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AUST | GEIFN | CALLING | LGBTQIA+ Story Tellers for AUSSIE Stories: Downunder the Rainbow

AussieSTORY

Collected Video Stories of Identity, Connection and Belonging by First Nations, Settlers and Migrants Downunder the Rainbow.

As response to Voice Referendum 23, Global Engagement in Friendlier Neighbourhoods (GEIFN) and I’m From Driftwood (IFD) aim to showcase diverse Australian views by sourcing and producing 8-10min 1st-Person Video Stories of LGBTQIA+ Folk from around Australia. 

Recordings will be hosted individually on IFD website for global audience and matched with 2 others on GEIFN website for local audience.

GEIFN’s Potential Top 5 Talking Points to offer insights, answers and views to question “What does Reconciliation look like to you?":
  1. What did the coming out process look like for you?
  2. How did being LGBTQIA+ teach you about your family, community and the world?
  3. Where is your gift of being LGBTQIA+ been used in personal, professional or public life?
  4. Who is your message of reconciliation to?
  5. Why should Australia be a place, position and player on a spherical global playing field?
IFD's existing Australian content is 12 stories, all by cis-gender males. This project is preferencing Australian-residing LGBTQIA+ Women or Women-identifying, First Nations, People of Colour/Migrants.

If you or someone you know fit the description and wish to be a part of this reconciliation
project, please contact Carey on 0438 371 488 or caretaker@geifn.org

Primary Collaborator

I’m From Driftwood (IFD) is delivered digitally through a cloud-based multi-channel platform to a broad-based audience developed over the past 15 years. Part of this conversation and active enthusiasts since the conception.

Quoting from IFD website:
The stories on I’m From Driftwood send a powerful message to LGBTQIA+ people everywhere: you exist, you matter, you belong.
 
IFD’s collection of more than 1,400 professionally-produced videos and user-submitted written oral histories are shared freely online – giving voice to and forging connections among often marginalized or silenced people, educating people about the joys and challenges, complexities and intersectionalities of LGBTQIA+ lives, and increasing empathy in IFD viewers.

Some existing IFD examples:


How to Reconcile

Language is an interesting thing. It can be used to educate, mystify, divide, harm or heal. English is a particularly interesting example.

The English language has 26 letters (written symbols) but it makes over 44 different sounds (syllables) and countless compound ideas (words). All relying on ‘learnt, practised or assumed knowledge' to correctly use, prevailing cognizance (ability to independently critically think), pronounce, know and then to respond.
 
To make things even more interesting, English is always changing, borrowing from many other languages with meanings that may change over time.

Let's look at the word "reconcile":
[reh’con’syle]
From late Middle English: from Old French reconcilier or Latin reconciliare, from Latin re- = back, concentrate, focus + conciliare = bring together.

verb
  1. restore friendly relations between. Ie, the monarch and the archbishop were publicly reconciled. Ie, they wanted to be reconciled with their father. 
    • settle (a quarrel). Ie, advice on how to reconcile the conflict. 
    • make or show to be compatible. Ie, the agreement had to be reconciled with the city's new international relations policy. 
    • someone accepting a disagreeable or unwelcome thing. Ie, the team was reconciled to the poor match result.
  2. make (one account) consistent with another, especially by allowing for transactions begun but not yet completed. Ie, it is not necessary to reconcile the cost accounts to the financial accounts.
And this is just 1 word. Languages are made of many words. Words connected by space(s) make sentences. Sentences connected by space(s) make paragraphs. Paragraphs connected by space(s) make narratives or stories. Stories connected by space(s) make story books. Story books connected by space(s) mark time and are called tradition. This is the process of transmission. Transmission can be verbal, physical, formless or abiding in the space between.

Please find examples of other words (and if needed translations in other languages):

So back to this case: collected video stories of identity, connection and belonging by First Nations, Settlers and Migrants Downunder the Rainbow.

How to get involved?

  1. Fit the criteria, sorted something out, feeling crazy-brave? Volunteer to tell your story and make contact on the details below.
  2. Pass the word to someone you know has a reconcilingly good story to tell.
  3. Share the message through your socials.

MORE:

Global Engagement In Friendlier Neighbourhoods (GEIFN)
Join us with 'humanising the other' 
Carey Rohrlach (he/him), AUSSIEstory Team Member, Tel 0438 371 488

GEIFN is based in the traditional lands of the Kulin Nation. Respect is offered to past, present and future elders of all spiritual traditions. May we find together a generous way to accommodate those in need of refuge. Let us be cool, strive individually and together to overcome inequality, violence, disengagement, tragedy and injustice wherever it may be. Let us honour, savor and enjoy results of mindful effort so more thrive peacefully with less effort in our place called home.

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GLEN EIRA | GECC | GRANTING | Annual Community Grants | applications now open, closes 5pm Monday 24 March 2025

[Edited extract from public address]

Glen Eira Annual Community Grants are upon us again. Suitable for Glen Eira networks, groups, clubs and any not-for-profits who may have interest. Guidelines attached.

Glen Eira City Council (GECC) Community Strengthening Grant team will also be running grant writing workshops during the opening period, all of which are free to attend.
Two streams of funding available
  • Community Strengthening: Up to $3,000
  • Partnership and Events: up to $10,000
Grant Writing Workshops
Free community grant writing workshops to help learn key tips for crafting clear, impactful grant applications and project plans
 
ONLINE - Thursday 11 February 2025 | 10am-12pm
 
In Person - Wednesday 19 February 2025 | 6.30pm-8.30pm
Glen Eira Town Hall, Caulfield Cup Room corner Glen Eira and Hawthorn Roads, Caulfield
 
ONLINE - Thursday 27 February 2025 | 1pm-3pm
 
In Person - Friday 7 March 2025 | 10am-12pm
Murrumbeena Community Hub,28 Gerald Street, Murrumbeena
 
If anyone has questions, please feel free to reach out to the Community Strengthening team on Email: communitygrants@gleneira.vic.gov.au or Tel: 03 9524 333

MORE:

Glen Eira City Council
Address: PO Box 42, Caulfield South 3162 

The City of Glen Eira acknowledges the Boon Wurrung/Bunurong and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation as Traditional Owners and Custodians. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present. 

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MELB | FfW | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Helping Women and Gender-Diverse Jobseekers to Become Work-Ready

[Edited extract from public address]

Helping women and gender-diverse jobseekers to become work-ready, find meaningful employment, and thrive in their working lives!

Fitted for Work (FfW) believe in a future that is equal, positive and powerful for women in the workplace. Our job-readiness services provide women with practical skills, knowledge, and connection, so that they can move forward with confidence in their careers.

Inclusion and empowerment are at the heart of all we do. We are committed to providing a safe space for all women, non-binary, and gender-diverse job-seekers. We welcome clients of all ages, cultures, ethnicities, bodies and abilities. Our national services are available in-person and online, so that no matter where you live, we can help!

Fitted for Work focus specifically on employment because work provides economic security, independence, purpose, and connection. We believe when you are fitted for work, you are fitted for life.

MORE:

Fitted for Work (FfW)

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GEIFN | CONSOLIDATED | Community Information | Saturday 1 February 2025

Fast Facts: Community Responses Victoria & Australia

Topics List

  1. Highlighting
  2. Granting
  3. Employment & Training
  4. Engaging
  5. Collectivising
  6. Announcing
  7. Supporting
  8. Acknowledging

 1. HIGHLIGHTING 

 1.1  CARDINIA | CALI | ENGAGING | Safely with Water Program

Cardinia Leisure (CALI)  presents the Safely Engaging with Water Program at Cardinia Life, offering subsidised swimming lessons for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. This program provides essential water safety education in a supportive environment.

Program Highlights:
  • 10-week course with 30-minute weekly classes
  • Small group sessions led by qualified teachers
  • Lessons in water safety and survival techniques
  • Separate male and female sessions
  • Includes unlimited pool access and a dry safety session
With over 80% of multicultural adults unable to swim, this initiative addresses drowning risks and promotes swimming as a lifelong skill, enhancing safety, fitness and family bonding. Since its launch in July 2024, the program has been in high demand with Round 2 currently underway.
  • For more information, contact Cardinia Life at (03) 5945 2888 or learn more
 

 1.2  VIC | VICSWIM | OFFERING | Affordable Swimming Lessons for Kids

The Australian Government has launched the VICSWIM Summer Kidz Program, offering affordable swimming lessons to help children develop essential water safety skills.

Program Details:
  • Five 30-minute lessons for kids aged 4 to 12 for just $35 per child (or free with Get Active Kids vouchers)
  • Available at 170+ swimming centres, including 130 in regional Victoria
  • Specialised lessons for children with disabilities and multicultural families, with extra spots at locations such as Werribee, Dandenong, and Broadmeadows
This program aims to provide foundational swimming skills and safety knowledge, making water activities safer and more accessible for children across Victoria. 

 1.3  CoPP | LOTEA | ADVISING | Important water safety information for your community

The LOTE Agency (LOTEA) Make Safe Decisions Around Water campaign highlighs five key messages to keep our multicultural and multilingual communities safe in and around water.
The LOTE Agency has partnered with Royal Life Saving Australia to develop in collaboration with community leaders and advisors, the campaign to promote safety while swimming, boating, and fishing.

Last summer, 134 people drowned across Australia. People from multicultural communities accounted for 27% of all drowning deaths, and 39% were people aged 55 and over. The summer months of December and January saw the highest number of incidents.

The campaign messaging includes:
  • Never go alone in the water – always have a buddy.
  • Always wear a lifejacket when boating, fishing, or paddling.
  • Don’t drink alcohol when you go swimming, boating, or fishing.
  • Supervise children closely around all water, including pools, rivers, and beaches
  • Learn to swim and learn how to stay safe in and around water.

