GEIFN: September 2025

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

Collected video stories of identity, connection and belonging by First Nations, Settlers and Migrants from 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?":

What did the coming out process look like for you?
How did being LGBTQIA+ teach you about your family, community and the world?
Where is your gift of being LGBTQIA+ been used in personal, professional or public life?
Who is your message of reconciliation to?
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 encouraging Australian-residing LGBTQIA+ Women or Women-identifying, First Nations, People of Colour/Migrants. Together, a diversity of ages, genders, views, wisdom and compassion strengthen any reconciliation.

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

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.

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?

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

Global Engagement In Friendlier Neighbourhoods (GEIFN)

Join us with 'humanising the other'

Carey Rohrlach (he/him), AUSSIEstory Team Member, Tel 0438 371 488

Website

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.

VIC | VMC | UPDATING | Community, News and Information | Wednesday 3 September 2025

[Edited extract from public address]

Not a week goes by that doesn’t present both challenges and opportunities that strengthen our resolve towards promoting a diverse and socially cohesive Victoria.

I’d like to begin by expressing my profound sorrow for the tragic loss of Chol Achiek and Dau Akueng, two young members of the South Sudanese community. I visited the families and extended my deepest condolences to their relatives, friends and community. Please know that you are not alone in your grief. We, and the broader Victorian community, stand beside you. Those wishing to show their support and love can donate to the families of Chol and Dau. I have been part of the support system for the South Sudanese community in the Department of Justice and Community Safety, and am continuing to support the South Sudanese community leadership speak on their matters, work with the community members and government as they navigate through this difficult time.

Read community statement.

In response to further protests on Saturday in Melbourne’s CBD, I would like to reiterate the message in my last newsletter: the VMC condemns any attempt to divide communities and remains steadfast in our work to promote cohesion and call out scapegoating in all its forms. Events like this only strengthen our resolve to foster harmony in Victoria.

To that end, the previous fortnight was defined by change – and by new opportunities for Victorians to stand together with compassion, strength and resilience.

Many of you would have seen the release, last week, of the Victorian Multicultural Review, and the Victorian Government’s response. The Review contains 41 recommendations that aim to bolster unity and inclusion, and support a refreshed whole-of-government approach to multicultural affairs. The Victorian Government’s response to the Review was rapid, broad and genuine, which I was also pleased to see.

Last week, the Victorian Government also introduced the Statewide Treaty Bill 2025 into Parliament. Once passed, it will empower First Peoples to lead change on issues that affect their communities. Leading up to the Bill, the VMC co-hosted Treaty Information Sessions with the Victorian Government in Springvale and St Albans. We look forward to continuing engagements like this to build understanding and awareness about Treaty.

And, in coming weeks, the criminal reforms of the Justice Legislation Amendment (Anti-vilification and Social Cohesion) Act 2025 take effect. These amendments increase safeguards to protect more Victorians from vilification.

Stay up to date on the changes via the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission.

And finally, don’t forget to join us on our upcoming Multicultural Film Festival screening. We know films are a powerful story telling tool and I want to acknowledge all the artists choosing this medium to contribute to the richness of our people.

Warm regards,

Vivienne Nguyen AM, Chairperson

News and events

HIGHLIGHTING | Premier's Multicultural Gala Dinner

Watch highlights from an unforgettable night of community, culture, and connection at the Premier’s Multicultural Gala Dinner 2025 - where voices united, stories inspired, and diversity was celebrated in every moment. Diana Zhao, born in Shanghai and raised in Melbourne was our wonderful MC for the evening. Thank you to the Premier of Victoria, the Honourable Jacinta Allan, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Ingrid Stitt MP and the VMC Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen for hosting an exceptional night with an impressive entertainment line-up:

Drumming Events Melbourne
King Bell and Soukous Ba Congo
Estudiantina of Melbourne
Sanggar Lestari
Pasefika Vitoria Choir
ALPA
Kinisi
La Descarga

Many thanks to Fruitbowl Events Agency for assisting the VMC to deliver the event as well as coordinating the traditional teas and coffee blends by community groups.

MELB | RMIT | SCREENING | MFF tour | Thursday 25 September 2025 | 5.30-7.30pm

The Victorian Multicultural Commission is excited to invite you to attend RMIT University’s screening of the Multicultural Film Festival (MFF).

This special event brings together eight compelling short films that explore the theme of migration, each offering a unique lens on movement, belonging and identity.

The screening will be followed by a panel discussion featuring Le Luo (director of 'Outpicker'), Kaede Miyamura (director of 'Housekeepers') and Pinar Fontini, RMIT filmmaker and researcher who lectures in RMIT's Media program.

Where: RMIT University, Cinema 80.01.02, RMIT Building 80, 435-457 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Cost: Free
Bookings: Register online via RMIT

VIC | VMC | GATHERING | From dumplings to dialogue – let’s talk mental wellbeing | Saturday 8 November 2025 | 11.15am-3pm

Dumplings Against Depression is a community gathering where we’ll share delicious dishes and have open, inclusive conversations about mental health and wellbeing.

Presented by the Victorian Multicultural Commission in partnership with Solis and funded by the Victorian Collaborative Centre for Mental Health and Wellbeing.

Join us to hear from panels of multicultural mental health experts and community voices. Browse stalls and meet local service providers to discover culturally safe and community-based mental health supports.

Dumplings are a cherished dish in many cultures – from Asia to Europe, Africa to the Caribbean – making them the perfect symbol for connection and shared understanding across our diverse communities. Together we can break down mental health stigma and sector silos – one dumpling at a time.

Where: Long Room, Immigration Museum, 400 Flinders St, Melbourne
Cost: Free
Bookings: None required. Public event and all welcome. Add the date to your calendar

VIC | GOV | INTRODUCING | Victoria's Treaty is here!

For the first time in Australia's history, a Treaty has been negotiated with First Peoples. The Statewide Treaty Bill 2025 has been introduced into the Victorian Parliament.

The Bill will establish a new entity Gellung Warl (Gullung-Warl, from Gunaikurnai language) which is evolved from Victoria's successful First Peoples' Assembly. This Bill will give effect to this Treaty.

Here in Victoria, the Government has been on the path to Treaty for nearly a decade. A strong foundation has been laid. For too long, laws and policies have been made about First Peoples - without First Peoples. Treaty is key to closing the gap so that Victorians have the same opportunities. When First Peoples lead the way to design policies and solutions, we get better outcomes.

Learn more

VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Supporting Regional Multicultural Community Organisations to deliver events across regional Victoria in 2026 | applications opening soon and close October 2025

Funding is available to support regional multicultural community organisations to deliver events across regional Victoria in 2026.

To attend an Information Session in Bendigo or Ballarat, please register via the links below.

Bendigo Information Session | Wednesday 1 October 2025 | 6.30pm

Where: Galkangu, 189–229 Lyttleton Terrace, Bendigo VIC 3550
Bookings: Register online via Eventbrite

Ballarat information session | Thursday 2 October 2025 | 6.30pm

Where: Lucas Community Hub, 17 Coltman Plaza, Lucas VIC 3350
Bookings: Register online via Eventbrite

Learn more

VIC | GOV | CALLING | Applicants to be a Board Member with Creative Victoria | expressions of interest close 11.59pm 8 October 2025

Creative Victoria is seeking expressions of interest from people with diverse skills, experience and an interest in joining the boards of Victoria’s leading creative and cultural organisations. People who submit their interest will be included in a talent pool from which Victorian Government board appointments will be selected when vacancies arise.

The EOI process is open to people from across the state with a passion for the creative sector and relevant experience to contribute to the boards of some of the state’s leading creative and cultural agencies and organisations. People do not need to have experience working for an arts organisation or in the creative industries to express their interest.

Desirable skills and experience include financial management, corporate governance, strategic planning, legal, sponsorship, communications and marketing, and more.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people of all ages including young people aged 18-34 years, women, people with disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, LGBTIQA+ people and people from rural and regional Victoria are encouraged to apply.

For more information, visit Join a Public Board

VIC | GOV | COMMITTING | Until every Victorian is safe – Victoria’s third rolling action plan to end family and sexual violence 2025-2027

Family violence remains widespread across Victoria. It is fuelled by gender inequality and harmful gender stereotypes, in a society where women are still treated as unequal to men on many levels. Ending family violence involves everyone. We all have a role to play – at home, at work and in our communities.

The Victorian Government has committed to 106 actions to help prevent and respond to family and sexual violence over the next three years. This plan was informed by extensive stakeholder engagement, reflecting a diverse range of perspectives and priorities.

More information about Until every Victorian is safe and what the Victorian Government has committed to.

Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)

Address: Level 1, 3 Treasury Place, Melbourne VIC 3000

Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

The VMC acknowledges the Traditional Owners of country throughout Victoria and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.

VIC | VMC | UPDATING | Community, News and Information | Wednesday 3 September 2025

[Edited extract from public address]

In recent weeks, we have witnessed both tragedy and strength across our state. These moments remind us of the importance of compassion, unity and our shared commitment to a safer, more inclusive Victoria.

We pause to honour the two Victorian police officers, who lost their lives last week. On behalf of the Victorian Multicultural Commission and our communities, I extend our deepest condolences to their families, colleagues and loved ones. We stand in solidarity with Victoria Police and honour the service and sacrifice of those who protect our communities. We also encourage you to show your support through a donation to the Victoria Police Legacy Remembrance Fund, with all proceeds going directly to affected families. Click to contribute.

At the same time, the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) reaffirms its commitment to a diverse and socially cohesive Victoria. Nazis or Neo-Nazis must have no place whatsoever in any aspect of civic life or public debate. We denounce their involvement in the so-called ‘March for Australia’ rallies over the weekend.

These rallies sought to blame and marginalise multicultural communities for broader social and economic challenges. This is distressing and does not reflect the values that define our state. The VMC condemns any attempt to divide communities and remains steadfast in our work to promote cohesion and call out scapegoating in all its forms.

In times like these, staying connected and united is vital. It is by standing together that we build strength, foster resilience and protect the harmony that underpins Victoria. I spoke about this on ABC Radio, during the week. Listen, here.

That spirit of unity and celebration was on full display at the 2025 Premier’s Multicultural Gala Dinner, which welcomed over 1,200 guests from across the state. The Gala was a visible reminder of the enormous contribution multicultural communities make every day – in our hospitals, classrooms, places of worship, small businesses, research institutions and neighbourhoods. From doctors and artists to elders, youth leaders and entrepreneurs, the richness of our state was proudly on show.

We thank the Victorian Government, the Premier, and the Minister for Multicultural Affairs for their continued support. We are also grateful to our sponsors: our Gold Partner, SBS; and our Silver Partners, LanguageLoop, Stonemart, the Victorian Electoral Commission, and Foot Solutions. Their commitment is valued and valuable.

Finally, I would like to take a moment to thank and farewell our outgoing VMC Commissioners, whose terms conclude in September 2025: Deputy Chairperson Bwe Thay; Youth Commissioner Krushnadevsinh (Kano) Ravalji; Community Representative Commissioner Gabrielle Marchetti; and Commissioners Bill Papastergiadis OAM, Jennifer Huppert OAM, Dr Mohamed Mohideen OAM JP, Nyangak (Lizzy) Kuoth, Silvia Renda, and Tarang Chawla. I am deeply grateful for their expertise, guidance and dedication. Together, they have strengthened the reach of the VMC, deepened our community connections, and left a lasting legacy for multicultural Victoria. Read more.

Thank you, also, for your commitment to a strong, diverse and cohesive Victoria.

Warm Regards,

Vivienne Nguyen AM, Chairperson

News and Events

VIC | CELEBRATING | Victorian Seniors Festival

Connect, create and celebrate with the Victorian Seniors Festival this October. The festival presents a range of diverse events that celebrate multicultural older Victorians. Join in free and low-cost events close to home and across the state. Victorian Seniors Card holders can access 8 days of free public transport from 5 to 12 October 2025.

For more information and translated resources visit Seniors Online.

AUST | FECCA | TRAINING | Community or faith leader supporting multicultural communities?

Federation of Ethnic Communities' Councils of Australia (FECCA) is offering free online training to help you safely support those affected by family, domestic and sexual violence (FDSV), while strengthening leadership and fostering positive change in the community.

What you’ll learn:

Recognise signs of FDSV
Respond with compassion, respect, and safety
Connect people with specialist support services
Lead open, supportive conversations

Start the e-learning today by clicking here or contact fdsv.tecs@ssi.org.au for more information.

Learn more

AUST | GOV | HELPING | Your community stay safe online

The Department of Home Affairs has launched the latest phase of its Act Now. Stay Secure. cyber security awareness campaign, empowering all Australians to take control of their cyber safety and protect themselves online.

To support multicultural communities, resources have been produced in 32 languages, in addition to English.

Resources include:

A detailed fact sheet that can be shared digitally or printed as an educational tool
Printable posters for display around your centre
Social media tiles to share with your followers.

Cyber security affects the lives of everyone. As a trusted community leader, you play a vital role in helping community members protect themselves, their families and the broader community online.

We encourage you to explore the campaign website, particularly the translated resources page and share the resources with your community.

