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GEIFN | CONSOLIDATED | Community Information | Saturday 1 April 2023

Fast Facts: Community Responses Victoria & Australia

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

     GRANTING 
  3. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Family Violence research opportunities available | applications close Monday 3 April 2023
  4. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural Festivals and Events Program | applications close 3pm Wednesday 5 April 2023
  5. COPP | GOV | GRANTING |  Quick Response Grant Program
  6. MELB | METRO | GRANTING | Back on Track Community Grants | applications open from 7 March until 11 April 2023

     HIRING 
  7. VIC | GOV | HIRING | Applications open for the 2024 Victorian Government graduate program | now open
  8. VIC | GOV | EDUCATING | Teaching programs available for Victorian graduates

     ENGAGING 
  9. VIC | VIUN | HEARING | Your say: Improving Racism Reporting Pathways Survey
  10. CoPP | S2b | TALKING | Meetups At Space2b | Tuesdays | 10.30am-12pm
  11. VIC | VTMH | GATHERING | Foundations of Cultural Responsiveness for Mental Health Practitioners Workshop | Thursday 6 April 2023 | 9.30am–3.30pm
  12. COPP | GRIEF | TRAINING | Suicide Intervention Training for all people
  13. VIC | VMC | CALLING | Submissions of film for the 2023 Multicultural Film Festival! | entries close on 16 April 2023
  14. COPP | FoSC | MIDDLE PARK | Friends of Suai/Covalima Trivia Night | Thursday 20 April 2023 | 7pm
  15. MELB | S2b | CALLING | CALD Artists for Space2b Design Competition 2023 | registrations close midnight Monday 24 April 2023
  16. CoPP | GOV | CONNECTING | Pathways for Carers - Monthly walk, talk and morning tea | 4th Tuesday of every month | Tues 25 April 2023 | 9.45am for 10am start
  17. VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Spirituality matters: What clinicians need to know | Wednesday 26 April 2023 | 3pm–4pm
  18. COPP | GOV | SEMINAR | Running a successful Community Group | Thursday 27 April 2023 | 9.30am–12.30pm
  19. AUST | CUIN | WEBINAR | Quincy Talks To People Smarter Than Him | 27 April 2023 | arrive 9.55am for 10–11am AEST
  20. CoPP | S2b | GATHERING | Eid Dinner with Friends | Thursday 27 April 2023 | from 6.30pm
  21. MELB | PERFORMING | Natty Dolaiasi and Charles Maimarosia in concert with Jimi Nare and Ron Reeves | Friday 28 April 2023 | 7.30–9.30pm
  22. CoPP | GOV | WALKING | Guided walk: Montague Reborn | Sunday 30 April 2023 | 2–4pm
  23. AUST/NZ | RTRRC | Annual conference - refugee trauma recovery in resettlement | 9-11 October 2023

     COLLECTIVISING 
  24. AUST | ILF | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Indigenous Literacy
  25. AUST | KIEN | SUPPORTING | Schools to make a positive social impact
  26. VIC | GOV | #ChangeOurGame Women in Sports Broadcasting Program | applications now open
  27. AUST | EQPR | BOOSTING | Workplace Inclusion with LGBTIQA+ Workshop

     ANNOUNCING 
  28. VIC | MHCC | TRANSLATING | Rresources for multicultural communities are now available
  29. VIC | GOV | OFFERING | Translation and language support available for the Power Saving Bonus
  30. AUST | MHFA | OFFERING | Small business mental health engagement
  31. VIC | VOWE | LAUNCHING | Culturally inclusive volunteer toolkit 
  32. BRIMBANK | BMHWL | Walk-In At Brimbank Mental Health And Wellbeing Local
  33. AUST | CUIN | UPDATING | Industries, Ideas, Innovation - Diversity Atlas
  34. VIC | ECCV | ISSUING | eBulletin | March 2023
  35. WORLD | PWR | UPDATING | 2023 Parliament & More

     SUPPORTING 
  36. AUST | Coronavirus hotline
  37. AUST | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way

     ACKNOWLEDGING 
  38. Acknowledgment to Sources
  39. Bye bye to Essentialists
  40. 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.

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.
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. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Family Violence research opportunities available | applications close Monday 3 April 2023

The Victorian Government is inviting academic and sector partners to apply for research grants.

The government has identified multiple family violence areas with data and evidence gaps. These include children and young people as victims, family violence experienced by people from diverse communities and sexual violence and harm.

Applicants are required to demonstrate how they will incorporate lived experience in their proposed research projects. 

4. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural Festivals and Events Program | applications close 3pm Wednesday 5 April 2023

Grants of up to $50,000 available to support multicultural festivals and events.
The Multicultural Festivals and Events (MFE) Program funds multicultural and multifaith community organisations to hold cultural festivals and events for their local communities.

Funding will be offered in 3 streams:
  • Small stream – up to $2,000
  • Medium stream – between $5,000 and $15,000
  • Large stream – between $15,001 and $50,000
All applicants will need to register via the new Grants Gateway.

Once registered, click the “Available Grants” tab to see the MFE small and medium/large stream application form links. 

5. 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 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.

6. MELB | METRO | GRANTING | Back on Track Community Grants | applications open from 7 March until 11 April 2023

Metro Train’s Community Grants are supporting not-for-profit organisations doing important work to help improve people’s mental health.

Not-for-profit organisations can apply for a grant in three funding categories of $5,000, $10,000 or $20,000.

With a total grant pool of $100,000 Metro will support projects and organisations of all sizes right across Melbourne. Projects must fall into one of the following focus areas:
  • Wellness – preventative care to reduce the risk of poor mental health.
  • Education – activities that inform and promote awareness of good mental health.
  • Support services – assistance like counselling, psychiatric support or crisis care that directly supports people experiencing mental health challenges.
Successful applicants will be announced in June. 

 HIRING 

7. VIC | GOV | HIRING | Applications open for the 2024 Victorian Government graduate program | now open

Applications are now open for the 2024 Victorian Government graduate program. People with diverse skills, backgrounds and experiences are encouraged to apply.

The Victorian Government graduate program offers employment streams tailored to your university studies.

Experience the Victorian Public Service and apply your skills to meaningful work that contributes to a better Victoria! 

