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CHUFFED | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards First Nations kids, Animal Refuges and Anti-Mining Protesters

[Edited extract from public address]

AUST | ILF | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Festive Appeal: Books for First Nations kids

Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) believes Aboriginal kids need their very own books! It is so exciting for them to own a book written in the language they speak at home.

But with Christmas upon us, we have are still to raise the full amount of what we need. We are in desperate need of a Christmas miracle! 

If you can, we know the kids will be overjoyed if you could gift another book this year. 

The need for these books in remote Communities is so great. Simply because we know that they give Aboriginal children the best chance at learning to read.

Please, share our campaign far and wide with friends and family! Together, I hope we can deliver a Christmas miracle to Aboriginal kids in remote Communities.
With gratitude,
David and the Indigenous Literacy Foundation Team


NSW | DPT | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Animal Refuge

Deep Peace Trust (DPT) is a large animal sanctuary in Australia, continuing to support hundreds or animals and wildlife. We’ve endured the challenges of unprecedented droughts, devastating fires, and major floods, but your support gives us the peace and certainty we need to help the animals every day.  

As the year comes to a close, I have to ask if you can add one more of our animals to your last minute giving list this year? 

Our sanctuary wish list is a like a Christmas lunch - lots of hay!
  • 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
Please share our campaign with friends, family, and fellow animal lovers to help get out our message.
Your support extends beyond a donation; it contributes to a different world of thinking about animals — with kindness, compassion and love.  And this is vital today.
With love,
Billie


NSW | BMNAC | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards helping Aboriginal kids find their Gumbaynggirr voice

When you sponsor an Aboriginal child to learn their Language through Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation (BMNAC), you are sponsoring not only their future, but all of their kids, grandkids and great grandkids into the future who will benefit from growing up speaking it.
"In a generation or so we want to have babies born who grow up speaking Gumbaynggirr as their first language and to bring Gumbayngirr back into everyday use. Already these kids, their language ability is far better than what I was at their age."
The school teaching Aboriginal kids started in 2022 with just 15 students and this year they already have 74 enrolments plus a waiting list!

But without any government funding infrastructure, it’s hard for them to take on all of these new students. 

The legacy of colonisation and the Stolen Generation has meant many Aboriginal kids didn't get the chance to learn their Language.

With a new set of classrooms, the school will be on their way to developing a pathway for Aboriginal kids to learn language all the way up to year 12. 

Can you chip in for another Aboriginal student to find their Gumbaynggirr voice?


VIC | JDFS | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Animal Refuge

Within the space of a week and half, J&D's Farm Sanctuary (JDFS) saved more than a dozen animals with nowhere else to go.

As you can imagine, sanctuary life changed dramatically. Their newest members are 6 male calves who were only a few days old and due to be culled within 24 hours as well as many baby and orphaned animals with special needs.
"We are trying to do our bit but can only care for so many. John and I are totally exhausted but we are keeping our doors open despite the pressure of time and resources, simply because the need is so great.

We need your help to make sure these animals are safe and comfortable in their new home, ready to start a life with much more love."
With Christmas here, let's extend some festive love to these beautiful humans and the rescues they so lovingly took in.

Can you help these two angels ensure that these beautiful animals have what they need this Christmas?
Thanks, 
John and Debbie 


WA | DBH | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards helping STOP the destruction of climate and culture

The peaceful emergency protest of a veterinarian, terrified for whales and marine life, led to Marek ‘Maz’ Misiewicz's arrest just 2 weeks ago. He was opposing recent approvals of drilling and seismic blasting at Scarborough gas field with climate activists, Disrupt Burrup Hub (DBH). 

He is yet another in a long list of peaceful climate activists who have been arrested, charged and convicted in the past month. They are protesting Burrup Hub because it is a death sentence. 
“I am blockading access to NOPSEMA's office after they approved Woodside's destructive plans. The toxic relationship between the regulator and fossil fuel companies is alarming. As a veterinarian, I must safeguard wildlife, and Woodside's activities threaten marine life and escalate climate change. We need to stop the government from approving the Browse gas field this summer, or we'll be back with more blockades.” – Veterinarian Marek ‘Maz’ Misiewicz
Attaching himself to a concrete barrel in a four-wheel-drive outside the office shared by NOPSEMA, Perdaman, and Woodside's North West Shelf holding company, he disrupted all traffic on the major Perth road during rush hour.

With the full force of the WA police against them, Disrupt Burrup Hub need your support now more than ever.

Remember, the fight for Burrup Hub is a fight for our only home, planet Earth.

Share far and wide to make sure this injustice doesn't go unnoticed!

MORE:

Team Chuffed
Address: Level 2, 60 Martin Place, Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia
Website

We acknowledge and pay respects to the First Nations People of Australia, the land in which we live and work. We recognise the strength, resilience and capacity of Aboriginal people and pay respects to Elders past and present.

IFD | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards LGTBIQA+ Channel | Friday 29 December 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

Wrapping up 2023, I wanted to extend a heartfelt thanks for ongoing support in sharing and celebrating the LGBTQIA+ stories at I’m From Driftwood. 

We've continued publishing a new story every week, totaling an incredible 52 professionally-produced, first-person Video Stories this year. The stories on I'm From Driftwood's YouTube channel alone have amassed over 38.8 million views.

In addition to our weekly stories, we've had the privilege of showcasing the storytellers themselves at four Storyteller Spotlights this year – two at the Stonewall Inn in New York City and two in Austin, TX. These live events have allowed us to connect with our community in a more personal way, bridging the gap between digital storytelling and real-world connections.

As of today, we are over 50% of our $25,000 year-end goal. Your contributions have helped us get this far, but we need your help to cross the finish line. Donate now; no amount is too small, and every dollar takes us closer to our goal.

With donors' help, we'll continue making a positive impact in the lives of LGBTQIA+ individuals everywhere, from the smallest towns to the biggest cities across the world.
Thank you for being part of the I'm From Driftwood family. I can't wait to show you what we have in store for 2024.

Nathan Manske
Founder, Executive Director

MORE:

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

PHAAA | UPDATING | Annual General Meeting (AGM) | Saturday 18 November 2023 | 11am

[Edited extract from public address]

Happy Solstice & Festive Season.

Thank you all for your support in 2023!
 
We have been truly blessed in 2023! Thank you each and every one of you who joined us in 2023, whether you volunteered, or supported us we’re glad to have you part of the Planetary Healing Artists’ community.
 

SEEKING | Artists Now | submissions in by 27 January 2024

Planetary Healing Artists' Association of Australia is giving artists the opportunity to exhibit for free @ Minerva Gallery for 2-months 3 February–6 April 2024. 