Learn More

VIC | VicSRC | GATHERING | Twenty years of student-led change: Join VicSRC Congress 2025

Each year, VicSRC runs Congress, Victoria’s largest student-led event, bringing secondary students together to explore ideas and tackle issues in the education system.

Congress advances VicSRC’s vision of a student-focused, student-led education system. Partnering with organisations like VMC and Third Culture Australia helps shape the future of education while positioning you as a champion of student voice—alongside key government stakeholders, media, and, most importantly, students.

In 2025, VIcSRC celebrate 20 years of Congress with a statewide tour, visiting East Gippsland, Geelong, Swan Hill, and Wangaratta, alongside traditional metropolitan Melbourne events in 2025 and 2026.

This is a unique chance to make a local impact, connect with Victoria’s students, and support their voices.

For multiple student sponsorships, in-kind sponsorships or to discuss any questions, flexible packages or multi-year sponsorship agreements, please contact Congress sponsorships lead Jake Fehily, on 0458 601 658 or at jake@vicsrc.org.au.

Learn More

THANKING | Sponsors for Premier’s Multicultural Gala Dinner

The Premier’s Multicultural Gala Dinner is an important gathering where stories come alive, voices resonate and everyone feels truly seen.

We celebrate the diverse communities who work together to build a better Victoria.

A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful sponsors for supporting the Premier’s Multicultural Gala Dinner 2025.

SBS50, Foot Solutions, Language Loop, Stonemart and Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC).

Your contribution helps bring this vibrant celebration of culture, community and connection to life.

Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)

Address: Level 1, 3 Treasury Place, Melbourne VIC 3000

Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

AUST | CUIN | UPDATING | Making Technology Cultural Again and more | August-September 2025

[Edited extract from public address]

Our lives are entangled with technology, our CTO Rezza Moieni told a TEDx audience in South Korea.

Rezza was asking them to consider technology not as something separate from culture but central, and culture as central to how we design and interact with technology. This matters because technology can either support cultural diversity or be a homogeniser, and we believe homogenisation divides us, whereas diversified we grow.

In this edition of the newsletter, we share links to Rezza’s TEDx talk, and much more. Don't miss your invitation to an author talk on 3 September at Cultural Infusion HQ!

INTRODUCING | A Note from the CEO

You may have noticed something new: Diversity Atlas has evolved into the Atlas of Cultural Infusion, or just plain Atlas.

This change brings all our work back under one unified identity that puts culture at the centre of everything we do. Atlas remains the world’s most comprehensive tool for measuring cultural diversity and now sits proudly within the Cultural Infusion family.

For you, this means one monthly newsletter, one brand, and more stories that connect the dots between our education, cultural, and data initiatives.

We really are making technology cultural again!

Peter Mousaferiadis, August 2025

Tech-driven Diversity

ANALYSING | The Big Breakthrough: Cultural Identity with Scientific Precision

What happens when we stop guessing and start measuring diversity with the same seriousness we apply to medicine and other sciences?

We are used to seeing people flattened into broad identity groups, but the realisation that no two people share the exact same cultural identity changed everything for us and started a 10-year journey into data, culture, and technology.

Through granular data, we can now analyse cultural identity with scientific precision.

In his TEDx talk in May, Rezza Moieni, our CTO, shared how one question led to the Global Database of Humanity: the world’s largest database of human identities.

Watch the full talk (18 mins)

Rezza also spoke at the National Ageing Research Institute 2025 Annual Summit on how AI systems can either challenge or reinforce age-related bias.

REPORTING | TechDiversity Awards Night

‘Eight years ago,’ Rezza Moieni writes, ‘I was sitting in a hipster Collingwood café, drafting an application for something I’d just discovered; the Tech Diversity Awards. A few weeks later … we WON the Minister’s Award!’ Our team has been at every TechDiversity Awards Night since then.

Helmed by Executive Director of TechDiversity Foundation and BMX Champion Luli Adeyemo, the TechDiversity Awards celebrated its tenth anniversary this year.

Read Luli’s fantastic summary of the night.

For the fifth year running, we mapped the diversity of the people in the room, a highlight of the night for everyone, revealing the rich representation:

43 different countries of birth
57 cultural groups and
96 languages.

Congratulations to all the winners and nominees on the night, Luli and the whole dynamic team of organisers behind this event! We were moved and inspired by everyone’s speeches and stories.

TechDiversity’s 2025 champion was Make It Easy App by We Make It Easy Pty Ltd. This brilliant app allows you to photograph any bamboozling piece of text, even in poor light, and will instantly simplify it for you. We informally tested it against ChatGPT and found it not just faster, since Make It Easy only involves one step, but also much more accurate. So, support home-grown inclusive tech and download it! For free!

ANNOUNCING | TechDiversity Academy Starts Soon!

TechDiversity Academy starts from 1 September, with three focused online modules targeted towards supporting mid-level managers take their leadership further with inclusive leadership done right. You can still book later! The academy is open from September to November, allowing flexibility for participants to start and complete the modules at their own pace.

TechDiversity partners with Cultural Infusion and the Australian Computer Society to deliver these timely courses informed by leading practice and holistic methodology.

‘The TD Academy community is made up of people who believe in the power of community and education to harness the DEI transformational process.’ – Luli Adeyemo

Education and Experiences New Programs and Projects

Cultural Infusion's Atlas for Schools: FREE Limited Spots

Bring your school’s cultural story to life!

Discover how diverse and unique your school community really is with the Cultural Infusion's Atlas for Schools – a world-first program using interactive data and vibrant visualisations to explore and celebrate your school’s diversity.

Celebrates diversity & promotes global citizenship
Curriculum-ready lesson plans & activities
Exclusive ‘Mapped & Measured’ recognition badge

Apply now to secure your place

ANNOUNCING | New Program and Touring Highlights

Commedia dell'Arte

Commedia dell’arte began in the 16th century in Italy and became the basis for modern-day comedy and clowning. Packed with music, mime, magic and mayhem, this program is a clowning show full of energy, fun and silliness!

Book Here

Ghana Road Show – Limited Time Only!

Available exclusively in August and September, this dynamic performance workshop offers students the opportunity to engage with the rich cultural heritage of Ghana. Featuring acclaimed Ghanaian artists, the program introduces traditional West African acrobatics, circus skills, music and storytelling. Students will develop physical confidence and teamwork skills while gaining a deeper appreciation for Ghanaian culture.

Enquire Here

Aboriginal Program Tour by Pancakes

Tristan Harris, also known as Pancakes, a Noongar man from the Bibbulmann clan in Western Australia, is a cultural educator, performer, and advocate for Indigenous heritage. From late August to early September, Pancakes will tour in and around Perth featuring his latest program Aboriginal Mural Creation, the all-time favourite Aboriginal Infusion, and even all-day multi-session cultural experiences covering didgeridoo, artefacts, storytelling and more.

Follow the links to book!

SPOTLIGHTING | Project: School Holiday Program with Junior Adventures Group

During the July 2025 school holidays, Cultural Infusion delivered a nationwide cultural workshop program in collaboration with Junior Adventures Group. The program reached more than 11,000 primary-aged students and children across metropolitan and rural Australia through 570 sessions, reflecting our commitment to reliability and quality as we aim to support intercultural understanding, curiosity, appreciation and social cohesion through meaningful educational experiences.

HIGHLIGHTING | In the Media and on the Blog

‘Creative Australia, the Sabsabi debacle and unconscious bias’

The Mandarin published an article by Peter Mousaferiadis exploring the disconnect between some of our leading cultural institutions and the artists they represent.

Read article

‘Cultural Diversity in Dangerous Times’

Peter Mousaferiadis wrote up Cultural Infusion’s involvement as Secretariat at the Civil Society Forum at UNESCO in June.

Go to post

We had some wonderful contributions from the remarkable people who intern with us, including a piece about our cultural programs, a fascinating story about the biosphere reserve Jeju Island, and a provocative piece about K-pop.

Explore Our Blog

Coming Events

ANNOUNCING | Author Talk 3 September: You're Invited!

Cultural Infusion is honoured to be hosting Gloria Tabi at our Collingwood HQ for what will be a compelling talk about her book ENOUGH: How One Woman’s Truth Became a Roadmap for Change, on Wednesday, 3 September 2025 at 6pm.

Gloria Tabi is the recipient of the 2024 Legendary Award (African Australians NSW) and the 2022 Social Justice Award (Nelson Mandela Day Australia).

In this groundbreaking book, Gloria weaves memoir with manifesto, courage with conviction, offering a path to healing for anyone who has ever felt unseen, unheard, or unworthy.

We look forward to seeing you all here for this free community event!

Doors open: 6pm
Doors close: 6.30pm
Event ends: 8.00pm

Registration is essential for catering.

Books can be bought on the night. All profits will go towards raising hair discrimination awareness at Enable Women Africa.

ANNOUNCING | Cultural Infusion Partners with Tech Show Paris 2025

Cultural Infusion through its flagship product the Atlas is proud to announce its official partnership with Tech Show Paris 2025, organised by CloserStill Media and taking place on 5 to 6 November at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. This collaboration brings together Cultural Infusion’s global expertise in cultural analytics and inclusion with one of Europe’s most influential technology events.

Learn more

CONGRATULATING | Kasia!

Congratulations to Kasia Hayward on her nomination for a Tech Professional Award (non-coding) at the Women in Tech Awards 2025. Kasia joined our team in October last year as Head of Culture and Innovation in the UK. She brings fresh energy, creativity and a wealth of experience to our mission of full inclusion and cultural harmony. We are thrilled to see her talent and impact recognised among the finalists for this award.

COMING | Up

1 September Peter Mousaferiadis will be addressing the Australia-Africa Academic Research Colloquium on Health, Policy & Engineering Management at the University of Melbourne.
18 September Peter will be speaking at the World Diversity in Leadership (WODIL) Conference in Edmonton, Canada
30 September Peter will be participating as a speaker in the ‘Voices of Culture’ programme at MONDIACULT 2025 in Barcelona.
2 October Peter will be in Prague to speak at DEI Forum 2025.
5 November Peter will be moderating a panel discussion at Tech Show Paris 2025.

HIGHLIGHTING | Calendar Spotlights

23 September, International Day of Sign Languages
International Day of Sign Languages supports and protects the linguistic identity and cultural diversity of all deaf people and other sign language users.

More than 300 sign languages are in active use around the world, and they are all in our Atlas database, the Global Database of Humanity.

Our Atlas team found out through data that Japan has a culture of honouring sign languages. The Japanese branch of one company our Atlas surveyed found that of the 93 languages and dialects represented by their workforce, Japanese Sign language was represented by about 5% of the staff, making it the third most represented language after Japanese and English. Korean Sign Language and American Sign Language were also represented in the results. Results of the Atlas survey usually show only about 1% of sign language users.

Japan recently passed a law to promote the use of sign language ahead of the November Deaflympics.

Only 81 out of 195 countries officially recognise their national sign language. The World Federation of the Deaf claims lack of meaningful sign language legislation on the national level is a grave violation of deaf peoples’ fundamental rights.

20 October, Diwali (The Festival of Lights)

One of the most significant religious festivals in Hinduism, Jainism and Sikhism, Diwali is a five-day festival often takes place in late October and November. This year, it falls on 20 October. It is traditionally celebrated with the lighting of oil lamps, colourful rangoli, gift-giving, and festive gatherings. Nowadays, communities around the world will mark the occasion with fireworks, music, traditional dress and food.

To celebrate and share the vibrant Indian culture during this festive season, we’re offering a range of interactive cultural workshops, bringing the spirit of Diwali and the diversity of Indian heritage into classrooms and communities:

Bollywood Infusion (VIC, NSW, ACT, QLD, WA, SA)
Indian Instrumental Infusion (VIC, NSW, QLD)
Classical Indian Dance (VIC, NSW, SA)

STAYING | Up to date

Interested in staying up to date and finding out more about our cultural initiatives?

Cultural Infusion (CUIN)

Address: Suite 2, 273-277 Wellington Street, Collingwood VIC 3066

Cultural Infusion has its offices based on the ancestral land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We acknowledge and pay respect to the past, present and future traditional custodians and elders and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia.

GEIFN | CONSOLIDATED | Community Information | Monday 1 September 2025

Fast Facts: Community Responses Victoria & Australia

1. HIGHLIGHTING

MELB | ICM | GATHERING | Vigil for Children of Gaza | from 7.30am Wednesday 3 September until 1.30pm Thursday 4 September
MELB | FDPN | GATHERING | 2025 Queer Displacements Conference Program & more | Wednesday 3-Friday 5 September 2025
CoPP | GOV | SUPPORTING | Free pads and tampons
CoPP | SKF | CALLING | Community Groups for participation in St Kilda Festival | Expressions of interests close 5pm Wednesday 17 September 2025
CoPP | WNOW | IMPROVING | Men’s Health Through Connection, Mateship and Community
AUST | EQPR | GATHERING | The Program for Better Together 2025
VIC | VMC | SCREENING | Multicultural Film Festival on Tour
AUST | GEIFN | CALLING | LGTBIQA+ Story Tellers for AUSSIE Stories: Downunder the Rainbow

1.1 MELB | ICM | GATHERING | Vigil for Children of Gaza | from 7.30am Wednesday 3 September until 1.30pm Thursday 4 September 2025

Christians from various traditions have been meeting together and have decided to host a Vigil to express our deepest lament for the children currently being killed in Gaza.

