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GEIFN | CONSOLIDATED | Community Information | Friday 1 December 2023

Fast Facts: Community Responses Victoria & Australia

  1. AUST | VTMH | OFFERING | Reflections following the Referendum
  2. CoPP | PPCR | STRIVING | Towards Meaningful Reconciliation

     GRANTING 
  3. CoPP | GRANTING | Quick Response Grants extra round for 2023 | applications close Monday 4 December 2023
  4. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural community infrastructure fund | closing Wednesday 6 December 2023
  5. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Men’s Sheds Grant | applications close 5pm Friday 8 December 2023

     EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING 
  6. AUST | SMEAPN | TRAINING | Framing Age Online Training Modules
  7. VIC | GOV | NOMINATING | Skilled Migration program 2023–2024
  8. VIC | GOV | ADDING | Auslan courses to Free TAFE for a more inclusive Victoria

     ENGAGING 
  9. VIC | GOV | ENGAGING | 16 days of activism events and activities
  10. CoPP | GOV | ENCOURAGING | Where do you stand this 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence?
  11. VIC | VEOHRC | CAMPAIGNING | Rights in action! Human Rights Week 2023
  12. VIC | VEOHRC | HEARING | Your say: On racial and religious vilification and discrimination
  13. CoPP | S2b | GATHERING | Laneway Festive Market | Sunday 3 December 2023 | 10am–3pm
  14. CoPP | PPLS | COMMEMORATING | International Day of People with Disability | Monday 4 December 2023 | 10am–10.45am
  15. CoPP | GOV | HEARING | Your say: Positive Ageing in Port Phillip – Proposed changes to Aged Care services in Port Phillip | submissions close Sunday 10 December 2023
  16. CoPP | GOV | WALKING | Street Art and Ghost signs of St Kilda | Sunday 17 December 2023 | 10am–12noon
  17. AUST | BERG | HEARING | Your say: on the future of the Not-for-Profit (NFP) sector | submissions close 20 December 2023
  18. CoPP | GOV | CALLING | Nominees for Proudly Port Phillip Community Awards | nominations close Friday 22 December 2023
  19. AUST | AWAU | CALLING | Nominees for Young achiever award | nominations close Tuesday 13 February 2024
  20. MELB | EQPR | DEVELOPING | Your Adaptive Leadership Capacity | 28-30 May 2024
  21. AUST | EQPR | GATHERING | Better Together 2024 announced | Friday 14–Saturday 15 June 2024

     COLLECTIVISING 
  22. NSW | DPT | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Festive Giving to our Cherished Animal Family
  23. NSW | CPI | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Pig Sanctuary Bushfire recovery
  24. NSW | NHR | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Rescued Hen Enclosures
  25. VIC | LfF | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards keeping Greater Gliders safe from planned burns
  26. WA | DBH | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Disrupt Burrup Hub's legal defence fund
  27. AUST | CUIN | UPDATING | Making Connections and Connecting Communities
  28. AUST | ILF | SHARING | The Gift of Reading this Festive Season! | Christmas 2023
  29. AUST | PNABCP | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Sponsoring Birth Certificates for Aboriginals as a Human Right
  30. AUST | THCO | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards helping make journalism more constructive
  31. AUST | TJP | RAISING | Awareness, Funds and Support to deliver Trans Justice
  32. WORLD | CHUFFED | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards metal detectors for Ukrainians
  33. WORLD | HUMANITIX | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards The Life You Can Save
  34. WORLD | IFD | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards LGTBIQA+ Channel
  35. WORLD | PWR | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards global interfaith movement
  36. WORLD | WIKIPEDIA | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds so everyone can have equal access to knowledge, forever

     ANNOUNCING 
  37. AUST | RLS | ASKING | Are you summer water ready?
  38. VIC | CFA | ADVISING | Summer fire safety
  39. CoPP | GOV | ADVISING | Community Information Resources with 5 steps to keep safe during extreme weather
  40. VIC | QUIT | LAUNCHING | New quit smoking campaign
  41. VIC | GOV | CONNECTING | Bilingual kinders' kids to the world
  42. VIC | GOV | DRIVING | Power bills down for social housing residents
  43. VIC | VTMH | PODCASTING | Community Engagement with Purpose – A Guide For Approaching Community Engagement Work In Mental Health Settings
  44. VIC | VMC | LAUNCHING | VMC 40 year anniversary research report

     SUPPORTING 
  45. AUST | MANY | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way
  46. AUST | MULTI | Supporting Voices, Treaty and Meaningful Reconciliation with First Peoples, Settlers, and Those Who Come After
  47. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Coronavirus Response
  48. AUST | MULTI | UPDATING | Coronavirus Response

     ACKNOWLEDGING 
  49. Acknowledgment to Sources
  50. Bye bye to Essentialists
  51. Self-Isolators, Non-Essentials And The Homebound


1. AUST | VTMH | OFFERING | Reflections following the Referendum

Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) has taken some time following the Voice Referendum to reflect and attempt to find words to express our disappointment regarding this outcome. 
We deeply acknowledge the courage and generosity of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and leaders who extended this invitation to the Australian community to walk together in this journey for learning and healing together.

In the weeks since the referendum we have reflected on the impacts that colonisation has had in shaping practices in the mental health sector, including our service, and the continued challenges faced in providing culturally responsive care given the history of these lands.

VTMH deeply admires the strength and resilience of First Nations communities across the country. We commit to rising strong, leaning in, and to finding ways to honour our commitment to learning and healing together.

We encourage teams and individuals in all sectors to continue joining collective efforts to support a more culturally safe and humanistic system and society. 

To learn more about what is happening in Victoria towards truth, treaty and voice, we encourage you to visit the links below: 

2. CoPP | PPCR | STRIVING | Towards Meaningful Reconciliation

Port Phillip Citizens for Reconciliation (PPCR) is a voluntary, not for profit community group. 
It began in 1997 at a public meeting, at St Kilda Town Hall, convened by Jacki Willox and attended by hundreds of people, including politicians, councillors, indigenous musicians and general public.

Objectives
  • To maintain local awareness of the reconciliation agenda, recognising that information, understanding and community discussion are integral to the process.
  • promoting an understanding of the history of Aboriginal people, particularly in our local area.
Mungo, our monthly newsletter, continues to be a good news source for events, circulating annually to over 3,500 as well as members of other networks.


 GRANTING 

3. CoPP | GRANTING | Quick Response Grants extra round for 2023 | applications close Monday 4 December 2023

The City of Port Phillip (CoPP) Quick Response Grant Program are small grants available at short notice to eligible organisations and individuals throughout the year. 
The grants support the establishment and delivery of valuable services, programs, activities, and events to the City of Port Phillip community. The Guidelines are available on the Port Phillip Council Funds, grants and subsidies webpage.

Individuals

Are you a Port Phillip resident who needs support to participate in an educational, sporting, cultural, recreational, or artistic event at an elite and competitive level? You can apply for a Quick Response grant for up to $500.

Organisations

Are you a community group or social enterprise that needs support to deliver a project quickly that will benefit the community? You can apply for a Quick Response grant for up to $2000.

4. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural community infrastructure fund | closing Wednesday 6 December 2023

The 2023-24 Multicultural Community Infrastructure Fund (MCIF) supports Victoria’s multicultural community organisations to have safe and secure places to celebrate and share their history and traditions, build connections, and thrive.

Up to $400,000 in funding is available for community organisations to upgrade, renovate, extend or build multicultural community infrastructure. Funding will be available across eight categories. 

5. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Men’s Sheds Grant | applications close 5pm Friday 8 December 2023

Men’s Sheds provide a place for men to come together and build friendships and support networks. They improve the health and wellbeing of their members by reducing social isolation and promoting social inclusion. Shedders get to share their skills, learn new ones, and make new friends in their local area. 

Applications for grants are now open to help establish, expand, or improve men’s sheds, as part of a $1 million investment by the Allan Labor Government. 

Opening the new grant round, Minister for Carers and Volunteers Ros Spence said grants of up to $100,000 each will support communities across the state.

 EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING 

6. AUST | SMEAPN | TRAINING | Framing Age Online Training Modules

We all want to live in a society that respects, values and celebrates everyone regardless of age. We can begin by thinking and talking differently about people as we grow older.

Presented by Southern Metro Elder Abuse Prevention Network this self-paced training will show you how to talk about age, ageing and issues that affect older people in ways that reduce ageist attitudes and behaviours.

It takes between 1.5 and 3 hours to complete the training, and you can complete it at your own pace when it suits you.

7. VIC | GOV | NOMINATING | Skilled Migration program 2023–2024

Victoria’s 2023-24 Skilled Visa Nomination Program is now open. To be considered for a state nomination you must submit a Registration of Interest (ROI).

Applicants living in Victoria and overseas are encouraged to submit a ROI after reading the eligibility requirements:

8. VIC | GOV | ADDING | Auslan courses to Free TAFE for a more inclusive Victoria

The Victorian Government is investing $186 million to extend the eligibility of Free TAFE, providing government-funded training to every Victorian regardless of existing qualifications.