8. VIC | GOV | EDUCATING | Teaching programs available for Victorian graduates

Aspiring teachers (with an undergraduate degree in another field) are invited to apply for Victoria’s Teach Today and Teach Tomorrow programs. These programs offer participants scholarships and paid part-time employment in schools to provide an income while completing their studies.

In these programs, participants are employed in schools as paraprofessionals or education support staff while completing a postgraduate teaching degree across 18-24 months. Participants are paid as paraprofessionals or education support staff (as applicable), and may be eligible to receive a department scholarship of $2,400 to support their intensive study period. 

 ENGAGING  

9. VIC | VIUN | HEARING | Your say: Improving Racism Reporting Pathways Survey

Victoria University (VIUN) is conducting a survey to understand the barriers to reporting racism and the gaps in support faced by people who experience racism. The survey is part of a research project led by Victoria University in partnership with ECCV and Islamic Council of Victoria, with funding from VicHealth. Participants will enter a draw to win a number of gift vouchers. 

 

10. CoPP | S2b | TALKING | Meetups At Space2b | Tuesdays | 10.30am-12pm

Join us weekly every Tuesday as we run MEETUPS for locals and CALD migrants.
  • Share conversation, connect, exchange stories, learn new skills, improve English skills and make friends.


11. VIC | VTMH | GATHERING | Foundations of Cultural Responsiveness for Mental Health Practitioners Workshop | Thursday 6 April 2023 | 9.30am–3.30pm

A Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) introductory workshop introducing culturally safe and responsive practice, and an intersectional understanding of mental health. 
It will assist participants to apply human rights, cultural models of health and wellbeing, and participatory frameworks, to mental health practice.

The workshop is designed to stimulate the interest of participants around a range of issues in transcultural mental health. It will complement broader service development initiatives being undertaken by organisations within the current mental health and wellbeing reform environment.

The workshop utilises a variety of facilitation modes, grounded in a reflective practice approach. This will provide learners with the opportunity to explore the knowledge, skills and attitudes that support culturally safe, responsive, equitable and inclusive mental health care, across a variety of service settings and contexts.

Participation is open to a range of staff including program leaders and direct-care practitioners, working in mental health and wellbeing services across Victoria. This includes staff in clinical and community mental health services, as well as people working within mental health programs in community health and social services, such as community rehabilitation and recovery workers, lived experience workers, mental health nursing, social work, occupational therapy, psychiatry, and program leaders/project workers and others.
  • Where: Kathleen Symes Library - Multipurpose Room 1, 251 Faraday Street, Carlton
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: essential. Spaces are limited. Please register early to secure a place. Online via VTMH
 

12. CoPP | GRIEF | TRAINING | Suicide Intervention Training for all people

Griefline (GRIEF) 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. This highly-sought after training will be delivered at Griefline's head office in St Kilda, Victoria on the weekends of the:
  • 15 and 16 of April
  • 20 and 21 of May
Any adult can attend and there are no prerequisites. ASIST is founded on the principle that everyone can make a difference in preventing suicide.

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.
  • Where: Griefline, 181 St Kilda Road, St Kilda Victoria, 3182
  • Inclusions: Lunch and refreshments will be provided during the workshop
  • Cost: $544.71 (includes all fees and taxes). 
  • Bookings: For more information and securing your place, online through Griefline
 

13. VIC | VMC | CALLING | Submissions of film for the 2023 Multicultural Film Festival! | entries close on 16 April 2023

In association with Swinburne University of Technology, the Victorian Multicultural Commission (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.  

14. COPP | FoSC | MIDDLE PARK | Friends of Suai/Covalima Trivia Night | Thursday 20 April 2023 | 7pm

Friends of Suai/Covalima (FoSC) are set the date for their popular Annual Trivia Night fundraiser at Middle Park Bowls Club. 

Please save this date in your diaries and tell your friends. More information will follow soon.


15. MELB | S2b | CALLING | CALD Artists for Space2b Design Competition 2023 | registrations close midnight Monday 24 April 2023 

Calling designers for our Artist Range 2023/24 to be printed on Space2b Social Design (S2b) tea towels, soaps, chocolates and more!

Three WINNERS will receive:
  • Opportunity to exhibit additional three artworks in an exhibition in June
  • $150 plus your winning design printed on a tea towel and soap packaging
  • Product Launch and Exhibition Opening to promote and sell your artwork
  • Receive 100% of any artwork sales made from the exhibition
For those of you not successful this time, you will still receive:
  • Free exhibition in June, to promote and sell your original artwork
  • Receive a 75% commission on any sales of your submitted artwork from the exhibition
Artwork Specs: 
  • Size: Must be A3 (29.7cm x 42cm)
  • Medium: Paint, collage or photo realism accepted
  • Note: Only one application per artist only. Multiple entries will not be accepted. 

How to Apply: 
  1. Complete the Online Application form
  2. Post your artwork on your Instagram feed and tag with:
    #Space2bArtistRangeComp2023 and @space2b_design

Important Dates:
  • Registrations Close: Monday 24 April 2023 midnight
    Note: Late registrations will not be accepted after this date.
  • Artwork Delivery To Artspace Gallery: Monday 29 May, 10.30am-12.30pm
  • Winners Announced: Monday 1 May 2023 
  • Exhibition Dates 2023: Thursday 1 June - Saturday 1st July 2023
  • Exhibition Opening: Saturday 10 June 2023, 11.30am-1pm
  • Artwork Collection: Monday 3 July, 10.30am-12.30pm

Opening Hours:
  • Space2b Store: Tues - Fri 10am - 5pm, Sat 10am - 2pm
  • Flavours of Syria Cafe: Wed - Fri 9am - 2pm, Sat - Sun 9am - 4pm
Together we make a difference!


16. CoPP | GOV | CONNECTING | Pathways for Carers - Monthly walk, talk and morning tea | 4th Tuesday of every month | Tues 25 April 2023 | 9.45am for 10am start

Are you a Carer needing peer support and gentle exercise?

Join us on a monthly walk 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.

Next Dates:
  • Tues May 23
  • Tues June 27
  • Where: Meeting place/Morning tea venue: Victorian Pride Centre, 79-81 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda
  • Consideration: Morning tea from 10.45am for those unable to participate in walk.
  • Download the flyer for your community notice board.
  • Contact person: email Simone
 

17. VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Spirituality matters: What clinicians need to know | Wednesday 26 April 2023 | 3pm–4pm

Mental healthcare is not just about diagnosing illnesses and prescribing treatments, it is also about understanding the social, emotional, cultural, and spiritual needs of patients. 
Health professionals who exhibit empathy and compassion towards their patients, listen to their concerns, and treat them with respect and dignity, are better equipped to provide quality care. Addressing these factors requires a holistic approach where healthcare providers consider the whole person, not just their symptoms or medical conditions. Incorporating heart and soul matters in healthcare does improve health outcomes, promotes healing, and helps people feel heard and understood.