The names of children who have been killed will be spoken during the 30-hour Vigil.

The vast majority of names will be of children killed in Gaza, as well as, the names of children killed in the last two years in Israel and the West Bank.

People from all religious traditions and philosophies are invited to join in this Vigil.

Melbourne artists will share live music to accompany the honouring of the names from 6-10pm.

Please join us in these difficult times.

Where: The steps of Collins Street Baptist Church, 174 Collins Street, Melbourne.
Cost: Free
Organisation Support: Read more
Bookings: Individuals register online via Bitly

Sincerely,
Helen
Rev Helen Summers OAM
The Interfaith Centre of Melbourne (ICM)

1.2 MELB | FDPN | GATHERING | 2025 Queer Displacements Conference Program & more | Wednesday 3-Friday 5 September 2025

Forcibly Displaced People Network (FDPN) are the voice of LGBTIQA+ displacement. Discover the Queer Displacements Conference program!
This is a space for LGBTIQA+ forcibly displaced people created by and for our community to connect, reflect, and strategise before the main conference begins.

Pre-Conference day | Wednesday 3 September 2025 | 1pm-5pm

If you have received a scholarship, stay tuned for more details. If you are an LGBTIQA+ forcibly displaced person attending the conference, your ticket already covers this day.

The first release of the conference program is now live!

From critical panels and practical workshops to community-led discussions, this year’s line-up reflects the powerful voices and solutions of LGBTIQA+ forcibly displaced people and our allies. You get to see the program, before it is released via our website.

Program: accessible version
Program: pdf version

Whether you’re part of a service, researcher, advocate, or community member, you won’t want to miss this vital event.

Where: Victoria University, City Tower, 370 Little Lonsdale St, Naarm (Melbourne) VIC 3000, Australia
Cost: Varies
Bookings: spaces are limited and selling fast, online via Humanitix

1.3 CoPP | GOV | SUPPORTING | Free pads and tampons

City of Port Phillip (CoPP) is proud to be part of the Victorian Government’s Free Pads & Tampons in Public Places program.
Free pads and tampons are available at these Port Phillip locations:

Albert Park, Emerald Hill, St Kilda and Port Melbourne Libraries
Aisle D female toilets (next to Simply Spanish) - South Melbourne Market
Food Hall female toilets - South Melbourne Market.

No need to ask, just take what you need.

Find out more

1.4 CoPP | SKF | CALLING | Community Groups for participation in St Kilda Festival | Expressions of interests close 5pm Wednesday 17 September 2025

St Kilda Festival (SKF) is known as Australia’s largest free community festival – a celebration of community spirit, Australian talent, and the beautiful St Kilda foreshore.
Since the first St Kilda Festival in 1980, this well-loved annual summer celebration has established itself as an iconic event that brings the community together.

The two-day format held annually in February, attracts more than 300,000 live music lovers over the fun-filled weekend. The weekend starts with First Peoples First festival on the Saturday, and the traditional Big Festival Sunday the following day.

The festival features 8 live music stages stacked with incredible Australian artists, workshops, kids entertainment, sports demonstrations, roving performers, dance groups, market stalls, carnival rides, food trucks and traders and much more.

The Festival Team

The St Kilda Festival is a community festival at heart, and we strive to present a program that reflects our municipality and has something for everyone, while showcasing community involvement and actively engaging local community groups to participate in festival activities.

Your community group

The community group engagement process operates as an open call for expressions of interest, with groups submitting their ideas and details of how they wish to be included in the festival. The festival team then assess the applications and select groups to participate in the event. City of Port Phillip seek to provide production support to some groups as a contribution to the activity, within budgetary capacity. Financial contribution will be assessed on a case-by-case basis with preference given to groups whose activity:

Has a positive impact on community
Have minimal production infrastructure requirements
Are local and active within the City of Port Phillip municipality

Groups should clearly outline what their own contribution to the proposed event/activation, as well as what they are seeking from Council, in their application.

What we are looking for

St Kilda Festival is looking to support community groups from the local area that contribute to the energy and feel of the festival. We are on the hunt for a range of groups that showcase the breadth of diversity across the City of Port Phillip municipality.

This includes but is not limited to:

Dance Groups
Choirs
Sporting and recreational groups
Theatre Groups
Not for profits
Community Development groups
School Groups

For more information visit: Community Group Applications

1.5 CoPP | WNOW | IMPROVING | Men’s Health Through Connection, Mateship and Community

St Kilda Beach chapter for men's health?
A men’s health and wellness organisation is looking to start a new chapter at a life saving club in St Kilda.

When No One’s Watching (WNOW) is a not-for-profit organisation working to improve men’s health through connection, mateship and community.

Andrew Kegele, who runs the Camberwell chapter, is keen for WNOW to start holding meetings at the St Kilda Life Saving Club (St KLSC).

“We aim to reduce isolation, normalise open conversations about life’s challenges and inspire men to take action for themselves and those around them,” Andrew said. “We have a Middle Park chapter and would love to also offer free meetings at iconic St Kilda Beach.”

Learn More

1.6 AUST | EQPR | GATHERING | The Program for Better Together 2025

See what's on at Equality Project (EQPR)'s Better Together 2025! The program is now live!
Read the program of talks, panels and workshops.

There are three types of sessions for you to enjoy at Better Together 2025.
Better Think talks, panels of 50 minutes, and workshops of all kinds across the two days.

In 2025 we have more workshops than at any previous Better Together conference. This is our most interactive, participatory conference yet.

Read The Full Program

Three Kinds of Sessions

Better Think

A 20-minute TED-Talk style presentation on a single idea

Panel

2-4 panellists and a moderator, talking on a topic with audience Q&A

Workshop

A highly interactive session focused on participation and hands-on learning

Now that you know what's on offer, make sure you have your ticket to Better Together 2025!

1.7 VIC | VMC | SCREENING | Multicultural Film Festival on Tour

The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) is proud to present MFF on Tour – bringing powerful, diverse storytelling to regional and metropolitan communities across the state.

Watch our trailer of the 2025 Official Selection films featured.

Join us at one of the upcoming screenings:

RMIT University, Melbourne campus | Thursday 25 September 2025 | 5.30-7.30pm
Rosebud Cinema, Mornington Peninsula Shire | Saturday 18 October 2025 | 4-6.30pm
Federation Square, Outdoor Screen | Thursday 30 October 2025 | 6-8pm
SBS On Demand | 10 November 2025-9 November 2026

For more information and to book tickets

1.8 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 if Melbourne based optionally in a studio. 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 inclusion, reconciliation and equitable coexistence.

For more details

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2. GRANTING

SYDNEY | AFS | GRANTING | Funding for projects that make Sydney more awesome | Applications close 6.30pm first Wednesday of every month
AUST | GOV | GRANTING | Strengthening Australia-Latin America Ties
TAS | GOV | Youth Arts | applications close Monday 8 September 2025
VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Round 3 of Victoria's 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program | applications close 15 September 2025
VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Support for Chinese Community Centres | applications close Wednesday 17 September 2025
AUST | EQPR | GRANTING | #BT2025 Scholarships | applications now open
AUST | PFA | GRANTING | LGBTIQA+ Large Grants Rural and Regional Program 2025 | applications close 5pm AEST Monday 29 September 2025

2.1 SYDNEY | AFS | GRANTING | Funding for projects that make Sydney more awesome | Applications close 6.30pm first Wednesday of every month, next closes 3 September 2025

The Awesome Foundation Sydney (AFS) loves funding projects that make Sydney more awesome.
A global network of micro-giving chapters that give $1,000 of their own money every month to awesome projects. We're the Sydney chapter!

We fund out-there ideas that make Sydney more awesome. The ideas sometimes aren't so absurd: they can be super sensible, too. The catch? There isn’t one: there are no strings attached.

Since our foundation in 2011, the Sydney chapter has received more than 1,600 micro-grant applications and given away over $100,000. We also helped put on the first-ever Australian Awesome Summit. That's a whole lot of awesome.

Generally, we avoid funding salaries, websites, travel and ideas where the budget doesn’t make it clear enough how the money will be used.

Application deadline

Applications close at 6.30pm on the first Wednesday of every month (but do check our Facebook in case we move the deadline a day or two). The winner will be notified on the night.

Read our Applicant Guide for more tips on creating an awesome application

2.2 AUST | GOV | GRANTING | Strengthening Australia-Latin America Ties

Expressions of Interest are now open for the 2025-26 Council on Australia Latin America Relations (COALAR) Grants Program, supporting initiatives that enhance economic, social and cultural connections between Australia and Latin America.

Priority areas: Culture, education, energy transition, First Nations and resources.

Funding available: $10,000–$50,000 per project

Key dates:

Stage One (EOI): 8 August-4 September 2025
Stage Two (invitation only): 7 October-3 November 2025

For more information and to apply

2.3 TAS | GOV | Youth Arts | applications close Monday 8 September 2025

Arts Tasmania (ARTA) supports organisations to deliver activities that actively engage young people in Tasmania to develop their creative skills, and enhance their social health and wellbeing. Up to $80,000.

Learn more

2.4 VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Round 3 of Victoria's 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program | applications close 15 September 2025

The Victorian Government has launched Round 3 of the 100 Neighbourhood Batteries grant program, offering up to $400,000 in funding per battery.

Neighbourhood batteries can store locally generated renewable energy, improve the resilience of local electricity networks, and in some cases, provide backup power during outages.

This funding will help more communities benefit from local energy storage and a cleaner grid.

Learn more about 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program Grants

2.5 VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Support for Chinese Community Centres | applications close Wednesday 17 September 2025

Funding opportunity open for Victoria’s Chinese communities!

Chinese community organisations are invited to express their interest in receiving funding to establish a community centre in Melbourne’s east.

Up to $2.4 million in funding is available to support our Chinese communities to have safe and culturally appropriate spaces to connect, share and preserve their culture.

For more information and to apply

2.6 AUST | EQPR | GRANTING | #BT2025 Scholarships | applications now open

You can now apply for a scholarship to attend The Equality Project (EQPR)'s Better Together 2025 in Adelaide on 31 October and 1 November.
Scholarships in 2025 are $139 excl. fees, with some fully-funded places via a variety of specific access programs.

Did you know, over 50% of attendees at Better Together 2024 had their ticket subsidised by us at The Equality Project, or one of our amazing conference partners?

The Equality Project recieves no ongoing funding, but our financial access programs have always been at the heart of our work. This is part of what we mean when we say Better Together is a grassroots conference.

If you don't need a scholarship yourself, you can also help to support someone else attending by donating to our ongoing scholarship program.

2.7 AUST | PFA | GRANTING | LGBTIQA+ Large Grants Rural and Regional Program 2025 | applications close 5pm AEST Monday 29 September 2025

Supporting LGBTQIA+ people living in regional and rural areas of Australia
Pride Foundation Australia (PFA) is proud to announce its largest grant round with a total funding pool of $100,000, with a focus on building and supporting LGBTQIA+ inclusive rural and regional health services and their partnerships to organisations with significant expertise in LGBTQIA+ health and inclusion.

About Pride Foundation Australia

Pride Foundation Australia is a national philanthropic foundation specifically focused on funding lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, intersex, asexual and other (LGBTQIA+) community issues in Australia. The Foundation advocates for systemic change to advance LGBTQIA+ equity and inclusion and provide direct support to affected communities and individuals.

Pride Foundation Australia raises awareness of LGBTQIA+ disadvantage and works to increase philanthropic support for the Australian LGBTQIA+ and allied communities through fundraising, grant giving, collaboration and commissioning projects – prioritising funding to LGBTQIA+ communities traditionally underrepresented and under-resourced.

Gants

Grant applications should be to the value of up to $20,000 for up to two years (if applicable).

This grant round is based on the key priorities outlined in Pride Foundation Australia’s new report titled “The Health and Wellbeing of LGBTQIA+ people in Rural Australia”.

Before you apply, read the guidelines

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3. EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING

CoPP | PPLS | OFFERING | Help finding a job | weekly on Saturdays, starts Saturday 20 September 2025 | 1-3pm
CoPP | GOV | TRAINING | Thriving Youth: Barista Coffee Course | Thursday 24 September

3.1 CoPP | PPLS | OFFERING | Help finding a job | weekly on Saturdays, starts Saturday 20 September 2025 | 1-3pm

Finding Work. Need help?
Book with Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) a free 45-minute one-on-one appointment with our volunteer job coach Marcia.

She will help you:

Build confidence and motivation in applying for work
Improve your digital skills
Help you write a résumé and prepare for interviews
Provide career advice based on your strengths
Learn where to look for jobs and how to apply

Whether you’re new to the workforce, changing careers, or just feeling stuck, we’re here to help.

Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
Cost: Free
Bookings: online via Trybooking

3.2 CoPP | GOV | TRAINING | Thriving Youth: Barista Coffee Course | Thursday 24 September 2025

City of Port Phillip (CoPP)'s Thrive is designed to equip young people aged 16 to 25 with the necessary skills for entering the workforce or pursuing further studies, helping you feel confident and set for your next steps in work or study.
The program will feature a series of skills-based short courses and workshops.

White Card Certification - Wednesday 22 October
Responsible Service of Alcohol - Tuesday 11 November 2025
Youth Mental Health First Aid - February 2026 (Exact date and time TBA)

Where: Port Phillip
Cost: All courses are free for those living or studying in Port Phillip.
Bookings: online via Thrive - Youth Pathways Program

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4. ENGAGING

CoPP | PPLS | STAYING | Connected with the Community Connector Service
CoPP | VPC | OFFERING | Witnessed Document Signing | weekly, every Sunday (excluding public holiday weekends) | 12noon-4pm
CoPP | GOV | VISITING | Port Phillip Aged Care Information Hubs | every Monday and Wednesday until 12 November 2025 | 11am-1pm
CoPP | PPLS | TEACHING | One on One Device Advice | 3 locations | weekly
CoPP | PPLS | OFFERING | Tech Help at Albert Park | monthly, every Wednesday (excluding school holidays) | 3.30-4.30pm
CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Chatty Cafe at Port Melbourne | weekly, every Thursday | 11am-12noon
CoPP | PPLS | CONNECTING | With Family History Club | First Thursday of the month | 1-2pm
CoPP | PPLS | GROWING | Port Phillip Seed Library
CoPP | PPLS | WRITING | Last Friday Write Club | monthly, last Friday, until Friday 28 November 2025 | 10am-12noon
CoPP | PPLS | GATHERING | Queer Art Club | monthly, last Sunday | 11am-1pm
CoPP | GOV | ENCOURAGING | Seniors Social Connection
CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | ESL Conversation Circle | Weekly, 2 Sessions & 2 Locations
CoPP | CSAS | SHOWING | Unfolding futures | Monday-Friday (closed public holidays) until Friday 31 October 2025 | 8.30am-5pm
MELB | PMOA | EXHIBITING | 65,000 Years: A Short History of Australian Art | Tuesday-Saturday until 22 Nov 2025 | 11am-5pm
CoPP | PPLS | SCREENING | Library Film Club: Celebrating the life of David Stratton AM | St Kilda Monday 1 September 2025 | 12noon-2pm | OR | Emerald Hill Wednesday 3 September 2025 | 11am-1pm
CoPP | PPLS | CALLING | Photographers for Local History Photo Competition | submissions open Monday 1 September and close Friday 31 October 2025
MELB | WCC | GATHERING | World Chambers Congress 2025 to Melbourne | 2-4 September 2025
CoPP | PPEC | GATHERING | Efficient Hot Water and Heating Community Forum | Thursday 4 September 2025 | 6-8pm
WANGARATTA | KPCA | GATHERING | Youth Impact Victoria Fun Day | Sunday 7 September 2025 | 10.30am-3pm
CoPP | PPLS | WALKING | Housing the people of South Melbourne | Sunday 7 September 2025 | 2-4pm
WORLD | PWR | WEBINAR | The Tri-Abrahamic Dialogue on the Climate Crisis: What Do Our Faiths Demand? | Tuesday 9 September 2025 | 1am AEST | or | Monday 8 September 2025 | 10am US Central Time
CoPP | PPLS | GATHERING | Queer Social Club | monthly, second Tuesday | starting Tuesday 9 September | 6-7.30pm
VIC | VTMH | WORKSHOPPING | ‘Community engagement with purpose’: Approaches to consider in mental health settings | Wednesday 10 September 2025 | 9.30am-4pm
CoPP | PPLS | WORKSHOPPING | Habitat Gardening with Jaclyn Crupi | Wednesday 10 September 2025 | 6-7pm
CoPP | PPLS | CELEBRATING | Home is where the art is | Thursday 11 September 2025 | 3.30-4.30pm
CoPP | LNA | WORKSHOPPING | Teen Photography for Local History Photography Competition | Saturday 13 September 2025 | 11am-2pm
VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Relational Advocacy and Practice in Public Mental Health: Cultivating Cultures of Connection, Integrity and Hope | Wednesday 17 September 2025 | 3-4pm
CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | With Author Alice Zaslavsky in conversation with Noe Harsel | Wednesday 17 September 2025 | 6-7pm
CoPP | GOV | HEARING | Your say: making it easier in Port Phillip | submissions close 21 September 2025
ASCOT VALE | UHRV | COMMEMORATING | United Nations International Day of Peace | Sunday 21 September 2025 | Arrive 11.30am for 12.30-3pm
AUST | CITC | WEBINAR | UN Peace Day Meditation Vigil | Sunday 21 September 2025 | 6.30-7.30pm (AEST)
VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Spirituality & Diversity Discussions: "I hear the voice of God but others do not. What do I do?" | Tuesday 23 September 2025 | 10.30am-12noon
CoPP | PPLS | WEBINAR | How to use Government Websites | Thursday 25 September 2025 | 3-4 pm
CoPP | GOV | HEARING | Your say: on South Melbourne Market Strategic Plan 2026-30 | survey closes 28 September 2025
MELB | SFRI | GATHERING | 2025 Australian Social Cohesion Summit | Thursday 16 October 2025 | 8.30am-5pm
AUST | NJP | WEBINAR | Alternative First Responders Symposium 2025 | Thursday 16 October 2025 | 9.30am-5pm AEDT
VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Spirituality & Diversity Discussions: "Spiritual care values and recovery - Are we talking about the same thing?" | Tuesday 28 October 2025 | 10.30am-12noon
AUST | PRCU | HEARING | Your say: Playing With Pride – LGBTQ+ Experiences in Women’s Sport | submissions close 9pm AEST 28 September 2025
SA | EQPR | GATHERING | 3rd Rainbow Leaders Summit | Thursday 30 October 2025
AUST | EQPR | GATHERING | Better Together® 2025 | Friday 31 October-Saturday 1 November 2025 | tickets on sale now
MELB | VTMH | GATHERING | Forum 2025: Practice and research innovations towards culturally responsive systems | 6 November 2025

4.1 CoPP | PPLS | STAYING | Connected with the Community Connector Service

Looking for support, services, or social connections as you age? The Community Connector Service (CCS) is here to help!
They can assist with:

Finding aged care and carer support services
Connecting you with local services to help you stay independent
Discovering social groups, programs, and activities
Accessing council services like delivered meals and community transport

Meet the CCS team at your local Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) library – use the link below for session times and more information.

Tel: 03 9209 6882 or email communityconnector@portphillip.vic.gov.au

Learn More

4.2 CoPP | VPC | OFFERING | Witnessed Document Signing | weekly, every Sunday (excluding public holiday weekends) | 12noon-4pm

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

4.3 CoPP | GOV | VISITING | Port Phillip Aged Care Information Hubs | every Monday and Wednesday until 12 November 2025 | 11am-1pm

City of Port Phillip (CoPP) is partnering with the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing and the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) to support community members in understanding upcoming improvements to aged care.
Drop by our Aged Care Information Hub to:

Find clear, up-to-date information about changes to aged care
Browse a range of printed resources
Chat with our friendly team about aged care services and support
Get help navigating My Aged Care

Share your thoughts and experiences through the Improving Aged Care in Australia survey.

Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
Cost: Free
Bookings: No bookings required, just come by and say hello!

4.4 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.

Where: Emerald Hill, Port Melbourne & St Kilda Libraries
Cost: Free
Read more: PPLS
Bookings: Emerald Hill, Port Melbourne and St Kilda

4.5 CoPP | PPLS | OFFERING | Tech Help at Albert Park | monthly, every Wednesday (excluding school holidays) | 3.30-4.30pm

Need help with digital technology? Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) and Students from Albert Park College who are here to help.
Young Mentors is an intergenerational program bringing together secondary school students and older people.

Learn to use your tablet, laptop, smartphone or computer
Learn to send emails and video chat with family online.
Get directions on Google maps… and much more

You can book one-on-one sessions with Albert Park College students every Wednesday.

Where: Albert Park Library, 319 Montague Street, Albert Park Victoria 3206
Cost: Free
Bookings: online via Trybooking

4.6 CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | Chatty Cafe at Port Melbourne | weekly, every Thursday | 11am-12noon

Sometimes the most meaningful connections start with the lightest of invitations: a friendly smile, a shared table, a brief conversation.
Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)'s Chatty Café has a new home! Join us for friendly conversation, the simple joy of connection, and a few tasty snacks to share.

The Chatty Cafe Scheme embraces encouraging genuine connection, one cuppa at a time.

Where: Port Melbourne Library, 333 Bay Street, Port Melbourne Victoria 3207
Cost: Free
Bookings: No bookings needed, bring your friends and meet some new ones.
Learn More

4.7 CoPP | PPLS | CONNECTING | With Family History Club | First Thursday of the month | 1-2pm

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) Family History Club and connect with others passionate about family and local history.
In each session, we’ll introduce the fantastic research resources available at our Heritage Centre and take time to share our own stories.

Tea and biscuits are on us!

Where: Port Phillip Heritage Centre, Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank St, South Melbourne VIC 3205
Cost: Free
Learn more

4.8 CoPP | PPLS | GROWING | Port Phillip Seed Library

Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) has a community initiative to help you grow your own garden and support a more sustainable future.
The Port Phillip Seed Library (PPSL) is open to all members of our library service. Each month, members can collect two free packets of seeds with simple instructions to help you grow flowers, herbs or food at home.

Whether you’re planting your first veggie patch or expanding your native garden, this program helps:

Support local food production
Preserve heirloom and native plant varieties
Encourage community knowledge-sharing
Attract pollinators and support ecosystems

Don’t forget to share your progress and tag us using #PortPhillipSeedLibrary

Join the PPSL today and start growing something great!

4.9 CoPP | PPLS | WRITING | Last Friday Write Club | monthly, last Friday, until Friday 28 November 2025 | 10am-12noon

Looking for a friendly space to share your writing?
Whether it’s short stories, poetry, essays, or the next big novel, our Last Friday Write Club is the perfect place to connect, create and be inspired.

Bring along up to 1,000 words in hard copy to workshop with the group. Together we’ll share feedback, swap ideas, and explore new techniques to help your writing shine.

No printer? No problem! You can use the library’s printing and photocopying facilities before the session.

Bookings: online via Trybooking

4.10 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.

Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
Cost: Free
Bookings: online via Trybooking

4.11 CoPP | GOV | ENCOURAGING | Seniors Social Connection Program

The City of Port Phillip (CoPP) Social Connection Program (Better Together) is for older people who want to connect with others and join activities or events based on their interests.
This community based social connection program is delivered through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) and supports people to engage in structured activities which are group based. Many of the activities and programs are designed to develop, maintain, and support social connection with others through the programs delivered.

For more information, visit City of Port Phillip's social support and recreation or contact Michelle Kein on 9209 6738 or via email on socialinclusion@portphillip.vic.gov.au.

Download Poster for your community notice board

4.12 CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | ESL Conversation Circle | Weekly, 2 Sessions & 2 Locations

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) for a free, fun reading program to improve your English language skills. New sessions started at Emerald Hill 23 July 2025

Read aloud with others and practice pronunciation
Improve your English comprehension and vocabulary
Meet new friends in a safe, welcoming environment

These free, informal sessions will run each week at our two libraries but only during school terms.

This program is aimed Intermediate-level English speakers.

Please Note: These sessions do not run during school holidays.

Where: Tuesdays | 1.30-2.30pm | St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
Where: Wednesdays | 1.30-2.30pm | Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
Cost: Free
Bookings: No bookings required, just drop in!

4.13 CoPP | CSAS | SHOWING | Unfolding futures | Monday-Friday (closed public holidays) until Friday 31 October 2025 | 8.30am-5pm

A presentation of contemporary artwork by recipients of City of Port Phillip (CoPP)'s Rupert Bunny Foundation Visual Arts Fellowship (RBFVAF).
Each artwork in this exhibition attests to the artists extending their practice at pivotal points in their career.

By expanding their imagination through experimentation of mediums and exploration of concepts, the artworks unfold across time and space in this retrospective.

The RBFVAF is a biennial award that was initiated after the painting The Forerunners1894c by Rupert Bunny was irreparably damaged in the 1991 St Kilda Town Hall fire.

In the spirit of the contribution Bunny made to the visual arts, and in acknowledgement of the gift of The Forerunners painting to our City, insurance funds from the damages were used to establish the Rupert Bunny Foundation.

This exhibition celebrates the 30th Anniversary of the Rupert Bunny Foundation and marks 20 years of the Fellowship.

Where: Carlisle Street Art Space (CSAS), St Kilda Town Hall.
Cost: free
More information: Carlisle Street Arts Space - City of Port Phillip

4.14 MELB | PMOA | EXHIBITING | 65,000 Years: A Short History of Australian Art | Tuesday-Saturday until 22 Nov 2025 | 11am-5pm

Celebrating the brilliance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art while confronting the dark heart of Australia’s colonial history and proclaims the importance of Indigenous knowledge and agency.
The The Potter Museum of Art (PMOA) exhibition features more than 400 works, including rarely-seen artworks and cultural objects from the University of Melbourne’s collections, 194 important loans from 78 private and public lenders and six new commissions.