Free TAFE has already benefited over 153,000 students, saving them nearly $394 million since 2019. 

The Diploma of Auslan, Diploma of Interpreting (Auslan) and Advanced Diploma of Interpreting (Auslan) were added to Victoria’s Free TAFE course list this year, joining more than 80 courses in priority areas. 

 ENGAGING 

9. VIC | GOV | ENGAGING | 16 days of activism events and activities

The Victorian Government, through Respect Victoria and Safe and Equal, is supporting 16 days of Activism to shed light on gender-based violence in Victoria.  

Over the 16 days, councils, women’s health services and prevention partners will run events and activities across the state. You can find toolkits, in language printable assets and safe and equals fast facts to start conversations with your community.  

10. CoPP | GOV | ENCOURAGING | Where do you stand this 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence?

Everyone deserves to be safe, equal and respected. And we know disrespectful attitudes are a driver of men’s violence against women.
This 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence, City of Port Phillip (CoPP) is encouraging our community to be active bystanders and providing the resources you need to call out disrespect when they see it in their everyday lives and online.

Active bystanders have a powerful role in helping to change attitudes and behaviours that allow to occur disrespect, harassment and violence towards women.

How the campaign started

16 Days of Activism runs each year, beginning on UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 25 November until World Human Rights Day 10 December. 
25 November is especially significant as it serves as a reminder of the legacy of The Mirabal sisters, three young women who risked their lives to fight for peace in their country, the Dominican Republic. 
 
On 25 November 1960, sisters Patria, Minerva and Maria Teresa Mirabal, three political activists who actively opposed the cruelty and systematic violence of the Trujillo dictatorship in the Dominican Republic, were clubbed to death and dumped at the bottom of a cliff by Trujillo’s secret police.

The Mirabal sisters became symbols of the feminist resistance, and in commemoration of their deaths. In 1980, the 25th of November was declared International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women in Latin America. This international day was formally recognised by the United Nations in 1999.

Suggested Reading from Respect Victoria

We all face unfair assumptions and treatment based on gender. Ideas and beliefs about gender limit us, drive this harm, and can lead to violence against women. What we read can help us challenge our attitudes and create a future where we are all safe, equal and respected.

Respect Victoria has put together a suggested reading list of books for people of all ages. The list includes books for young readers as well as adult fiction and non-fiction.

You can see the full list via the further reading link below.

Always remember that our Port Phillip Libraries are happy to purchase books based on your suggestions and we have many of these books in our collection.

#16DAYS4KIDS | Colouring Your Conversation

#16DAYS4KIDS is the 2023 campaign created by WHISE, in collaboration with the Promoting Respect and Equity Together (PRET) Regional Partnership.

Teaching children about respect and gender equality is crucial for their personal and social development. It equips them with essential life skills, fosters positive relationships, and contributes to a more compassionate and harmonious society.

WHISE and artist Nea Valdivia have designed a range of colouring in sheets for younger kids which create an opportunity to talk to children about the campaign.  

By doing these activities, we create an opportunity to have meaningful conversations with children about these topics. You can download these via the link below and we will have copies of these sheets available in our libraries for everyone to collect.

Help and Support

If you are worried about someone, or need to seek help yourself, please contact one of the support services below.

In an emergency or if you are or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 000 for Police and/or Ambulance assistance.

The following crisis and counselling services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week:

11. VIC | VEOHRC | CAMPAIGNING | Rights in action! Human Rights Week 2023 

This year the  Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission will partner with the Victorian Multicultural Commission and five other independent commissions for Human Rights week 2023. This collaborative partnership will encourage Victorians to take part in a week of daily actions to challenge their knowledge of human rights and implement this knowledge in a practical way. 

Human Rights Week 2023 actions will be shared across all social media platforms from 3–10 December. To receive these actions directly, register on VEOHRC. 

Follow each commission's actions by using the #HRW2023

12. VIC | VEOHRC | HEARING | Your say: On racial and religious vilification and discrimination

The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) and the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) seek community input on racial and religious vilification and discrimination through online consultations.

The feedback will inform three VEOHRC projects: research on drivers and prevention of vilification, workplace guidelines on preventing racial discrimination, and an options paper on a third-party reporting mechanism for vilification and hate crimes.

There will be five consultations conducted over Zoom.

13. CoPP | S2b | GATHERING | Laneway Festive Market | Sunday 3 December 2023 | 10am–3pm

CELEBRATING | Festive Season Makers Market and Affordable Art Show

From 10am, a sensational Makers Market in Space2b Social Design (S2b)'s colourful laneway (at the back of Space2b) will showcase a wide range of multi-cultural gifts, homewares, food and fashion items.
  • Local Live Music
  • Delicious Syrian Food
  • Coffee Throughout The Day
  • Beautiful Handmade Ethical Products
  • Tick off your gift list early!

LAUNCHING | Affordable Art Show | 12noon-1pm

At 12pm join us at Space2b, 144 Chapel Street St. Kilda for the opening exhibition of the fabulous Affordable Art Show.

Not to be confused with a large Melbourne Affordable Art Show earlier this year where the maximum price for artwork was $10,000! The Space2b Affordable Art Show proudly supported by Bendigo Bank has a much humbler artwork maximum of $400. Not only is it affordable but you will be supporting established, emerging and many culturally and linguistically diverse artists.

Enjoy some light refreshments and meet the artists from 12pm-1pm
Together we make a difference!


14. CoPP | PPLS | COMMEMORATING | International Day of People with Disability | Monday 4 December 2023 | 10am–10.45am

International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) aims to promote community awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability.
Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) are delighted to celebrate IDPwD with a morning of fun, laughter and music. We are hosting a drumming workshop for local families to learn to play and create music together, regardless of ability or experience.

This should be a very special and unmissable event. Grab your tickets via the link below.

15. CoPP | GOV | HEARING | Your say: Positive Ageing in Port Phillip – Proposed changes to Aged Care services in Port Phillip | submissions close Sunday 10 December 2023 

The Australian Government has made changes to how it funds services for older people as part of its aged care reforms. The City of Port Phillip (CoPP) supports these reforms to make life better for older people, helping them stay independent at home while improving quality and safety.

After reviewing our current services, Council has found it's not possible to meet the new requirements for in-home services.

We plan to keep offering community-based services like:
  • Social programs
  • Transportation
  • Meal deliveries
  • Our hop-on hop-off bus service.
  • Additionally, we are working on a new service called the Community Connector to help older people access various services, activities, and information from different providers in the City.
Visit the Australian Government's website on aged care reforms for more information about the changes.

We are asking for community feedback on the proposal from Wednesday 8 November to 10 December 2023. Visit Have Your Say for more information on how you can join the conversation.

Need a hard copy of the survey?
You can find a paper (hard-copy) version of the survey at St Kilda Town Hall, or at your local library. Translated versions of the survey will be available in a variety of languages.

Please return hard-copy surveys to 'Aged Care Services, St Kilda Town Hall, 99A Carlisle Street, St Kilda'. Note: surveys must be received by Sunday 10 December 2023.


16. CoPP | GOV | WALKING | Street Art and Ghost signs of St Kilda | Sunday 17 December 2023 | 10am–12noon 

Join City of Port Phillip (CoPP) and Tobias Nash to travel the streets, back lanes and industrial walls of St Kilda seeking the hidden ghost signs: ancient advertising typographies and how they relate to contemporary artforms such as graffiti and street art.

Travel the streets, back lanes and industrial walls of St Kilda seeking the hidden ghost signs: ancient advertising typographies and how they relate to contemporary artforms such as graffiti and street art. Access (wheelchair, mobility).
  • Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street. Meet at Duke Street, Library rear entrance, End: Rear St Kilda Library, Duke Street, St Kilda
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: essential, bookings open 17 November, online via Trybooking

17. AUST | BERG | HEARING | Your say: on the future of the Not-for-Profit (NFP) sector | submissions close 20 December 2023.

Australian Government's Blueprint Expert Reference Group (BERG), a group of sector representatives, is developing a Blueprint for the future of the Not-for-Profit (NFP) sector. The BERG has released an issues paper for public consultation and invites your feedback.

Feedback on the issues paper will inform the development of a NFP Blueprint which will provide a strategic vision for the sector for the next 10 years.

Your feedback is important, as it will help the BERG understand what is needed for NFP organisations and charities to continue to support communities and vulnerable people. 

18. CoPP | GOV | CALLING | Nominees for Proudly Port Phillip Community Awards | nominations close Friday 22 December 2023

Proudly Port Phillip Community Awards celebrate the extraordinary community contributions that make us proud to live, work and play in City of Port Phillip (CoPP). This is your chance to acknowledge the local groups, people and projects that play a key role in shaping our neighbourhoods - the small and the large efforts, the individual and collective efforts. 