As a part of their ongoing Spirituality & Diversity Discussion Project, Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) and Spiritual Health Association (SHA) present an opportunity for webinar attendees to participate in a conversation between former service users Naomi & Tess who will be joined by service providers Justin & Rohan to share where their experiences of spirituality were supported and explore where engagement on this level may have been enhanced to ensure greater holistic outcomes.

Speakers
  • Naomi Chapman (VTMH Lived Experience Consultant)
  • Tess Marotta (Mental Health Lived Experience Advocate/Consultant)
  • Justin Kuay (Psychiatrist, VTMH)
  • Rohan Souter (Mental Health Spiritual Care Practitioner, Bendigo Health) 

VTMH seminars are open to individuals, from all disciplines and working in all sectors, who are based in Australia and interested in diversity and mental health.  
  • 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 via VTMH
 

18. COPP | GOV | 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
 

19. AUST | CUIN | WEBINAR | Quincy Talks To People Smarter Than Him | 27 April 2023 | arrive 9.55am for 10–11am AEST 

In the coming weeks Cultural Infusion (CUIN)'s Diversity Atlas’ Cultural Attaché Quincy Hall will host the first edition of his webinar series 'Quincy Talks To People Smarter Than Him'.

Quincy will speak with Wanah Bumakor,  Cultural Ambassador for Diversity Atlas, about Wanah's upcoming paper which discusses ethnic diversity in Africa, titled 'From Pitfall to Business Opportunity'. 
The webinar will take place via Zoom on.

Stay tuned over the next couple of weeks as we provide updates on the webinar series via our newsletters and social media platforms below. 
Website | TikTok | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram | Youtube     


20. CoPP | S2b | GATHERING | Eid Dinner with Friends | Thursday 27 April 2023 | from 6.30pm

Come and celebrate, learn and savour Eid with a special cultural dinner at Space2b Social Design (S2b). Our guest cook will delight you with both savoury and sweet traditional fare, explain the food and the unique traditions of this occasion. Don't miss out on this very wonderful evening, tickets sell out fast! 

21. MELB | PERFORMING | Natty Dolaiasi and Charles Maimarosia in concert with Jimi Nare and Ron Reeves | Friday 28 April 2023 | 7.30–9.30pm

The Solomon Islands, a close neighbour to Australia, is a treasure trove of traditional music and song, largely unknown in Melbourne.

The exception is the work of Charles Maimarosia, an extraordinary musician from the island of Malaita, who has made Melbourne his home. Charles is a multi-instrumentalist, playing Western instruments as well as the traditional pan-flutes that characterise the Are’are’ music of Malaita.

Last year, Charles received Music Victoria’s 2022 Diaspora Award for his most recent release Haiamasina (Loving). His previous recording Are’are’ is named after his own tribal group in the South part of Malaita.

Tickets are on sale now! 
  • Where: The Oratory, Abbotsford Convent 1 St Heliers St, Abbotsford VIC
  • Cost: $20 Concession, $25 Full
  • Get your tickets
 

22. CoPP | GOV | WALKING | Guided walk: Montague Reborn | Sunday 30 April 2023 | 2–4pm

Hosted by Janet Bolitho, walk the lanes and streets to see the transformation of the former working-class community of Montague into a modern high-tech precinct.
  • Where: Location Start Page Reserve, Cnr Boundary and Station Streets, Port Melbourne
  • Finish: South Melbourne Station, Light Rail Stop 127
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: essential online through Trybooking
 

23. AUST/NZ | RTRRC | Annual conference - refugee trauma recovery in resettlement | 9-11 October 2023

The 3rd Australia and New Zealand Refugee Trauma Recovery in Resettlement Conference (RTRRC) “Holding Hope in an Uncertain World” will be held in Adelaide. 

Through workshops, interactive sessions and panels, this conference will offer participants many opportunities to listen, to learn and to discuss developments in practice that enable people from refugee backgrounds to recover from trauma. 

 COLLECTIVISING 

24. AUST | ILF | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Indigenous Literacy

Yamandhu marang

Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) has just launched our newest commercial title, Country Tells Us When.... Written in Yawuru and English by Tsheena Cooper, Mary Dann, Dalisa Pigram-Ross and Sheree Ford, this beautifully illustrated bilingual book shares the six seasons in Rubibi (the town of Broome). The story emphasises the importance of caring for Country and takes readers on a journey to discover how the Yawuru people read the seasons. We are also very proud to have published a new book from the Napranum Community, We Look, We Find, representing the first time a children’s picture book has been commercially published in Thanynakwith Language. This book is a delightful story about the importance of being on Country and the animals that can be found on the land. The book draws much knowledge and influence from the language dictionary, Thanakupi’s Guide to Language and Culture, written by Community Elder Thanakupi. March has also been a busy month with events. We launched our biggest fundraiser, The Great Book Swap at Sydney Taronga Zoo and the University of Queensland. Check out the coverage from the launch on Channel 10 and NITV below!

On the behalf of the ILF, we thank you. We would not be able to achieve publishing books with remote Communities and sharing their stories without your support.

Mandaang guwu,
Ben Bowen, Chief Executive Officer


CELEBRATING | UNESCO's second year of the Decade of Indigenous Languages, each month we encourage readers to learn a new word in either an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander language. 

Blue tongue lizard in Bundjalung language! Bundjalung Country is in the far North East Coast of NSW and the Southern Eastern coast of Queensland.
Emu in Wiradjuri language! Wiradjuri Country is in central New South Wales. 

LAUNCHING | Great Book Swap!

On Tuesday 14 March 2023, with much anticipation and excitement, we launched our biggest fundraising event, Great Book Swap (GBS) for 2023 at Taronga Zoo in Sydney and at the University of Queensland (UQ).  

WATCHING | NITV and Channel 10 Coverage on Great Book Swap Launch!

We are pleased that both Channel 10 and NITV joined in the fun at our Great Book Swap launch at Sydney Taronga Zoo! Check out the coverage by Channel 10 and the NITV news segment here.