Bonus Opportunities:
  • Be a part of the exhibition opening party
  • Be part of the Planetary Healing Artists’ Community
  • Sell your work

 

RECAPPING | 2023 St Kilda Peace Festival at O'Donnell Gardens

Planetary Healing Artists’ Association of Australia would like to express their gratitude to each and every one of you for your invaluable presence and enthusiastic participation in the recent St Kilda Festival. Planetary Healing Artists St Kilda Peace Festival showcased multicultural and spiritual artists, musicians and creatives with interactive entertainment and music performances.

As we step into the end of 2023 it is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the past year. Our deepest appreciation to all of the participants for being part of Planetary Healing Artists' Association of Australia's biggest Peace Festival this year. You contributed to the vibrant and inclusive atmosphere that truly embodied the spirit of peace and unity.

As we reflect on the festival's success, we are filled with gratitude for the collective effort of all the participants that made it such a memorable and magical event.  Watch the YouTube video capturing the essence of the St Kilda Peace Festival for 'Healing the Spirit' (13 mins). 

We are immensely proud of all the participants within our community, and we firmly believe that it will continue to inspire peace and goodwill in the future. 

Coming soon - Online 'Healing the Spirit' art exhibition 2023 – art works for sale.
If you haven't had an opportunity to visit and/or purchase art works from our recent 'Healing the Spirit' art exhibition. It will be online soon. We are just finalising details.

If interested, please email us at: exhibit@planetaryhealingartists.org

Moon Calendar December 2023

  • 13 December: New Moon
  • 20 December: First Quarter
  • 22 December: Summer Solstice
  • 27 December: Full Moon

MORE:

Planetary Healing Artists Association of Australia (PHAAA)
Address: PO Box 1638, St Kilda South VIC 3182
Tel: 0415 552 488

GiveOUT | UPDATING | Taking Pride by Changing Lives | 21 December 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

WRAPPING | 2023 from our CEO

This has been another incredible year of growth for GiveOUT and our rainbow communities, as we continue our mission of growing the pot of gold under the rainbow, and supporting LGBTQIA+ organisations to access and use those resources for the better. 

Together we: 
  • Grew funding to the LGBTQIA+ sector by distributing $775,000 to almost 100 LGBTQIA+ organisations, including via GiveOUT Day (our national day of giving) and Amplify Pride Fund (our large grants program with Aurora Group). 
  • Increased awareness of the chronic under-funding of our sector (see Where are the Rainbow Resources?) and advocated for more funding, including by co-hosting the first-ever conference on LGBTQIA+ funding in Australia, Asia and the Pacific during Sydney World Pride, with 87 grantmakers, 56 funding organisations and 35 civil society content experts in attendance (see Convening Report). 
  • Increased the capacity of the LGBTQIA+ sector to resource itself by hosting a Fundraising Masterclass and sharing fundraising resources.
  • Increased the efficiency and effectiveness of our organisation, including by finalising our 2023 - 2025 Strategic Plan, strengthening our peer collaboration (including with Aurora and Pride by Side) and bringing on two incredible new staff to support GiveOUT Day (Alex James and Dolan Cox).
On a personal note, I have relished my first 6 months on the job. It has been a privilege to witness our sector's leaders' dedication and strategic nous when working directly with rainbow folk and tirelessly advocating for change at all levels. I get up every day in service to you. 

Heading into 2024, I am emboldened by the increasing number of funders and partners who are joining our movement to ensure all LGBTQIA+ Australians are safe and equal. Thank you to all our current partners and patrons who have made the above possible. 

Thank you to our current partners and patrons
Em Scott, CEO GiveOUT

REPORTING | GiveOUT Day 2023 was our biggest yet! 

Together, we raised $405,475 for 91 LGBTQIA+ not-for-profit organisations in Australia. Funds from GiveOUT Day are game-changing for these organisations, who achieve incredible outcomes for their communities despite being chronically underfunded and underresourced. By supporting GiveOUT Day, you are directly supporting the LGBTQIA+ people who need it the most.
“[The GiveOUT Day Platform] is far beyond our reach in Regional Victoria and helps us share our work with a much larger audience and engage them in regional causes for LGBTQIA+ folks. This fundraising platform is such a critical feed into our operational (living) expense of running our organisation and removes such enormous pressure. It's highly effective and so positive end to end that it's not as draining as the incessant grant applications and sponsorship pursuits. It's so energising to be supported and encouraged by so many others in this work.” – Gippsland Pride Initiative Inc.
Thanks for stepping up to help build a brighter future for LGBTQIA+ Australians. 

We can’t wait to do it all again in 2024!

ANNOUNCING | 2024 Amplify Pride Fund Grantees

The Amplify Pride Fund exists to support LGBTIQ+ organisations across the country to thrive and grow. It is a new national LGBTQIA+ fund created in 2022 by GiveOUT and Aurora with support from the Snow Foundation.

We received over 100 Expressions of Interest for the second round of Amplify Pride Fund grants. That's more than double last year’s submissions! Thank you to all of the fantastic organisations across Australia for submitting your Expressions of Interest.

Our 2024 APF Grantee Partners are change-makers in our community. These organisations are driving bold and innovative solutions to generate systemic change for our most marginalised, and we can’t wait to see what they will achieve!

Join us in celebrating our 2024 APF Grantee Partners
Wishing you and yours a safe and joyful summer break and a happy end to 2023!
 
With Pride,
The GiveOUT Team

MORE:

The GiveOUT Team (GiveOUT)

ILF | UPDATING | News from the Indigenous Literacy Foundation | December 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

Yamandhu marang, 2023 has been a year to remember for a number of reasons thanks to donor support.

As was seen in the Referendum this year, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are resilient and will not pause their aspirations and aspirations of their children and the ILF stands strongly with this. The ILF will continue as a Community led organisation focused on supporting the literacy aspirations for the future and look forward to an exciting 2024 working with our supporters and Communities.

Our major highlights of 2023 have been:
  • Visiting remote Communities for workshops and book launches in NSW, QLD, NT, WA and SA
  • Hosting two Create Initiatives in one year, one in Wujal Wujal in far north Queensland, the other with Tiwi Island students in Sydney
  • A NAIDOC celebration with our supporters at the International Towers in Sydney
  • Our Indigenous Literacy Day film and livestream was joined by over 300,000 people across the country
  • The ILF was shortlisted again, for the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award
  • First Pamela Loft Bequest program since COVID
  • Launched our first musical fundraising event, Busking for Change and raised over $80,000
  • Relaunched our fundraising event, Sydney Trivia Night, to build on the success of the Melbourne Trivia night.
Interest continues to grow around the unique work of the ILF in publishing and in particular working in First Languages and the ILF is committed to further supporting the work of Community in telling their stories, in their languages, their way.