Complementing the exhibition are important educational resources for primary, secondary as well as tertiary students, designed to build a deeper understanding of Indigenous art, history and culture. These educational resources will continue to be available beyond the life of the exhibition. They are developed in partnership with the University of Melbourne’s signature Ngarrngga Project, which builds innovative curriculum resources in collaboration with Indigenous Knowledge Experts.

Curated by Associate Provost and Distinguished Professor Marcia Langton AO, Senior Curator Judith Ryan AM, and Associate Curator Shanysa McConville – in consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and custodians of art traditions – the exhibition explores the belated recognition of Indigenous art and its rise to prominence globally.

For More Information

4.15 CoPP | PPLS | SCREENING | Library Film Club: Celebrating the life of David Stratton AM | St Kilda Monday 1 September 2025 | 12noon-2pm | OR | Emerald Hill Wednesday 3 September 2025 | 11am-1pm

This month, Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)'s Film Club takes time to honour the remarkable life of David Stratton AM, who recently passed away and leaves behind an extraordinary legacy in Australian cinema.
In this special session, we’ll explore the fascinating development of our cinematic history through David’s own reflections. From his childhood experiences of seeing Australia depicted on film in England, to his arrival here as a ten-pound pom in 1963, David devoted his life to celebrating and critiquing the stories told on screen.

David Stratton was more than a critic, he was a passionate advocate for the power of storytelling and a beloved voice who helped generations of Australians discover the joy of cinema. His legacy lives on in every frame of film he championed.

Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182 | OR | Emerald Hill Library, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne Victoria 3205
Cost: Free
Bookings: online via Trybooking: St Kilda Library | Emerald Hill Library

4.16 CoPP | PPLS | CALLING | Photographers for Local History Photo Competition | submissions open Monday 1 September and close Friday 31 October 2025

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)'s local history photography competition and help us to preserve and celebrate the rich history of Port Phillip.
Submit your photos to go into the draw to win a $200 cash prize and to have them displayed in our local history collection. The competition theme is Your Streets, your stories. We want these submissions to reflect what you love about living here.

Whether it is your favourite café, the beautiful foreshore, or a faded sign on the side of a building, we want to celebrate it all and learn what it means to you.

Learn More

4.17 MELB | WCC | GATHERING | World Chambers Congress 2025 to Melbourne | 2-4 September 2025

The World Chambers Congress (WCC) is the largest global forum for chamber leaders, business professionals and policymakers to share best practices, exchange insights and build networks. Held every two years, the event fosters dialogue on critical business issues and innovations shaping industries worldwide.

With theme Business, Government, Chambers – Partners for Prosperity, the Congress will focus on key global issues, including:

Skills shortages
Housing crises
Energy transition
Artificial intelligence
Equality
Geopolitical relations
Cyber security

Co-organised by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), its World Chambers Federation (WCF), and the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), the 14th edition of WCC will bring together global business leaders to address shared challenges and explore solutions.

Where: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), Australia
For more details: visit website

4.18 CoPP | PPEC | GATHERING | Efficient Hot Water and Heating Community Forum | Thursday 4 September 2025 | 6-8pm

If you’re looking to electrify your apartment or house, this event is for you!
Come along to the Electrify Southside and Rewiring Australia Community Forum to hear from experts Tim Forcey, Brendan Lang and Anthony Igmen as they discuss efficient electric hot water systems and heating solutions for houses and apartments.

The evening will include a Q&A session, informative presentations, and light refreshments. All welcome

Where: Port Phillip EcoCentre (PPEC), Blessington St, St Kilda
Cost: General Admission $5 or Flexible (by donation)
Bookings: online via Humanitix

4.19 WANGARATTA | KPCA | GATHERING | Youth Impact Victoria Fun Day | Sunday 7 September 2025 | 10.30am-3pm

Young people aged 10-24 in Wangaratta and surrounding areas are invited to a fun-filled day of cricket, connection and community building.

Whether you're new to cricket or already a fan, join us for a relaxed and welcoming event with healthy snacks provided and participation certificates for all.

Proudly delivered by Kashmiri Pandit’s Cultural Association (KPCA) in partnership with the North-east Multicultural Association and Sport Northeast, with support from the Victorian Government through the Youth Fest 2025 Grant.

Where: Wareena Oval, Swan Street, Wangaratta VIC
Cost: This is a free event, but registration is required. Please submit your interest as soon as possible.
Bookings: More information and to register

4.20 CoPP | PPLS | WALKING | Housing the people of South Melbourne | Sunday 7 September 2025 | 2-4pm

Step back in time and explore South Melbourne’s housing story!
From humble cottages and grand mansions to shops, orphanages, public housing and today’s new developments we will explore the rich history of South Melbournes buildings.

This special Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) walk also honours Reg Macey, former Mayor and passionate housing advocate. It will be led by our library walks guide, Tobias Nash.

Where: South Melbourne
Cost: Free
Bookings: online via Trybooking for walk starting location and information.

4.21 WORLD | PWR | WEBINAR | The Tri-Abrahamic Dialogue on the Climate Crisis: What Do Our Faiths Demand? | Tuesday 9 September 2025 | 1am AEST | or | Monday 8 September 2025 | 10am US Central Time

A Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR) forum for creation care leaders and grassroots activists to analyze their communities and strategic audiences in the concrete situation of 2025.
Panelists will explain how Laudato Si, Al-Mizan, and other texts set the foundation for effective action for the climate that is broad-based, compassionate, and at scale to the crisis, in light of the wisdom of the Abrahamic faiths.

Speakers include Rabbi Jennie Rosenn, Fr. Joshtrom Kureethadam, and Dr. Ibrahim Ozdemir. The panel will be moderated by Ashley Kitisya.

To learn more and register

4.22 CoPP | PPLS | GATHERING | Queer Social Club | monthly, second Tuesday | starting Tuesday 9 September | 6-7.30pm

We’re Here, We’re Queer!
Looking for a safe, vibrant space to be yourself and connect with fellow LGBTIQA+ adults?

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) for "Queer Social Club - We’re Here, We’re Queer!" a monthly social club designed by and for the Queer community.

Come as you are, bring a friend (or make a new one!) and enjoy an evening of fun, laughter and connection in a safe, supportive, welcoming space full of colour, joy and pride!

This club runs monthly on every second Tuesday at our St Kilda Library. Please use the links below to make bookings so we can ensure we have enough snacks and supplies.

Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
Cost: Free
Bookings: online via Trybooking

4.23 VIC | VTMH | WORKSHOPPING | ‘Community engagement with purpose’: Approaches to consider in mental health settings | Wednesday 10 September 2025 | 9.30am-4pm

An advanced Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) workshop designed for mental health practitioners looking to apply a community engagement lens to their work, or those working in mental health settings looking to engage with diverse communities around mental health and wellbeing.
Participants will explore core concepts, practices and actions that underpin community engagement work in mental health settings, and consider organisational factors that can help and hinder community engagement efforts.

This new workshop is designed around the Community Engagement with Purpose Resource Project (VTMH, 2023), which used a co-design process to develop a suite of resources to support practitioners and organisations engage with diverse communities around mental health. Participants attending the workshop will receive a hard copy of the Resource Booklet and Project Report, and explore videos and other materials created through the project.

The workshop utilises a variety of facilitation modes, including small group work, grounded in a reflective practice approach.

An intentional and responsive approach to community engagement creates the opportunity for more purposeful and inclusive participation by diverse communities, to shape mental health service design and delivery.

Learn more about Community Engagement with Purpose Resource Project

VTMH workshops are open to and provided free to staff working in Victoria’s state-funded mental health workforce. This includes public clinical and community mental health services, as well as state-funded mental health programs within community health and social services.

Staff working in a range of roles within this workforce, including but not limited to community rehabilitation and recovery workers, lived experience workers, mental health nursing, social work, occupational therapy, psychiatry, community engagement roles, program leaders/project workers and administration roles, are invited to register.

If you are unsure if this workshop might be relevant to your role please feel free to contact us via vtmh.learning@svha.org.au

Where: Multicultural Hub, Red & Orange rooms, 506 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne
Cost: Free
Bookings: essential, spaces are limited. To secure a place, please register via VTMH

4.24 CoPP | PPLS | WORKSHOPPING | Habitat Gardening with Jaclyn Crupi | Wednesday 10 September 2025 | 6-7pm

Want to help the native wildlife in your area but not sure how to start?
Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) in workshop with writer and gardener Jaclyn Crupi as she shows us that protecting and fostering precious native wildlife starts in our own backyards. The first step: start planting and choosing native plants where possible.

Jaclyn Crupi is a gardener, garden educator, editor, bookseller and author. Her three previous books are a tribute to her nonni and all they taught her.

Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
Cost: Free
Bookings: online via Trybooking

4.25 CoPP | PPLS | CELEBRATING | Home is where the art is | Thursday 11 September 2025 | 3.30-4.30pm

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) for a moving community event that celebrates the creativity, strength and humanity of people experiencing homelessness. Through rap, art and spoken word, individuals will share their stories – not as statistics or stereotypes, but as people with dreams, talent and dignity.

This is a celebration of expression beyond circumstance, where seeing the world through someone else’s journey can change us all.

In partnership with Wild at Heart, Roomers and the Port Phillip Community Group, we invite you to listen, connect and be moved because every person has a story worth hearing, and every story has the power to shift hearts and minds.

Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
Cost: Free
Bookings: online via Trybooking

4.26 CoPP | LNA | WORKSHOPPING | Teen Photography for Local History Photography Competition | Saturday 13 September 2025 | 11am-2pm

Come along to a beginner friendly photography workshop for teens! Linden New Art is hosting a Teen Photography Workshop as part of our Local History Photography Competition.

You'll dive deep into the fundamentals of photography, guided by an experienced artist. Engage in a range of hands-on activities, tapping into the realm of camera settings and controlled lighting, as you learn to craft captivating images that resonate with your unique perspective.

At the end of the workshop, everyone will get the opportunity to submit their photos to the competition, to then be added to our local history community collection. These photographs will capture the essence of St Kilda through the eyes of young people.

Where: Linden New Art Gallery, 26 Acland St, St Kilda, VIC 3182
Cost: Free, Booking Essential
Learn More and Book

4.27 VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Relational Advocacy and Practice in Public Mental Health: Cultivating Cultures of Connection, Integrity and Hope | Wednesday 17 September 2025 | 3-4pm

Co-creating public mental health services that centre community voice, uphold dignity, and enable trust.
In this Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) seminar, Tharindu Jayadeva and Lauren Wraight explore relational co-design and participation as core practices in systems change — not just strategies for service improvement, but social justice tools for reshaping how we work, relate, and build futures together.

Presenters

Tharindu Jayadeva (he/him), Lived/Living Experience Participation Lead, Alfred Mental and Addiction Health
Lauren Wraight (she/they), Consumer Consultant, Strategy and Planning, Alfred Mental and Addiction Health

Drawing from lived experience leadership and peer-informed practice, this session will explore how co-design can be a force for cultural and organisational transformation when grounded in relationships, integrity, and equity.

Lauren and Tharindu will share insights from their work building a Co-Design Collaborative and lived experience participation frameworks in Victoria's public mental health sector, inviting reflection on civic participation, relational ethics, and the healing potential of community-driven change. The seminar will also offer reflections on alternative models to traditional advisory structures for building co-owned, regenerative, and trauma-responsive service cultures.

Together, we’ll ask: What does it take to create services where people feel safe, seen, and involved in decisions that affect them? How do we move beyond extractive participation into relationships of mutual accountability and care? And how can we, as a workforce across disciplines and perspectives, begin to practice the futures we long for – ones marked by hope, dignity, and collective repair?

VTMH seminars are open to individuals, from all disciplines and working in all sectors, who are based in Australia and interested in diversity and mental health.

Where: Online via Zoom – details to be sent to registrants in advance
Cost: Free
Bookings: essential. Spaces are limited. To secure a place, please register online via VTMH

4.28 CoPP | PPLS | TALKING | With Author Alice Zaslavsky in conversation with Noe Harsel | Wednesday 17 September 2025 | 6-7pm

Alice Zaslavsky is an award-winning cook-book author, celebrated ABC TV host, and resident culinary correspondent for ABC News Breakfast and ABC Radio.
Her vegetable bible, In Praise of Veg, is an international sensation, winning accolades around the globe, as well as her latest book Salad for Days.

Join Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS) and Alice for a special conversation with Noe Harsel about the books have shaped her writing, what she's devouring right now, and what’s next on her list.

Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
Cost: Free
Bookings: online via Trybooking

4.29 CoPP | GOV | HEARING | Your say: making it easier in Port Phillip | submissions close 21 September 2025

City of Port Phillip (CoPP) asked what would make it easier for you to have your say on Council’s policies and projects. You told us you want clearer communication, more meaningful engagement, and a better understanding of how your feedback is used.