Always plan ahead, check weather and water conditions, and stay safe around water.  

 1.4  AUST | GEIFN | CALLING | LGTBIQA+ Story Tellers for AUSSIE Stories: Downunder the Rainbow

AussieStory - Collected Video Stories of Identity, Connection and Belonging by First Nations, Settlers and Migrants Downunder the Rainbow.
Global Engagement in Friendlier Neighbourhoods (GEIFN) and I’m From Driftwood (IFD) aim to showcase diverse Australian views by sourcing and producing 8-10min 1st-Person Video Stories of LGTBIQA+ Folk from around Australia. 

Now seeking Storytellers who have demonstrated reconciliation(s) in their own life. Recordings will be done remotely through Zoom or in a studio if Melbourne based. Storytellers will have opportunity to review final edit. Final edit recordings will be hosted individually on IFD website for global audience and bundled in a group of 3 for GEIFN website and local audience. 

Please feel welcome to share with your networks interested in reconciliation.

 2. GRANTING 

  1. CoPP | GOV | GRANTING | Quick Response Grants 2025
  2. AUST | FTDAG | GRANTING | To eligible charitable organisations | accepting enquiries to 3 February 2025
  3. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Local Anti-Racism Initiatives Grants Program 2024-26 | applications close midday Thursday 6 February 2025
  4. MELB | RMIT | GRANTING | Interpreter Scholarship Program | applications close Friday 7 February 2025
  5. WA | VWA | GRANTING | Volunteer-involving organisations recognising volunteers during National Volunteer Week | applications close 5pm 12 February 2025
  6. VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Sporting Club Grants Program | closing 17 February 2025
  7. AUST | NIAA | GRANTING | Local Grants for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and supporting organisations to celebrate NAIDOC 2025 | applications closing 3pm AEDT Thursday 20 February 2025
  8. AUST | GOV | GRANTING | Strong and Resilient Communities Activity – Inclusive Communities (SARC – IC) Round 4 Grants | application close 9pm AEDT 20 February 2025
  9. SYD | SWSPHN | GRANTING | suicide prevention initiatives | applications open 26 February, closing 5pm 25 March 2024
  10. VIC | VHBA | GRANTING | Upgrades to mental health facilities | submissions close 5pm Friday 28 February 2025
 

 2.1  CoPP | GOV | GRANTING | Quick Response Grants 2025

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.

The program is open for applications during each financial year until funds are expended. Rounds close 1st Monday of each month. Applications must be submitted at least eight weeks prior to commencement of the planned activity.

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. 
Community Organisations and Social Enterprises
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 $2,000.  

 2.2  AUST | FTDAG | GRANTING | To eligible charitable organisations | accepting enquiries to 3 February 2025

Adminstered by Lord Mayor's Charitable Foundation, the Foote Trust Donor Advised Grants (FTDAG) was established by Mr. Eldon Foote QC and Mrs. Anne Foote. Supporting charitable organisations across various sectors, with the 2025 invite-only grant round. They are accepting enquiries from 14 January to 3 February 2025. Apply now.  

 2.3  VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Local Anti-Racism Initiatives Grants Program 2024-26 | applications close midday Thursday 6 February 2025

State Government of Victoria's Multicultural Affairs Grants of up to $150,000 are available to support community-led responses to racism.
The program funds First Peoples, multicultural and multifaith community organisations and groups to deliver community-led responses to racism.

It forms part of the Victorian Government’s vision for a more inclusive state under the Victorian anti-racism strategy 2024-29.

There are four key objectives:
  1. increase broader community understanding and awareness of racism, its impact and the importance of anti-racist behaviour and practices at the local level
  2. promote awareness and understanding of First Peoples’ history and culture, and the historic and ongoing impacts of colonisation
  3. support local communities and community organisations to build their capacity to respond to racism and support affected individuals
  4. improve community reporting of racist incidents and understanding of people’s rights.
Successful recipients must deliver their initiatives by 18 December 2026. 

 2.4  MELB | RMIT | GRANTING | Interpreter Scholarship Program | applications close Friday 7 February 2025

Applications are open for the 2025 RMIT Interpreter Scholarship Program, which has supported over 1,500 individuals in gaining NAATI certification. Scholarships cover program and student fees for:
  • Advanced Diploma: Arabic, Greek, Italian, Persian, Spanish, Vietnamese
  • Diploma: Burmese, Dari, Dinka, Punjabi, Portuguese, Samoan, S’gaw Karen, Somali, Russian, Urdu
  • Skill Set: Albanian, Bangla, Bislama, Chichewa, Gujarati, Hakha Chin, Hakka Chinese, Hazaragi, Hmong, Kayah (Karenni), Khmer, Kirundi, Kurdish Kurmanji, Lingala, Macedonian, Malay, Maltese, Nepali, Nuer, Pashto, Rohingya, Ukrainian, Sinhalese, Swahili
Bilingual individuals aiming to become professional interpreters are encouraged to apply. Scholarships are awarded on a ‘first come, first served’ basis.

The courses are primarily online, with some in-person sessions in Melbourne. For more information, contact translating.interpreting@rmit.edu.au.

 

 2.5  WA | VWA | GRANTING | Volunteer-involving organisations recognising volunteers during National Volunteer Week | applications close 5pm 12 February 2025

Volunteering WA (VWA), with support from Lotterywest, offers grants of up to $1,500 to volunteer-involving organisations in Western Australia to host events or activities recognising volunteers during National Volunteer Week, scheduled for 19–25 May 2025.  

 2.6  VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Sporting Club Grants Program | closing 17 February 2025

The Victorian Government is supporting local sports clubs with over $1.2 million in grants through the Sporting Club Grants Program. These grants will help clubs purchase equipment, train volunteers and improve accessibility.

Successful recipients include Surfing Victoria, which received $5,000 to enhance their rescue and first aid training, and the Victorian International Optimist Dinghy Association, which received $4,500 to support athletes in the Australian Optimist Championships. 

 2.7  AUST | NIAA | GRANTING | Local Grants for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and supporting organisations to celebrate NAIDOC 2025 | applications closing 3pm AEDT Thursday 20 February 2025

The National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) is offering NAIDOC 2025 Local Grants for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and supporting organisations to celebrate NAIDOC Week (6–13 July 2025). Grants up to $10,000, and a limited number up to $25,000, are available for activities aligning with the theme “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision, Legacy”.  

 2.8  AUST | GOV | GRANTING | Strong and Resilient Communities Activity – Inclusive Communities (SARC – IC) Round 4 Grants | application close 9pm AEDT 20 February 2025.

The Department of Social Services grants will support the social and economic participation of vulnerable and disadvantaged people in their communities by providing funding that supports:
  • Young people aged 12 to 18 years who are disengaged, or at risk of disengaging, from education to reconnect with their community, school, training and/or employment.
  • People with disability to participate in the community, and work towards becoming or remaining independent and engaged in the economy and/or society.
  • Women who experience, or are at risk of experiencing, isolation, or discrimination to participate in the community and/or economy and increase their self-agency.
  • People who are unemployed to increase participation in their community and/or increase their capacity to engage in employment, training, or existing employment services.
The maximum grant amount is $360,000 (GST exclusive), with a funding cap of $180,000 (GST exclusive) per year for each grant.
 
Eligibility:
To be eligible you must be one of the following entity types:
  • Company 
  • Cooperative
  • Incorporated Association
  • Indigenous Corporation
  • Local Government 
  • Statutory Entity
  • Trust 
Earliest start date of grant activity - 1 July 2025
End date of grant activity - 30 June 2027. 

 2.9  SYD | SWSPHN | GRANTING | suicide prevention initiatives | applications open 26 February, closing 5pm 25 March 2024

South Western Sydney PHN is offering grants between $50,000 and $200,000 to organisations for suicide prevention initiatives focusing on promoting social connectedness and reducing stigma.  

 2.10  VIC | VHBA | GRANTING | Upgrades to mental health facilities | submissions close 5pm Friday 28 February 2025

The Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA) is upgrading mental health facilities with applications now open for the latest round of the Mental Health Capital Renewal Fund. A total of $10 million is available, with individual grants of up to $1 million.

This funding supports projects that improve safety, quality and efficiency in mental health services, addressing recommendations from the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System.

Recent projects funded include the refurbishment of Monash Health’s Doveton Community Care Unit and upgrades to Austin Hospital’s Acute Psychiatric Unit.

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 3. EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING 

  1. VIC | TAFE | OFFERING | Free training for Victorians
  2. VIC | GOV | HIRING | Appointments to Victorian Pharmacy Authority Board | applications close midnight 2 February 2025
  3. VIC | DJCS | HIRING | Members for Triple Zero Victoria Board | applications close 11.59pm 9 February 2025
  4. YARRA | YEF | TRAINING | Advanced Neighbourhood Battery 2-day course | Tuesday 18 & Wednesday 19 February 2025 | 8.45am-4.45pm | registrations now open
  5. AUST | AEC | HIRING | Australian Electoral Commission - Job Opportunities
 

 3.1  VIC | TAFE | OFFERING | Free training for Victorians

The Victorian Government is making it easier for Victorians to train for in-demand jobs through Free TAFE. The subsidised training will focus on critical workforce needs, including housing and renewable energy.

In 2025, a larger proportion of the Victorian Training Guarantee will be allocated to TAFEs, particularly in regional areas. Prioritised training will include residential housing construction and foundational courses in literacy and numeracy, aimed at helping unemployed Victorians gain skills and secure jobs.