We look forward to continued donor support and if you can, please donate to our Festive Appeal. Our digital Give the Gift of Reading cards are a great way to make a tax deductible donation and send a card to a colleague, friend or family member, particularly to those that are interstate or overseas. All proceeds go straight back into our programs with remote Communities.

Each of you are a valuable member of the ILF community, and we couldn't achieve this important work without your support. Thank you for standing with us, being part of our journey and sharing our vision that reading opens doors to future opportunities and choices.

From all of us at ILF, we wish you a safe and joyful holiday season. See you in 2024!

Mandaang guwu,
Ben Bowen (Wiradjuri/Gandagarra), Chief Executive Officer


REFLECTING | 2023 Achievements

  • Gifted 116,400 culturally relevant books into 424 remote Communities through our Book Supply program
  • Worked with 116 playgroups with the Book Buzz early literacy program
  • Published 12 books representing 8 languages through our Community Publishing
  • Ran two CREATE Initiative programs and Pamela Lofts Bequest project

SPOTLIGHTING | Word of the Month

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

This month's word is goodbye in Wiradjuri language! Wiradjuri Country is located in central New South Wales.

ATTENDING | Yabun Festival 2024

For Sydneysiders and visitors, join us at the Yabun Festival on 26 January at Victoria Park, Camperdown. Make sure you visit the ILF stall and say hello. This is a wonderful day to recognise and celebrate the strengths and survival of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples' cultures, histories and traditions with music and dance, and some of Indigenous Australia's best thinkers and speakers.


REPORTING | ILF Melbourne Trivia Night

We had so much fun at the ILF Trivia Night in Melbourne this year with wonderful host, Brian Nankervis. We have raised an incredible amount of over $36,000 from our respective Sydney and Melbourne Trivia Nights. Thank you to our supporters who attended and participated in our silent auction and raffle. We are so grateful for your support!

REPORTING | Over $160,000 raised from Great Book Swap!

We are so grateful for the 414 schools and 131 individuals and organisations across the country who participated in this years Great Book Swap! Thanks to you, we have raised over $160,000 which will allow us to gift over 16,000 culturally relevant books to kids in remote Communities. Stay tuned for registrations for Great Book Swap 2024 which will be looking a little different!


WRITING | A Book in One Week!

Check out our Youtube video with ILF Ambassadors Shelley Ware and David Lawrence as they talk about the 2022 Create Program. Students from Tiwi College joined Shelley and David in Darwin to create the book Tiwi Seasons with Marius which is available now!

CLICKING | For More Stories


 Work in Community  

REPORTING | Workshops in Vincentia with Kirli Saunders

Our last workshop for 2023 took our team to the south of New South Wales to work with Vincentia High School and the Wreck Bay Community. The workshop was led by Gunai woman, award-winning writer, artist and consultant, Kirli Saunders. Our team was lucky enough to get to yarn with this mob about culture, language, art and poetry while surrounded by Booderee National Park. The Dhurga centred writing and artworks created by the students have our publishing team keen to dig into the editing, and produce some beautiful new books in 2024.

REPORTING | The Process of Creating Tiwi Girl Hunters!

In November this year we held a Create Initiative workshop with senior students from Tiwi College. The students came to Sydney to write, illustrate and publish a book in just one week at the Hachette Australia office with the help of ILF Ambassadors Shelley Ware and David Lawrence.

 Special Thanks 

Thinking of writing your will? The ILF has partnered with Safewill to provide our supporters with the ability to write their will for just $80 (half price).

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

This year, the Lendlease Office Portfolio partnered with the ILF to spread holiday cheer with the gift of stories. On behalf of their building communities, the Lendlease Office Portfolio donated $40,000 worth of books to children in First Nations Communities across Australia, with customers choosing the titles through a gifting drive. Using a purpose-built website, customers chose up to three titles written in native language, while the Lendlease Office Portfolio picked up the tab.

 Community Fundraisers 

We would like to thank the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) who are donating their ticket sales from their annual New Year's Eve Concert to the ILF! This is the fourth time ABC have supported ILF with this event and we are extremely grateful for their ongoing support. Purchase your tickets here.

We would like to thank Francesca who are supporting our Foundation by generously donating $20 from every purchase of their Awareness Bracelet to the ILF for 12 months starting in January. Available from 1 January.

Please note that the ILF office will be closed from Saturday 23rd December and re-open Tuesday 2nd January 2024.


MORE:

Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF)
Address: 17/207 Kent Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Tel: (02) 9280 0644
Website | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Instagram | LinkedIn

VMC | UPDATING | Community, News and Information | Wednesday 20 December 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

It’s that time of the annual cycle, where we feebly endeavour to capture the year in a brief but hopefully meaningful way… endeavouring to avoid cliches but failing abysmally.

2023 has certainly been somewhat of a roller-coaster of a ride…

‘twas the best of times ….. full of joy, hope and goals fulfilled; where we celebrated our multicultural diversity and recognised the contributions of so many through the Gala Dinner, the Refugee Awards, the Film Festival and the Multicultural Awards for Excellence.

A year where we celebrated the Commission’s 40th Anniversary, recognising the contributions of so many over the forty years in making multicultural Victoria. A year where we held our first Regional Advisory Council Forum, an opportunity for the more than 200 members to come together, share learnings and feel energised to commence the next phase of focus and actions.

‘twas a time of change ….. fuelling as it does uncertainty, trepidation but also generating considerable hope and a sense of opportunity. At the Commission, we welcomed a new Minister and new commissioners. At the state level we welcomed a new Premier and a new Governor; and informed that we’ll be returning to the Department of Premier and Cabinet in the new year.

yet, ‘twas a time interspersed with incredible and confronting challenges that have encapsulated grief, anxiety and challenges to our social cohesion. At the global level we’ve witnessed various conflicts that have had reverberations on communities here and on our social cohesion.

The VMC’s core remit is about supporting multicultural and multifaith communities to be able to fully participate in all aspects of our society. In that regard cohesion and harmony is an incredibly important element. This is why the Commission and commissioners spend a great deal of time and commitment to engaging and developing relationships with communities, building and embedding longstanding trust.

And over time, we have created a great community because generations of Victorians have chosen cohesion over division. This has placed us well in dealing with difficult issues, like what the current conflict in the Middle East has generated. A conflict that has tested our social cohesion.

However, I believe, like before, we will overcome, for no one should feel unsafe. We’ll continue to promote social cohesion, respect and understanding. We’ll continue to welcome robust conversations and work towards constructive solutions. We have and will continue to condemn all forms of violence, racism and vilification. Together, we will enhance our society where we can all belong and where we embrace our cultural and religious diversity.