Award Categories
  • Port Phillip Citizen of the Year Award
  • Port Phillip Young Citizen of the Year award
  • Sustainability Project/Initiative Award 
  • Community First Award
  • Small Business of the Year Award
All finalists are invited to the awards presentation evening, which will be held on Thursday 14 March 2024.

19. AUST | AWAU | CALLING | Nominees for Young achiever award | nominations close Tuesday 13 February 2024 

Awards Australia (AWAU)'s Young Achiever Awards acknowledge, encourage and most importantly promotes the positive achievements of all young people throughout Australia in every state. Up to and including 30 years of age as of 31st December each year.

No achievement is too small (or big!) and ALL young people should be applauded for their positive impacts on our local and wider communities.

20. MELB | EQPR | DEVELOPING | Your Adaptive Leadership Capacity | 28-30 May 2024

Seeking to elevate your leadership to drive LGBTIQA+ inclusion within your organisation?
Are you a member of an Employee Resource Group (ERG) looking to enhance your leadership skills? Or perhaps you're just starting out, finding your footing and navigating ways to overcome challenges?

The Equality Project (EQPR) is excited to invite you to our new Adaptive Leadership Program in Melbourne on 28-30 May 2024.
 
Our program is designed for ERG leads who are driving change within their organisations to foster inclusive workplace cultures. Whether you lead a DEI initiative, belong to an Employee Resource Group (ERG), or aspire to enhance your leadership skills, this program is your catalyst for growth.

21. AUST | EQPR | GATHERING | Better Together 2024 announced | Friday 14–Saturday 15 June 2024

The wait is over, Better Together 2024 dates are here.
Australia’s 6th National LGBTIQA+ Conference will take place in Djilang, Wadawurrung Country (Geelong, Victoria) at GMHBA Stadium, Kardinia Park.

Mark your calendar, buy your ticket, propose your session, and join The Equality Project (EQPR)
at GMHBA Stadium for Australia's LGBTIQA+ Community Conference.

The conference will explore the current issues facing the LGBTIQA+ movement in Australia, and celebrate where we've made progress.

We want to create opportunities to establish meaningful connections so we can work together, shape the narrative and drive positive change.

Launch price tickets are now on sale, session proposals are open and more information is available at The Equality Project website.

We don’t have all the answers, but we’re creating the space to ask the questions.
 

 COLLECTIVISING 

22. NSW | DPT | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Festive Giving to our Cherished Animal Family

Deep Peace Trust (DPT) is the largest animal sanctuary in Australia, every day we look after hundreds of animals and wildlife, all of whom have been through life-threatening circumstances. 

Despite the challenges, we find the joy that comes from giving every day is deeply nourishing and healing to both self and the sanctuary. 

With the festive season approaching, we wanted to ask if you could keep our animals on your giving list. 
Can you give a festive gift to our precious animal family this year?

Here's the sanctuary wish list for the rest of the year:
  • Buy Breakfast for Bessie the cow and her son Blessed 
  • Buy dinner for half of the brumbies in sanctuary 
  • Buy a large bale of hay for the sanctuary animals 
  • Buy the entire sanctuary breakfast 
  • Buy an entire truckload of hay for the sanctuary 

We’ve endured the challenges of unprecedented droughts, devastating fires, and major floods, but have always been anchored by the spirit of deep peace and our unwavering commitment to animals. With your support, we can continue to find the joy from giving each day to these precious beings. 

Please share our campaign with friends, family, and fellow animal lovers to help get out our message.
Your support extends beyond a donation; it's a testament to the profound bond humans share with all living beings.  It contributes to a different world of thinking about animals — with kindness, compassion and love. And this is vital today.

23. NSW | CPI | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Pig Sanctuary Bushfire recovery

Recently, this incredible non-profit animal rescue Contented Pig Inn (CPI) was hit by a bushfire. Thankfully they were able to protect the animals - but the damage to their property is overwhelming.
"What a day Tuesday was. We knew things were getting dire and the chance of the fires getting to our doorstep was likely. It happened sooner than anticipated and I had raced onto town to get our fuel restocked after the pump and vehicles were filled. No sooner than I was done, I got the call from a neighbour. It was on us. I've never driven so fast. On getting home, the RFS were there with advice to leave. Dave had notified the he was staying and so did I. We had pigs to protect and keep alive. There was never a chance we would leave the pigs.

We worked as a team, we worked hard, and we had 24 hours of the fight of our lives.

And we prevailed. No lives were lost. It was miraculous.

We still haven't slept properly. The smoke has been horrific, but we are alive, and so are the animals.

Thank you to everyone who was cheering us on from afar. We are so grateful for you. We could feel the battle being fought from the sidelines too. You're all wonderful.

It's going to take some time to recover. Physically and mentally I'm sure will have a moment of "wtf just happened" in a few days. For now we are ok, maybe a little wheezy and definitely tired, at worst.

We got this.

If you are able to, we would be so grateful for any and all help with our recovery efforts. The fire has taken its toll on the sanctuary, leaving a costly trail of destruction and a huge cleanup job.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts,
Kathie."
Their small team of volunteers and supporters have worked so hard to create this refuge, which provides a happy and safe life for pigs who have been rescued from neglect and abuse. 

Let's show them some love to get through this scary and challenging time.

24. NSW | NHR | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Rescued Hen Enclosures

NSW Hen Rescue's (NHR) Catherine has had to move between rentals eight times all the while rescuing thousands of animals. While she was devastated to face another massive move, they have finally made it to their new home!!

Here's an update from Catherine:
"All the donations so far have brought my husband and I both so much relief, to see so many people supporting us and our attempts to help the animals.
 
My husband David has been in and out of hospital with a 13cm blood clot, including a piece that got into his lungs which has added a lot of stress. It was so hard being 8 hours drive apart. 

We Made It: Finally, I was able to pay the deposit for the last removal truck and we have arrived at our new location! 

The Roosters Are Stoked: While we have finally arrived at the new location, we still have A LOT of enclosures to set up. Right now I have to bring 10 of the roosters in the house at night until I have funds for their houses. It makes for very noisy early mornings as I'm sure you can imagine! 

Despite the challenges, we are so pleased to have landed in our new property, knowing that it's a place where we can make an even greater impact on the lives of animals in need. We won't give up on them, and we know you won't either."
Can you help Catherine set up the last of the enclosures? Your donation will go towards housing those noisy roosters, and ongoing veterinary care.
  • Make a donation
  • Share: Please help us spread the word by sharing this update with your friends and family.

25. VIC | LfF | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards keeping Greater Gliders safe from planned burns

These little animals keep their babies in their pouches for three months, all the while gliding over 100 metres between trees!

Lawyers for Forests (LfF) at Save Our Strathbogie Forest are so in love with these little cuties, and really need our help to make sure they don't go extinct from human actions.

The group is taking legal action to make sure that planned burns are as safe as they can be for this endangered cutie and the hollow trees that they call home.

Will you stand with these animal lovers to protect an animal with no voice of its own?

26. WA | DBH | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Disrupt Burrup Hub's legal defence fund

In a shocking turn of events, the decision to hand over confidentially shot footage of activist group Disrupt Burrup Hub (DBH) by ABC Four Corners to WA police.

Disrupt Burrup Hub is pushing the boundaries of activism to save our environment. This move by the ABC and WA Government threatens their vital work. 

The Four Corners investigation was an exposé into the lengths the WA government, police and media will go to protect the interests of Woodside’s Burrup Hub. It followed the Disrupt Burrup Hub campaign leading up to a protest by 19-year-old campaigner Matilda Lane-Rose outside the house of the Woodside CEO, where Ms Lane-Rose was ambushed by more than a dozen counter-terror police lying in wait.
"I am a campaigner with Disrupt Burrup Hub as well as leading campaigns on other issues that affect my First Nations people such as deaths in custody, homelessness and protection of our sacred tribal lands. I was filmed by Four Corners on multiple days as part of the program they produced about police repression of climate protest in WA. I did not consent at any point to have my footage handed over to WA police. I consented to be filmed for a Four Corners investigation. I never consented to be filmed for a WA Police investigation.

As a First Nations justice campaigner with lived experience of incarceration, I am deeply concerned that the ABC may cause the imprisonment of vulnerable people by surrendering source material to police. Given that I work on a number of other social issues affecting my First Nations community with other campaigners involved with Disrupt Burrup Hub, it is quite possible that confidential discussions that have no relevance to the Four Corners story were still captured by the ABC. I do not consent to WA police being given any of this footage, and if the ABC hand over any footage it will be a deep betrayal of people who trusted the ABC to give them a voice.”
It's time to take a stand for freedom of the press and the future of our planet!

Here's how you can help:
  1. Donate today to support Disrupt Burrup Hub's legal defence fund. Your contribution will directly aid their fight to protect our Earth and journalistic integrity.
  2. Share this message far and wide! Raise awareness about this critical issue. Let your friends and family know that the fight to stop Woodside's Burrup Hub is the fight for our only home, planet Earth.
  3. Join the conversation using the hashtag #DisruptBurrupHub and #NotTerrorists. Let's make sure this injustice doesn't go unnoticed!
Together, we can disrupt the Burrup Hub project and protect our planet for generations to come!