LAUNCHING | ILF's Newest Musical Literacy Fundraiser

A new Busking For Change website goes live on 30 March with music charts, videos, lyrics, prizes and more! Busking For Change involves students to sing, play an instrument, dance or learn a song in Kriol, a First Nations language widely spoken in the Top End.  

CELEBRATING | International Women's Day | 8 March

We celebrated International Women's Day (IWD), a day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Check out our social posts about the importance of IWD with ILF Ambassadors Shelley Ware and Anita Heiss as well as Emmaand Tshinta who are First Nations ILF staff members!


CELEBRATING | Australian Reading Hour 

This month we celebrated Australian Reading Hour, a national day dedicated to sharing the joys of books, reading and stories. ILF staff got into the spirit with one hour of reading as well as sharing and enjoying stories that they love.  

ENGAGING | Saltbush at Sydney Opera House | 14-17 April 2023

This school holidays, our friends at Sydney Opera House are holding an interactive journey through First Nations culture called Saltbush. Join two friends and their spiritual guide, as they cross Australian landscapes and experience their wonder through impressive light projections and digital technology.  

PREVIEWING | Advance Copies of New Titles

Shordi Krik (Shorty Creek)
This month, our publishing team received advance copies of a new book; Shordi Krik (Shorty Creek), a song written in Kriol and English by students from Barunga School with Justine Clarke. This book will be published in late May and officially launched at Barunga Festival in June! 

NT Mob Sharing Stories in Language
We are super excited about receiving the advance copies of a new commercial ILF book, NT Mob Sharing Stories in Language. This book celebrates nine stories in nine languages from across the Northern Territory. Watch this space for the release!

Ananyila Aputulalakutu! (Finke, Here We Come!)
Our team also received advance copies of Ananyila Aputulalakutu! (Finke, Here We Come!), a non-commercial book in Pitjantjatjara and English which tells a fun story of students from Ernabella Anangu School as they travel to the Finke Desert Races.

CELEBRATING | Winthali Wins Funky Kids Radio Award

Congratulations to Joe Ross, Stacey Bush, Boheme and Remi, the authors and illustrators of Winthali who have won the Funky Kids Radio 2022 Global Children's Entertainment Awards!  

SHARING | Knowledge with young language workers from across the country

In November last year, ILF staff Jolene, Emma and Ella, who are all proud First Nations women in their twenties, attended the Warra: Indigenous Youth Language Forum held by First Languages Australia.  

HIRING | Junior Video Editor - Contract Basis

We are looking for a First Nation’s identified student to work on a contract basis to edit video footage for ILF’s marketing purposes. 
  • If you or someone you know has experience in video editing and producing quality video content, please reply by email with resume and details. 
 

HIRING | Photography Volunteer Opportunity

We are looking for a volunteer to take photos and videos at the launch of Great Book Swap at the University of Queensland at 3pm. 
A photo brief would be sent to you in advance.
A professional camera is not required but preferred.
Please note this is a volunteer position. 
All images would be credited. 

MAKING | more stories

 

PUBLISHING | Two New Commercial Titles

Stori bla brutbrut en bujigat (Story about Mouse and Cat) - available now!

A gorgeous bilingual story written in Kriol and English. A QR code in the book allows readers to listen to the story in both Kriol and in English. The book is written and illustrated by two Aboriginal women from Ngukkur.  

We Look We Find - available now!

A Thaynakwith and English story written and illustrated by women and children from Napranum Community in Queensland. The story explores the experiences of being on Country with family and Elders. Young readers will love this books great rhyming scheme and fun story about
what the Napranum Community find on their Country! 

OFFERING | Special Thanks

We are indebted to our partner Australia Post for their support with the delivery of Book Supply packs to remote Communities and their ongoing fundraising. 

A huge thank you to Abco Products who have now made donations of over $100,000 to our Book Supply Program, equivalent to over 10,000 books. What an impact!

A huge thank you to the Harry Hartog stores for raising over $30,000 for us over the Festive period last year – a truly amazing effort! Support from these bookstores keeps growing which is wonderful to see.
Community Fundraisers
A big thank you to Aussie Homeschool Summit 2023 who are supporting us for the second year in a row and donating $1 from each of their tickets to their yearly online conference. 

In recognition of the importance of giving, Independent Schools Queensland (ISQ) supports employee initiatives to fundraise throughout the year for a nominated charity and in 2023, staff voted to fundraise for the ILF.

A heart-warming thank you to Michelle Barr who has supported the ILF for the third year in a row by reading 50 books over the year! Michelle is aiming to raise $5000 which will allow us to gift over 500 culturally relevant books to kids in remote Communities.

When Founder of The V Spot, Jannifer, discovered that Feb 14 is also National Library Lovers Day she found it far more interesting than Valentine’s Day! Jannifer decided to donate 10% of every February sale through her online store to ILF. A big heart felt thank you to Jannifer and the team at The V Spot.

We would like to thank Feel Better Pilates who raised over $1,200 in one day for the ILF! On January 26th, customers set their own ticket prices and the studio donated these profits. With just 30 visitors to the studio that day, they raised an incredible amount! Thank you to Feel Better Pilates and their customers for their wonderful support.

Thank you to Salty Swimwear who are supporting the ILF for the third year in a row alongside Indigenous Literacy Day by donating a portion of profits from their swimwear line. Check out their swimwear line in collaboration with Muthi Muthi artist, Jessica Clarke. 

25. AUST | KIEN | SUPPORTING | Schools to make a positive social impact

Kind Enterprises (KIEN) are offering limited places to schools, teachers, community organisations and parents of students to join their Educator Empowerment Program.

This fully-funded program is free of charge to any school or individual teacher who would like to join. The webinars and digital courses will provide Diversity, Equity & Inclusion training for staff across 50 Australian public high schools and be available to over 1000 teachers & staff.

The program is designed to build confidence and capacity to engage in the complex and sensitive conversations around race, racism, diversity & inclusion and help build more cohesive schools, leading to improved academic outcomes and emotional safety for all. 

26. VIC | GOV | #ChangeOurGame Women in Sports Broadcasting Program | applications now open

This year, the program will offer two streams – an introductory stream and an extension stream. 