As our topsy-turvy 2023 comes to a close, I express my sincere and deep appreciation to each and every one of you for the work you do each and every day, driven by a selfless desire to give and often unheralded.

I express my deep appreciation to those in community leadership positions for that has not been easy. I express my thanks to the many volunteers who spend countless hours promoting cultural diversity, engaging in education, support and advocacy. I wish you all an end of year with lots of love, peace and time well spent with your loved ones.

Finally, I’d like to thank the Commissioners and staff of the VMC, for whilst we are a small team with an incredibly broad brief, we have endeavoured and succeeded in making a positive difference.


Viv Nguyen, Chairperson
 

 News and Events 

VIC | VMC | CONGRATULATING | Winners of the MAE!

The Victorian Multicultural Commission recognises outstanding contributions to multiculturalism and diversity across arts, business, education, and more.

Congratulations to all winners and thank you to everyone who helped make the event special! 
 

VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural media grants program 

The Victorian Government has announced that it will support platforms that showcase multicultural Victorians' diverse voices and experiences and a new round of multicultural media grants. 

VIC | GOV | OFFERING | Sick pay guarantee 

The People and Places Grant Program will provide funding to organisations to deliver activities that increase awareness and participation of eligible workers for the Sick Pay Guarantee in priority communities and locations.

VIC | GOV | RECRUITING | For public boards | applications close 11.59pm Sunday 7 January 2024

The Victorian Government is committed to ensuring that government boards reflect the rich diversity of the Victorian community. The Department of Justice and Community Safety is currently supporting recruiting members for the Justice Human Research Ethics Committee. 

AUST | CAGA | SHOWING | Digital photographic exhibition for carer gateway

Ten carers from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds have been featured in a digital photographic exhibition, Real Carers, Real Stories - In Their Own Words, which launched on 1 November 2023.  This exhibition sensitively and powerfully depicts the day in the life of a carer, their unique stories, and how Carer Gateway (CAGA) has made a real difference.

VIC | BOITE | SUPPORTING | Artists through promoting understanding and nurturing creativity through music

Founded in 1979, The Boîte is a cornerstone of Victoria's multicultural music scene, The Boîte champions diverse artists and musical experiences, enriching Australia's cultural landscape. 

MORE:

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

THCO | THANKING | you from The Conversation

[Edited extract from public address]

Making a difference this year

For 16 years the Scanlon Foundation has produced an index of social cohesion in Australia. The most recent figures came out last month and they were the worst ever recorded. Since then cohesion has continued to fray in the wake of October 7 and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

What’s going wrong? One factor is the ubiquitous technology that primes us for intolerance. Social media rewards strong positions and self-righteous anger. The smartphones in our pockets claim to increase our connections with “friends” but they are optimised for moral grandstanding. It’s making us lonely and miserable.

It doesn’t have to be that way. Real social cohesion comes from the slow and unglamorous work of listening to people carefully, paying them respect and giving them the benefit of the doubt. 

It comes from the sort of morally attentive conversation the philosopher Raimond Gaita so generously creates. It also comes from the work of mission-driven organisations like The Conversation. We see the role of the media as creating a better world, not just a more profitable one.

In our case, collaboration is both the means and the ends of everything we do. Our work is made possible by thousands of thoughtful and generous readers who see the value of reliable information, and who care enough to help us provide it.
"Your authors' presentation of scientific facts, in layman's language, helps me and my colleagues to challenge attitudes and the powers behind them." – Steve, Friend of The Conversation
My deepest thanks to every academic who gave up something else important to write an article for The Conversation. Sincere thanks also to our passionate and attentive readers, our university partners and philanthropic funders who work so hard to make a positive difference. 

Thanks also to the volunteer board members and my colleagues, a team of professionals in editorial, administration and technology, who are smart, passionate, humble and fun.

A very special thanks to the 800 people who became monthly donors in December and the thousands more who have supported us throughout the year. If you haven’t donated yet in 2023 and would like to, you still can. 

Finally, from everyone here at The Conversation, we wish you a socially cohesive Christmas full of friends, family, reading, reflection and affection. 

I’m looking forward to working with you again in 2024 to fight the worst impulses of social media and hopefully play a small part in getting those Scanlon Foundation social cohesion numbers moving in the right direction.

Best wishes,
Misha Ketchell. Editor

PS: For those interested in learning more about what we've achieved this year I've included our 2023 Stakeholder Report plus our most recent Impact Report. And if you are looking for a last-minute Christmas gift our book A Year of Consequence is available from your favourite bookshop. 
 

Have you left your gift- buying to the last minute?

We can help. To satisfy the intellectually curious, look no further than our annual yearbook for a Christmas gift.

A Year of Consequence is a collection of some of the best essays from a year of consequential decisions, not just for Australia and New Zealand, but the world. 
 

Thank you for being a Friend of the Conversation.  


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

TJP | REPORTING | Everything we achieved together in 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

Looking back on the last year I am incredibly humbled and honoured with the trust our community has put in the Trans Justice Project.  

It’s been hard work, and sometimes quite daunting, starting this organisation but I have found so much courage in how people have wrapped around us, backed us up, and offered their time, expertise, and money to help make a difference.
 
We have just released our Impact Report for 2023. You can read the full report on our website but here is just a small snapshot of what we have achieved together.
I am incredibly proud to show the efforts of the last year and how our movement is already changing the landscape around trans justice in Australia.
  • 65 People trained in strategic messaging for trans justice
  • 600+ People trained in identifying anti-trans disinformation
  • 250+ People trained in how to have conversations for trans justice
  • 50+ Organisations briefed on the tactics and strategy of the anti-trans lobby
  • Released the 'Fuelling Hate' Report the largest investigation into experiences of anti-trans hate in Australia
  • 116 copies of the Fueling Hate report delivered to more than 88 politicians
  • 200+ Organisations signed onto our Statement of Solidarity with the Trans Community
  • 35+ Media mentions, appearances, or articles written about the work of the Trans Justice Project
We are gearing up for a massive year in 2024. We will be supporting the formation of local action groups, holding our first strategy retreat, and establishing a training program for trans and gender diverse change-makers. Additionally, we will be launching Disinfo Watch, our new campaign to expose the lies of the anti-trans lobby. I honestly can't wait.

Thanks for being a part of this journey and I am so excited for us all to work together in 2024.

Love and solidarity,
Jackie Turner (she/her), Director

MORE:

Trans Justice Project (TJP)

CUIN | UPDATING | Wrapping Up the Diversity Atlas Year on a High Note | 13 December 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

Celebrating Achievements, Reflecting on Growth, and Setting the Stage for a Remarkable New Year!