In response, we’ve drafted a Community Engagement Policy and a commitment to community engagement outlining how we engage with our community in Port Phillip. Now, we want to make sure we’ve got it right.

Share your feedback

4.30 ASCOT VALE | UHRV | COMMEMORATING | United Nations International Day of Peace | Sunday 21 September 2025 | Arrive 11.30am for 12.30-3pm

Let us come together for this important day with a Multifaith/multicultural celebration and be one step closer to a world of peace through greater understanding.
Presented by United for Human Rights Victoria (UHRV) and hosted by Church of Scientology.

Program
Registration and Lunch 11.30am
Event 12.30-3pm

Where: Church of Scientology Community Centre 231-252 Mt Alexander Road, Ascot Vale 3032
Cost: Free
Bookings: RSVP now to reserve your seat. Contact Jan Lester jan.lester@scientology.net

4.31 AUST | CITC | WEBINAR | UN Peace Day Meditation Vigil | Sunday 21 September 2025 | 6.30-7.30pm (AEST)

Act Now for Peace. Join Calm in the City (CitC) for a powerful, 1-hour online meditation vigil in honour of the United Nations’ International Day of Peace.

In alignment with the 2025 UN theme, "Act Now for Peace", we will gather virtually to hold collective intentions of peace for the world.

A gentle, guided meditation will offer intentions of peace to be held throughout the hour, inviting each of us to contribute our hearts, thoughts, and energy toward global harmony.

Whether you can attend for the full hour or join us briefly, come and join us for this meaningful gathering as we unite in peace.

You are welcome. Your presence will be beneficial. Together, we make a difference.

Bishop Philip Huggins will provide the opening reflections with Chrissy Mahoney as the facilitator of the vigil.

Download: flyer for circulation.
Where: online event via Zoom. Book receive your unique link to attend.
Cost: Free.
Bookings: register online via Zoom

4.32 VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Spirituality & Diversity Discussions: "I hear the voice of God but others do not. What do I do?" | Tuesday 23 September 2025 | 10.30am-12noon

While person-centred care models include these domains, workers often feel ill-equipped to support people in these aspects of their lives.
This Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) reflective peer group allows mental health practitioners to deepen their understanding about spiritual diversity, which can include beliefs, values, traditions and practices.

Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) is pleased to offer more opportunities for mental health practitioners to identify and explore challenges when spirituality or religion comes up during encounters with consumers.

Sessions in this series are for practitioners working in publicly funded mental health programs across Victoria. This includes staff based in clinical mental health services, community-managed services, as well as people working within mental health programs in community health and human social services. Unfortunately, these discussions are not open to students on clinical placement.

Where: Online via Zoom – details to be sent to registrants in advance
Cost: Free
Bookings: essential. Spaces are limited. To secure a place, please register online via VTMH.

4.33 CoPP | PPLS | WEBINAR | How to use Government Websites | Thursday 25 September 2025 | 3-4pm

Book in for Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)'s FREE series of online webinars designed to help you feel safer and more secure online.
Join our 1-hour presentation to discover:

which government websites might benefit you
how to set up a MyGov account
how to link other government services to your MyGov account
how to keep your personal details safe and secure.

You can watch the webinars inside of our libraries and each month we will have a different topic to explore.

Where: Port Melbourne Library, 333 Bay Street, Port Melbourne Victoria 3207
Cost: Free
Bookings: online via Trybooking

4.34 CoPP | GOV | HEARING | Your say: on South Melbourne Market Strategic Plan 2026-30 | survey closes 28 September 2025

City of Port Phillip (CoPP) is setting out a roadmap for the Market over the next five years. Everyone’s input is important – whether you’re a shopper, visitor, trader, local resident, or local business, we want to hear from you!

Take the survey and go into the draw to win one of five $30 Cobb Lane bakery gift vouchers at the South Melbourne Market!

Complete the survey

4.35 MELB | SFRI | GATHERING | Australian Social Cohesion Summit 2025 | Thursday 16 October 2025 | 8.30am-5pm

The Scanlon Foundation Research Institute (SFRI) invites individuals and organisations to attend the 2025 Australian Social Cohesion Summit in Melbourne. It’s a national gathering focused on strengthening connection, belonging and inclusion across Australia.

Hosted by the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute, this landmark national event will take place in Melbourne, bringing together changemakers from across government, academia and the community.

Theme: “Building On Our Strengths: The Role of Youth, Women, and Neighbourhoods in Fostering Social Cohesion.”

Summit Scholarships
To help reduce barriers to attendance, Summit Scholarships are also available. Full scholarships are available to:

Volunteers, grassroots community organisers and students
Recognised community leaders and sports club members

Please note: Scholarships cover the cost of Summit registration only. Attendees awarded a scholarship will be responsible for their travel and accommodation.

To apply for a scholarship, please send an email to info@scanloninstitute.org.au with a short explanation of your community work and why you’re interested in attending the Summit.

Where: Monash City Campus, 750 Collins St, Docklands VIC 3008
Cost: Varies
Bookings: For more information and to Register

4.36 AUST | NJP | WEBINAR | Alternative First Responders Symposium 2025 | Thursday 16 October 2025 | 9.30am-5pm AEDT

Join National Justice Project (NJP) online for a gathering of local and international changemakers redefining the first response beyond police.
This online national symposium will showcase real-world models and bold policy solutions – exploring not only what is possible but what is already working on the ground.

Key Notes Speakers

Alexander Heaton, The Policing Project, NYU. Alexander spent the last three years as the Director of Reimagining Public Safety at the Policing Project at the NYU School of Law, where he launched a national campaign to divert 12 million calls annually from police to alternate responses by 2030, designed and implemented the nation’s first complete crisis response ecosystem in the City of Minneapolis, and served as a subject matter expert on non-police response for governments around the world.
Gina M. Nagano, House of Wolf, Turtle Island. A Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation Citizen of the Wolf Clan from Dawson City, Yukon, and currently resides in Whitehorse, Canada. She is the President and CEO of House of Wolf & Associates Inc. and First Peoples Coffee, and the President and Co-owner of Tr’ochëk Energy Inc. An entrepreneur at heart, Gina is deeply committed to community economic development and Indigenous self-determination.

ARTS AND POLICY COMPETITION | Starting with care – following through with courage | Entries Open

Across the country, we’re having important conversations about how we build alternative first responses from police, one that prioritises care, wellbeing, and community. We are calling on our supporters to be courageous and put forward their best visionary ideas for change. Prizes to be announced!

Submission Guidelines

Keep up to date with our strategic legal action and advocacy, visit our website or follow us on your preferred social media platform.

Learn more
Where: Online event is held via Zoom. Details to access will be emailed to ticket holders the week before. Please note for this event 1 ticket grants access for 1 person.
Cost: Varies
Bookings: online via Humanitix

4.37 VIC | VTMH | WEBINAR | Spirituality & Diversity Discussions: "Spiritual care values and recovery - Are we talking about the same thing?" | Tuesday 28 October 2025 | 10.30am-12noon

While person-centred care models include these domains, workers often feel ill-equipped to support people in these aspects of their lives.
This Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) reflective peer group allows mental health practitioners to deepen their understanding about spiritual diversity, which can include beliefs, values, traditions and practices.

Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) is pleased to offer more opportunities for mental health practitioners to identify and explore challenges when spirituality or religion comes up during encounters with consumers.

Sessions in this series are for practitioners working in the Victorian publicly funded mental health sector. This includes staff working in clinical and community-managed mental health services, as well as mental health programs in community health services. Unfortunately, these discussions are not currently open to those working in private practice, NDIS providers, or students on clinical placement.

Where: Online via Zoom – details to be sent to registrants in advance
Cost: Free
Bookings: essential. Spaces are limited. To secure a place, please register online via VTMH.

4.38 AUST | PRCU | HEARING | Your say: Playing With Pride – LGBTQ+ Experiences in Women’s Sport | submissions close 9pm AEST 28 September 2025

Pride Cup (PRCU), Pride in Sport, and PwC have launched a landmark national survey to capture the experiences of LGBTQ+ people in women’s sport across Australia.

This first-of-its-kind research will highlight both challenges and triumphs, helping shape more inclusive and equitable sporting environments at every level.

Fill out the survey

4.39 SA | EQPR | GATHERING | 3rd Rainbow Leaders Summit | Thursday 30 October 2025

Join 100 rainbow leaders for a conversation that matters. The Equality Project (EQPR) are excited to announce that our 3rd Rainbow Leaders Summit is on just before Better Together® 2025 in Adelaide, we’re gathering visionary rainbow leaders, changemakers and allies from across Australia.

Get ready to:

Dive into challenging conversations that move us beyond easy answers;
Engage with fresh perspectives that sharpen your thinking;
Walk away with a new way of seeing what’s possible and your role in making it happen.

Spots are limited and we're looking for passionate voices from every corner of our rainbow communities.

Want to be in the room?

Expresss Your Interest

The Equality Project Team
P.S. Have you got your Early Bird ticket to Better Together® 2025 yet?

4.40 AUST | EQPR | GATHERING | Better Together 2025 | Friday 31 October-Saturday 1 November 2025 | tickets on sale now

The Equality Project (EQPR) believes in a world where we are better together. Secure your launch-price ticket now and join a powerful gathering of LGBTIQA+ changemakers, allies, and service providers.
This one is for our inner circle: the changemakers, the people who know we are Better Together.

The Better Together® Conference is a meaningful gathering for change. We come together under one roof with a shared vision of making progress.

Meet, learn from and collaborate with people making positive change for the LGBTIQA+ communities in Australia. Attend panels, get hands on in a workshop or share a cuppa as you take a breath and reconnect with your 'why' at Better Together 2025.

All prices include GST, additional transaction fees apply.

Where: Adelaide Convention Centre on Kaurna Land, Adelaide
Cost: Sliding Scale
Bookings: Register now to secure your spot!

Need help with your conference ticket?
Scholarships opened in May

We hope to see you there.
The Equality Project Team

4.41 MELB | VTMH | GATHERING | Forum 2025: Practice and research innovations towards culturally responsive systems | 6 November 2025

Save the date! Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) is holding our biennial forum at the Djerring Flemington Hub. The theme of this year's forum is “Practice and research innovations towards culturally responsive systems” with Indigo Daya and Kathomi Gatwiri as keynote speakers.

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5. COLLECTIVISING

CoPP | S2b | ADVISING | What's On | September 2025
MELB | ASRC | CATERING | A Year of Growth for ASRC Social Enterprises | July 2024-June 2025
YARRA | YEF | UPDATING | Stories, events and more | August 2025
NT | PESC | PUBLISHING | Pertame School Semester 1 Newsletter | 2025
AUST | EQPR | PODCASTING | Better Together: Brave Conversations
AUST | NJP | UPDATING | Community News | August 2025
AUST | RGA | UPDATING | Rainbow Community News | August 2025
WORLD | AFUO | UPDATING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Ukraine Crisis Appeal

5.1 CoPP | S2b | ADVISING | What's On | September 2025

WELCOMING | The Gardener's Apothecary | Tuesday to Saturday | 8am-3pm

Kemi has softly opened her doors, serving up rich brews and the most delicious homemade cakes. Stop by for a sample – a full food menu is coming by the end of August! Come say hi, grab a slice of something sweet, and welcome this beautiful new spot into the neighbourhood!

Follow on Instagram for updates

CELEBRATING | Dad With Something Truly Unique | In-Store Only

September's sneaking up soon and it's never too early to pick out something special for Dad this Father's Day! Discover handmade accessories, art, and fashion that support migrant and refugee makers. Shop unique, sustainable pieces in-store or online – and give a gift that gives back. Celebrate Father's Day with a meaningful gift from Space2b Social Design(S2b)!

SHOWING | The Emergence Exhibition | 5 August-3 October 2025

Curated to highlight creative voices on the rise, this exhibition explores themes of identity, place, and the beauty found in everyday life.

A group exhibition bringing together four exciting emerging artists Aashna Pillai, Louis Dickins, Motoko Katsutu and Onaree Perera. Diverse practices reflecting personal journeys, cultural heritage, and lived experience.

Learn More

SHARING | Storytime With Snow

We’re thrilled to welcome Snow Fang as our new Mandarin storyteller for Multicultural Storytime, presented in partnership with the City of Port Phillip and Space2b.

Skye and Snow have been busy practising English together, preparing for Snow’s storytelling adventure!

After her very first session at Port Phillip Library, Snow shared:

“This was the first time in my life telling stories to such young children. It was such a special experience. I’ve fallen in love with storytelling!”

We’re so excited to witness the magic Snow brings to every session!

Together we make a difference

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5.2 MELB | ASRC | CATERING | A Year of Growth for ASRC Social Enterprises | July 2024-June 2025

As Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) wrap up another financial year, we’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks – especially to our loyal customers whose continued support makes our work possible.
We’re proud to spotlight the achievements of our two impactful Social Enterprises - ASRC Cleaning and ASRC Catering, including Journeys Cafés - each committed to creating meaningful employment pathways for people seeking asylum and refugees.