The government is funding more than 530 courses to meet industry needs now and in the future, with a focus on regional training and community organisations. Women make up 60% of Free TAFE applicants, highlighting the program’s accessibility. 

 3.2  VIC | GOV | HIRING | Appointments to Victorian Pharmacy Authority Board | applications close midnight 2 February 2025

The Hon. Mary-Anne Thomas MP, Minister for Health, invites applications for the following positions on the Victorian Pharmacy Authority:
  • 2 Pharmacist Members (registered pharmacists only)
  • 1 Lawyer Member
These are paid, part-time appointments, with terms of up to three years, beginning 1 July 2025.

Key Information:
  • Visit website to apply and view position descriptions.
  • Recruitment will consider both merit and diversity to ensure the Authority reflects Victoria’s diverse community.
For any questions, please contact Brendan Gorrie at (03) 9500 4116. 

 3.3  VIC | DJCS | HIRING | Members for Triple Zero Victoria Board | applications close 11.59pm 9 February 2025

The Department of Justice and Community Safety (DJCS)  is inviting applications for the following positions on the Triple Zero Victoria Board:
  • Chairperson
  • Deputy Chairperson
  • Board Members
Appointment Details:
These are important leadership roles supporting the vital operations of Triple Zero Victoria. Terms and remuneration details are available via the website below.

Key Information:
Recruitment will consider both merit and diversity to ensure the board reflects Victoria’s diverse community. 

 3.4  YARRA | YEF | TRAINING | Advanced Neighbourhood Battery 2-day course | Tuesday 18 & Wednesday 19 February 2025 | 8.45am-4.45pm | registrations now open

The Yarra Energy Foundation (YEF) training is designed for industry practitioners, community groups, governments, and businesses that want to deploy Neighbourhood Batteries (NBs) in Victoria. 
In particular, those who are seeking assistance to prepare to apply for grant funding in the 3rd and final round of the Victorian Government’s 100 Neighbourhood Batteriesprogram.  

Delivered over two days, the course will cover:
  • steps towards developing a robust project plan and business case for a NB
  • fundamentals of Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) components, operation, and procurement
  • process for determining whether a NB is the right solution for your circumstances
  • different value streams available to owners of NBs, including market participation, retail arrangements and network tariffs
  • different business/operating models, use cases, and dispatch control methods including neighbourhood batteries in energy back-up systems
  • and much more!

On the first day, participants will visit the Fitzroy North community battery, guided by Energy & Storage Programs Manager, Chris Wallin.

Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action and Yarra Energy Foundationare providing significant co-subsidies for the general admission and non-profit tickets for Victorian attendees. All information about ticket prices and non-profit registration can be found at the link below. 
  • If you require booking assistance, please email tim.shue@yef.org.au
  • Where: Yarra Energy Foundation offices, United Co (co-working space), Fitzroy, Australia
  • Cost: from $579.70 + $14.99 fee
  • Bookings: Register online via Humanitix
 

OFFERING | Our Services

You can find out more about the Yarra Energy Foundation services. These include:
  • Feasibility studies
  • Community Engagement
  • Community battery strategies for local councils
  • Consulting & advice
  • Project management 
  • Solar & electrification programs
We have a small team of extremely passionate energy experts with decades of combined industry, governmental, business, and sustainability experience.

 3.5  AUST | AEC | HIRING | Australian Electoral Commission - Job Opportunities

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) is recruiting up to 100,000 temporary staff to help deliver the upcoming federal election.

There are paid jobs available before, on, and after voting day in metro, regional and remote areas. No prior election experience is necessary. Training is provided.

Why Apply?
  • Paid roles
  • No experience required
  • Training provided
The AEC is seeking assistance in spreading the word about these job opportunities. Individuals and organisations are encouraged to:
  • Share on social media
  • Add to newsletters and websites
  • Print and display promotional materials

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 4. ENGAGING 

  1. CoPP | VPC | OFFERING | Witnessed Document Signing | weekly, every Sunday (excluding public holiday weekends) | 11am-3pm
  2. CoPP | PPLS | TEACHING | One on One Device Advice | 3 locations | weekly
  3. CoPP | PPLS | GATHERING | Write Club | monthly, last Friday | 10am-12noon
  4. CoPP | PPLS | GATHERING | Queer Art Club | monthly, last Sunday | 11am-1pm
  5. CoPP | MIFE | ENGAGING | Midsumma Festival | Sunday 19 January-Sunday 2 February 2023
  6. CoPP | S2b | UPDATING | What's On | January-February 2025
  7. CoPP | PPLS | WALKING | Heritage Treasures and Secret Histories of Port Phillip | Sunday 2 February-Sunday 22 June 2025
  8. CoPP | PPLS | SCREENING | Orlando | 2 sessions: Monday 3 & Wednesday 5 February 2025
  9. CoPP | VPC | TALKING | No Pride In Racism Panel Discussion | Tuesday 4 February 2025 | 6-9pm
  10. CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Author Hana Assafiri with food journalist Dani Valent | Wednesday 5 February | 6.30-7.30pm
  11. CoPP | PPLS | WORKSHOPPING | Zines: Trans Book Festival x Trans-Creator Community | Friday 7 February 2025 | 3-5.30pm
  12. CoPP | CSAS | SHOWING | ROAR Exhibition | Friday 7 February-Tuesday 13 May 2025
  13. CoPP | GOV | GATHERING | Creatives networking event | Tuesday 11 February 2025 | 5-7pm
  14. CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Australia’s Queer Maritime History with Graham Willett | Tuesday 11 February 2025 | 6.30-7.30pm
  15. CoPP | SKF | GATHERING | St Kilda Festival back better than ever | Saturday 15-Sunday 16 February 2025
  16. CoPP | PPLS | PERFORMING | Summer Sounds - Live Music x 3 Sessions | 19, 22 & 25 February 2025
  17. CoPP | PPLS | WORKSHOPPING | Making Memories: Digital collaging | Course x 3 Sessions | Saturdays 22 February, 1, 8 March 2025 | 11am-1pm
  18. MELB | TORCH | EXHIBITING | 12th Koorie Art Show | on now, until Sunday 23 February 2025
  19. VIC | VMC | CALLING | Submissions to Multicultural Film Festival 2025 | entries now open, closing Monday 10 March 2025
  20. VIC | VMC | EMBRACING | Cultural Diversity Week 2025 | 17-23 March 2025
  21. AUST | EQPR | READYING | To Lead Change, join our Adaptive Leadership Program | Wednesday 2-Friday 4 April 2025
 

 4.1  CoPP | VPC | OFFERING | Witnessed Document Signing | weekly, every Sunday (excluding public holiday weekends) | 11am-3pm

The Victorian Pride Centre (VPC) has launched a Document Signing Centre (DSC) service in St Kilda where legal documents can be witnessed by a Justice of the Peace.
This is the only community-based DSC within a 10 km radius of Melbourne's CBD that's not a police station or law court. The DSC@VPC provides a space where everyone, regardless of their background or identity, can feel secure and supported in having their legal documents witnessed.

This is a free service managed by the Royal Victorian Association of Honorary Justices, and may be expanded next year.
  • Learn more
  • Where: The Forum, Victorian Pride Centre, 19-81 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda VIC 3182
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: Appointments aren't necessary
 

 4.2  CoPP | PPLS | TEACHING | One on One Device Advice | 3 locations | weekly

Need some help getting started with your new phone, laptop or tablet? Or just need some help navigating the latest apps?
Book in a 25-minute appointment and have your tech questions answered by our friendly Port Phillip Library Service(PPLS) team! Running weekly, these sessions can assist you with basic troubleshooting and navigation of your personal devices.

No question is too simple or silly. These sessions run weekly over three locations to choose from.  

 4.3  CoPP | PPLS | GATHERING | Write Club | monthly, last Friday | 10am-12noon

Are you a writer looking for a supportive and inspiring space to share your work?
Whether you’re working on short stories, poetry, essays, or even the next big novel, Port Phillip Library Service(PPLS)'s Write Club is the perfect place to connect, create, and grow! Bring along up to 1500 words in hard copy for workshopping with our friendly group.
  • Where: St Kilda Library
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: online via Trybooking



 4.4  CoPP | PPLS | GATHERING | Queer Art Club | monthly, last Sunday | 11am-1pm

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) Queer Art Club is a space for our Queer Community to come together, share our experiences and stories
With Queer related themes, we will have an opportunity to reflect on our lived experiences – celebrating our joys, expressing our grief and learning about our community. 

Lead by queer arts therapist Don Fazliu, Art club is an open invitation to express, explore, experiment, and engage with different art-making prompts and materials (collage, watercolors, soft pastels, oil pastels, paints and much more.) 

Unlike typical art-making spaces, we don’t instruct you on how to make art – we encourage you to find what feels right, without the pressure of it looking a certain way.  

 4.5  CoPP | MIFE | ENGAGING | Midsumma Festival | Sunday 19 January-Sunday 2 February 2023

Port Phillip and surrounds are bursting with pride with the return of the annual Midsumma Festival (MIFE), including the iconic Pride March on Sunday 2 February.
In the traditional curtain-raiser to the Pride March, the progress pride flag will be raised over St Kilda Town Hall in a flag-raising ceremony to demonstrate our City of Port Phillip Council’s commitment for Port Phillip to be an inclusive City.

The ceremony was at 3 pm on Tuesday 28 January on the front lawn of St Kilda Town Hall. Everyone welcome to attend.

We have been a major partner of the Pride March since its creation 29 years ago. Celebrating solidarity in gender and sexuality diversity, over 53,000 people will parade down Fitzroy Street, St Kilda. The march starts at 11 am, so make sure to get down early and secure a great spot to view all the excitement.