As we reflect on what a remarkable year it has been, our December newsletter brings an exhilirating month filled with impactful conversations and transformative encounters. Over the past few weeks, our CEO & Founder, Peter Mousaferiadis has embarked on a whirlwind journey across Europe and America, sparking dialogues on diversity, equity and inclusion, inspiring individuals and organizations alike to embrace the power of diversity and data through the Diversity Atlas platform. Join us as we recap some of our recent highlights, where each event becomes a stepping stone towards a more equitable future. 

REPORTING | Diversity Atlas Takes the World Stage

We have some exciting news to share from our time in Las Vegas! Amazon Web Services (AWS) is totally shaking things up, showcasing fantastic leadership with their inclusion-first approach to Inclusion, Diversity and Equity (ID&E) and we are absolutely thrilled to be a part of it. 

At re:Invent in Vegas, AWS rolled out its Inclusion Playbook featuring Diversity Atlas as the first step in this game-changing intiative. AWS recognises moving the world towards greater inclusivity requires action from everyone everywhere, which is why they produced this playbook and made the information publicly available—to inspire collective change.

Peter Mousaferiadis had the honour of joining a breakout session, led by AWS Director and Global Head of ID&E LaDavia S. Drane, alongside Kelly Lukschander from Big Ocean Brain and Neal Cauley from Amazon QuickSight. It was a privilege to hear about the incredible work these two are doing and to showcase Diversity Atlas on the world stage! 
     

REPORTING | Afrofuturismo Festival

The fifth edition of the Afrofuturismo Festival took place on 20 & 21 November in the Historic Center of Salvador. Organized by Vale do Dendê, together with our partner in Brazil, Shelley Green, Diversity Atlas brought a new experience in collecting information about diversity, culture and demographics based on the ancestry and personal history of each of the attendees. 

Diversity Atlas Senior Cultural Ambassador Getrude Matshe captivated the audience with her incredible personal story. She also presented a sneak peek of the initial results from Diversity Atlas's mapping of the festival attendees revealing 21 dialects from 14 languages spoken and 23 ancestral groups. 

The Afrofuturismo Festival is the biggest innovation, technology and diversity event in Latin America.
     

APPROACHING | Diversity Beyond Gender and Accessibility with the Université Paris-Saclay

Most contemporary approaches to the work of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) rely on poor-quality data that may at best only include two or three factors that go into making up any person’s identity, which risks creating a swathe of unintended consequences that merely shift the lines and perpetuate division, inequality, poverty and even unequal health outcomes.

In this 2.5 hour interactive seminar Peter partnered with the Université Paris-Saclay to workshop some of the concepts that underpin our work at Diversity Atlas, and to share his passion for Diversity Atlas’s holistic datasets that ensure everyone is given the visibility essential to building more representative, inclusive and equitable outcomes.
     

CELEBRATING | Australian Professionals of Colour (APOC) Gala and Awards Night

Diversity Atlas recently had the honour of playing a small yet impactful role at the APOC Gala and Awards night. It was an incredible event and we're thrilled to have contributed to its success. At the heart of the night were the real-time insights provided by our survey — a staggering 44 different ancestries, 48 languages, and 54 dialects were represented, creating a truly inclusive atmosphere that made the evening both successful and memorable.
Being part of an event that embraced such a wide range of cultures and backgrounds was a testament to the power of diversity.  We are proud to have been part of the APOC Gala and look forward to more opportunities to celebrate diversity and inclusion in the future.
     

ACCESSING | Organisation Free Diversity Health Check Assessment

Understand and maximise your diversity data collection capability with our free Diversity Atlas Health Check Assessment!  This quick survey takes around five minutes to complete, and provides insight into your organisation’s proficiency and practical application of diversity data.

We will provide you with a report with a score out of 100, identify your strengths and weaknesses with Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and provide relevant suggestions for improvement.

Not only does the Diversity Atlas Health Check Assessment help your organisation, but the wider DEI community – the more results generated, the more data we will have – thus enabling us to develop world-first diversity data benchmarks.

HIGHLIGHTING | Calendar Spotlight: Christmas Day 

A popular festival day and a public holiday in many nations, this day i.e. 25 December is widely celebrated across the world as a secular family holiday. It is a religious holy day for observant Christians to celebrate the birth of Christ as the son of God and for a small number of Muslims to celebrate the birth of Christ as an important prophet. Christmas Day rituals can include decorating Christmas trees, feasting, singing Christmas carols and exchanging gifts. Christmas celebrations often reflect differing cultural, local and national traditions.

WISHING | All a Very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from Diversity Atlas!


MORE:

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

PWR | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Supporting the Parliament of the World's Religions Ongoing Work

[Edited extract from public address]

This year, the Parliament of the World’s Religions has continued its commitment to the organization’s ongoing work, which sustains the organization’s impact between convenings.

The Parliament’s Climate Action Task Force continued its Buddhist-Catholic dialogue series this year and also published three supplements to the 2020 “Faith Action on the UN Sustainable Development Goals” in partnership with UNEP Faith for Earth Initiative, United Religions Initiative, and the Yale Forum on Religion and Ecology. 

The Climate Action Task Force also hosted and partnered on a number of significant events, including:
In a special statement submitted through UN channels, the Climate Action Task Force called for an amendment to the UN Charter to repurpose the Trusteeship Council in order to focus on next-generation rights and responsibilities.
  • Support Our Work All donations through to the end of the year will be generously matched

MORE:

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

CHUFFED | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Activism for Climate Defence, Asylum Seeking, Animal Refuge and Anti-Discrimination

[Edited extract from public address]

NSW | RT109 | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Legal Defence of Rising Tide 109

At the world's biggest coal port, 109 climate activists were arrested. Among them, 97 year old Alan Stuart, a church minister who, for the first time, took a stand against climate inaction by participating in a peaceful protest at the Port of Newcastle. 

Alan was inspired by concern for his grandchildren and future generations. Help cover legal costs for him and the other 109 arrested in the Rising Tide blockade.
“I am doing this for my grandchildren and future generations because I don’t want to leave them a world full of increasingly severe and frequent climate disasters. I am so sorry that they will have to suffer the consequences of our inaction. So, I think it is my duty to do what I can and to stand up for what I know is right.”
The 30 hour blockade brought together flood and bushfire victims, coal miners, and students using kayaks and floats to demand urgent climate action. 

With impending legal challenges, including court costs and fines, Rising Tide 109 (RT109) need help to keep fighting. 

NSW | SUZIE | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards helping bring Hazara family to Australia

Hazaras are one of the “most persecuted people in the world”. This Hazara family offers just one story of hope – will you help them travel from fear to freedom?

Whilst they have been able to escape to Pakistan, authorities have been cracking down on families like theirs who are in hiding without Pakistani visas. 