27. AUST | EQPR | BOOSTING | Workplace Inclusion with LGBTIQA+ Workshop

The Equality Project (EQPR) connects Australia's Communities with LGBTIQA+ for Change. Do you want to create a more inclusive and supportive workplace for all employees, customers, and clients?
Are you thinking of ways to celebrate Pride Month within your organisation? That's only 2 months away!

Creating an inclusive and supportive workplace is a goal that many organisations strive for, but achieving it can be challenging.

At the heart of this challenge is the need to create a more welcoming environment for employees, customers, or clients who identify as part of the LGBTIQA+ community. That's where our "Working with Rainbow Communities" workshop comes in.

In this 101-style awareness training, we'll cover the basics of the LGBTIQA+ community, including terminology, concepts, and inclusive language. You'll learn the importance of allyship in supporting and cultivating an inclusive workplace culture. 

But it's not just about making your organisation a better place. Investing in diversity, equity, and inclusion training can also attract the right talent, improve teamwork and productivity, and foster kindness and compassion.

When people can bring their whole self to work, they are more likely to feel valued, supported, and empowered to do their best work. Plus, it's just the right thing to do.

Sign up for our "Working with Rainbow Communities" workshop today to take the first step towards creating a more positive, welcoming, and inclusive workplace culture.

Our workshop can be delivered in person or online, depending on your needs. We still have some availability in June, but you need to hurry! 


 ANNOUNCING 

28. VIC | MHCC | TRANSLATING | Rresources for multicultural communities are now available.

The Mental Health Complaints Commission (MHCC) and people with lived experience from multicultural communities have co-produced a variety of in-language resources to make MHCC more accessible to all Victorians.

Digital and print resources have been produced in 20 languages through community-approved translations that are culturally and linguistically appropriate for each community. 

29. VIC | GOV | OFFERING | Translation and language support available for the Power Saving Bonus 

The Victorian Government is providing in-person and over-the-phone support for Multicultural communities to apply for the power-saving bonus.

A new round of support will commence on 24 March, with eligible Victorian households able to receive a new $250 payment.

There is in-language support for 31 languages.

For access to translation support call 131 450 or click on the link below. 

30. AUST | MHFA | OFFERING | Small business mental health engagement

Mental Health Foundation Australia (MHFA) is launching a Small Business Engagement Program to benefit business owners, staff, and customers.

MHFA is the oldest community-based non-government mental health organisation in Australia.

This year they are sharing an information booklet and running multiple virtual and hybrid events. A Small Business Conference will be held during October National Multicultural Mental Health Month. 

31. VIC | VOWE | LAUNCHING | Culturally inclusive volunteer toolkit 

A collaboration between Volunteer West (VOWE) and its culturally and linguistically diverse partners has seen the launch of a culturally inclusive toolkit.

This project is a continuation of Volunteer West’s research which has highlighted the potential of volunteering in CALD communities and identified the need to move away from traditional forms of volunteering (formal vs informal). 

32. BRIMBANK | BMHWL | Walk-In At Brimbank Mental Health And Wellbeing Local

Brimbank Mental Health and Wellbeing Local centre (BMHWL) is now open for walk-ins.

Initially opening late last year for telehealth and outreach support, the Brimbank service can now provide support for the whole community, including the weekends.

33. AUST | CUIN | UPDATING | Industries, Ideas, Innovation - Diversity Atlas

Supporting Inclusivity and Building Belonging Together
Cultural Infusion (CUIN) takes a look at some articles and events that have taken place this month. 
  • Cultural Infusion contributed to the Australian Association of Gerontology's paper on Capturing Cultural and Linguistic Diversity in Australia. 
  • Our Projects and Partnerships Manager for Inclusion Atlas, Lana Perello, details the need for inclusive and accessible spaces. 
  • We also look at the Education and Experience's attendance at the Early Childhood Language Program Annual Forum, the launch of our new Programs brochures, our International Women's Day article and highlight an important date on our cultural calendar. 
  • a recent interview between our CEO and Founder Peter Mousaferiadis and the Global Inclusion Online Forum
  • preview an upcoming webinar with our Cultural Attaché Quincy Hall 
  • highlight Cultural Infusion's contribution to the Capturing Cultural and Linguistic Diversity in Australia position paper by the AAG (Australian Association of Gerontology). 
  • We also spotlight our partnership with HerStory to stage the largest Global Summit for Women's Stories in Washington DC, an important cultural date on our diversity calendar, and provide a product update on survey anonymity. 
 

CAPTURING | Cultural and Linguistic Diversity in Australia 

Cultural Infusion is proud to have contributed to the  Capturing Cultural and Linguistic Diversity in Australia: AAG (Australian Association of Gerontology) position paper published this month. 

Our CEO and Founder Peter Mousaferiadis provided insight to the paper which aims to share how cultural and linguistic diversity is captured in Australian government data. 

The research explores which variables are currently used to measure cultural and linguistic diversity in Australia and how the government selects, analyses, groups and reports on these data sets.

The paper provides the AAG Position Statement on how CALD could be better identified and measured in Australian government data reports and clarifies what is meant by the term ‘CALD’. 

Cultural Infusion supports the four recommendations  provided at the end of the paper. These recommendations to the Australian Government are to:
  • Consistently capture the 12 variables suggested by the ABS.
  • Stop using “CALD” to describe a type of person.
  • Identify and report on variables that relate to cultural & linguistic diversity based on the aim of the report.
  • Report clearly on which variables used to explore Australia’s cultural and linguistic diversity.
To find out more, click the link below to access the paper. 

REPORTING | Lack of facilities for gender diverse and neurodivergent attendees at a recent concert 

Inclusion Atlas Projects and Partnerships Manager, Lana Perello, shares their experience of the lack of facilities for gender diverse and neurodivergent attendees at a recent concert. 

'At a recent concert I attended, I knew the potential for gender diverse attendees would be extremely high and as it happened, many found that the lack of accommodations made by the venue greatly impacted their overall experience, including my own.
 
The bathrooms were classified under male, female and disabled, which alienated some gender diverse people by putting them in uncomfortable and potentially threatening situations. When attending the concert, I opted to use the men’s bathroom. The line for both the men’s and women’s bathroom were significantly long, especially with the consideration that the men’s bathroom only had two stalls. Whilst waiting, comments were made by some men about how they ‘saw how it was’ and ‘how the tables had turned’, though we were just waiting to use the bathroom as they were. How easily this situation could have been avoided if the venue also had gender neutral  bathrooms?