Read on to learn about the many other Midsumma events being held in Port Phillip. From theatre, cabaret and visual arts to parties and community events, there’s something for every colour of the rainbow. 

 4.6  CoPP | S2b | UPDATING | What's On | January-February 2025

We're Having A Sale | Tuesday 28 January-Saturday 9 February 2025

Space2b Social Design (S2b) is back, recharged, and ready to rock 2025!

Enjoy up to 50% OFF on selected Space2b and designer goodies throughout the store! Make it a day out – shop, grab amazing deals, and enjoy a delicious lunch at Flavours of Syria Cafe.

Don’t miss out – bring your friends and let’s celebrate together!

LAST DAYS | For A4 Affordable Art Show

Our A4 Affordable Art Show is ending SOON!

Take the chance to come down and view this eye-catching exhibition before we take it down. This exhibition celebrates the power of creativity and expression of joy with over 60 artists will be showcasing their works at affordable prices. Don't miss out!

SHOWING | February Exhibition: Body of Work II | Saturday 1 February-Saturday 1 March 2025

A Solo Exhibition By Pamela Reid
Opening & Performance By Sello Molefi | Saturday 8 February | 12-2pm

Pamela Reid has enjoyed a full career in advertising, music and entertainment management but always dispersed with her creativity and art. Pamela's exhibition Body of Work II responds to the impact of light on the form and tonal qualities of the body's framework. When painting landscape, Pamela prefers to work en plein air, capturing the daylight on the surrounding shapes and textures. A highlight of this exhibition are pastel drawings, created during rehearsals for "Madiba the Musical" (the life of Nelson Mandela). 'A delightful and diverse exhibition.
  • Where: Space2b Artspace, 144 Chapel Street, St. Kilda
  • Cost: Free
  • Read more

Together we make a difference

 4.7  CoPP | PPLS | WALKING | Heritage Treasures and Secret Histories of Port Phillip | Sunday 2 February-Sunday 22 June 2025

Discover the heritage treasures and secret histories of Port Phillip with new online and in person guided walks.
This is a free program of monthly walks that explore the heritage treasures of the City of Port Phillip.

Join our knowledgeable walks leaders as they share the cultural, architectural, art and social histories of the places that we call home and tell the amazing stories of the people who have lived here.

Two St Kilda underground music walking tours and a Piers and Politics walk in Port Melbourne are on offer in February.  

 4.8  CoPP | PPLS | SCREENING | Orlando | 2 sessions: Monday 3 & Wednesday 5 February 2025

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)'s screening of Orlando – a visually stunning and genre-defying film directed by Sally Potter based on Virginia Woolf’s acclaimed 1928 novel.
This groundbreaking adaptation stars Tilda Swinton as Orlando, a nobleman in Elizabethan England who mysteriously defies the boundaries of time, gender, and identity.

Spanning over 400 years, the film explores themes of love, power, and self-discovery as Orlando transitions from male to female, experiencing life from multiple perspectives.
  • Where: Two Locations & Times:
    • Monday 3 February | 12noon-2pm | St Kilda Library
    • Wednesday 5 February | 11am-1pm | Emerald Hill Library
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: online via Trybooking St Kilda | Emerald Hill
 

 4.9  CoPP | VPC | TALKING | No Pride In Racism Panel Discussion | Tuesday 4 February 2025 | 6-9pm

Join Victorian Pride Centre (VPC) and Thorne Harbour Health for a thought-provoking panel discussion as community leaders share their insights on sexualised racism within LGBTIQA+ communities. 
Topics will include tackling stigmatising language on dating apps, addressing microaggressions, and the fetishisation of racial identities. The panel will highlight the lived experiences of queer people of colour, culture, and faith.

This event is open to all racial and cultural backgrounds and is FREE, although bookings are required. Check out the event below, and don't miss out on what promises to be an empowering discussion!  

 4.10  CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Author Hana Assafiri with food journalist Dani Valent | Wednesday 5 February | 6.30-7.30pm

For a powerful evening of storytelling and inspiration, join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) and Hana Assafiri, celebrated social activist and founder of the iconic Moroccan Soup Bar. 
In her memoir HANA: The Audacity to Be Free, Hana shares her journey from war-torn Lebanon to Melbourne, breaking free from an arranged marriage, and building a life dedicated to empowering women through food and community.

Join Hana in conversation with one of Australia's most respected and prolific food journalists, Dani Valent for a special evening on changing the world, one meal at a time.
  • Where: Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne VIC 3205
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: online via Trybooking
 

 4.11  CoPP | PPLS | WORKSHOPPING | Zines: Trans Book Festival x Trans-Creator Community | Friday 7 February 2025 | 3-5.30pm

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) and the Trans-creator community zine team for a joyful workshop on self-expression through zine creation! 
Guided by Madison Moffat, you’ll explore the role of zines in TGDNB culture, generate ideas with easy prompts, and create your own eight-page palm-sized zine—no experience needed!

All materials are provided, and all TGDNB folk are welcome. This special event, part of the Trans Book Festival, is supported by Transgender Victoria and the City of Port Phillip. 

 4.12  CoPP | CSAS | SHOWING | ROAR Exhibition | Friday 7 February-Tuesday 13 May 2025

Through iconic portraits and performances captured by Australia’s best female music photographers, this exhibition celebrates women, non-binary and gender non-conforming musicians both on and off the stage. 

ROAR features photography by Brittany Long, Jacinta Keefe, Michelle Grace Hunder, Suzanne Phoenix and Tiffany Garvie; alongside reproductions from the Australian Performing Arts Collection and local herstory curated by music sub-culture researcher Melynda Von Wayward.
 
Presented by City of Port Phillip (CoPP) in partnership with ROAR FEST 2025. 

 4.13  CoPP | GOV | GATHERING | Creatives networking event | Tuesday 11 February 2025 | 5-7pm

Arts and culture workers in the City of Port Phillip (CoPP) (both within Port Phillip organisations and working independently) are invited to a networking and social opportunity. 
Preview the ROAR: Celebrating Women in Music exhibition, hear from teams across our Council on industry support initiatives and, most importantly, connect with your fellow Port Phillip creatives to kick off a busy 2025.

Light refreshments will be provided.
  • Where: Carlisle Street Arts Space (in the St Kilda Town Hall, 99a Carlisle Street St Kilda)
  • Cost: Free, but spaces limited.
  • Bookings: online via Trybooking
 

 4.14  CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Australia’s Queer Maritime History with Graham Willett | Tuesday 11 February 2025 | 6.30-7.30pm

Sailors have long been fetishised by gay men. And, often enough, sailors were happy enough to go along with this. 
But there is much more to Australia’s queer maritime history. It includes sailors, crew, and passengers on warships and cruise liners, as well as life in ports and pubs from swanky to divey.

Drawing on oral histories, archival research and novels, join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) and historian Graham Willett in revelation of more of the history they didn't teach us at school.
  • Where: Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: online via Trybooking
 

 4.15  CoPP | SKF | GATHERING | St Kilda Festival back better than ever | Saturday 15-Sunday 16 February 2025

What’s got 10 stages, more than 80 hugely talented acts and is Australia’s largest community festival?
Everyone is invited to join two days of fantastic free fun at the foreshore when the 44th St Kilda Festival (SKF) returns.

Proudly presented by City of Port Phillip Council, this popular annual summer celebration features music and activities for all ages. An incredible line-up of First Nations artists, including Troy and Jem Casser-Daley, will present a jam-packed day and night of music at First Peoples First at O’Donnell Gardens on the Saturday. First Peoples First concludes with a sunset ceremony.

Then it’s Big Festival Sunday when thousands will flock to the foreshore and beyond for the best in live music, market and food stalls and community group activities. The Main Stage overlooking the foreshore will feature Peter Garrett & The Alter Egos, three-time ARIA Award winner Sarah Blasko, rising electronic musication sensation Young Francoand ARIA #1 Album award winner, Cub Sport.  

Our younger attendees will be entertained at The Optus Stage with family programming featuring for the first half of the day, with the likes of Whistle & Trick and “The Wiggles” own DJ Dorothy the Dinosaur. There will also be a Youth Safe Space with gaming activations from Hovergarden. 

Other festival fun includes the Hare Krishna Vedic Village, popular Ratha Yatra Chariot Parade and two stages on Acland Street showcasing Melbourne’s finest street performers. Fitzroy Street will host the New Music Stage, a POOF DOOF activationand a new stage at the Fitzroy and Acland Street intersection supported by The Prince of Wales. 

SKF is supported by Revive Live – an Australian Government initiative. 

 4.16  CoPP | PPLS | PERFORMING | Summer Sounds - Live Music x 3 Sessions | 19, 22 & 25 February 2025

Keep the St Kilda Festival vibes going strong and immerse yourself in the sounds of a diverse line-up of talented musicians performing at Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) St Kilda and Emerald Hill Libraries.

The Great Divides | Wednesday 19 February 2025 | 6.30-7.30pm

Influenced by the likes of Smog, The Clean and Crescent, the ever-evolving lineup have spent the last five years refining their distinctive brand of jumble pop, landing somewhere between the rural landscapes and the discordant sounds of the city.
  • Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
  • Cost: Free
  • Booking: online via Trybooking
 

Ed Moon | Saturday 22 February 2025 | 11am-12noon

A soul vocalist, songwriter and jazz inspired guitarist with a passion for fashion. Never wanting to be put in a box, Ed is forever evolving and is happiest when colouring outside the lines.  
  • Where: Forecourt, Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
  • Cost: Free
  • Booking: online via Trybooking
 

Charlie Needs Braces | Tuesday 25 February 2025 | 6.30-7.30pm

Join proud Guringai artist Charlie Woods, whose vibrant music blends stories, language, and harmonies. After sharing stages with icons like Casey Donovan and The Teskey Brothers, Charlie and her sister Miri bring their uplifting project, Charlie Needs Braces, to life!
  • Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
  • Cost: Free
  • Booking: online via Trybooking

Grab your tickets today for some unmissable music during February.