If they are found out, they will be deported back to Afghanistan and directly into the hands of the Taliban. This has been happening at an alarming rate, so the urgency to rescue them is increasing each day.

Ali was a doctor treating Afghan police and army. Because of his previous work, his mother, brother and three sisters are now at risk of Taliban retribution. 

His family is barely surviving with no income or social support. They are losing hope.

This is an urgent call so that they can raise funds for the Community Support Program allowing them to get to Australia. 

Can you chip in and help this family with a chance at a new life in Australia?

VIC | JDFS | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards helping these beautiful animals for Christmas!

It's been three months since John and Debbie from J&D’s Farm Sanctuary (JDFS) recently took in many new baby lambs, goats and calves. Within the space of a week and half they rescued a blind baby goat, a blind calf, a goat family and 2 orphaned lambs – one with a broken leg, as well as 6 male calves only a few days old who were due to be culled within 24 hours.

They managed to build safe areas for the animals with health issues or permanent impairments! Now they really need to prepare for the rest of their lives to be as comfortable as possible at their little sanctuary.

Here's an update from Debbie:
"Bump the blind cow and Daisy the wobbly legged lady love their new paddock! But the hay feeder and troughs are for the goats and way too small for them.

The lucky six calves were rescued at the 11th hour, at only a couple of days old they were due to be culled. These babies are currently living in the same paddock as the pigs who keep stealing their hay. We have a lush paddock with no-one in it, but to move the calves we need to build a big tree guard for the trees just planted and a shelter - the calves love their shelters!

In our special needs area is Arthur the lamb with contracted tendons and JK47 the lamb who had a broken leg (which has healed) but now has tendon damage in his other back leg. For him it will be a problem for life. This space needs far more shade - the heat is a killer!"
We are trying to do our bit but can only care for so many. John and I are totally exhausted but we are keeping our doors open despite the pressure of time and resources, simply because the need is so great."

Can you help these two angels ensure that these beautiful animals have what they need this Christmas? 🎁

AUST | NJP | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards Stopping Discrimination in Australia

The National Justice Project (NJP) are calling for a royal commission to thoroughly investigate the use of weapons by police and their responses in mental health emergencies. Such a commission could examine police practices, training methods, and alternative approaches that prioritise the safety and well-being of individuals in crisis.

For the next two weeks, all donations to National Justice Project are being matched! Double your donation today. 

State governments, driven by misguided "tough on crime" campaigns, are unwittingly granting police increasingly extreme powers without sufficient accountability. Simultaneously, mental health services are being starved of the funding they desperately need.
"The tragic deaths of 47-year-old Krista Kach, 95-year-old Clare Nowland and Todd McKenzie are just a few examples of police force being used against people who need specialised mental health support. They are shining a light on the inadequacy of police training and response mechanisms. Alarmingly, these are not isolated incidents. 

We are advocating for a shift towards models like the one in Denver, Colorado, which diverts individuals away from the criminal justice system and dispatches therapeutic response teams instead of armed police to address mental health crises."
With your help, they will fight for urgent reform to make the ensure people in crisis get the help they need and continue their vision to end discrimination in all its forms.

MORE:

Team Chuffed
Address: Level 2, 60 Martin Place, Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia
Website

S2b | OFFERING | Gifts for the Festive Season

[Edited extract from public address]

Tick Off Your Gift List Early

 We're nearing the end of the year and the festive season has landed.
It's time to tick off your gift-shopping list!

Prices start from $10 and we have some GREAT Christmas offers in-store.

Your purchase supports newly arrived migrants, people seeking asylum, local designers and artists.
 

Wine With A Cause 

Fancy a tipple this festive season? Or give the gift of wine with a cause...

Bandesh Wine & Spirits is inspired and run by a great human rights activist, artist and musician, Farhad Bandesh and his partner Jenell Quinsee.

Based in Melbourne, producing the first Kurdish Gin & Arak in the world, raising awareness about humans rights & social justice. 

Cheers to freedom!
NOW available at Space2b ~ Buy 2 or more bottles of Gin or Arak
to receive a 10% discount.
**Available in-store only


Shop art

Our current exhibition 'The Affordable Art Show' showcases over 50 artists, selling some amazing artworks, at affordable prices. EVERYTHING is under $400! 
Browse the works in our Artspace, in-store only.


Can't find a gift for your Uncle Harry?  e-Gift Cards Now Available

Why not take the stress out of your hands and buy a gift card from Space2b?

We now have e-gift cards available, sent to you via email and super easy to purchase in just a click of a button. It can be used online and in-store.

Together we make a difference!

MORE:

Space2b Social Design (S2b)
Address: 144 Chapel Street, St Kilda, Melbourne Vic 3182
Email | Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

CoPP | UPDATING | Community Sector News | 11 December 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

GRANTING | Playing it forward with Youth Access Grants | applications now open

Youth Access Grants help young people aged 12 to 18 in our community enjoy more recreational activities.

The Youth Access Grant Program has two categories:
Stream one: Get Involved Grant
Get Involved funding provides up to $500 for a young person aged 12 to 18 years to participate in recreational activities.

Young people between 12-17 years old need parental consent for their application. In this case, it is the parent or carer's responsibility to manage the funds and provide acquittal report.

Stream two: Recreation Programs Grant
The Recreation Programs Grant is available for organisations to apply for up to $15,000. They must provide a free or low-cost recreation program for young people aged 12 to 18 years of age.

Key dates include: 

* New dates released.

UPCOMING | Environmental Leaders course

Calling all budding environmental leaders

Are you passionate about climate action? Do you have an idea for an environmental project but not sure how to make it happen? Wherever you are at, the City of Port Phillip Environmental Leaders 10-week course will develop your leadership skills, improve your knowledge and introduce you to like-minded people in the local community.
 
Applications for the February 2024 course are now open - apply here.  This course is aimed at anyone who wants to become an environmental leader. There are no pre-requisites and no skills required.

MORE:

City of Port Phillip (CoPP)
Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182

SRD | HEARING | Your say: Can we Reverse Climate Change by 2030? If Not, by when? | submissions close mid-late December 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

Australia's Society for Responsible Design charity asked to pen Journal Chapter on Climate Action; your input invited.

After our conference paper series advancing sustainability, ISDRS.org asked SRD to submit a Chapter for new Routledge Journals on United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) progress. 

Most people know the SDGs are grossly under-achieving, so the Chapter Title asks the provocative question ensuing important questions:
  • "If Not, by when?"
  • "Does anybody know by when?" and, to respond best, 
  • "How may we best resolve the closely related issues, especially as time is running out?" plus 
  • "Where are the best current ideas for achieving this?"
Submitters are invited to contribute a paragraph (or 2) for this Journal to enable real Climate Action by 2030. We must share the keys to change perceptions that it can't be done. Many say it has to be done. Governments show they're not up to the task alone.