As a result of these comments, a member of the security team came into the bathrooms and ordered all the ‘women’ to leave immediately, being extremely loud and intimidating to any that objected. How could I feel safe to do normal functions when someone is questioning my identity?

In parallel, Chloe Hayden, an advocate for people with autism and ADHD, experienced a lack of accommodation for neurodivergent people at a concert. She and many others were turned away from a 12-person capacity sensory room, whilst staff questioned the legitimacy of attendees needs to use such a space. As Chloe aptly put it, 'fighting for the disabled right to access public spaces should not be this radical, or controversial, or taxing' and yet, ill-preparedness and apparent lack of staff training can make joyous experiences the exact opposite.

At Inclusion Atlas, we work toward positive change and support for those like myself and many others who have had similar experiences. Accessible spaces are inherently important for the safety and wellbeing of our community. Inclusion Atlas is an accessible and easy tool for you to use in your everyday life, helping you find, rate and review inclusive spaces and to hold venues to account without naming or shaming. '
- Lana Perello 

ATTENDING | Early Childhood Language Program Annual Forum

This month, the Education and Experiences team attended the Early Childhood Language Program Annual Forum at the Melbourne Convention Centre. 

The event brought early learning educators from all over the state together to deliver keynotes and participate in workshops to learn how to support children in early learning and language development. 

Team Leader Nicola Diomides delivered an opening speech introducing the attendees to Cultural Infusion and discussed the role of culture and how this intersects with language to support early childhood development. Nicola shared our many intercultural resources including cultural programs, educational apps, digital platforms, and our range of professional development materials. 

The Education and Experiences team hosted a booth at the event, sharing information and engaging in the rich and diverse conversation around early learning and cultural education. 

Bonnie, our Chinese Fan Dance presenter and Hithanjanee, our Bollywood Infusion presenter delivered introductions in to their vibrant cultural programs. The room was engaged in the performances and even ended up and dancing with Hithanjanee!
     

ANNOUNCING | Our new Education and Experiences brochures have arrived!

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 of our available presenters, including some of our newest cultural presenters for 2023: Timorese Infusion, Indigenous Games, Dancing around India, Melanesian Infusion, Africa meets the Middle East, Turkish Rhythms and many more! 

SHARING | For International Women's Day this year, our Executive Assistant Jane Felstead wrote an article titled 'Criticisms of Women’s Day (And Some Unbridled Positivity)'.

In the article, Jane reflects on IWD by acknowledging the importance of raising awareness for the various issues faced by women globally. She highlights the need to pay tribute to intersectional issues including restrictions on bodily autonomy, lack of access to education, domestic and partner violence and discrimination faced by trans women.

Jane also notes that IWD celebrations in workplaces often assign additional labor to women, who are already busy with full schedules. 

Despite this, as an organisation, we believe in the importance of celebrating the supportive community of women at Cultural Infusion. Jane asked the women in the office to share some kind words about each other with the purpose of uplifting one another and building belonging.

Click the link below to read some of those sentiments. 

SPOTLIGHTING | Cultural Calendar: Fan Dance Day, 3 April. 

Fan Dance Day, occurring on the 3 April each year, celebrates the long history of the traditional fan dance in Asia. With vibrant traditional clothing and fans, it acknowledges the important art form that has been around for centuries.  Performances typically involve live traditional music and are enjoyed by people from all around the world.

Cultural Infusion offers a Chinese Fan Dance program, an engaging interactive program in which students can learn how to perform the traditional dance. With their own eye-catching fans, students will have an entirely unique, educational experience. 

Find out more about our Chinese Fan Dance program, below.   

INTERVIEWED | Global Inclusion Online Forum

Peter Mousaferiadis was interviewed by the Global Inclusion Online Forum about his journey in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) work.

Peter spoke about his experience as a CEO in improving company culture to create a space where everybody belongs and feels valued. He details the advantages of a diverse workforce where a variety of skills and perspectives provide the ability to overcome challenges and build resilience.

Peter also discussed the need to be vigilant against unfair work practices. He spoke on how data equity and transformational analytics are able to identify through a multifactorial analysis where equity is occurring and where it might not be in the workplace. 

Cultural Infusion works to improve DEI in the workplace through our tool Diversity Atlas, a data-driven analytics platform that measures cultural and demographic diversity.  

PUBLISHING | Capturing Cultural and Linguistic Diversity in Australia: AAG

Cultural Infusion is proud to have contributed to the Capturing Cultural and Linguistic Diversity in Australia: AAG (Australian Association of Gerontology) position paper published this month. 

Our CEO and Founder Peter Mousaferiadis provided insight to the paper which aims to share how cultural and linguistic diversity is captured in Australian government data. 

The research explores which variables are currently used to measure cultural and linguistic diversity in Australia and how the government selects, analyses, groups and reports on these data sets.

The paper provides the AAG Position Statement on how CALD could be better identified and measured in Australian government data reports and clarifies what is meant by the term ‘CALD’.
Cultural Infusion supports the four recommendations  provided at the end of the paper. These recommendations to the Australian Government are to:
  • Consistently capture the 12 variables suggested by the ABS.
  • Stop using “CALD” to describe a type of person.
  • Identify and report on variables that relate to cultural & linguistic diversity based on the aim of the report.
  • Report clearly on which variables used to explore Australia’s cultural and linguistic diversity.
 

CO-PRESENTING | HerStory

This month, Diversity Atlas partnered with HerStory to stage the largest Global Summit for Women's Stories in Washington DC last week.

Cultural Infusion's Senior Cultural Ambassador Getrude Matshe is the founder of HerStory. The global and collaborative initiative brings women from all cultures together to share inspirational, enlightening and uplifting personal stories and experiences of issues that are affecting women – socially, economically and environmentally.

The event hosts influential female thought leaders across a variety of backgrounds and professionalisms including business and entrepreneurship; health and wellness; family and relationships, social justice, creativity and spirituality. 

Getrude presented Diversity Atlas at the Cultural Wellness Center in Minneapolis, where the survey mapped the cultural makeup of the conference across a range of cultural pillars. 

HIGHLIGHTING | Upcoming International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace | 24 April every year

The day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2018 to promote the values of multilateralism and international cooperation, which are essential for achieving global peace, security, and development.