These events are wheelchair accessible. If you require any additional needs to enjoy these events, please contact us so we can help accommodate. Phone: (03) 9209 6655 or Email: libprograms@portphillip.vic.gov.au


 4.17  CoPP | PPLS | WORKSHOPPING | Making Memories: Digital collaging | Course x 3 Sessions | Saturdays 22 February, 1, 8 March 2025 | 11am-1pm

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) at the Heritage Centre for a free, hands-on workshop series and learn how to bring your family history to life through digital collaging.
Over three engaging two-hour sessions, you’ll discover how to:
  • Use photos, documents, maps, and more to craft a personal family story.
  • Explore basic digital collage techniques in a fun and creative way.
  • Share your final masterpiece with the group in the last session!
  • No device? No worries – laptops are available during the workshops.
One booking covers all three sessions! Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today. Don’t miss this chance to preserve and celebrate your family history in a whole new way!
  • Where: Emerald Hill Library 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: online via Trybooking
 

 4.18  MELB | TORCH | EXHIBITING | 12th Koorie Art Show | on now, until Sunday 23 February 2025

The The Torch Project (TORCH) Koorie Art Show is an open-entry, non-acquisitive award exhibition, presenting the works of Koorie and Victorian based Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists (new and emerging, mid-career and senior) aged 17 years and above.
An annual event and key celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists living in Victoria. The exhibition showcases the diverse talent in forms such as painting, photography, weaving, textiles, prints, sculpture and more.

Whether you’re interested in traditional practices or contemporary expressions, the exhibition promises to captivate with its breadth of talent and personal storytelling.

All works entered in the exhibition are available for purchase, giving art lovers the opportunity to support these talented artists directly. Building on last year, this year’s show features remarkable works by 18 artists involved in The Torch:Make sure to visit Fed Square this summer to witness this incredible exhibition or Don’t miss out on this chance to see some of the best of First Nations art and culture at the 12th Koorie Art Show.
  • Read more
  • Where: Level 2, Birrarung Building, Fed Square
  • Cost: Free
 

 4.19  VIC | VMC | CALLING | Submissions to Multicultural Film Festival 2025 | entries now open, closing Monday 10 March 2025

This Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) premiere event will screen in Melbourne during Refugee Week | 15-21 June 2025. Anyone is welcome to submit a short film from 5-12 minutes.

The following awards will be distributed on the night:

Victorian Entrants:
  • Best Victorian Short Fiction Film
  • Best Victorian Short Non-Fiction Film
  • People’s Choice Award for Best Victorian Short Film (audience-voted at the premiere screening)

National Entrants:
  • Best National Short Film (all genres)

International Entrants:
  • Best International Short Film (all genres)

Special Award:
  • Chairperson's Refugee Stories Award (highlighting refugee or asylum seeker experiences, open to national and international entrants)

Submit your short film to win prizes and screen at multiple venues in partnership with the Victorian Multicultural Commission! 

 4.20  VIC | VMC | EMBRACING | Cultural Diversity Week 2025 | 17-23 March 2025

Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) announces Victoria’s largest multicultural celebration is back! Our state will come together for Cultural Diversity Week and celebrate the power, influence and stories of Victoria’s rich multicultural communities.

The theme for 2025 is “Embrace The Journey, Shape Our Future.”. The theme highlights the unique and shared cultural journeys that define our diverse communities, encouraging us to honour our own cultural stories and those of others, fostering understanding, belonging, and connection.

Whether it’s as an individual, community group, business, or government agency, we encourage you to host a Cultural Diversity Week event or activity.

You can also join the statewide conversation by using the hashtags #CulturalDiversityWeek, #CDW2025, #EmbraceTheJourney, #ShapeOurFuture. 

 4.21  AUST | EQPR | READYING | To Lead Change, join our Adaptive Leadership Program | Wednesday 2-Friday 4 April 2025

Join The Equality Project (EQPR) in Melbourne on 2-4 April 2025 for a transformative 3-day experience designed to amplify your leadership potential and spark meaningful impact.
A great way to invest in your growth before the year wraps up.

Who's it for?

This program is for ERG Leaders, D&I Managers, Pride Network Leads, and Consultants looking to grow their leadership skills and make a lasting difference. Over three engaging days, you’ll gain practical tools and fresh perspectives to address challenges with confidence and clarity.

What you'll gain:

  • Practical strategies to navigate leadership challenges effectively
  • A network of like-minded leaders to share ideas and experiences
  • Clear pathways to create tangible and meaningful outcomes in your work

Whether you’re new to leadership or building on years of expertise, this program offers actionable insights and the support you need to achieve your goals.

Start your leadership journey now.


 5. COLLECTIVISING 

  1. CoPP | S2b | RECAPPING | What A Year | 2024
  2. YARRA | YEF | UPDATING | Stories, events and more | January 2025
  3. AUST | DSPAC | OFFERING | Event First Aid Services and comprehensive First Aid Training programs across various regions in Australia
  4. AUST | NJP | UPDATING | Community News | January 2025
  5. AUST | RGA | UPDATING | Rainbow Community News | Wednesday 22 January 2025
 

 5.1  CoPP | S2b | RECAPPING | What A Year | 2024

We have had such a busy busy year! Please take a look at what we have achieved.

159 newly arrived migrants, refugees & people seeking asylum are on pathways to employment through our support programs.

90 migrant & local artists were supported through our gallery and art programs.

163 designers are selling their unique creations through Space2b’s retail outlet.
Around 88 are from culturally diverse backgrounds.

46 hard working volunteers make Space2b the place to be! Our volunteers worked an estimated 2,708 hours this year with an in-kind contribution of $127,106!

Most importantly we have been around for 11 years and we wouldn't be her without your support. Thank you!

REPORTING | The Space2B Experience

This year 61 people were on pathways to employment with the The Space2b Experience which includes valuable business mentoring and learning on the job. This program is as unique as the wonderful people we work with, designed around their needs and dreams. 

The program is supported by a 3 year grant ‘Economic Pathways to Refugee Integration’ from the Commonwealth (Department of Home Affairs) 

WELCOMING | New Mural by Anis To Visitors Of Space2B

Renowned Chilean muralist Anis with the help of ten local artists, painted a large floor mural outside the front of Space2b, funded by the Chilean government. The 'Bird of Diaspora' represents people who have flown from their homeland. Each square surrounding the mural represents something that the artists miss from their homeland. 

SHOWING | Art Galore

Space2b's ArtSpace has been booked out with wonderful exhibitions every month. 

Traditionally the months of March and June are when we exclusively support newly arrived emerging artists to exhibit and sell their art.   

Our annual Affordable Art Show is on NOW (until end of January) and is funded by our wonderful sponsors, Community Bank Windsor. 

Why not exhibit with us?

COLLABORATING | Back To School

Drum Chums and Art with Heart
In 2024, our partnership with St Kilda Primary continued to thrive.

Grade 3 students loved African drumming workshops with Ghanaian performer Appiah Annan, shining at Festival Africa. In Term 2, artist Karen Hopkins and Rahila Zeeshanled a Grade 5/6 art residency exploring gratitude, connection, and creativity.

Their amazing work featured in the August Her Story Art Exhibition.

CONNECTING | With StoryTime

In partnership with Port Phillip, we and Kadra, Nejat, Siriu and Rohini have 3 years of Preschool Storytime in Hindi, Arabic, Mandarin and Arabic!

These sessions are designed to help little ones connect with their culture and language, while parents practice English and learn about council support services. With 20 fun-filled sessions each year, there’s plenty of laughter, songs, and learning to enjoy! 

Jump for joy – It's Storytime!

LOVING | To Create

Thanks to a 3-year funding from Port Phillip Council we’ve expanded our arts programs, building our capacity to inspire creativity. We’ve hosted amazing workshops, from Henna art to Sashiko Japanese visible mending. Mentor Maoko now leads a fortnightly Make and Mend workshop, giving old garments a second life, transforming them into unique, wearable works of art – helping the planet in the process!
Come join us on Thursdays and get creative!

MENTORING | Street Art with Heesco

Whenever we ask Heesco for help – he just says 'YES'. 
We thank Heesco and all the other really generous people that help us out - that make us so happy!

The image here is Heesco sharing his skills with the budding new artist, Atem.

Walk around Space2b and see all the new installations!

CELEBRATING | Astral African Market

Together with our friends Astral African Markets, we enjoyed a vibrant day filled with music, food, arts, and crafts from across Africa.

This initiative was created to support women of color creative entrepreneurs.
"a space to gather, shop, dance, and celebrate Black community while sharing rich culture with everyone." – Kemi, founder Astral African Markets

We sure did have some fun!   

Look out for our next Mozambique Festival coming in March 2025!

SHARING | Stories

COLLABORATING | Wyndham Karen Creatives

This year, we had the pleasure of working with 15 talented Wyndham Karen and Karenni creatives. With support from Wyndham Park Community Centre and some amazing mentors, the group turned their skills into fantastic products now available in the Space2b shop.

They’ve been such a hit – we’ve already had to restock!

Come on in and see for yourself!