27. AUST | CUIN | UPDATING | Making Connections and Connecting Communities

Welcome to Cultural Infusion (CUIN)'s November newsletter, where we're delighted to bring you a diverse tapestry of events that celebrate the intersection of technology, innovation and diversity. 

In this edition, we explore how Diversity Atlas is shaping the landscape of tech innovation at two significant events i.e. Tech Week Singapore and CultureCon Sydney. We also share our experiences and insights from a recent virtual conference and podcast where we talk about fostering diversity, equity and inclusion. It's an inspiring journey for our community so far, so let's dive right in!

REPORTING | All about Big Data & AI World 

As part of the VGTI SEA—Victorian Government Trade and Investment Southeast Asia and Global Victoria's trade mission to Singapore, Diversity Atlas was one of 16 start-ups that represented Australian tech and innovation at this year's Big Data & AI World Conference.

It was a huge week filled with connection-building, insights and networking where we got to meet some fantastic key industry players from SGInnovate, Goodwins Law Corporation, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and IMDA, and learnt about the entry strategies into the Singapore tech ecosystem. 

At the conference, which was part of Tech Week Singapore and saw over 22,000 attendees, Diversity Atlas was part of Global Vic's pavilion on the day. The Australian High Commissioner, His Excellency, Allaster Cox also paid us a visit on the first day. 

We also had the opportunity to run our Diversity Atlas survey, with visitors  to our pod across the two conference days. 

A big thank you to the Global Vic team for organizing such an eventful trade mission!     

PRESENTING | Diversity Atlas at CultureCon™ Sydney

Speakers usually prepare days in advance before presenting but our CXO Michael Walmsley & CTO Rezza Moieni mapped the diversity of CultureCon™ Sydney in less than an hour and presented the results live. 

It is always fascinating to see how technology enables us to reveal the hidden level of diversity in a cohort and to celebrate it. Our hope is to have people experience this at their events, all over the world. 

A future-focused conference, CultureCon™ showcases innovative people practices, technology and solutions proven to effectively tackle the organisational culture needs of today and tomorrow.       

PRESENTING | AHRI DEI Virtual Conference

The Australian HR Institute (AHRI) hosted a truly engaging, insightful and heartwarming DEI Virtual Conference last month, which drew an audience of 350 attendees.

Our colleagues Roman Ruzbacky and Rezza Moieni co-presented at this online event delving into the world of Data Analysis and Reporting, shedding a light on how informed decision-making can nurture a more equitable workplace. Their presentation embraced a traditional approach with some informative slides and collaborative facilitation which explored various aspects including data comprehension, addressing data resistance, upholding data integrity, navigating data laws, and building inclusive datasets — all with practical applications in mind. 

INTERVIEWING | Jack Campbell of HR Leader

Ongoing and comprehensive training and education are crucial in the modern workplace. Our Founder and CEO  Peter Mousaferiadis spoke with Jack Campbell from HR Leader about diversity in the workplace, what's needed to understand diversity in its entirety, some of the pitfalls of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) work and the importance for organisations to understand the very specific needs of the communities they serve. 

PRESENTING | World Forum for Democracy

Peter presented Cultural Infusion’s innovation Diversity Atlas at the Palais de l’Europe on Tuesday, 7 November as part of Lab 8: Freedom of expression and information.
Launched in 2019, Diversity Atlas is the world’s most sophisticated and simplest diversity Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) tool. It gives organisations a nuanced, multifactorial understanding of their workforce’s rich cultural diversity, ensuring that everyone is counted as the multidimensional person they are.

The World Forum for Democracy is a platform for political decision-makers and activists to debate solutions to key challenges for democracies. By identifying and analysing initiatives and practices, the Forum highlights and encourages democracy innovations at the grassroots and their transfer on a systemic level to strengthen the foundations of democratic societies. The Forum contributes to the evolution of democracy towards more participatory and inclusive structures and institutions.

HIGHLIGHTING | Calendar Spotlight: World Kindness Day

World Kindness Day 2023 is a global observance dedicated to promoting and celebrating acts of kindness. This day serves as a reminder of the positive impact that kindness can have on individuals, communities, and the world at large. It encourages people to perform intentional acts of kindness and foster a culture of compassion and generosity.

The day was introduced in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement, a coalition of nations’ kindness NGO’s. The day is observed in many countries including Canada, Australia, Nigeria, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Italy and India.


28. AUST | ILF | SHARING | The Gift of Reading this Festive Season! | Christmas 2023

How donations to Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF)'s Festive Appeal help send First Language books to Aboriginal kids in remote Communities.
Imagine the thrill of a First Nations child when they open one of their favourite books and it is written in the language they speak at home!

That’s exactly what we live for at the Indigenous Literacy Foundation. We have already translated books like The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Where is the Green Sheep? into 14 Aboriginal languages.
"The stories that we have helped to publish are very special to their Community. Not only does it help engage the children to read, but it also preserves Language in places where it is not as widely spoken."

Reading is a human right and a skill that helps children to navigate the world around them. Abundant research shows that if you learn to read in the language you speak at home, you have more success learning a second language at school, like English. 

In remote Communities across Australia access to books is extremely limited. 

We need your help to make sure First Nations children in remote communities can access books, especially those that reflect their language, lives and culture

With gratitude,
David and the Indigenous Literacy Foundation Team

29. AUST | PNABCP | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Sponsoring Birth Certificates for Aboriginals as a Human Right

Donations have helped Pathfinders National Aboriginal Birth Certificate Program (PNABCP) to offer the basic human right of a birth certificate to more than 19,000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. 

From the bottom of our hearts, we wanted to say thank you to donors. The impact of donations is so much more than a piece of paper. It is finally being recognised and included as a member of society.

We firmly believe that every family who desires a birth certificate should have access to one. That's why we continue to do the work we do each day. 

Thanks to your overwhelming support, we are so close to reaching our goal for this year! 

We would be deeply honoured if you would consider sponsoring another birth certificate. Together, we can support Aboriginal families to get their birth certificates for free. 

The work we are able to do with your support is not always simple, but we never give up. Our team of Indigenous staff know how important this program is – for enrolling in school, applying for a job, starting a business, the list goes on. 

We'd like to offer thanks for continued support. We are just getting started with all that we would like to achieve! 
Pathfinders Team

30. AUST | THCO | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards helping make journalism more constructive

Is Australia’s political system doing a good job of serving its citizens? If not, how can The Conversation (THCO) help it work better?
These questions have become even more pressing in recent months. The war in Gaza has spilled over to Australia, bringing new animosity and a threat to our social cohesion. The defeat of the Voice referendum has shaken confidence in the capacity of our political system to meet the needs of Indigenous citizens for better lives and political recognition. Progress on climate change seems unacceptably slow. Meanwhile, fuelled by social media, a steady stream of populism is rushing our way.

In dealing with all of this, the role of the media is crucial. But is it really helping? Stan Grant quit the ABC this year when he came to fear that being part of the media made him part of the problem. In his new role at Monash University, he will be working on constructive journalism. Which makes you think: precisely when did we see the emergence of such a thing as unconstructive journalism? Why do we tolerate it? How much damage has it done? 

Since its creation in 2011, The Conversation has been dedicated to producing a style of journalism that swims against the tide of clickbait and hot takes. Our non-partisan articles draw on the expertise of academics to help inform public debate. We want to help our democracy work by making public deliberations more civil, more constructive and better informed.

In our own modest way, we are trying to contribute to a more cohesive society. It’s slow work, but it also feels like we are part of a movement of people who understand nothing is made better by a snarky social media post or an angry opinion article. 

Increasingly, colleagues in the media are republishing our thoughtful explanatory articles. Universities in Australia and New Zealand and across the world have embraced the idea of entering the public square to share research and help inform decisions. And our growing community of readers and donors is passionate and eager to help. 

That’s been the most encouraging thing in a tough year, the reminder that people do care and are willing to do something about it. Thank you to everyone who has helped The Conversation make a difference in 2023, from the selfless academic authors to the volunteers who serve on our boards, to the thousands of readers who respond to our surveys and call out and help us shape our editorial offering.

And finally an important request: we know you value what we do so please consider signing up to become a regular monthly donor. We are grateful for every donation, but monthly contributions are especially important because they sustain our independence and help us plan for the future. We need 600 more before the end of the year to reach our goal. 

Thank you for reading, and here’s to a more peaceful, kind and constructive 2024.
Misha Ketchell, Editor

31. AUST | TJP | RAISING | Awareness, Funds and Support to deliver Trans Justice

In the last year Trans Justice Project (TJP) has seen a rapid escalation in the amount of anti-trans disinformation being published by mainstream news outlets.
In September, Channel 7’s appalling ‘Detransition’ episode engaged with known anti-trans conspiracy theories, misinformation, and platformed a number of anti-trans activists whose comments were aired without correction. Not only that, Liberal Senator Alex Antic introduced a bill to ban gender-affirming care for those aged under 18 and cancel the registration of health care providers who offer it.