Multilateralism refers to the practice of countries working together to address common challenges and achieve common goals through international cooperation and collaboration. The United Nations is a prime example of multilateralism in action, as it brings together countries from all around the world to work together on issues of global importance, such as climate change, poverty and conflict prevention.

The International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace aims to raise awareness of the importance of multilateralism and to encourage people and governments around the world to support and promote it. It also highlights the three pillars of the UN – peace and security, development and human rights – and emphasises the interconnectedness of these pillars.

The International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of working together to achieve common goals and to promote the values of cooperation, dialogue, and diplomacy as essential tools for building a more peaceful, just and sustainable world. 

DISCUSSING | Is Survey Anonymity Good or Bad?

Diversity Atlas’ Cultural Attaché Quincy Hall discusses anonymity in DEI surveys in his latest Product Update, Is Survey Anonymity Good or Bad?

Quincy’s article explores the benefits and drawbacks of anonymity in surveys designed to gather sensitive information from participants. He describes how  organisations seeking to create a diversity profile through self-identification queries must decide whether to deploy the survey from within their own HR systems or engage a third-party data collector who can ensure anonymity.  

Anonymity may provide better data due to participants being more likely to answer sensitive questions truthfully, however some administrators want the ability to link up responses to internal HR records and therefore cannot retain anonymity. 
Quincy shares his key findings based on his experiences at Diversity Atlas:
  • The increase in responses from anonymous participants is reported by customers across various sectors, although the degree of variation in results depends on the industry, country, function, and level of hierarchy. 
  • The level of trust the staff has for the company, as well as the communications strategy, are also important factors.
  • People want to be seen and heard, counted, and free to identify themselves, but their data and identity privacy is important, and anonymity guarantees the link between whole-self identity and privacy.
In the end, we believe keeping the participants’ identities anonymous is the right thing to do when collecting sensitive information as this will allow the participant to answer truthfully and produce the most in-depth diversity data possible. 

34. VIC | ECCV | ISSUING | eBulletin | March 2023

This week, we joined our national counterparts in Canberra for a two-day member forum held by the Federation of Ethnic Communities Councils (FECCA). For the first time, the chairs, CEOs and policy directors of state and regional ethnic communities' councils gathered to explore advocacy priorities, organisational 
synergies and future strategies. We were inspired by the energy, commitment and great work being done at the grassroots level to support migrant and refugee communities across Australia.
 
Thanks to the support of Minister for Multiculturalism, Andrew Giles, a FECCA delegation held a series meetings at Parliament House with federal Ministers and opposition MPs. We were also honoured to attend a dinner at Government House at the invitation of His Excellency, the Governor-General, David Hurley.
 
In a media conference with the Canberra press gallery, we took the opportunity to stand with our national colleagues to endorse a First Nations Voice to Parliament. ECCV supports the three pillars of the Uluru Statement: Voice, Treaty, and Truth. As we outline in our Position Statement, the upcoming referendum is a critical step in our national journey towards genuine reconciliation, and a more just and inclusive Australia.
 
Closer to home, we were pleased to attend yesterday’s meeting of the Victorian Government’s Anti-Racism Taskforce to discuss the draft Anti-Racism Strategy. ECCV is proud to join the taskforce and contribute to an Action Plan to tackle racism.
 
We were also delighted to attend the Victorian Multicultural Gala this month, where we connected with many of our members, stakeholders and friends. The night was a testament to the diversity and vibrancy of our state's multicultural communities, and we congratulate the Victorian Multicultural Commission on its 40th anniversary, and yet another successful Gala, with a record-breaking 1300 attendees.
 
It has been a big month of celebrations and festivals. We wish our Muslim friends Ramadan Kareem.
 
Eddie Micallef, Chairperson

SUPPORTING | First Nations Voice to Parliament

ECCV has released a Position Statement on the upcoming referendum this year on enshrining a First Nations Voice. Developed in consultation with Reconciliation Victoria, and in line with FECCA, the Statement affirms our support for the Uluru Statement from the Heart and emphasises the importance of working to achieve all three pillars of action: Voice, Treaty and Truth. 

EXPLORING | Multicultural Disability Hub | now live

We've been delighted by the response to our Multicultural Disability Hub, launched on our website last month. The Hub centralises our work supporting people with disability in multicultural communities, including our policy publications as well as in-language resources and a directory support service directory. We also put in place a Digital Accessibility Tool to make our website more accessible.  

MELB | METRO | IMPROVING | Access to Melbourne's train network

ECCV is working with Metro Trains Melbourne (METRO) to learn more about the barriers migrant and refugee communities face in using Melbourne’s train network. As part of this work, we are conducting a survey to better understand the concerns, experiences and ideas of people from diverse backgrounds for how to improve access to travel and information about the train network.  

VIC | CAVI | FORUM | Multicultural carer needs | next week

ECCV is partnering with Carers Victoria (CAVI) to host a forum looking at how to engage with and support carers in migrant and refugee communities, with a focus on older carers. The forum will feature guest speakers from Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, Carers Victoria lived experience representatives.  

INTRODUCING | New All One Together anti-racism ambassador

ECCV would like to warmly welcome Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC) as a new ambassador for our All One Together anti-racism project, which supports workplaces to improve their diversity and inclusion policies and practices. ECLC joins 25 other ambassadors that have committed to ending racism in the workplace.  

SUPPORTING | Our communities to access the PSB

The latest round of the Victorian government's $250 Power Saving Bonus program began on Friday, 24 March. ECCV's experienced multicultural outreach team is ready to support people from migrant and refugee backgrounds across the state to claim the new $250 payment and learn more about how to save on utility costs. Our team can help people in their language.  

TRAINING | Free elder abuse awareness training 2-Day program | 2 & 9 May 2023

ECCV is running a two-day bilingual community educator training workshop on 2 and 9 May, as part of our Elder Abuse Awareness project. This free training program aims to equip people with the skills and resources to deliver in-language information sessions on how to prevent, identify and respond to elder abuse. Educators are paid for the sessions they conduct.  

CO-DESIGNING | A program for preventing falls

ECCV is part of a research team with Melbourne Health, University of Melbourne, Western Health and multicultural service providers to develop an exercise program to prevent falls, part of the MOVE Together project. We are seeking people aged over 65 who are Arabic, Italian and Chinese speakers to help co-design the program by taking part in small workshops in May.  

