmony Week between 28 January and 4 March 2023.

    For the 2023 observance, the Parliament invites the global interfaith community to celebrate World Interfaith Harmony Week by hosting an event and making it a pre-Parliament event in support of the upcoming 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions. 

    20.23% off of Ads when You Book a Booth by Jan 31!

    Join nonprofit organizations, universities, religious traditions, and vendors in an exhibit hall like no other! 
    From 14-18 August 2023, the Exhibit Hall at the 2023 Parliament of the World's Religionsprovides a unique opportunity for vendors, faith communities, and attendees to gather in an exchange of information and knowledge.

    Book a Booth by 31 January 2023 and Get 20.23% Off Ads
    In the Lakeside Center of McCormick Place, the Parliament Exhibit Hall will exist right at the nexus of activity and traffic.
    • Booth Locations are First Come First Serve - Only 11 Corners Left!
    • Program Book Ads
    • Mobile Push Ads
    • Tote Bag Inserts

    Purchase Booth and Ads and use Code: 2023 to get discount off ads

    Answering the Call: The Global Interfaith Community and the Path to the 2023 Parliament Convening

    In less than 200 days, the global interfaith community from all corners of the globe will descend upon the Lakeside Center of McCormick Place for the 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions. This history Convening comes at a time when countries and communities around the world are grappling with the threat of war and autocracy, economic recessions, human rights violations, and the erosion of religious and civic freedom. Amidst this turmoil, the global interfaith community has an important role to play in facilitating interfaith dialogue, understanding, and action.

    As we look ahead to the 2023 Parliament Convening, join us in celebrating: Voices of the Movement Answering the Call for Programs, Communities and Organizations Hosting Booths & Exhibits, the Legacy of the Global Ethic, Global Leaders Answering the Call to Conscience, and Events Sharing the Call to the 2023 Parliament Convening. 

    The Voices of Our Children 

    David Hales, the Chair of the Climate Action Task Force and the former leader of environmental policy and sustainability programs for the US Agency for International Development, joins the call for the Charter of the United Nations to be amended to include a new responsibility for the Trusteeship Council on the PoWR blog:
    "The voices of our children call out to us. Sometimes it is a conscious cry, as in the school walkouts by hundreds of thousands of children in more than 100 countries calling for action on the climate crisis, the statements of young people at multiple climate and sustainability conferences, or in the many legal actions brought in courts around the world, including the case of Juliana v. United States...Amending the UN Charter is not a task to be undertaken lightly. Only three initiatives have been successful, the latest in 1973. However, the provisions related to the Security Council and to the Economic and Social Council were grounded in the original principles and purpose of the Charter, and necessary to adapt to changing times. The proposed Amendment to repurpose the Trusteeship Council is also firmly grounded in the original principles and purposes and just as necessary to enable the UN to carry out unique fundamental responsibilities."
     

    UN World Interfaith Harmony Week 2023 Kicks Off This Weekend

    The annual observance of World Interfaith Harmony Week (WIHW) kicks off on Saturday 28 January this year. The Parliament invites the global interfaith community to celebrate World Interfaith Harmony Week by hosting an event and making it a pre-Parliament event in support of the upcoming 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions.

    Upcoming Pre-Parliament Events 

     

    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 

    24. VIC | GOV | PROTECTING | Your community during extreme heat

    Summer is officially here, and once again we can expect days of extreme heat. Extreme heat and heatwaves kill more people than any natural disaster in Australia. 

    The Victorian Government has developed the Survive the heat campaign to raise awareness of the risks extreme heat poses to the health of all Victorians. 

    Translated resources have also been developed for partners, organisations and community groups to help you raise awareness of extreme heat through your networks. 


    25. VIC | GOV | ADVISING | Stay safe in the water this summer

    Summer is a time when many Victorians will enjoy our state's waterways including beaches, rivers and lakes. 

    Sadly, people with a multicultural background are more than two times more likely to drown than those born in Australia.

    There are many ways you can stay safe in the water this summer, by:
    • being aware of the local water environment and weather conditions before entering the water
    • obeying all water safety signs
    • avoiding alcohol when around water, or when supervising children
    Learn more by visiting the Victorian Government Water Safety website.  

    26. VIC | GOV | SUPPORTING | Wellbeing for small business owners

    The Victorian Government has developed a small business package of free wellbeing services and resources for all Victorian sole traders and small business owners, their employees and advisers. This package is called Headway. 

    Headway brings together wellbeing tools, advice and support that can be tailored to suit individual needs. It also includes a free, confidential helpline that provides personal, financial and business advice. This flexible supports fits right into a busy schedule, and will help improve your coping skills so you can feel more confident and supported. 

    27. VIC | GOV | OFFERING | Free RATS Now Available to everyone through your local council

    The Victorian Government has now made Rapid Antigen tests free and available at more than 200 local council distribution sites such as libraries and council customer service centres. The program is open to all Victorians, with all eligibility requirements removed.

    Individuals can collect up to two packets for themselves plus up to two packets for each household member per visit. People with a disability or their carer can collect up to four packets of tests. 

    28. 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.


    29. AUST | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way

     

       ACKNOWLEDGING 

      30. 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.

      31. 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 Carey at this time.

      32. 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.