These actions are scary and cause immeasurable trauma and harm. Unfortunately, I know that this is just the beginning. 

That's why I urgently need your help to continue to expose the lies of these hateful anti-trans campaigns before it's too late. 

Since the Trans Justice Project launched in April, we have 
  • Briefed 50+ organisations on anti-trans lobby's tactics
  • Trained over 600 individuals to identify anti-trans disinformation
  • Developed and shared a strategic messaging guide for trans justice; trained 60+ leaders on its usage
  • Released 'Fuelling Hate' report, an extensive investigation into anti-trans hate based on 3000+ survey responses
  • Supported 100+ community leaders in 85 electorates to hand-deliver the report to their local MPs
Donations has been invaluable in getting us this far. And we are just getting started.
As we continue defending our democracy from hate, we would be deeply honoured if you would consider supporting us again. Your donation will go towards campaigning to ensure journalists, commentators, leaders and advocates have accurate, fact-checked analysis related to anti-trans disinformation.

32. WORLD | CHUFFED | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards metal detectors for Ukrainians

Nathan Burraston is working tirelessly to find another way to send essential metal detectors to the region.

A staggering one-third of Ukraine is thought to be littered with millions of unexploded mines. The vast minefields have not only bogged down Ukraine’s military counteroffensive. They risk the lives of children and have rendered the nation's most valuable farmland unusable, impacting both Ukraine's economy and the global food supply.

Despite the challenges, Nathan remains persistent in his efforts to send metal detectors straight to Ukrainians on the ground to save lives. But he needs our help to fund the next shipment via a shipping container on a boat.

Be a part of the Australian community of support for Ukrainians by helping to make their country liveable again. 

33. WORLD | HUMANITIX | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards The Life You Can Save

Myth: Hard work determines one’s economic success.
Truth: The “birth lottery” plays the most significant role in determining our place on the “economic ladder”.
​
The Nobel prize-winning social scientist Herbert Simon estimated that around 90% of what people earn is based upon their social capital – the places, networks, and opportunities that make up their present circumstances. It’s a hugely uneven playing field, where some of us are much more empowered than others, from the moment we’re born, to solve our own problems.
​
At Humanitix Limited, we believe that hard work is important to achieve our goals - but for the 719 million people living in extreme poverty, it takes hard work every day just to survive, and for many, that’s not enough to even cover basic needs. As a result, people are forced to choose between fundamental necessities like food and other important needs, such as education. However, we know that education is a powerful tool that can change the trajectory of a person’s life.

How we can change the odds

​The exciting news is that there are opportunities to make a difference in people's lives. The Life You Can Save, an organisation that researches and identifies cost-effective and high-impact non-profits, has a list of  education non-profits, grouped in the Education for All Fund:
  • ​Teaching at the Right Level: In the poorest areas, less than 1 in 5 children excel in basic literacy or numeracy. Challenges like large class sizes and unrealistic curriculum goals lead to poor outcomes. In Sub-Saharan Africa, Teaching at the Right Level is addressing this issue with innovative pedagogy.
  • ​Educate Girls: Universal literacy is especially vital for women and girls, with studies showing that improved literacy rates help reduce child marriage and early pregnancies while also increasing workforce participation. Educate Girls is working to bridge gender gaps in India's education system.

​Double your impact

The Life You Can Save
‘The collaboration between Humanitix and The Life You Can Save has the potential to unlock millions of dollars to provide critically needed education to help individuals and their communities overcome the disadvantages associated with losing the “birth lottery.”’ 
– Charlie Bresler, Co-founder and Executive Director of The Life You Can Save
Humanitix is partnering with The Life You Can Save by matching the first $25,000 donated to their Education for All Fund. Let's work together to empower those who have the misfortune of living in the poorest parts of the world. 



34. WORLD | IFD | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards LGTBIQA+ Channel

I'm From Driftwood (IFD) is kicking off its end-of-year fundraising drive right now. We have a goal of raising $25,000 before the new year and we need your help to finish the year strong.
I also wanted to pull the curtain back a little bit on the inner workings of I’m From Driftwood. Whenever I tell new friends about I’m From Driftwood, I’m always intrigued by their interest in having a more comprehensive understanding of what we do. So even if you’re familiar with IFD, I thought you might like to hear about the important and hard work that goes into collecting, sharing, and preserving LGBTQIA+ stories.

Storytelling Coaching - We provide one-on-one coaching with every storyteller which includes helping them think of which story from their life to share, ensuring every story has traditional storytelling elements and vivid scenes, and finally how to deliver their story on camera. This involves multiple phone calls, exercises and tips in our Storyteller Guide, and of course the filming and editing of the story. A recent storyteller shared of her experience, “This was AMAZING! Thank you so much for all your guidance and support. I am beaming. This is life changing!!!”

Weekly Video Stories - Every Wednesday, we publish a brand new professionally-produced Video Story, documenting the experiences–the joys, complexities, challenges, love, hardships, humor, and more–of what it’s like to be a LGBTQIA+ person. The stories have done everything from saving young lives to empowering elders to finally live authentically. Our stories save and change lives so it’s no wonder they’ve been viewed over 38 million times on YouTube alone.

Online Archive - The I’m From Driftwood website houses every story we’ve ever published, but even more, it acts as an archive of LGBTQIA+ history. Every story is categorized and tagged for ease of browsing and searching, and every story is transcribed for improved accessibility and searchability. Our website and archive has been used by educators, counselors, healthcare professionals, therapists, journalists, and more to aid them in their work.

Instagram Reels - Everyone consumes online content differently, so in addition to the full-length videos we post on our YouTube Channel, we also create short-form versions of our stories for our social media followers. On IFD’s Instagram page, we edit our stories down to a 90-second abbreviated version of the story, helping ensure the stories are being seen by those who need them most. 

Podcast - All 43 episodes of the I’m From Driftwood Podcasts are available wherever you get your podcasts. Ranked in the Top 25% of Spotify’s Society and Culture category, each episode focuses on a theme within the LGBTQIA+ community, from gender identity, immigration, and love, to workplace discrimination, race, and aging.

Storyteller Spotlights - These in-person, free community events involve screening of our stories with a moderated follow-up Q&A with the storytellers themselves. The Spotlights have been held in NYC, Chicago, Boston, and Austin and provide a way for people to experience our stories in a shared community space.

Whew! I know that's a lot, but I also know the impact our stories have on our community which is why the work must continue. That’s also why I’m asking you to help us finish the year strong. If you're able, please consider donating today.Thanks for all your support,
Nathan Manske, Founder, Executive Director
  

35. WORLD | PWR | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards global interfaith movement

This Giving Tuesday, Give $30 or $130 for 30 and 130 Years.
2023 marked the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR) as an organization and the grand celebration of 130 years since the global interfaith movement’s inception at the historic 1893 Parliament.

As we reflect on the remarkable journey that has brought us to this moment, we are filled with immense gratitude and excitement. This year has been a testament to the power of collective effort and a reminder of the rich legacy that binds us to the transformative ideals sparked at the Parliament of World Religions more than a century ago. 

Now, as we stand on the threshold of a new era, we look to you with hope and anticipation. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact on the world and carry forward the spirit of unity and understanding.

Your generous support is not just a contribution; it is a reaffirmation of your belief in the power of compassion, diversity, and shared humanity.

Make a donation of $30, $130, $300, or more today to support this work and affirm your continued partnership as we navigate the exciting chapters that lie ahead.

All donations today will be matched, doubling your impact!

36. WORLD | WIKIPEDIA | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds so everyone can have equal access to knowledge, forever

Support Wikipedia and a world where knowledge is free for everyone.
Every single donation helps Wikimedia Foundation improve people’s access to accurate and reliable information, especially in a rapidly changing world. I’m truly grateful for your support in enabling billions of people to experience the gift of knowledge through Wikipedia.

We are determined to extend this access as far as possible to make sure that no matter where you are born or where you live, the ability to access free knowledge is always within your reach. I hope you will continue to support us in building a future where Wikipedia exists everywhere, with people across the world contributing to the sum of all knowledge.

Each year, because of the 2% of readers who give to support our mission, The Wikimedia Foundation can expand the reach of free knowledge to new corners of the world. If Wikipedia matters and is useful to you too, please join them and donate $5, $20, $50 or whatever feels right to you today.

Wikipedia is different. No advertising, no subscription fees, no paywalls. Those don't belong here. Wikipedia is a place to learn, free from bias or agenda.

Today, we invite you to donate whatever feels right. Show the world that access to independent and unbiased information matters to you.

With gratitude, 
Maryana Iskander,  CEOWikipedia is hosted by the Wikimedia Foundation, a non-profit organization that also hosts a range of other projects.


 ANNOUNCING 

37. AUST | RLS | ASKING | Are you summer water ready?

Did you know Australia experienced a record number of drownings last Summer?

Royal Life Saving  (RLS) has developed a handy checklist to help identify any areas of concern, allowing everyone to be fully prepared for the upcoming summer.

