The countdown to ECCV's 50th anniversary next year has provided a timely opportunity to reflect on our history and refine our vision for the years ahead.
We're excited to begin the process of developing a new Strategic Plan, which will present a clear roadmap forward, outlining our future ambitions and addressing our fundamental “why”.
The Strategic Plan 2024-34 will be delivered in April next year, and we look forward to consulting with our members and stakeholders through this process.
We're also counting down to this year's Voice referendum, which offers a life-in-a-lifetime opportunity to achieve meaningful change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by enshrining a First Nations Voice to Parliament. Our migrant and refugee communities have a vital role to play in supporting this historic change.
That's why we're excited to co-host an Interactive Town Hall Sunday 13 August 2023 with Settlement Services International and the Multicultural Australia for Voice alliance. The event will be an open forum to discuss what the Voice to Parliament is, and what it means for all Australians. ECCV is proud to be playing a leading role in raising awareness about the referendum among Victoria's multicultural communities.
This month, we welcomed the reappointment of Vivienne Nguyen as Chairperson of the Victorian Multicultural Commission. Viv has been a champion for migrant and refugee communities across the state in her capacity as Chairperson and beyond. We look forward to continuing to work closely with both Viv and the Commission to improve outcomes for multicultural Victoria.
We'd also like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Chris Hazelman, who retired this month after 15 years as Manager of the Ethnic Council of Shepparton & District. He has been a formidable advocate for multicultural communities in the regions, and played a pivotal leadership role during the pandemic and last year’s devastating floods. We wish Chris all the best.
Eddie Micallef, Chairperson
Highlights
ECCV commends new gambling harm reforms
ECCV welcomes the reforms announced this month by the state government to implement mandatory pre-commitment, carded play and load up, making Victoria's gambling harm protections the strongest in Australia. A 2018 ECCV survey revealed that more than half of respondents view gambling as a significant issue in their community, highlighting how urgently reforms are needed in this space.
Interactive town hall on First Nations Voice
Linda Burney MP and Tasneem Chopra OAM will be guest speakers at the interactive town hall ECCV is co-hosting about the Voice referendum on 13 August. This free event will feature a panel discussion and festivities such as food trucks, market stalls and live performances. Attendees are encouraged to ask questions and share their thoughts as part of the panel discussion.
ECCV launches new online Ageing Well Hub
Earlier this month, ECCV launched our Ageing Well Hub, a dedicated portal on our website for seniors from migrant and refugee communities and their families and carers as well as the multicultural aged care sector. The Hub brings together our policy and advocacy work across key areas, such as elder abuse prevention, aged care sector support and seniors health and wellbeing.
Multicultural communities Walking Together
On 15 July, ECCV partnered with Yes23, Islamic Council of Victoria and Migrant Workers Centre to host a workshop for leaders from multicultural and multifaith leaders about the Indigenous Voice to Parliament. More than 50 people came to Trades Hall to learn about the importance of recognising First Nations people in the Australian Constitution and how multicultural communities can support this historic step.
Opportunities and Resources
Expressions of Interest: Strategic Plan 2024-34 | submissions close Monday 7 August 2023
ECCV is seeking experienced consultants with a passion for multicultural affairs and the community sector to facilitate the development and delivery of a new Strategic Plan. The Strategic Plan 2024-34 will clarify ECCV’s purpose, vision, and mission, and detail objectives to guide actions and effectively measure social impact.
JOB OPPORTUNITY: Policy Adviser | applications close Sunday 6 August 2023
ECCV is seeking an experienced and driven Policy Adviser with a passion for multiculturalism and social justice to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to our evidence-based work. The Policy Adviser will coordinate our Policy Advisory Committees and utilise high-level research and analysis skills to produce submissions and reports.