CHARTING | Small Business Mentoring Program

Kedja Yosuf, Founder of Uniq Hijab was one of the six women to join the Small Business Mentoring Program delivered in partnership with Liliana from Casa Bonita. Kedja launched her business at a special showcase and now sells her beautiful handmade scarves in space2b and other outlets.
‘My wish is to build a business selling my beautiful products from Ethiopia to sell to Australians’ – Kedja, founder Uniq Hijab
 

ENGAGING | Ukranian Forest Adventures with Anna Mykhalchuk!

Anna, a talented Ukrainian artist, brought the magic of Samchykivka – traditional folk art – to life with a group exhibition and a hands-on workshop creating beautiful folk motifs in true Ukrainian style.

Samchykivka is part of Ukraine's intangible cultural heritage, and every piece Anna creates is filled with love, passion, and positivity.

REFERRING | Local Talent

Meet Tsedal, a proud St Kilda local who's been with us for six months!

In this time, she’s grown in confidence, mastering sales, merchandising, and chatting with customers (while improving her English too!). With amazing initiative, she and her buddy Marion have created unique Ethiopian liquid soap to be launched next year.

Tsedal is now job hunting—need a fantastic worker? Email us!

THANKING | Our In House Sewing Team

Ada and Elene, our wonderful sweamstresses

TASTING | Flavours Of Syria 

Feast For A Friend. At the beginning of the year we ran two dinners in our art laneway to support Nayran and her family after a terrible home invasion. The dinners sold out and we managed to raise over $9,000 in support. Thanks To All Who Came!

Flavours of Syria Opening Hours: Thursday-Saturday 10-2 pm

Enjoy a Syrian Platter & say hello!

THANKING | You

We could not have done it without all our supporters, sponsor and donors.

A huge shout out to you all! Together we make a difference!


 5.2  YARRA | YEF | UPDATING | Stories, events and more | January 2025

REPORTING | Fiztroy North Community Battery - Year 2 Performance

Yarra Energy Foundation (YEF) is excited to share the Year 2 Performance Report for the Fitzroy North Community Battery, offering a detailed look at how the battery performed in FY23–24.

The report provides insights into the battery’s operations, financial performance, and the key lessons we’ve learned throughout its second year of operation.
“Sharing this report is important to us especially if it helps the deployment of storage for the energy transition,” – Dean Kline, Yarra Energy Foundation CEO
 

WIRED | For Tomorrow: watch the vision unfold

In this two-minute video, discover Wired for Tomorrow, our project exploring the potential of precinct-scale electrification.

After watching, click the link below to learn about the three different phases: current day, a fully electrified future, and the transformer phase, the transition period between those states.  

TRAINING | Neighbourhood Battery course | last weeks to register

Our 2-day Advanced Neighbourhood Battery Training Course is coming up soon on February 18 & 19, 2025, in Fitzroy.
"YEF helped me hugely expand my knowledge of neighbourhood batteries and the matters that need to be considered for installation." – Participant feedback. 

The Victorian Government's Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action and Yarra Energy Foundation are providing significant co-subsidies for general admission and non-profit tickets for Victorian attendees. All information about ticket prices and non-profit registration can be found at the link below.

If you’re interested in attending, be sure to register soon as spots are limited. 

ANNOUNCING | Sustainable House Day | Sunday 4 May 2025

Sustainable House Day is back for 2025, featuring a day of open-home tours around the country on Sunday 4 May, followed by a month of online webinars on a range of sustainability topics.

Renew are currently seeking applications from homeowners to open their comfortable, energy-efficient homes, either for in-person tours, on Sunday 4 May 2025, or for video tours to be viewed online. 

We look forward to seeing the homes involved, particularly older homes that have been transformed with thermal upgrades, energy-efficient appliances and solar and storage.  

OFFERING | Our Services

You can find out more about the services that the Yarra Energy Foundation can offer on our website. These include:
  • Feasibility studies
  • Community Engagement
  • Community battery strategies for local councils
  • Consulting & advice
  • Project management 
  • Solar & electrification programs

We have a small team of extremely passionate energy experts with decades of combined industry, governmental, business, and sustainability experience.


 5.3  AUST | DSPAC | OFFERING | Event First Aid Services and comprehensive First Aid Training programs across various regions in Australia

Thank you to supporters in making Deadly Sports Plus Aboriginal Corporation (DSPAC)'s first year as a charity!

Those booking or attending a course, booking event first aid services, and donating to Deadly Sports Plus, have directly contributed in making first aid accessible! 

We wanted to share highlights of our achievements in 2024.

MEASURING | Social Impact

Deadly Sports Plus has been an organisation by the community, for the community; providing as much benefit as we can from our trade surplus. This was recognised by Social Traders and internationally with People & Planet First by certifying DS+ as social enterprise. To be a certified social enterprise, an organisation must:
  • Have a defined primary social, cultural or environmental purpose consistent with a public or community benefit, and
  • Derive a substantial portion of their income from trade, and
  • Invest efforts and resources into their purpose such that public/community benefit outweighs private benefit. 
Our purpose is to provide training and access to employment to members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, LGBTIAQA+SB community, disadvantaged backgrounds and the disabled community. We do this by running the following programs:
  • Community First Aid Training
  • Employment in Deadly Sports Plus Aboriginal Corporation
  • Community Event First Aid Service
With donor support, we were able to run:
  • free first aid courses for 50 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
  • Discounted first aid courses for 5 community organisations
  • 20 community events had discounted rates
  • Hired 7 casual event first aid workers from targeted communities, providing full training, equipment and uniforms
 

OFFERING | First Aid Courses

Through 2024, we worked with a wide range of corporate and community organisations across the industries of rail infrastructure, construction, ACCHOs, clothing, child protection, justice, commercial cleaning, women's groups, and roller derby.

We delivered 14 courses of combined Provide First Aid and CPR, and 3 individual CPR courses.

In 2025, we have partnered up with ABC First Aid (RTO 3399). This means we've gone completely digital paperwork, more accessible e-Learning, and the ability to deliver express courses. Making our courses more accessible and flexible for more learners. Reach out to us to book for 2025, as February is nearly fully booked.  

PROVIDING | Event First Aid Services

Our event first aid services has expanded over 2024. We have supported over 50 events including music festivals, conferences, community events, childrens events, roller derby, football and netball carnivals, mountain biking, walks and many more. 

We recruited 7 new staff ranging from physiotherapists, occupational therapists, health students, as well as general community members.

If you have an event coming up which you book event first aid services, consider using us instead! 

REPORTING | Donations and Fundraising

We became a registered charity in January 2024. This means that we are able to accept gifts and financial donations, with any of these valued $2 or more being tax deductible. We partnered with Shout for Good, an Australian platform for charities to collect financial donations with no fees. You can donate at any time. Just click the button below.Thanks to donors, we have raised $13,000 in 2024

We ran 3 fundraising campaigns in 2024:

$30 for 30th
This was our first fundraiser. Our Managing Director, Nic Radoll, ran a $30 for their 30th Birthday Fundraiser. This raised just over $930

GiveOUT Day
GiveOUT (now Rainbow Giving Australia) brought GiveOUT Day to Australia for the first time in April 2019. It is the only national day of giving to LGBTQIA+ communities in Australia. With their philanthropic partners, they double every donation given by GiveOUT Day (17th October 2024). This raised an incredible $6,400 

10x10 Philanthropy
We were invited as one of three charities to pitch DS+ in a shark tank style event for a share in $10,000+ funding raised on the night. With the work of our Chairperson, Brittney Henderson, and Managing Director, Nic Radoll, we raise a great $5,200

AIMING | For 2025

Mental Health First Aid
From April, we will be starting to offer Standard Mental Health First Aid courses through MHFA Australia. These will be offered both as a 2-day face-to-face and a blended virtual course.

Late-2025, we will also be offering Aboriginal Mental Health First Aid courses.

If your organisation has been thinking about undertaking this training, please reach out to us.

Community First Aid Courses
We are aiming to deliver more of our free community first aid courses, which includes HLTAID011 Provide First Aid (if the participant wants the certificate) and a first aid kit. We hope to run 100 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and 20 LGBTIQA+SB people with through these programs.

Minimising Volunteering
We follow a philosophy that volunteering is a requires privilege; having spare time, reduced family/community responsibilities, and financial position that won't be impacted. This is a privilege that people in our targeted communities do not usually have. In addition, did you know that the median number of paid, full-time staff in LGBTIQA+SB organisations is ZERO? Deadly Sports Plus is no exception to this with the Managing Director volunteering the majority of their time.

Our aim for 2025 is to ensure that people who would have volunteered for DS+ are now paid for their time and expertise.

THANKING | Supporters!

  • Supply Nation Certified
  • Kinaway Chamber of Commerce
  • Social Traders Certification
  • People & Planet First
 

 5.4  AUST | NJP | UPDATING | Community News | January 2025

Welcome to 2025, the 10th year of the National Justice Project (NJP).
We are looking forward to celebrating this significant year with our many partners, volunteers, supporters and donors.

This year has started with a stark reminder of why we must remain vigilant in our fight for justice and human rights, and why your support is so vital.

The 2025 Human Rights Watch World Report slammed Australia’s treatment of asylum seekers as “diabolical” and outlined an appalling record on human rights. The Federal Government continuing to evade our international obligations and ignore global standard on the most basic of human rights.  Our country’s record on youth justice also came under fire in this damning report with the global watchdog noting the disparities in Australia’s criminal justice system especially the overrepresentation of First Nations people. Read our response.

As long as Australia remains the only Western democracy without a national human rights act or charter, the work of the National Justice Project in holding our governments to account is more important than ever. Support our work.

MARKING | Survival Day 2025

Over the weekend the National Justice Project acknowledged 26 January as a day to honour the survival of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and cultures. 