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

SPOTLIGHTING | The Vision of the 2023 Parliament Convening at Chicago Press Conference

On Monday 20 March 2023, the Parliament of the World's Religions convened local media and community leaders in an special invitation to answer the call to conscience at the 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions, gathering thousands of global and local communities of faith. 

The press conference provided a unique view into the vision of the 9th global Convening of the Parliament of the World's Religions, Program Chair Rev. Phyllis Curott noted that:
This Parliament will be the most important and largest gathering of the world’s religious and spiritual leaders, and practitioners, uniting in a collective, courageous and clear reply to the most dangerous crisis confronting us today – authoritarianism.
An urgent theme and call to action for people of faith, spiritual, and ethical convictions; which envisions local and global communities committing to the core mission of the organization - a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world.
Highlights from the Press Conference 

PUBLISHING | Interfaith Partners “Faith Action on the SDGs: Clean Water & Sanitation”

This March UNEP's Faith for Earth Initiative, the Parliament of the World’s Religions, United Religions Initiative, and the Yale Forum on Religion and Ecology published a supplement to the 2020 publication "Faith Action on the UN Sustainable Development Goals."

The supplement titled "Faith Action on the SDGs: Clean Water & Sanitation" is the first in a series of periodic reports that will highlight new and ongoing activities of faith-based organizations. This issue specifically showcases a sampling of inspiring efforts to collect, conserve, and create access to clean water. 

ADVOCATING | Critical Drivers of Change: Faith Communities & Climate Action

The Parliament of the World's Religions believes that faith voices will be crucial drivers of change, as highlighted by the Climate Action Program which continues to pursue the implementation of the Human Right to a Clean, Healthy, and Sustainable Environment.

This theme will be a strong one at the upcoming 2023 Parliament of the World’s Religions, where the CATF will continue to advocate for strong action to protect our planet and Earth’s biodiversity from the effects of the climate crisis at the Climate Assembly on Monday and throughout the week as part of the Climate Action track. 

ANNOUNCING | Winners of the 2023 H.M. King Abdullah II World Interfaith Harmony Week Prize

On March 21st, the World Interfaith Harmony Week initiative announced the winners of the 2023 H.M. King Abdullah II World Interfaith Harmony Week Prize.

The Parliament of the World’s Religions shares its deep-felt congratulations to the prize winners and all organizers of the 2023 observance. 

EXPLORING | 2022 Annual Report's The PoWR of Community

On Thursday, February 16th the Parliament of the World's Religions released its 2022 Annual Report spotlighting “The PoWR of Community” through an organizational overview of the critical work of PoWR's task forces, working groups, committees, volunteers, and trustees in the advancement of the organization’s mission and the success of the 2023 Parliament Convening in Chicago, USA. 

EXPLORING | The Schedule for the 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions

The week's schedule for the 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions is now LIVE!

Program offerings from Sunday through Friday offer attendees the opportunity to experience the diversity of the city of Chicago, address the theme of "defending freedom & human rights", and connect with experts from around the world. 

SIGNING | Up for the Parade of Faiths

The Parade of Faiths celebrates Chicago's local community, local religious, and cultural diversity. Local faith communities can represent their communities in the parade with floats and displays of dance and movement. 

INVITING | Essayists for Global Ethic Essay Contest 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. 

WELCOMING | Messages of Peace & Comfort for President Jimmy Carter by Carter Center

On Saturday 18 February 2023 the Carter Center announced that Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States and Founder of the Carter Center, had entered hospice care.

The Parliament of the World's Religions joins the global interfaith movement and people of faith, spirituality, and goodwill around the world in prayer for President Carter, his family, and his community.

The Carter Center is currently accepting messages of peace and comfort for President Carter and his family, share your own message at cartercenter.kudoboard.com/boards/wellwishes 

PERFORMING | World Peace Benefit Concert to Support the Mission of the Parliament | 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. 

WATCHING | Interfaith Harmony & Environmental Justice

On Saturday 11 February 2023, Green Hope Foundation hosted the webinar "Interfaith Harmony & Environmental Justice" in observance of World Interfaith Harmony Week. Featuring the participation of Marie Daher, Hawa Diallo, Nitin Ajmera, Steve Chiu, Alieu J. Pusah, Pragna Vasupal, and Kehkashan Basu. 

EXPLORING | New Ways to “Shop for Good” in Support of the Parliament as the Field Changes

Nonprofit organizations like the Parliament of the World’s Religions depend on a diverse portfolio of revenue sources. One of these sources has been a growing emphasis on the field “shop for good”, where businesses offer shoppers the opportunity to donate funds from their purchases and online activity.

One of the largest businesses offering this service, Amazon, ended its AmazonSmile donation program effective February 20, 2023. PoWR supporters can still “shop for good” through donation programs at DealAid.org, PayPal, eBay, and RoundUp App. 

WATCHING | Why the Parliament Needs You & Why You Need to be at the Parliament

On Wednesday 8 March 2023, PoWR’s Women’s Task Force celebrated International Women’s Day with a pre-Parliament event exploring the critical importance of the Parliament of the World’s Religions in the advancement of women’s dignity across the world’s religious and spiritual communities.

Learn from task force members the history of the Women’s Program, the role of women at the world’s largest interfaith Convening, and the exciting programming happening at the 2023 Parliament of the World’s Religions! 

WATCHING | World Peace Concert

On Sunday 5 March 2023, Musicians for the Greater Good hosted a benefit concert in support of the Parliament of the World’s Religions. Donations in support of PoWR will be accepted through the end of March.

The World Peace Concert featured leading musicians from different countries, drawing attention to the need for a peaceful resolution to the many conflicts going on across the globe. 

WATCHING | A Call to Conscience: Students, Educators & the Parliament of the World’s Religions

On Saturday18 February 2023, the Parliament of the World’s Religions joined the Ripple Conference for a virtual program as part of their annual conference exploring the theme of Stretching the Limits of Religious Identities.

PoWR’s information session titled “A Call to Conscience: Students, Educators & the Parliament of the World’s Religions” explores the opportunities for students, educators, and institutions at the upcoming 2023 Parliament Convening. 

STAYING | Up to date with the work of the Parliament

 

ADVANCING | The mission of the Parliament of the World's Religions by supporting:

 

 SUPPORTING 

36. 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.


37. AUST | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way

 

     ACKNOWLEDGING 

    38. 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.

    39. 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 the Caretaker at this time.

    40. 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.