Together as a community we can prioritise safety and ensure a secure and enjoyable summer for everyone.

Together, we can change the tide. Download the Summer Ready checklist from Royal Life Saving and ensure your water safety skills are up to date.

38. VIC | CFA | ADVISING | Summer fire safety

The VMC is encouraging all Victorians to prepare for the bushfire season using the CFA's Summer Campaign Communications Kit.  

The kit includes a range of resources in different languages to help you stay safe during a bushfire. The CFA has a range of resources to help you stay informed about bushfire risks. You can sign up for email alerts, follow the CFA on social media, and download the CFA app. 

39. CoPP | GOV | ADVISING | Community Information Resources with 5 steps to keep safe during extreme weather

Know the risks and be prepared for storms, floods and heatwaves

Extreme weather including storms, floods and heat waves can affect anyone at any time. Dangerous flash flooding is a particular risk in the City of Port Phillip with some areas including Elwood, St Kilda, Balaclava and South Melbourne, at a higher risk. Most people have less than an hour’s warning before a flash flood, so it pays to prepare ahead of time. This summer we are also at a higher risk of heatwaves.

To help keep yourself, your family, your pets and property safe follow these life-saving emergency steps.

5 steps to keep safe:
  1. Be aware of your risk, check your local area’s SES flood guide
  2. Be prepared by making a plan, checking your insurance cover, storing items off the ground and cleaning drains and gutters.
  3. Be neighbourly, check in on vulnerable neighbours during hot weather or extreme weather.
  4. Be safe during extreme weather. Don’t drive during storms – it only takes 15cm to float. During heatwaves don’t go out in the heat of the day and keep cool.
  5. Be informed, sign up to the Vic Emergency app.

During an emergency:
  • Call VIC SES on 132 500 for support.
  • Call Triple Zero (000) for any life-threatening emergencies.
  • Call 1800 226 226 for the Vic Emergency hotline.

Council's role in a weather emergency
Council is responsible for managing resources and coordinating relief and recovery for affected community members.

40. VIC | QUIT | LAUNCHING | New quit smoking campaign

Tired of letting cravings control you? Beat the cravings, one at a time. Quitting smoking is an around the clock challenge, making small changes to your daily routine in the moments that cravings arise can help you overcome cigarette cravings and be one step closer to quitting for good.

On Monday 23 October, Quit Victoria (QUIT) launched a capacity-building campaign, 'Beat the cravings' alongside 'The con that kills'. 

Materials are available in multiple languages to support community members. 

41. VIC | GOV | CONNECTING | Bilingual kinders' kids to the world

The Victorian Government is providing more language education to help give early learners the best start to life. There will be 11 early learning services that will be offered a place in Victoria’s bilingual kindergarten program from Term 1, 2024.

The expansion is part of a $3.7 million investment to increase the diversity of children’s language skills in Victoria’s kindergartens, build stronger local communities and prepare children for an increasingly connected world.

42. VIC | GOV | DRIVING | Power bills down for social housing residents

The Victorian Government is partnering with Local Energy Networks to help drive down power bills for social housing residences and reduce Victorian's carbon footprint. This initiative will prioritise consumer fairness and support residents facing cost of living pressures. 

43. VIC | VTMH | PODCASTING | Community Engagement with Purpose – A Guide For Approaching Community Engagement Work In Mental Health Settings

Just launched is Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH)'s new podcast episode 'Diversity Of Communities: Who Is Left Behind?'
This is the fourth and final podcast for our inaugural Conversations about Community Engagement in Mental Health Podcast Series is now available.

This episode explores themes around diversity and person-centred care, the role power plays in decision making and the significance of pluralism in community engagement work.

The Conversations about Community Engagement in Mental Health Podcast Series aims to foster open discussions on Community Engagement in mental health, encouraging sharing, reflection and critical dialogue. This series is an extension of the VTMH Community Engagement with Purpose Resource Project. To read more about the Project, including other episodes in this Podcast series, click the button below.

44. VIC | VMC | LAUNCHING | VMC 40 year anniversary research report

Victorian Multicultural Commission are celebrating 40 years of Victoria's multicultural journey with the launch of the Victorian Multicultural Commission Impact Report!

This report explores and celebrates the VMC's role in making multiculturalism a reality in Victoria. It draws on extensive interviews, a survey, and research to provide insights into the VMC's impact on communities, government, and the wider Victorian public.

 SUPPORTING 

45. AUST | MANY | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way

In this Section
  • Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander
  • Ageism
  • Asylum Seeking & Refugees
  • Climate, Environment & Emergency
  • Community, Connection & Belonging
  • Difability & Disability
  • Employment
  • Family & Neighbourhood Violence
  • Health, Sickness & Wellbeing
  • Kids, Youth, Parenting & Education
  • Racism
  • Women

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander
  • From the Heart (FTH) views a Voice to Parliament as a body enshrined in the Constitution would enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to provide advice to the Parliament on policies and projects that impact their lives.
  • The Healing Foundation (THF) – a national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation providing a platform to amplify voices and lived experience of Stolen Generations survivors and their families.
  • Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) Book Supply – creating and translating books with the collective storytelling of First Nations authors, illustrators and Elders
  • Pathfinders National Aboriginal Birth Certificate Program (PNABCP) – Canberra not-for-profit group helping make life easier for people in need. As part of its many programs, it helps provide free birth certificates and registrations for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island community
  • Reconciliation Victoria – promoting reconciliation across Victoria, promoting deeper understanding, respect and justice for and with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

Ageism
Climate, Environment & Emergency
Community, Connection & Belonging
Difability & Disability
Employment
Family & Neighbourhood Violence
Health, Sickness & Wellbeing
Kids, Youth, Parenting & Education
  • Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is the main way the Australian Government is helping families with the cost of early childhood education and care. For translated materials
  • Couch International Student Centre is a safe and free lounge space in Melbourne for international students to socialise, relax, study, and seek assistance
  • Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800 – for kids, teens and young adults
  • Little Dreamers (LIDR) is Australia’s leading Young Carer organisation, supporting young people who provide unpaid care for a family member affected by disability, chronic or mental illness, addiction or frail age. Watch 3 min video
  • Parentline – 13 22 89 – for parents and carers
  • Parenting courses by Relationships Victoria (REVI) offers free 6 to 12 week courses for parents to learn better ways to connect with their children and family in a culturally sensitive way.
  • Red Earth (REEA)'s School Immersions are all-inclusive, comprehensive programs designed to open the hearts and minds of students to the beauty and realities of life in remote Indigenous Australia. Find out more
  • Refugee Council of Australia (RCA) – Face-to-Face program involves presentations to students from a speaker with a refugee background. Learn more
  • Study Melbourne (STME)  has many free or low cost events for international students who are studying and living in Victoria. Find student events near you 
  • Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) online community VMConnect is home to a dedicated Group for multicultural young people living in Victoria
  • Youth and Family Support Network (YFSN) delivering activities and initiatives that empower local African-Australian communities to tackle racism and support social cohesion. Watch video (2 mins)

Racism
Women


    46. AUST | MULTI | Supporting Voices, Treaty and Meaningful Reconciliation with First Peoples, Settlers, and Those Who Come After

      In This Section
      • AUST | GOV | OFFERING | Resources and Translations on The Voice and Referendum 2023
      • AUST | AICR | ENCOURAGING | YES23. Recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Constitution through a Voice
      • AUST | LWB | TRANSLATING | Resources in 45+ community languages on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice
      • AUST | REAU | EXPLAINING | Voice to Parliament and Referendum 2023
      • AUST | RJfV | ISSUING | An Open Letter to the Australian Public: The Voice to Parliament would enhance Australian governance
      • AUST | TLW | CALLING | Those Interested to Lace Up Your Shoes and Come Walk with Michael Long in support of the "Yes" campaign
      • AUST | WRITERS | ENDORSING | The Voice as a major reform leading to better outcomes for First Nations Peoples
      • AUST | GiveOUT | SUPPORTING | Proudly for a First Nations Voice to Parliament
      • VIC | ECCV | ADVOCATING | Victorian Multicultural Voices for ‘Yes’ campaign
      • VIC | VWT | ENGAGING | Listen and learn together through kitchen conversations. It’s time to say yes
      • VIC | VTMH | DEMONSTRATING | Solidarity In Context to the Referendum
      • AUST | GEIFN | HOW | To Accept No: Contest of Binaries | Sunday 15 October 2023
      • AUST | GEIFN | WHY | To Accept No: Contest of Timing | Monday 16 October 2023
      • AUST | GEIFN | WHEN | To Accept No: Contest of Terra nullius | Tuesday 17 October 2023 and beyond

      AUST | GOV | OFFERING | Resources and Translations on The Voice and Referendum 2023

      Australian Government advises       in late 2023, Australians will have their say in a referendum about whether to change the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.
      The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice would be an independent and permanent advisory body. It would give advice to the Australian Parliament and Government on matters that affect the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

      Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have called for members of the Voice to be chosen by First Nations peoples based on the wishes of local communities.