We are proud to support and celebrate the oldest living culture on the continent - on this day and every day of the year. We were also proud to join the many thousands of people who marched in Invasion Day rallies around the nation with the gathering on Gadigal Country attracting a vocal crowd. 

Everyone at the National Justice Project echoes the chants from these protest marches demanding justice for First Nations people and action on racial discrimination. We pledge to continue this fight for justice in 2025 and beyond. We hope you can join us in this fight.

WELCOMING | New Board Chair

We are delighted to welcome Distinguished Professor Larissa Behrendt AO as our new Board Chair from January 2025. We also welcome Karen Iles as our new Deputy Chair and thank outgoing Board Chair Steven Castan for his service.  

ADVOCATING | Youth justice

Our CEO Adjunct Professor George Newhouse has been invited to address the Senate Inquiry into Australia’s youth justice and incarceration system next week. Junbunna Insititute for Indigenous Education and Research will also join him.  

HEARING | UN calls out Australia

The National Justice Project has called on the Federal Government to act on findings from the United Nations Human Rights Committee that Australia violated a human rights treaty when detaining a group of asylum seekers, including children, on Nauru.  

CALLING | Racism out

26 January again proved to be a challenging date for many First Nations people and we are all too aware of the increased incidents of racism at this time. 
  • If you witnessed or experienced this, please take a moment to report it to the racism register at callitout.com.au.
 

WISHING | Happy Mardi Gras

Staff and volunteers with the National Justice Project are excited to be hosting a stall at next month’s Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Fair Day. This is a great day to celebrate the 2025 theme ‘Free to be’. Please feel free on Sunday 16 February to pop by and say hi.  

CONNECTING | With Our followers

If you follow us on social media you are in good company with more than 34,000 supporters following our regular posts across platforms including LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter). We’ve also joined Bluesky and it would be great to see you there!

REPORTING | In the Media

The National Justice Project advocates for our clients in the courts as well as in the news media, especially around issues on human rights, discrimination and justice reform.

Here are some highlights from this month:You can follow our media commentary

SUPPORTING | Our New Year

The National Justice Project is looking forward to celebrating our 10th year in 2025. There are many ways for you to get involved this year to show your support. From volunteering to workplace giving, you can be part of the team helping our clients fight for truth, justice and accountability. 

The National Justice Project is funded by people who are committed to the fight for social justice. 

The National Justice Project is a Public Benevolent Institution endorsed as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) covered by Item 1 of the table in section 30-15 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.  Donations of $2.00 or more are tax deductible.
     

     5.5  AUST | RGA | UPDATING | Rainbow Community News | Wednesday 22 January 2025

    WELCOMING | Rainbow Giving Australia (RGA)'s Twenty Twenty Thrive key dates for your diary!

    • FEBRUARY Keep an eye on your inbox and socials as we announce this year's grant recipients
    • MARCH We'll be announcing the theme and releasing tickets for this year's Aurora Ball
    • JUNE We'll be launching an energising way for you to fundraise for rainbow organisations...STAY TUNED!
    • JUNE Celebrate the beginning of a new era with our annual Aurora Ball
    • AUG Organisation applications open for GiveOUT Day 2025
    • ОСТ GiveOUT Day, Australia's annual day of giving to LGBTQIA+ Not for Profits & Initiatives
    • NOV FY26 Amplify & Ignite Grant Rounds opens for organisations to apply for
    • DEC Reflect on all of the THRIVE moments that happened in our rainbow community over the year
     

    ASKING | Are you ready to make a real impact in 2025?

    We’ve teamed up with Jake from @jake.hehim to platform 20 rainbow organisations and folks to show you how you can get started with making change this year!

    Help spread the word, we’re giving away $2,000 that you can WIN for an LGBTQIA+ organisation of your choice! 

    SA | FEAST | HIRING | Chair of the Board for Feast Festival, Adelaide's Premier LGBTQIA+ Arts & Cultural Festival | apply now, applications closing Monday 3 February 2025 

     

    VIC | ECASA | WEBINAR | Online Support Group: "Not Alone" 8-week trauma group | Thursdays 20 February-10 April 2025 | 3-5pm

    For adult gay men impacted by childhood sexual abuse, offering a supportive space led by specialist counsellors. 
    To enquire, please call Eastern Centre Against Sexual Assault (ECASA) on 9870 7330 and request to speak with intake (Available Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm)  

    SYD | QUSC | Queer Screen’s 32nd Mardi Gras Film Festival | Thursday 13–Thursday 27 February 2025

    All about celebrating love—love for stories, love for community, and love for LGBTQIA+ cinema. 
    Sydney screenings and nationwide streaming on demand of handpicked selection 28 February-10 March 2025. 

    ANTRA | CELEBRATING | The 2025 Queer Chinese New Year | Sunday 9 February 2025

    Join Australia & New Zealand Tongzhi Rainbow Alliance (ANTRA) at Ashfield Town Hall, featuring storytelling, panel discussions, drag performances, and art workshops.  

    POSTING | Got an opportunity you’d like to post in our newsletter or on our website?

    Get in touch

     Funding Opportunities 

    AUST | NIAA | GRANTING | Local Grants for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and supporting organisations to celebrate NAIDOC 2025 | applications closing 3pm AEDT Thursday 20 February 2025

    The National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) is offering NAIDOC 2025 Local Grants for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and supporting organisations to celebrate NAIDOC Week (6–13 July 2025). Grants up to $10,000, and a limited number up to $25,000, are available for activities aligning with the theme “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision, Legacy”.  

    FTDAG | GRANTING | To eligible charitable organisations | accepting enquiries from 14 January-3 February 2025

    The Foote Trust Donor Advised Grants (FTDAG), established by Mr. Eldon Foote QC and Mrs. Anne Foote, support charitable organisations across various sectors, with the 2025 invite-only grant round. They are accepting enquiries from 14 January to 3 February 2025. Apply now.  

    WA | VWA | GRANTING | volunteer-involving organisations recognising volunteers during National Volunteer Week | applications close 5pm 12 February 2025

    Volunteering WA (VWA), with support from Lotterywest, offers grants of up to $1,500 to volunteer-involving organisations in Western Australia to host events or activities recognising volunteers during National Volunteer Week, scheduled for 19–25 May 2025.  

    SYD | SWSPHN | GRANTING | suicide prevention initiatives | applications open 26 February, closing 5pm 25 March 2024

    South Western Sydney PHN is offering grants between $50,000 and $200,000 to organisations for suicide prevention initiatives focusing on promoting social connectedness and reducing stigma.  

    MORE | Funding Opportunities

     

     HIGHLIGHTING | Resources 

    This week, Jones, our Head of Community & Grants, praised In Our Blood, a musical drama on Australia’s AIDS crisis, blending heartfelt performances with striking visuals. A great way to learn about a pivotal moment in LGBTQIA+ history.
    The Pride Guide, by Pride By Side and Rainbow Giving Australia, offers open-source databases of LGBTQIA+ organisations and funding opportunities, helping streamline access to resources and support for Australia's rainbow sector.
    The Playbook is a free resource by the Social Impact Hub developed to build the skills, knowledge, and tools of individuals, for-purpose organisation employees and impact investors to better catalyse impact.  

     BECOMING | A monthly donor 

    You're not just giving money. You're saying 'I see you to every LGBTQIA+ person who needs to hear it.

    Picture this: An older trans person gets the dignified healthcare he deserves. An isolated rural teen discovers they're not alone. These aren't just stories – they're real transformations happening right now in our community. It’s something to celebrate AND for every life we touch, there are countless others waiting for support.

    That's where you come in. For just $20 a month – less than a streaming subscription – you become part of creating ripples of change that touch lives across Australia. It funds life-changing programs that support our most vulnerable. It weaves networks of connection that make our rainbow community stronger.

    Ready to be part of this journey? Join us in building an Australia where every member of our rainbow family can THRIVE .
    As we begin 2025, I want to express my gratitude for your support in strengthening our LGBTQIA+ communities across Australia. Your contribution to initiatives like GiveOUT Day and Aurora Ball, have enabled us to create tangible change, and we look forward to further accelerating our impact together this year.

    Sam Turner (she/they) - Chair
    1. CoPP | GOV | ANNOUNCING | New Community Connector Service
    2. VIC | TAC | DRIVING | Safe, Stay Within the Speed Limit
     

     6.1  CoPP | GOV | ANNOUNCING | New Community Connector Service

    The City of Port Phillip (CoPP) Council has established a new Community Connector Service in the Aged Access and Inclusion team, Community Services. 
    This is designed to support residents of the City of Port Phillip aged 55 and over. The service aims to:
    • Help residents navigate aged-care services, the My Aged Care system, carer support, HACC services and other local services that support staying at home longer and living independently.
    • Link residents to social groups, community programs, and activities to reduce isolation and foster connection.
    • Offer information about council-supported services.
    There are two Community Connectors – Helen Parker and Liam Beecroft. The Community Connector Service can be accessed by ringing Customer Service on 9209 6777.

     6.2  VIC | TAC | DRIVING | Safe, Stay Within the Speed Limit

    The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) encourages our communities to drive responsibly.

    Speeding is the most prevalent risky behaviour on the roads and is a factor in approximately 30% of casualty crashes. Exceeding the speed limit by just 3 km/h is associated with a 25% increase in crash risk. At 5 km/h over the limit, crash risk increases by close to 50%.

    If you drive faster than the speed limit, you’re breaking the law and could face serious legal penalties or lose your licence. Police and speed cameras can be anywhere, at any time – so why take the risk?
    For further information and updates, visit the TAC website.