We already have several great responses from published authors and experts in different fields, from Energy to Consumerism and Built Environment. Getting to the heart of answering how we may advance the urgent issues. 
Submissions need to be well-considered and to the point about how the world needs to change. Email srd@srd.org.au for your personal invitation.


MORE:
The Society for Responsible Design Inc. (SRD)
Post: PO Box 326, Church Point, NSW 2105
Websites: srd.org.au and  srdchange.org.au ​

An independent, not-for-profit, volunteer run organisation and a Registered Environmental Organisation (REO) promoting the value of design towards creating our sustainable future since 1989.

GLEN EIRA | GECC | HEARING | Your say: Racism, reporting barriers and support needs of people experiencing racism | submissions close soon

[Edited extract from public address]

Submissions for an anti-racism project called "Understanding reporting barriers and support needs of people experiencing racism” is closing soon.

Racism continues to be a reality for many but many who experience racism do not report it and do not get the support they may need. You can help change that!

This is an opportunity to participate in a survey aiming to identify gaps in the existing reporting system and improve support services for Victorians who experience racism.

If you,
  • Live in the Glen Eira municipality
  • Identify as a person with a multicultural or multifaith background or
  • Identify as a person from an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background
Filling in the survey will take 8-10 minutes. Your answers will be completely anonymous. 
You can also go into the prize pool to win one of main prize $300 voucher; two $200 vouchers or five $100 vouchers.

The survey is also available in Arabic, Simplified Chinese, and Vietnamese.
Glen Eira City Council (GECC) is working with Victoria University in collaboration with the Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria (ECCV) and the Islamic Council of Victoria.

MORE:

Diversity and Inclusion 
Glen Eira City Council (GECC)
Address: PO Box 42, Caulfield South 3162 
Tel 03 9524 3717

ECCV | UPDATING | eBulletin #41 | December 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

ECCV is proud to announce The Hon Steve Bracks AC as our new patron at our Annual General Meeting, where the former Premier was keynote speaker. 

In his speech, Mr Bracks reflected on his enduring relationship with ECCV, which was instrumental in shaping Victoria’s multicultural policy and law reforms during his term as Premier. He particularly acknowledged the strong advocacy and contribution of George Lekakis AO, who was then Chair of ECCV and who went on to become one of the longest-serving Chairs of the Victorian Multicultural Commission.
 
In another AGM highlight, Mr Lekakis and former Chair of the Federation of Ethnic Communities' Councils of Australia Voula Messimeri AM were bestowed ECCV Life Membership for their outstanding contributions to ECCV and multicultural Victoria.
 
More than 100 people attended the AGM, where elections for the 2023-2025 Board of Directors were also held. We warmly congratulate newly elected directors Richard Ogetii, Kenny Tran and Minwen Wu, as well as re-elected directors Abiola Akinbiyi, Joe Caputo, Dr Medha Gunawardana, Gabrielle Marchetti, Jenny Matic, Eddie Micallef and Jill Morgan AM. The election of Office Bearers will take place at the next Board meeting in the new year.
 
The AGM was a fitting end to a busy year, and as always, it was great to connect with our members and supporters in person. Read more about ECCV's work across 2022-23 in our newly released Annual Report.
 
As this will be our last eBulletin for the year, we would like to take this opportunity to thank our staff, volunteers, members and partners for your ongoing support, tireless spirit and dedication. We look forward to continuing to work together in the new year and beyond to create a fairer, more inclusive Victoria.

 Highlights 

ECCV funded to build multicultural resilience

The Victorian Government this week announced ECCV as joint recipient of a $1.5 million grant to help multicultural Victoria plan for, respond to and recover from emergencies. ECCV is working with Burnet Institute and LanguageLoop, and our partner Neighbourhood Collective Australia, on the project, with former Victorian Emergency Management Commissioner Andrew Crisp AM as special adviser.

Read our Annual Report 2022-23

ECCV is pleased to share our Annual Report 2022-23. The Annual Report offers an overview of our work over the past year, and the major policy and advocacy areas in which we have made an impact, with particular emphasis on the work we achieved via partnerships with our members and sector stakeholders. Thank you to our members, friends, partners and communities who helped shape our work.

ECCV pays tribute to two new Life Members

Congratulations to esteemed community leaders George Lekakis AO and Voula Messimeri AM MAICD, who were bestowed Life Membership at our AGM last Thursday. Voula was the first female FECCA Chair and CEO of Australian Greek Welfare Society for 27 years. She is currently Chair of NAATI and SSI. George has served as Chair of ECCV, VMC and VITS, and is currently President of VicScreen. 

Steve Bracks announced as new ECCV patron

Having held the office from 1999 to 2007, The Hon Steve Bracks AC is one of Victoria's longest-serving Premiers. During this period, Mr Bracks also served as Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs. Mr Bracks assumes the role of ECCV patron following the retirement of our previous patron, the Hon Justice Linda Dessau AC CVO. 

Excellent turnout at ECCV's 2023 AGM

Browse photos from our Annual General Meeting last week in our full event gallery. This year's event was one of the most well-attended AGMs in recent times, and affirmed the importance of multiculturalism and social cohesion now more than ever. The AGM featured reports by ECCV Chair Eddie Micallef, CEO Mo Elrafihi and Treasurer Jenny Matic as well as the election of a new Board. 

 Opportunities and Resources 

Help improve reporting pathways for racism

Have your say on how to better support Victorians who experience racism. We invite you to take a short survey for a research project led by Victoria University in partnership with ECCV and the Islamic Council of Victoria, with funding from VicHealth. The project will inform recommendations on how to improve reporting pathways and support services for people who experience racism. 

Speak My Language (Disability) broadcasts

ECCV partnered with three radio stations to broadcast Speak My Language (Disability) podcast episodes to raise awareness about the importance of supporting people with disability from migrant and refugee backgrounds as part of International Day of People with Disability, which took place on 3 December. 

MORE:

Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV)
Address: Suite 101, 398 Sydney Road, Coburg Vic 3058
Tel: (03) 9354 9555

PWR | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds towards global Women Advancing Knowledge Equity movement

[Edited extract from public address]

Supporting the Parliament of the World's Religions Ongoing Work

At the 2023 Parliament, the Women's Task Force hosted the Women's Freedom Assembly (150mins) and facilitated spaces for sharing messages of hope and identifying partners and partnership opportunities around critical areas of concern: 
  • education for women and girls
  • justice for children
  • political literacy
  • women and community
  • financial literacy
  • climate solutions
  • human trafficking, and 
  • women’s health and wellbeing.
Standing on our commitment to women’s freedom and wisdom, the Parliament of the World’s Religions published Women Advancing Knowledge Equity: The Parliament of the World’s Religions, a collection of biographies about women who are noteworthy leaders and participants in the Parliament Convenings but whose geographical location, economic status, and occupational attentions obscure the significant influence and impact of their lives and work.