      AUST | AICR | ENCOURAGING | YES23. Recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Constitution through a Voice 
      Australians for Indigenous Constitutional Recognition (AICR) asks all to consider voting Yes. It’s time to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Constitution through a Voice.

      What is the 2023 Referendum?
      This vote will give all Australians the chance to come together and consider a change to our constitution that will honour and celebrate the rights, history, and ongoing relationship of Indigenous Australians with this land. It’s a rare chance to make a major positive impact now and for future generations.

      Australia has been considering constitutional recognition for more than 15 years. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have asked that the form of recognition come through a Voice to Parliament, which will give advice on laws and policies that affect Indigenous people. 

      This is what the Australian people are now being asked to decide: Should we recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in The Constitution, with a Voice? 

      A Voice will provide advice to the Federal Parliament about laws and policies, through a consultative policy making process that delivers meaningful structural change.

      Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people know and understand the best way to deliver real and practical change in their communities. When they have a say through a Voice, we can finally start to close the gap that still exists between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Australians on practical issues like life expectancy, educational outcomes, and employment. 

      This is why a “Yes” result is important.


      AUST | LWB | TRANSLATING | Resources in 45+ community languages on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice
      To encourage participation in the Referendum for all Australians, Polaron Language Services with Life Without Barriers (LWB) and several partner organisations have developed accessible translated resources in more than 45 languages.

      These are free to download and aim to break down language, literacy and communication barriers among Australia’s diverse communities. This includes:


      AUST | REAU | EXPLAINING | Voice to Parliament and Referendum 2023
      Reconciliation Australia (REAU) advises First Nations Voice to Parliament protected by the Constitution is a key element of the Uluru Statement from the Heart.
      The Bill to enable the referendum became law in mid-June, but we are waiting for the referendum date to be announced.

      The referendum question contained in the Bill is:

      A Proposed Law: to alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. Do you approve this proposed alteration?

      What is a referendum

      Find out more at Australian Electoral Commission.

      Or click the following Reconciliation Australia links that interest you:

      Why do we need a First Nations Voice?

      A Voice to Parliament will give Indigenous communities a route to help inform policy and legal decisions that impact their lives. Giving people a say will lead to more effective results.

      Embedding a Voice in the Constitution would recognise the special place of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia’s history, but importantly would also mean that it can’t be shut down by successive Governments.

      This is important because Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and bodies have called for voice for close to 100 years. 


      AUST | RJfV | ISSUING | An Open Letter to the Australian Public: The Voice to Parliament would enhance Australian governance 
      We are individuals representing no political party or political interest. We speak, rather, as retired judges (RJfV) who spent our professional lives listening to, and seeking to evaluate, contending arguments.

      We have since considered carefully both the case for, and the case against, the proposed Voice to Parliament. Having done so, we confidently believe that, by raising the quality of our public debate, the proposed Voice will both enrich our democracy and increase the likelihood of governments making correct decisions about matters that affect Indigenous peoples. It will also, and very importantly, give Indigenous Australians their due recognition in our Constitution as this nation’s first peoples.  

      Democracies are at their best when decisions are made after informed and respectful debate to which all may contribute. Life being what it is, the rich and the powerful have and will retain that privilege to a greater degree than most. Some, among them Australia’s First Nations peoples, have continually battled to be heard at all.

      If successful, the referendum on the Voice will not diminish the influence of anyone. But it will help to correct an historic wrong. It will give recognition, and a voice, to those who for thousands of years owned and lived in balance with this land, only to have their rights to it disregarded during the centuries which have followed settlement from other lands. No consideration was given to the deep connections with country which the original inhabitants have incorporated into their very being; and the newcomers who now occupy their land listened, if they listened at all, with none of the empathy to which everyone should be entitled.

      Constitutional recognition of the Voice in a successful referendum will acknowledge these facts, and do much to rectify a long-existing injustice. It will not, in our opinion, divide our nation. On the contrary, it will heal a wound which presently divides us. Nor will it disrupt government or destabilise the presently stable and appropriate division of power between the parliament, the executive and the judiciary.

      The possibility of disruption and instability is a concern which nevertheless deserves respect (although not when it descends to ridiculous fears such as that Anzac Day will be ‘cancelled’). It is also reasonable to have doubts about the detail of the arrangements which will follow a successful referendum. We nevertheless firmly believe that these are not reasons for voting ‘No’. First, Australia can draw upon its wealth of common sense and its capacity for sensible compromise. The Voice will not waste its time, energy, finances or goodwill with silly claims that have no chance of political or judicial support. And secondly, detailed arrangements must allow for a degree of flexibility which is impossible if incorporated into a less than flexible constitution. The details are properly to be determined by the parliament of the day according to the changing circumstances of the day.

      Advocates for the ‘No’ case point to the proposed amendment’s inclusion of a power in the parliament to make laws with respect to the powers of the Voice. The referendum if passed does not confer powers on parliament that it does not already have to pass such laws. We believe that the likelihood of parliament acting inappropriately in this respect is small. In our opinion it fails to justify a ‘No’ vote.  

      Advocates for a ‘No’ vote also claim that the Voice is a creature of Canberra. That is untrue. The call for the Voice was made in the Uluru Statement from the Heart, which is the product of the widest survey of the views of First Nations peoples ever undertaken and which is a deeply respectful call “from all points of the Southern Sky”. 

      It includes an invitation to all Australians to create a better future. We think this invitation should be accepted.

      Signed:
      • The Hon Mary Gaudron KC, Former Judge of the High Court of Australia
      • The Hon Carmel McLure AC KC, Former President of the Supreme Court of Western Australia Court of Appeal
      • The Hon Stephen Charles AO KC, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria Court of Appeal
      • The Hon David Harper AM KC, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria Court of Appeal
      • The Hon Robert Redlich AM KC, Former Commissioner of the Victorian Independent Broad-based Anti-Corruption Commission (IBAC), former Judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria Court of Appeal
      • The Hon Paul Stein AM KC, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of NSW Court of Appeal, former President of the Anti-Discrimination Board
      • The Hon Anthony Whealy KC, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of NSW Court of Appeal
      • The Hon Margaret White AO, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of Queensland Court of Appeal
      Thank-you for reading the open letter supporting the Voice. Please forward this letter to anyone you think would be interested to read it.


      AUST | TLW | CALLING | Those Interested to Lace Up Your Shoes and Come Walk with Michael Long in support of the "Yes" campaign 
      The Long Walk (TLW)'s Michael Long is once again setting off from Melbourne to Canberra in support of the "Yes" campaign.
      Michael Long is one of the most recognisable Aboriginal figures in AFL football. He played for the Essendon Football Club between 1989 and 2001, was a member of two premiership sides and the winner of the 1993 Norm Smith Medal.

      Michael championed the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cause within the AFL. In 1995, Michael made a stand against racial abuse, following an on-field incident with another player, asserting that racism had no place in sport.

      Ultimately this lead to Michael being one of the pioneering forces behind the racial abuse code that was adopted by the AFL in the 1990s. Michael retired from football in 2001.
      "Lace Up Your Shoes and Come Walk with Me. We walked in 2004 for a Voice and a Vision.
      This year I have decided to bring forward my 20th Anniversary Long Walk to support the campaign for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament."
      Walk with Michael Long in support of the "Yes" campaign on one or more legs of the walk from Melbourne to Canberra.


        AUST | WRITERS | ENDORSING | The Voice as a major reform leading to better outcomes for First Nations Peoples
        It’s only fair.         Writers for The Voice (WRITERS) accept the generous, modest invitation of First Nations Peoples in the Uluru Statement from the Heart to walk with them towards a better Australia. 

        We support their call for recognition via a constitutionally enshrined Voice to Parliament because we believe passionately that this major reform, the product of broad grassroots consultation and supported by the great majority of First Nations Peoples, will lead to better outcomes for First Nations Peoples.


        AUST | GiveOUT | SUPPORTING | Proudly for a First Nations Voice to Parliament
        The GiveOUT Team (GiveOUT)         supports Australia saying YES in the Referendum for a constitutionally enshrined First Nations Voice
        LGBTQIA+ people understand the significance of a public vote about their lives, and the importance of allies in advocating for change. It is time for the LGBTQIA+ community, and the Australian people as a whole, to stand in solidarity with our First Nations communities, including our Brotherboys, Sistergirls and other LGBTQIA+ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

        At GiveOUT, we know that there is no substitute for the wisdom of lived experience when it comes to designing policies and programs.
        “As an organisation that exists to address systemic disadvantage, and provide impacted communities the resources they need to drive their own solutions, GiveOUT fully supports this much needed reform to ensure First Nations people are recognised in the constitution and are given a voice on the issues and interventions that impact them.” – Georgia Mathews, Chair of GiveOUT
        Polls have demonstrated that over 80% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people support a Voice to Parliament*. We call upon our LGBTQIA+ friends and allies to join this historic movement and vote ‘YES’ in the Referendum. We must take this important step toward a fairer future for this country. 

