I hope this message finds you well. In recent weeks we’ve heard about various announcements on research into racism at universities and the continued increases in incidents of racism, be it antisemitism or islamophobia or other types of racism. I want to reiterate our firm stance: racism, hate, and vilification in all forms are unacceptable. We stand united against all hate.
In this respect, I welcome efforts by the Race Discrimination Commissioner - Giri Sivaraman’s latest report, which highlights evidence that governments and their departments at all levels across the country, are failing to adequately identify and address racism. I also welcome Victoria University and partners report, which confirms empirical evidence about the barriers to reporting racism faced by multicultural and multifaith communities, and importantly highlights strategies these communities have suggested to address them.
I also want to thank the communities who are doing remarkable work in supporting those in need, including newcomers to Victoria. Your dedication is crucial as we strive for a more inclusive and compassionate society.
This week, I presented at the Australian Multicultural Council to inform and advocate for their support to ensure the voice of diverse communities is represented in the national discourse on family violence. I also advocated for ethno specific and multicultural service providers to be more embedded in the service delivery continuum. I’ll have more to say about this in the coming months, from the research the Commission has partnered with the Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation, the Australian Muslim Women’s Centre for Human Rights, and the Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria on the Mapping Social Services Provision for Diverse Communities project.
As we wrap up the Regional Advisory Councils (RAC) meetings for this round, I want to highlight the different focus areas discussed at each of the 8 RACs, this time on mental health. RAC members were provided with details of the Mental Health Locals and Hubs which have been established across the state, providing free treatment, care, and support for people aged 26 and over without the need for Medicare or a referral or visa. Please consider accessing these services and prioritising your mental well-being.
Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to fostering a safer, more inclusive community for all.
Warm regards,
Viv Nguyen. Chairperson
News and Events
AUST | MYA | CALLING | Nominees for Multicultural Youth Awards | nominations close 11.59pm Saturday 31 August 2024
The Multicultural Youth Awards recognise and celebrate the exceptional achievements of young people aged 18-25 from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Nominate a deserving youth or encourage someone you know to be recognised for their achievements.
AUST | RUOK | TRANSLATING | Resources available
R U OK? has translated key resources you can use, if you or someone you know would prefer information in a language other than English.
There are dedicated pages in six languages:
AUST | SFRI | PODCASTING | Voices of Australia
Voices of Australia is a Scanlon Foundation Research Institute (SFRI) podcast exploring all things interesting in the world of social cohesion.
Season 3 has just launched and will explore 'What's behind our social cohesion?' through 10 episodes. Voices of Australia is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also watch the recording on video, in addition to audio-only! Tune in every Thursday at 10am for a new episode!
VIC | LEVI | CALLING | Applicants for Williamson Community Leadership Program | applications close 11.59pm Monday 12 August 2024
A program for senior level leaders to transform their leadership, create lasting connections and gain a new set of skills to drive meaningful impact on society's complex issues.
The Williamson Community Leadership Program is a unique, immersive, 10-month long program for experienced leaders. Leadership Victoria (LEVI) works with leaders from a diversity of backgrounds, sectors, organisations, identities and experiences, drawing on leadership approaches that equip them to bring meaningful change to the organisations and communities in which they work and volunteer. Applications are now open 2025 intake.
VIC | GOV | LAUNCHING | Bicultural workforce toolkit
The Victorian Government has launched a Bicultural workforce toolkit. This toolkit is an online resource that aims to educate public sector organisations so they can harness the value bicultural workers bring to the workforce.
VIC | GOV | CALLING | Applicants to Change Our Game professional development scholarships program 2024-25 | applications close 5pm AEST, Monday 5 August 2024
The 2024-25 Change Our Game Professional Development Scholarships Program is open for applications. This program supports women to access professional development opportunities to develop and strengthen specialist skills necessary to their roles in the sport and active recreation sector.
VIC | ANVI | OFFERING | Free energy assistance
Anglicare Victoria (ANVI) have a free energy assistance program that can help you if you are having difficulties paying your energy bill.
Language translations are available and you can also organise to meet you in-person at one of their outreach locations across Victoria.
- To get in contact call 1800 531 741 (between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday excluding public holidays)
- Learn more
MELB | BOITE | CELEBRATING Six ways to NAIDOC Week in Melbourne! | Sunday 28 July 2024 | 2.30-9.30pm
FLIGHT is a multi-genre music showcase presented by The Boite and The Evelyn Hotel featuring some of Naarm's best musicians.
The Boite’s Portfolio Project is committed to breaking down barriers for culturally and linguistically marginalised communities and helping them enter the broader Australian music ecosystem.
- Where: The Evelyn Hotel
- Price: Ticketed event
- Bookings: For more information and to book
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The VMC acknowledges the Traditional Owners of country throughout Victoria and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.