Donor support has been instrumental in not only providing ongoing employment and financial independence but also learning, pathway development planning and goal-setting opportunities for individuals seeking asylum and refugees.

With donor support, we have recruited and trained 30 new staff across both Social Enterprises whilst ensuring the continued employment of our existing team members.

Highlights from Financial Year 24-25:

47,585 hours of paid employment
1,151 hours of training
46 Pathway Development Plans completed
30 new staff with lived experience recruited
104 staff with lived experience supported

Business Growth FY24-25:

Catering orders fulfilled: 1,853
Cleaning services delivered: 11,450
481 domestic customers
106 commercial customers

DRIVING | Purpose-Led Business with Impact

At ASRC, our Social Enterprises are built on a model that puts people first. While we operate as businesses, our core mission is to create lasting social impact.

We achieve this by:

Creating meaningful employment and training opportunities for people seeking asylum and refugees
Supporting personal growth through learning, pathway development planning and individual goal setting
Helping reduce reliance on support services by enabling financial independence
Reinvesting directly in people, not profits

Our work aligns with ASRC’s strategic priorities to:

Improve outcomes for people seeking asylum and refugees
Ensure financial sustainability through diverse income streams

Every service engaged helps build stronger futures – thankyou to donors for being part of this impact.\

SHARING | What Our Team Says

Our focus on Pathway Development Plans (PDPs) continues to enhance staff engagement by offering structured, personalised support, skill development and career progression beyond ASRC Social Enterprises.

To measure our impact, we recently surveyed 59 staff members. Their high level of participation in our evaluation processes, and the feedback they shared, provide valuable insights into both the effectiveness of our approach and their experience of involvement with ASRC Social Enterprises. Key highlights include:

92% find their work meaningful and aligned with personal goals
91% feel informed about career pathways
90% report improved workplace skills
84% feel more job-ready
91% are developing skills for their preferred careers
90% have increased financial independence

These results indicate that ASRC Social Enterprises are effectively contributing to staff development, employment readiness, and personal empowerment. The strong alignment with personal goals and increased financial independence further highlight the positive impact of participation in the program.

VISITING | Journeys Café: Parkville & Southbank

A joint initiative between the ASRC and the University of Melbourne, Journeys Café is part of ASRC Catering that creates training and employment pathways for refugees and people seeking asylum.

Our menu is inspired by the cuisines and cultures our staff comes from, sharing global recipes and food experiences with the Melbourne community. We are committed to creating a safe space where people with lived experience of seeking asylum can skill up and gain experience in the hospitality industry.

Find us at:
Journeys Café Southbank | Mon–Thu: 8:30am-3.30pm
University of Melbourne, Building 877
28-30 Dodds St, Southbank VIC 3006

Journeys Café Parkville | Mon–Thu: 10.30am-4pm
University of Melbourne, Student Pavilion
Level 4, Building 162, Monash Rd & Swanston St, Parkville VIC 3010

Watch our Journeys Café Video (6 mins)

THANKING | You!

To all of our customers and supporters – thank you. Continued support has directly helped our staff gain financial independence, confidence, and vital experience in the Australian workplace. Together, we're creating brighter futures.

Warm regards,
The ASRC Social Enterprises team

The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) is an independent not for profit whose programs support and empower 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.

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5.3 YARRA | YEF | UPDATING | Stories, events and more | August 2025

INVESTIGATING | A Microgrid in Trentham Victoria

Yarra Energy Foundation (YEF), in partnership with SolarQuip and the Trentham Sustainability Group, has completed a detailed feasibility study investigating whether a microgrid could help power the township of Trentham through outages and support its shift to renewable energy.

The study looked at technical design, costs, and broader implications for local resilience, as well as alternative models that might deliver similar benefits.

The report offers valuable insights for any community considering a microgrid, including lessons learned and possible next steps for Trentham.

Read more about the microgrid study

WORLD | IEEFA | REPORTING | Study shows home upgrades are the key to cutting energy costs

A new study from the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) finds that household-level energy solutions, like rooftop solar, batteries, efficient electric appliances, and home insulation, can be a cost-effective way to significantly reduce energy bills.

The research highlights that electrification and improving energy efficiency in homes can lower overall demand, ease pressure on the grid, and help avoid the need for costly new infrastructure.

This research offers valuable insights for communities looking to cut energy costs and reduce emissions at the local level.

Read the IEEFA report

AVENEL | RAE | GATHERING | Home Energy Expo | Friday 22 August 2025 | 12.30-6.30pm

Take the heat out of climate change with home-based solutions and renewable energy.
Renewable Avenel Energy (RAE) are hosting a Home Energy Expo this month at the Avenel Memorial Hall.

The event will feature a trade show and guest speakers, who will explore innovative solutions to make homes more efficient and sustainable.

We are excited to see Dr. Karl Kruszelnicki as the key note speaker!

Learn more about Home Energy Expo Avenel
Where: Avenel Memorial Hall, Avenel Hall, 15 Queen St, Avenel VIC 3664, Australia
Cost: General Admission $8.54 + $1.46 booking fee
Bookings: online via Humanitix

SHARING | Our Services

Find out more about Yarra Energy Foundation services including:

Feasibility studies
Community Engagement
Community battery strategies for local councils
Consulting & advice
Project management
Solar & electrification programs

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

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5.4 NT | PESC | PUBLISHING | Pertame School Semester 1 Newsletter | 2025

Werta Pertame School partners, supporters and community! Arrangkerra marra?
I hope this email finds you all well

Pertame School (PESC) has had a huge first 6 months of 2025, moving into our new Language Nest space, running our Language Nest and Fluency Transfer System programs parallel four days a week with 10 parent educators, and hosting the Yuchi Immersion visit and the Salish Fluency Transfer System workshop in Alice Springs.

We have also run two school holiday programs and created a new nursery rhyme album. We are proud of the progress of our parent trainees, our children and our babies. We know we need a whole generation of learners to make our language strong again. We are also passionate about sharing knowledge and methods with other Language groups around Australia.

Read our latest Pertame School Newsletter for Semester 1 of 2025!

Feel free to share widely.

A huge thanks to all our partnerships that make this work possible! We could not have done it without you.

Kela marra,
Vanessa and the Pertame School team

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5.5 AUST | EQPR | PODCASTING | Better Together: Brave Conversations

Be brave with us. Stay curious. Listen.
The Equality Project (EQPR) has launched something new. 4 episodes now streaming.

Better Together: Brave Conversations is our podcast for anyone who cares about the issues shaping rainbow communities today and for anyone willing to stay curious, reflect, and maybe see things in a new light.

The first four episodes have dropped and a new episode will land every two weeks.

Together with eight guests, we dive into topics that are messy, meaningful and sometimes hard to talk about. Not every conversation will feel comfortable. But they all matter.

Because even with different minds, we share a common heart. And that’s where change begins.

Listen Now

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5.6 AUST | NJP | UPDATING | Community News | August 2025

This October, National Justice Project (NJP) invites you to join our Alternative First Responders team for the national online symposium on Thursday 16 October 2025.
This Alternative First Responders National Symposium Online will bring together changemakers from around the world to rethink first response beyond policing. Featured international speakers include Alexander Heaton (Policing Project, NYU) who will share his experience designing and delivering alternative first responder models in the United States and Gina M. Nagano (Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation, Canada) who will speak to community safety, restorative justice, and Indigenous self-determination, in policy and on the ground.

This month, we celebrated some important days. On 4 August, we celebrated National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day, with the theme Little Footsteps, Big Future – a reminder of the right for every First Nations child to grow up safe, loved, and connected to family, culture, and Country. The current discriminatory out-of-home care system still puts too many First Nations children at risk. Our new position statementcalls for urgent reforms, joining others in demanding an end to the child removals crisis.

We also marked the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples on 9 August, with the theme "AI: Defending Rights, Shaping Futures." While technology can deepen divides, we believe it can also be used to advance fairness and justice. That’s why we created the Hear Me Out tool, informed by communities, frontline workers, and legal experts to help people report injustice and build fairer, more responsive systems.

More updates from the National Justice Project below.

WEBINAR | Alternative First Responders National Symposium Online | Tickets are Now LIVE

Join us for a gathering of local and international changemakers redefining the first response beyond police. We will showcase powerful real world models and bold policy solutions that centre community, care and diversity.

Get tickets

RESPONDING | To NT Proposal Weakening Coroners' Powers

The NT Government is responding to the coroner’s report into the police shooting of a Walpiri man in 2019, by seeking to further restrict the coroner’s powers, rather than address the problems the report uncovered. The Federal Government must act now to stop this regressive proposal.

Read full article by George Newhouse

INTRODUCING | Challenge 4 Change

The team at the National Justice Project are kicking off Challenge 4 Change with a #Jog4Justice at Run Shellharbour on Sunday 28th September. This will be a fun, feel-good activitiy where every step helps power our crucial work.

Registration and more info

ADVISING | Coalition bill for tougher child bail laws will backfire

The National Justice Project signed a joint statement with an alliance of legal and community experts to speak out against the Coalition's bill, which will put more children in prison. “The evidence is crystal clear that locking a child up makes them dramatically more likely to offend and return to prison in the future.”

Read full statement

RELEASING | Child Removals Position Statement

Our new position statement on the discriminatory and systematic removal of First Nations children calls for urgent practical, policy and legislative reforms. We join the growing chorus demanding systemic change to the child removals crisis.

Read our position

REPORTING | Grounded Insight from the Frontline

Our Alternative First Responders team have shared an in-depth interview with two coalition members who are on the frontline supporting people and families experiencing domestic, family and sexual violence.

Read interview

HIGHLIGHTING | 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 the past month:

Human Rights Lawyer Slams NT Chief Minister’s “Regressive” Attack on Territory’s Coroner via Sydney Criminal Lawyers, 8 August
Legal and community experts warn NSW Opposition bill to put more children in prison will increase crime via National Indigenous Times, 7 August
You can’t handle the truth! via The Northern Myth, 4 August
$16M Boost for Australia's Social Change Leaders via Mirage News, 29 July
Deaths in Custody: When will it stop? via NITV, 21 July
Pro bono partner spotlight | National Justice Project via Gadens, 23 July 2025
'We can't walk in the street.' A grieving grandfather is calling for justice and answers via SBS News, 22 July 2025

Follow our media commentary

SUPPORTING | Ongoing Work

The National Justice Project is funded by people like you committed to the fight for social justice.
Donate Today

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.

To keep up to date with our strategic legal action and advocacy, visit our website or follow us on your preferred social media platform.

Learn more or donate

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5.7 AUST | RGA | UPDATING | Rainbow Community News | August 2025

August Rainbow Roundup

What to expect...

Rainbow Giving News
Other LGBTQIA+ Funding Opportunities
Community News & Events
Ways to Support

Rainbow Giving News

THANKING YOU | 160 Eoi For Amplify & Ignite Pride Grants

That’s a powerful show of rainbow brilliance and vision from across our LGBTQIA+ sector, and Rainbow Giving Australia (RGA) thanks everyone who shared their work and ideas with us.

A heartfelt thank you to our incredible funding partners who make this possible:
Snow Foundation, Pride Foundation Australia, Aurora Ball donors, and Jeremy Tang at Humanitix

Together, we’re building momentum, resourcing bold ideas, and fuelling change.

EOI outcomes will be communicated by mid September.

REVEALING | GiveOUT Day Dating Edition | 16 October 2025

This year, GiveOUT Day is serving dating app realness – where you can Find Your Match and fall in love with a cause worth crushing on.

Be the first to know what’s coming. Follow us Instagram

**REPORTING | Last Year, Bae Collective Raised $5,745.11**

Bae Collective (배 컬렉티브) is a Korean queer and trans community building project. There have always been Korean queer and trans people, including in the diaspora. But we don't have many spaces where we can bring our full, authentic selves... That’s why we’re committed to nurturing our incredible KQT community, and creating ways for us to connect, celebrate, and share stories with each other.

Your organisation can be part of this impact too.

Join Australia’s annual day of rainbow giving and access matched funding.
Donations go live 15 September 2025 – there’s still time to sign up!

Fill out EOI Form*

*You can still use this form to apply for GiveOUT Day 2025, however the window to apply for Rainbow Giving Australia grants has closed.

WELCOMING | Our Newest Team Member Jake Smith (He/Him)

Jake brings experience in community building, inclusion, and LGBTQIA+ advocacy. At Apple, he led the LGBTQIA+ employee network and produced global Pride campaigns, including for Sydney WorldPride. He has supported GiveOUT Day, Minus18, Sydney Mardi Gras, Equality Australia and ACON, and is the founder of Big Gay Boxing in Sydney’s Inner West.

Learn more about Jake

Other LGBTQIA+ Funding Opportunities

WORLD | CHCH | CALLING | Nominations of Champions of Change | Closes 31 August 2025

Recognising charities making a difference for their work. Putting nonprofits leading the charge in a change for good on centre stage. Tell us your impact story by nominating your organization, and you'll be entered for a chance to receive a $10,000 donation to further that impact.

Learn More

SYDNEY | AFS | GRANTING | Community projects that make Sydney 'more awesome' | monthly, next closes 3 September 2025

Awesome Foundation Sydney is a Sydney chapter of a global network of micro-giving chapters that give $1,000 of their own money every month to awesome projects.