This volume, an outgrowth of the ATLA Women in Religion series and the Women in Religion Wiki Project, continues the initiative’s work of creating biographical sources about women in religion that challenge and explore biased conventions and principles that regulate print and digital content creation about women.

This season of giving we invite you to commit to knowledge equity, women's freedom and human rights, and the ongoing work of our organization.

MORE:

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

CoPP | UPDATING | Community Sector News | December 2023

[Edited extract from public address]
There are some great opportunities in this edition of Community Sector News that can help you put your best for forward for 2024. Have you been thinking of starting a community group and want to know what you need to do? 

Also, please note that the Community Awards nominations close this month. You can self nominate or nominate a community hero that deserves to be celebrated. 

 Training and Professional Development 

VIC | JUCO | WEBINAR | Starting a Not for Profit | Tuesday 30 January 2024 | 12.45–2pm

Setting up a not-for-profit organisation but not sure where to start? Justice Connect (JUCO) is here to help.

We’ll cover:
  • Key steps when starting out  
  • The pros and cons of incorporation
  • Legal structures  
  • Basics of charity status and tax concessions  
  • Additional resources to help with the process  
This FREE introductory webinar will help you understand the legal basics of setting up and getting started. You'll learn how to set up and register your organisation, which legal structure is best for you and whether you should incorporate.

 Grants and Funding 

Play it forward with our Youth Access Grants

Youth Access Grants help young people aged 12 to 18 in our community enjoy more recreational activities.

The Youth Access Grant Program has two categories:
Stream one: Get Involved grant
Get Involved funding provides up to $500 for a young person aged 12 to 18 years to participate in recreational activities.

Young people between 12-17 years old need parental consent for their application. In this case, it is the parent or carer's responsibility to manage the funds and provide acquittal report.

Stream two: Recreation Programs grant
The Recreation Programs Grant is available for organisations to apply for up to $15,000. They must provide a free or low-cost recreation program for young people aged 12 to 18 years of age.

Key dates include: 

 Events 

Aged Care Reform information session | Wednesday 6 December 2023 | 4–6pm

The Australian Government has made changes to how it funds services for older people. City of Port Phillip is proposing some changes to the aged care services they deliver. 

Council is hosting a community workshop, so you can have a face-to-face
conversation with our team about what these changes could mean for you, and
how you would like older people supported in Port Phillip into the future.
  • Where: Middle Park Community Centre Multipurpose Room, 254-256 Richardson Street, Middle Park
  • Download: Poster

CoPP | AKC | Artists for Kids Culture for the end of year celebration

The AKC 'artsbus' has created arts opportunities for children at Park Towers, South Melbourne with 30 free weekly arts programs for children aged 5–14 years between February to December 2023 engaging local lead artists across all arts disciplines and presenting a final outcome exhibition. 

The Artist Kids for Culture artsbus project incorporates multiple art forms in programs: visual arts, music, dance, theatre, multimedia, crafts.
  • Exhibition Opening:  Thursday 14 December 2023 | 5–6.30 pm
    Bookings essential: online via Humanitix
  • Gallery open: Friday 15 December 2023 | 11am–5pm and
    Saturday 16 December 2023 | 12noon–4pm
  • Where: Brightspace Gallery. 8 Martin Street St Kilda
  • Download: Poster

 Other Programs 

CoPP | CALLING | Nominees for the Proudly Port Phillip Community Awards | nominations close 22 December 2023

Proudly Port Phillip Community Awards celebrate the extraordinary community contributions that make us proud to live, work and play in our City. 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
Nominations are now open until Friday 22 December 2023. Hard copies of the nomination form are also available from ASSIST customer service counters at the St Kilda and Port Melbourne Town Halls.

All finalists are invited to the awards presentation evening, which will be held on Thursday 14 March 2024.
  • For more information: please visit City of Port Phillip’s Have Your Say webpage.
  • Download: Poster

AUST | CDA | OFFERING | Free membership now for Community Directors Australia

The best-practice governance network for the members of Australian not-for-profit and government boards and committees, and the senior staff who work alongside them – providing ideas and advice for community leaders.
  • Receive ‘responsible person’ status from the ATO
  • Receive notifications when changes are made to policies
  • Credentials: recognition through post-nominals (MICDA; FICDA)
  • Membership - NOW FREE

 Community Profile 

FEATURING | St Kilda South Port Uniting Church (SKSP)

This month we feature SKSP and if you have time browse their website you will find amazing community connection opportunities with everything from providing a drop in space, to meditation to make and mend, a craft group.

What is the name of your organisation and when did it start?
We are St Kilda South Port Uniting Church (SKSP). Following agreement between the three parishes of South Melbourne, Port Melbourne and St Kilda we finally joined to form one regional community on 11/12/22. Despite the apparent recency of our amalgamation we have been here at Dorcas Street South Melbourne with our iconic bluestone church since 1860.

What is your organisation’s elevator pitch?
We are a vibrant, diverse and inclusive community open to all faiths and none.                   

What is your name and role in the organisation/group?
My name is Wendy Atkinson and I am the recently appointed Community Development Co-ordinator.

How many active members do you currently have?
Difficult to define by numbers, as we have clusters of communities throughout Port Phillip. Notably our Engagement Hub in St Kilda behind the church on the corner of Carlisle and Chapel Streets provides a daytime home to an average of 80 vulnerable community members daily. Our Thursday evening Social Meals program at Dorcas Street attracts around 40. But outreach is broad and growing all the time when you consider all our FTF and online programs.       

How can someone become a member?
There are absolutely no barriers to entry. Just turn up. Or contact one of our ministers – Alex Sangster or John Tansey or myself to discuss your preferred style of engagement.                            

What was the organisation’s proudest achievement in 2022?                       
Probably that we finally achieved our vision to amalgamate and consolidate our physical spaces and move forward as one.  

What project or activity is coming up that you want everyone to know about?
Well of course Christmas is coming up and that must be the highlight of our year! But it’s not about trees and tinsel, although there will be plenty of vigorous carol singing, but about nurturing community connection, reaching out to those in our communities who are most vulnerable and isolated.                                                                                     

Can you tell us one thing that works well in your organisation and why it works well?
I think that there is a wonderful sense of pursuing possibilities, a commitment to searching for meaning and celebrating life. This community challenges the stereotypes of stultified Christianity and opens up to exploring new ways of being.

MORE:

City of Port Phillip (CoPP)
Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182