    Back to Topics List
    Back to Section List

     7. SUPPORTING 

    1. AUST | MANY | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way
    2. AUST | MULTI | Supporting Voices, Treaty and Meaningful Reconciliation with First Peoples, Settlers, and Those Who Come After
    3. VIC | GOV | UPDATING | Coronavirus Response
    4. AUST | MULTI | UPDATING | Coronavirus Response
     

     7.1  AUST | MANY | Helpers and Reliable Sources Along the Way

    1. Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander
    2. Ageism
    3. Asylum Seeking & Refugees
    4. Climate, Environment & Emergency
    5. Community, Connection & Belonging
    6. Difability & Disability
    7. Employment
    8. Family & Neighbourhood Violence
    9. Health, Sickness & Wellbeing
    10. Kids, Youth, Parenting & Education
    11. LGBTIQA+
    12. Men
    13. Racism
    14. Women

    7.1.1 Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander

    • BlaQ Aboriginal Corporation (BLAQ) – National service provider and NSW State Peak Organisation supporting and representing community living with the intersection of a Cultural life and LGBTQ+SB identity.
    • Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation school teaches Aboriginal kids in their own language started in 2022 with just 15 students and this year they already have 74 enrolments plus a waiting list!
    • Call It Out: A First Nations Racism Register App – University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research, in partnership with the National Justice Project, are proud to announce the launch of the Call It Out App, a ground-breaking platform aimed at documenting and addressing racism against First Nations Peoples in communities across Australia. Download on Apple and Android now to report racism anytime, anywhere. 
    • 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
    • Koorie Women Mean Business
    • Mungo Explorer – online learning platform by Cultural Infusion (CUIN). An inquiry based resource aligned with the Australian curriculum and covers Year 4 First Contact and Year 7 Ancient History. Allowing teachers to share Indigenous perspectives, historical and scientific thinking to teach students about the remarkable story of Mungo Man and Mungo Lady.
    • National Justice Project (NJP)
    • 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.
    • The Torch Project (TORCH) provides art, cultural and arts industry support to First Nations people currently in, or recently released, from Victorian prisons.

      7.1.2 Ageism

      7.1.3 Asylum Seeking & Refugees

      • Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) – independent not for profit supporting and empowering over 7,000 people seeking asylum each year to maximise their physical, mental and social wellbeing. As a movement we mobilise and unites communities to creating social and policy change for people seeking asylum and refugees in Australia.
      • Brigidine Asylum Seekers Project (BASP) – providing food, housing, English classes, employment assistance, legal and medical support, and donations of money.
      • City of Whittlesea (CoW) – offering a 12-week placement program for newly arrived non-student migrants and refugees. Learn more and apply

      7.1.4 Climate, Environment & Emergency


        7.1.5 Community, Connection & Belonging


          7.1.6 Difability & Disability


            7.1.7 Employment


              7.1.8 Family & Neighbourhood Violence


                7.1.9 Health, Sickness & Wellbeing


                  7.1.10 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
                  • Courage to Care Victoria (CTCV) has launched a set of six digital ‘How to be an Upstander’ lesson plans for years 9&10, complementing their existing face to face Upstander Programs. Find more here
                  • 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
                  • Middle Years and Youth Services (MYYS) are now offering a platform for local City of Port Phillip businesses or organisations to advertise job opportunities that would suit young people. The jobs appear regularly on the Port Phillip Youth Instagram page.
                  • 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
                  • #16DAYS4KIDS | Colouring Your Conversation
                  • 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. Download Colouring Sheets
                  • 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)
                  • YouthNav - helping young Victorians understand, plan for and succeed in skills like getting a job, moving out of home, getting around, having their say and managing money.

                    7.1.11 LGBTIQA+


                      7.1.12 Men

                      The following crisis and counselling services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week:
                      • 1800RESPECT – Call 1800 737 732 or visit website
                      • Lifeline: 13 11 14 or visit website - Counselling, information and referrals for personal crisis
                      • Mensline: 1300 789 978  or visit website - 24/7 Support for men
                      • Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 or visit website - Advice and support for depression and anxiety.
                      • Headspace: 1800 650 890 or visit website - National youth mental health foundation, chat, email or speak with a qualified professional.
                      • Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 - Counselling for anyone suicidal or affected by suicide
                      • Tomorrow Man visit website - Australian social enterprise committed to redefining masculinity and improving men’s mental health.

                        7.1.13 Racism


                          7.1.14 Women


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


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

                            Australian Government                             in late 2023 held 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 Voice alliance 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."

                                                         

                                                        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: 
                                                         

                                                        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.

                                                          AUST | CHGR | BUILDING | First Nations kids learning and loving to learn. Their families walking beside. Seeing hope for the future

                                                          Children's Ground Limited (CHGR) introduces you to our ongoing bold vision for change – a future in which every First Nations child can experience a lifetime of opportunity, entering adulthood strong in their identity and culture, connected to their local and global world, and economically independent.

                                                          Children’s Ground vision includes:
                                                          • First Nations people across Australia having self-determination and enjoying social, cultural, political and economic justice.
                                                          • First Nations' next generation of children knowing and celebrating their culture and identity, having freedom of choice and expression and living with opportunity, peace, harmony and wellbeing.
                                                          • Australians recognising our shared history and celebrating First Nations' culture and strength.

                                                            AUST | YSS | EDUCATING | Aboriginal Pedagogy, Social Justice and Self-Determination

                                                            Yarn Strong Sista (YSS) has over 20 years of experience and excellence in Aboriginal pedagogy, social justice and self-determination.


                                                            YSS is a National Indigenous Educational Consultancy and Training Provider. Indigenous owned and run specialising in Aboriginal Pedagogy, providing authentic Aboriginal training for early childhood professionals, primary school teachers and corporate teams.

                                                            YSS are specialists with offering a range of services including:
                                                            • visits to Early Childhood environments to facilitate storytelling and arts workshops with children, 
                                                            • hosting Professional Development training for Educators
                                                            • facilitating arts experiences and face-painting at festivals and events, and 
                                                            • providing First Nations-designed resources and educational tools on our website.
                                                            Working beyond Early Years, customising our programs to meet the curriculum needs of Primary and Secondary students, and work in community contexts supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Our Aboriginal Early Childhood Education Resources include: Artefacts, Dolls, Children’s Music, Children’s Books, Games, Felt Hand and Finger Puppets, Felt Mats for Storytelling, Puzzles, and Teachers Resource Guides.

                                                            Other projects include:
                                                            • Foregrounding Anti Bias Perspectives
                                                            • Yarn Strong Brutha
                                                            • Enterprise for Empowerment.
                                                            Providing relevant resources and books that assist parents, teachers and organisations to acknowledge and celebrate Aboriginal Ways of Being. All our resources are ethically made and sourced, in collaboration with Indigenous artists and Fair-Trade partners.

                                                              AUST | EVCO | BUILDING | Stronger, more inclusive organisation through Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Competence Training Programs

                                                              Be part of the big 10 year goal to inspire 10 million Allies to create a kinder, more inclusive Australia.

                                                              Build a stronger, more inclusive organisation through Evolve Communities Pty Ltd (EVCO)'s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Competence Training Programs.

                                                              When it comes to cultural awareness training, there isn’t necessarily a one-size-fits-all solution for education, reconciliation and allyship training. 

                                                              That’s why Evolve Communities offer different training courses and programs to suit any team’s size or style and let you choose the cultural competency training that is the best fit for your business including:
                                                              • 7 Steps Online Course
                                                              • Yarning Circle Workshops
                                                              • Ally Accreditation
                                                              Evolve Communities is a NSW-based Trusted Authority for Australian Indigenous cultural awareness, ally & facilitator training.

                                                                MELB | NGVA | EXHIBITING | Wurrdha Marra – Many Mobs

                                                                Welcome to Wurrdha Marra – meaning ‘Many Mobs’ in the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung language. 
                                                                The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia (NGVA) is a home to Australian art, presenting First Nations and non-First Nations art from historical to present day. The name comes from the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, supporting the purpose of this space in sharing the work of First Nations artists, from emerging to senior figures, and across time and place. 

                                                                For First Nations peoples around the world, art and design are part of a continuum where the past intersects with the present, different materials converge, and diverse perspectives come together. The central role of art in passing down important cultural knowledge is celebrated in this display through the diverse approaches that artists take to maintaining and regenerating customary cultural practices and iconography while also creating new forms of expression.

                                                                Wurrdha Marra is a dynamic exhibition space in which familiar works from the NGV’s collection of First Nations Australian art and design are displayed alongside new acquisitions. Presented through a series of changing thematics, the works on display offers a series of visual dialogues as a way to explore how parallel innovations and continuities can continue to inspire new ways of thinking about art.

                                                                The works included in this inaugural hang are by emerging artists as well as senior figures across both time and place. Each of these artists has in their own way been at the forefront in creating new forms of expression, and in maintaining and regenerating customary cultural practices and iconography. Great individual artists, working in Aboriginal-owned art centres or independently after studying at art school, continue to shape and transform art in Australia, inspiring many others to follow their example.
                                                                • Read More
                                                                • Where: NGV Australia (NGVA), The Ian Potter Centre, Fed Square, Melbourne
                                                                • Cost: Free entry
                                                                • Bookings: no booking required. Now showing 10am–5pm daily


                                                                   7.3  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:

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                                                                   7.4  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

                                                                     8. ACKNOWLEDGING 

                                                                      1. Acknowledgment to Sources
                                                                      2. Bye bye to Essentialists
                                                                      3. Self-Isolators, Non-Essentials And The Homebound
                                                                       

                                                                       8.1  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.

                                                                       8.2  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.

                                                                       8.3  Self-Isolators, Non-Essentials And The Homebound

                                                                      Meanwhile, if with a surplus of time, this 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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