        You can show your support by: *Source: https://www.unsw.edu.au/news/2023/06/ten-questions-about-the-voice-to-parliament---answered-by-the-ex 


        VIC | ECCV | ADVOCATING | Victorian Multicultural Voices for ‘Yes’ campaign
        The Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) joins forces with Yes23 and the Multicultural Australia for Voicealliance for Victorian Multicultural Voices for ‘Yes’.

        Harnessing the power of multicultural communities to raise awareness about why the recognition of our First Nations People in the Constitution is important and how voting ‘Yes’ will achieve that.

        Multicultural and multifaith leaders, along with First Nations Elders, attended the launch, with guest speakers Aunty Esme Bamblett, CEO of the Aboriginal Advancement League and a member of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, Minister for Multicultural Affairs Colin Brooks, and the Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Gabrielle Williams.

        Victorian Multicultural Voices for ‘Yes’ will be organising community town hall forums and community workshops in the lead-up to the referendum. These engagements aim to empower and equip multicultural communities with how to have conversations about the referendum and why it matters.

        ECCV Members will be hosting their own community forums to inform members of their communities about why voting ‘YES’ matters, including the Islamic Council of Victoria and the Greek Community of Melbourne.

        The launch follows the success of a national multicultural town hall forum at Springvale City Hall with Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney, which was attended by more than 700 people in August 2023.

        The ECCV is the peak body for multicultural Victoria, with over 220 organisational members.


        VIC | VWT | ENGAGING | Listen and learn together through kitchen conversations. It’s time to say yes 
        Together, Yes is a kitchen conversations movement by Victorian Women’s Trust (VWT) in support of a YES vote in the 2023 referendum on a First Nations Voice to parliament. It’s a powerful way you can participate in the referendum to enshrine an Indigenous Voice in our constitution.
        In 1967 we were counted, in 2017 we seek to be heard. We leave base camp and start our trek across this vast country. We invite you to walk with us in a movement of the Australian people for a better future. – Uluru Statement from the Heart, May 2017
        By voting YES in the referendum, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will finally have a say on the policies and laws that affect their communities.

        But voting ‘yes’ isn’t enough. We need to unite to ensure it’s a resounding YES from every corner of the country.

        Is Together, Yes working with First Nations people?
        Yes. The Victorian Women’s Trust (creator of Together, Yes) have been working in partnership with Koorie Women Mean Business for more than 30 years, which has guided much of our work since.

        Since October 2022 we have been in close collaboration with indigenous-led campaigners to ensure Together, Yes helps achieve a positive referendum outcome.

        Together, Yes uses ‘kitchen table conversations’, a model designed by the Victorian Women’s Trust more than twenty years ago. Tried and tested, it arose from a powerfully simple idea: engaging people in respectful and honest dialogue creates real and lasting change.

        This civic engagement model is built on a set of important values. People are encouraged to:
        1. Help create a safe place for thinking, talking and taking action
        2. Acknowledge the experience and wisdom each person brings to the table
        3. Enter discussions in good faith with an open, constructive spirit
        4. Engage in respectful discussion, even in the face of dissent
        5. Be prepared to listen, gain new insight, and test one’s own opinions

        Together, Yes invites people from all walks of life to gather in small group discussions and engage in an honest reckoning of the harm and injustice of our colonial past; Australia’s history of constitutional indifference; and how a Voice to parliament can make a difference.


        VIC | VTMH | DEMONSTRATING | Solidarity In Context to the Referendum
        At an important moment in history, Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) supports the national vote adding an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice (The Voice) to the Australian Constitution.

        VTMH aligns with the principles of unity and understanding promoted by Reconciliation Australia, and we also endorse the stance taken by St Vincent's Health Australia on this matter.

        VTMH sees this as a big chance to bring people together and make things better. We know that health and wellness are connected to making things right between different groups of people in Australia. VTMH thinks this vote can make real changes and respect the different viewpoints of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.


        AUST | GEIFN | HOW | To Accept No: Contest of Binaries | Sunday 15 October 2023
        With any adversarial system where only 2 options (aka binary) are offered, part of informed consent is accepting that for every winner there has to be non-winners.
        Binaries (this OR that) is Absolutism. It takes time for people to realise that there are no lasting Absolutes.

        To explore further, every thing with a beginning has also got within the seeds of its end. As daybreak begins it has ended night. As night begins it ends daylight. But when we understand fully we understand that the sun is always shining, it is just our personal vantage point that moved while individually we might be standing still. The spherical planet we all call home is spinning on its own axis as it revolves around the sun. It is only the side facing the sun that gets the sun at any given time. The half in darkness hasn't lost, it is just waiting again for its time in the sun. So dark does not exist without light.
        "To be or not to be – that is the question." – William Shakespeare, English playwright, poet and actor (1564-1616 CE)

        And when that gets easy, consider "To be AND not to be – that is the answer."

        Accepting No majority means you're ready to continue the national conversation reconciling Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders' (aka First Nations') existence with Colonialism and those who come after. A No majority result is an acknowledgment that this conversation has now began in earnest. And also being just another day in a functioning civil democracy finding its way, steady as we go, full steam ahead.

        When this proposition gets easier to understand, the opportunities for an outcome that benefits everyone becomes self realising. So if not now, then take comfort in the old wise saying "a journey of a 1,000 steps begins with the first but made realisable with the 2nd and subsequent."


        AUST | GEIFN | WHY | To Accept No: Contest of Timing | Monday 16 October 2023
        With big gains come the potential for big setbacks, obstacles and arguments. With practice, patience and perseverance, wisdom, compassion and non-selfish generosity always prevails.
        "Life is a hard battle anyway. If we laugh and sing a little as we fight the good fight of freedom, it makes it all go easier. I will not allow my life's light to be determined by the darkness around me."
        Sojourner Truth, American abolitionist and activist for African-American civil rights, women's rights, and alcohol temperance (died 1883 CE)

        A No majority doesn't mean "never" it just means "not now". For 235 years there has only been 1 resounding No: Terra nullius (nobody's land). Countering this false fact, has now formally recognised a resounding 40% yes to preexistence, a marked improvement from its 0% starting position. Meaning Australia is now ready to begin a conversation reconciling Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders' (aka First Nations') existence with Colonialism and those who come after. 

        A No majority result is an acknowledgment that this conversation has now began in earnest. While also being just another day in a functioning civil democracy finding its way, steady as we go, full steam ahead.

        When this proposition gets easier to understand, the opportunities for an outcome that benefits a greater number until including all becomes self realising. So if not now, then take comfort in the old wise saying "a journey of a 1,000 steps begins with the first but made realisable with the 2nd and subsequent."

        AUST | GEIFN | WHEN | To Accept No: Contest of Terra nullius | Tuesday 17 October 2023 and beyond
        Terra nullius is a         Latin expression meaning "nobody's land".  It was a principle sometimes used in international law to justify claims that territory may be acquired by a state's occupation of it. Denying the existence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders' existence by the British gave the British permission to land, stay and colonise.

        Reconciling this falsehood in Australia's birth began 265 years ago and continues in our minds, hearts and actions. As testimony to this, the Australia today was unimaginable to our forebears. If we accept what we do today influences the future, it is also how brighter futures for a greater benefit is made possible – the real work being undertaken in the majority of ordinary days between the extra-ordinary milestones.
        "I am my ancestor’s wildest dreams" – Maxine Beneba Clarke, Australian writer of Afro-Caribbean descent (1979- CE)

        Accepting No majority means you're ready to continue the national conversation reconciling Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders' (aka First Nations') existence with British Colonialism and those who come after. A No majority result is an acknowledgment that this Australian conversation has now began in earnest. Celebrate just another day in a functioning civil democracy finding its way, steady as we go, full steam ahead.

        When this proposition gets easier to understand, the opportunities for an outcome that benefits everyone becomes self realising. So if not now, then make comfort by applying the old wise saying "Conquer anger through gentleness, unkindness through kindness, greed through generosity, and falsehood by truth."

         

          47. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Coronavirus 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.

          UPDATING | COVID safe and vaccination information to support CALD people with disability

          The COVID safe and vaccination information to support CALD people with disability translated fact sheets are now obsolete and will not be updated or maintained.

          The following links are currently being used to promote COVID-19 resources in language (via the translations icon): 

          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: 

          48. AUST | MULTI | UPDATING | Coronavirus Response

          • 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.

          Other Resources 

             ACKNOWLEDGING 

            49. Acknowledgment to Sources

            This is a consolidated account of information current at time of issuance, sourced, collated and provided by Victorian Multicultural Commission, Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria, various Government Authorities, community organisations, public domain and individuals, received with gratitude.

            50. 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.

            51. Self-Isolators, Non-Essentials And The Homebound

            Meanwhile, if with a surplus of time, this and the following is offered. Discuss with sincerity. Deny untruth. Dismiss unuseful. Accept useful. Adapt to change. Adopt least effort most benefit. Adept with sharing. Enjoy throughout. As each case may be. Round about. And again. Or not.

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