Learn More

AUST | PFA | GRANTING | For projects supporting LGBTQIA+ refugees and people seeking asylum | EOIs close 29 August 2025

Pride Foundation Australia (PFA) large grants up to $20,000 over two years available.

Learn More

AUST | PFA | GRANTING | For projects supporting LGBTQIA+ inclusive rural and regional health services | EOIs close 29 September 2025

Pride Foundation Australia (PFA) large grants up to $20,000 over two years available.

Learn More

View All Current Grants

Community News & Events

SYDNEY & NSW | ACON | CELEBRATING | 40 Events | Aug–Oct

ACON 40 launches with more than 30 community events across Sydney and NSW. Hear from community leaders, get involved, and stay connected.

Learn More

AUST | CALLING | Artists and Artwork for Wungening & Hope: Exhibition | Jan-Feb 2026

All artworks are donated, with proceeds funding gender-affirming care for the Gender Diverse community.

AUST | FDPN | WEBINAR | Workshop: My Story Doesn’t End – Critical Storytelling as Trans and Queer Refugee Activism | Wednesday 3 September 2025 | 3.30-5pm AEST

This is an official side event of the Forcibly Displaced People Network (FDPN) 2025 Queer Displacements Conference, hosted by A/Prof Debanuj DasGupta.

Where: Online
Cost: Pay what you can, limited complimentary tickets available
Bookings: Register online via Humanitix

ST KILDA | FDPN | SCREENING | Out of Iraq – Fundraising Side Event | Wednesday 3 Sep 2025 | 6.30-9pm AEST

This is an official side event of the Forcibly Displaced People Network (FDPN) 2025 Queer Displacements Conference. Proceeds support Forcibly Displaced People Network’s advocacy and support for LGBTIQA+ forcibly displaced people.

Where: Victorian Pride Centre, St Kilda
Cost: Pay what you can.
Bookings: online via Humanitix

ST KILDA | FDPN | GATHERING | 2025 Queer Displacements Conference | 3–5 September 2025

Centering lived experience and delivering action-focused outcomes for LGBTIQA+ forcibly displaced people. Presented by Forcibly Displaced People Network.

Where: Victoria University, Melbourne
Bookings: Details & Registration

INNER WEST NSW | IWPC | SEEKING | Members for Inner West Pride Centre Community Advisory Group | EOI closes 11 Sep 2025

Seeking 10-12 volunteer members to guide the Pride Centre in building a strong LGBTQIA+ community in the Inner West and greater Sydney.

Details & Apply

AUST | SSF | WORKSHOPPING | Queer Youth Sexual Violence Prevention

For those Aged 16–18, StrongSafeFabulous (SSF) is a program developed by by Prosper (Project Australia) in partnership with Rainbow Families NSW. By community, for community, covering: Setting personal boundaries, connecting with the LGBTQ+ community, speaking up when things aren’t right, trusting your gut and spotting red flags. Workshops run throughout the next 12 months and are open to young people across Australia.

Where: Online
Bookings: Register & Learn More

Ways To Support

Become a Giveout Day Corporate Partner

Why partner?

Show your brand’s commitment to LGBTQIA+ communities
Align with a movement built on love, joy, and impact
Boost visibility through Matched Funding or Product Giveaways
Your support = Real impact

Together, we can prove joy is the most powerful response to challenging times.

Rainbow Giving Australia: Working towards an empowered, sustainable and united rainbow community

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5.8 WORLD | AFUO | UPDATING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Ukraine Crisis Appeal

Remarkable generosity has been a true lifeline for a war-torn country. Together, Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO)'s Ukraine Crisis Appeal has raised over $14 million Australian dollars from every walk of life.
Every donation, from a single child's pocket money of $24.10 to generous sums of $500,000, has combined to change, save, and improve the lives of thousands.

We are indebted to donors, as is every person in Ukraine whose life you have touched.

Even with this incredible success, the humanitarian situation in Ukraine remains dire, and the daily reality for millions is a continued fight for survival.

The most urgent problems are not only just about immediate relief; they are the fundamental challenges that threaten the future of a nation. This includes the massive psychological toll of trauma and the growing mental health crisis among those who have witnessed unthinkable tragedy, especially children and families.

We also face the monumental task of rebuilding homes and critical infrastructure like hospitals and schools; the constant struggle to deliver basic necessities like food and medical supplies to those in war-torn regions; the struggle to educate a generation of children displaced from their homes; and the looming threat of winter, which will make a lack of shelter even more dangerous. Additionally, we must not forget the thousands of veterans and their families who are facing immense physical and psychological challenges as they work to rebuild their lives.

Donor support is a lifeline. It allows us to directly address these life-or-death issues, restoring hope and ensuring that communities have the tools and resources they need to heal and rebuild for the long run.

Attached is a brief overview of the aid that life-changing donations have made.

Thank you to Donors again for incredible support.

#TogetherWeStandWithUkraine

With gratitude
Diahanna (Darka} Senko, Chair, Ukraine Crisis Appeal
Director, Humanitarian Aid & Medical Aid Initiatives
Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations

Humanitarian & Medical Aid Report | June 2025

The Ukraine Crisis Appeal (UCA), powered by Rotary Australia World Community Service (RAWCS) and supported by the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO), continues to deliver urgent humanitarian and medical assistance to communities devastated by russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.

This report highlights the key initiatives undertaken by the Ukraine Crisis Appeal (UCA) to June 2025, detailing the significant impact achieved on the ground and outlining the strategic priorities that will guide our ongoing response.

Together, through coordinated efforts and generous support, we remain committed to aiding in alleviating suffering and restoring hope in Ukraine’s most affected regions.

Key Humanitarian and Medical Aid Programs

Emergency Humanitarian Response — Sumy Region

In mid 2025, Caritas Ukraine launched an urgent appeal to support vulnerable communities in Sumy Oblast — one of Ukraine’s most exposed regions near the Russian border, including Bilopillia, Seredyna-Buda, and Krasnopillia, enduring daily shelling, infrastructure destruction and repeated evacuations, severely limiting access to food, hygiene and safety.

Public services in the region are stretched far beyond capacity. Hospitals, schools, and community facilities struggle to function under the strain of damaged infrastructure, dwindling resources, and the constant risk of renewed strikes. Ongoing security threats make it extremely difficult for humanitarian workers to reach those in greatest need, leaving many communities isolated and desperate.

In partnership with Caritas Sumy, Caritas Ukraine is stepping in to provide comprehensive humanitarian assistance tailored to each community’s needs. This includes the delivery of emergency food parcels, hygiene kits, warm clothing, blankets and other essential items, along with targeted support to help families survive the harsh winter months.

The project places special priority on the most vulnerable — persons with disabilities, large families struggling to care for children, single parents, and individuals over 60, many of whom are unable to evacuate or live in damaged homes. Every step of the response will be guided by transparency, accountability, and flexibility, ensuring that aid is delivered swiftly, fairly, and effectively to those who need it most.

For the people of Sumy Oblast, every act of support is more than charity — it is a lifeline, a reminder that they have not been forgotten. This is addition to the humanitarian aid we provided in 2022-23 were our aid reached an estimated 1,182 million people and provided 30,000+ displaced people with emergency housing.

Together, we can help protect lives, restore dignity, and bring hope to communities living on the very frontlines of this war.

UCA Impact:

900 individuals provided with essential food aid
1,100 individuals received hygiene kits, including items tailored for people with disabilities, families with infants, and the elderly
Budget: AUD $100,000

National Rehabilitation Centre “UNBROKEN”

The Charity Foundation UNBROKEN, in partnership with the First Lviv Territorial Medical Union, provides world-class medical care to civilians and defenders who have suffered life-changing injuries as a result of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Since the start of the war, the centre has treated over 20,000 patients with the most severe and complex injuries — including traumatic amputations, burns, fractures, and neurological damage.

Beyond saving lives, UNBROKEN is dedicated to helping patients reclaim their independence and dignity. The medical team includes some of Ukraine’s leading surgeons, rehabilitation specialists, and psychologists, working side-by-side to ensure every patient receives not just urgent treatment, but a pathway to recovery.

Most recently, the centre opened a specialised Rehabilitation Department for Patients with Spinal Cord Injuries — a first-of-its-kind initiative in Ukraine — designed to care for up to 30 of the most complex cases at any given time. Here, patients receive intensive physical therapy, advanced assistive technologies, and personalised care plans aimed at restoring mobility, function, and quality of life.

Every person treated at UNBROKEN carries a story of unimaginable resilience. With ongoing support, the centre will continue to be a lifeline for thousands more — proving that even in war, healing and hope are possible.

Key UCA Achievements:

Funding of 10 hospital beds designed for spinal cord injury patients
Beds feature electric adjustment, independent backrest and leg positioning, and Trendelenburg functionality
Cost per bed: 123,900 UAH
Committee representatives Darka Senko and Teresa Lachowicz visited the Centre in 2025 to monitor funded equipment and patient care outcomes

VAC Ulta Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Systems

With the relentless intensity of the war and the alarming rise in complex traumatic injuries – from devastating blast wounds to severe burns and infected soft-tissue injuries – Ukrainian hospitals face a critical need to expand their wound care capacity.

One highly effective solution is the VAC Ulta — an advanced Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) system that is proven to save lives and improve recovery in conflict settings.

The VAC Ulta provides significant clinical benefits:

Promotes faster wound healing by applying controlled negative pressure to remove infectious material, reduce oedema, and encourage tissue growth.
Reduces the risk of severe infection, including in high-risk blast injuries.
Allows for automated wound cleansing with instillation therapy, minimizing the burden on overstretched medical staff.
Proven in conflict zones – NPWT is a gold standard for managing complex wounds and contaminated injuries in war settings.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we are now able to deliver two of these vital units directly to surgeons in Lviv, Ukraine, ensuring they can provide faster, safer, and more effective care to those most severely injured by the war.

Every machine is more than just equipment – it’s a chance to save a limb, prevent an infection, and give a patient the best possible shot at recovery.

Faith U-CRANE has arrived

We are pleased to announce purchase of a 50-tonne rescue crane for the State Emergency Services operating in Odesa. The crane, which will operate in regions affected by war-related destruction, will play a critical role in search-and-rescue missions, the stabilization of damaged buildings, and the safe removal of debris in hard-hit communities.

However, this lifesaving piece of equipment required a name and the 'Name the Crane' competition was launched across Ukrainian Cultural Schools. After numerous inspiring submissions, the results are in: the new heavy-duty rescue crane has officially been named "FaithU-Crane" as suggested by Roman Lototskyi from Sydney and Lara Vivian from Adelaide.

The name stood out for its powerful wordplay, combining a direct reference to Ukraine with a nod to the machine’s vital function in lifting debris and supporting life-saving rescue efforts.

“We have been delivering ambulances into Ukraine for sometime, but I then received a request from the Ukrainian emergency services team (SESU) in Odesa that they needed a 50-tonne rescue crane! On a recent visit to Lviv, SESU showed me how the first responders would use the rescue crane to quickly remove the rubble from bomb sites, so that the survivors can be immediately evacuated and moved to the ambulances. Dozens of generous Australians did not hesitate to fund the purchase of the rescue crane when they saw the horror of Russians continuing to bomb hospitals, ambulances, schools and apartment buildings – attacks that have no possible justification. I am proud to say that we Australians continue to find innovative ways to provide humanitarian support to Ukraine’s first responders – funding ambulances, rescue cranes, generators, medical supplies, firefighting facilities, and much more.” – Ukraine Crisis Appeal project manager Chris Leptos

SESU has now requested a fire truck and emergency vehicles, which we are now looking to raise funds for.

Vscan Air CL Ultrasound Initiative

Portable ultrasound technology saves lives— especially in the chaos of the battlefield and in emergency hospital wards.In Ukraine, where medics and doctors work under relentless pressure, the ability to diagnose injuries quickly and accurately can mean the difference between life and death.

The Vscan Air CL is a state-of-the-art, wireless handheld ultrasound system that has proven its value in both frontline and hospital settings.

Progress:

145 Ukrainian technicians trained to use Vscan Air CL devices, funded by UCA donors
20 additional units to be purchased in 2025 (AUD $104,500)
CPD-accredited training delivered by Dr Andrew Dobrotwir, coordinated by Teresa Lachowicz
Contingency plan for online delivery and shipment via Nova Poshta if Kyiv-based sessions are unsafe

In Ukraine, the Vscan Air CL has already demonstrated its life-saving impact— giving doctors in field hospitals and emergency rooms the tools they need to make swift, informed decisions, even under fire.

This technology is more than just equipment. It is speed, precision, and hope — placed directly into the hands of those saving lives on the frontlines.

Paediatric Neurosurgery – Tabletochki Foundation

In 2024, the Ukraine Crisis Appeal (UCA) contributed AUD $100,000 to the Tabletochki Charitable Foundation to supply advanced neurosurgical devices for the treatment of children with brain and spinal cord tumours – the most common form of childhood cancer in Ukraine.

In 2025 Ukraine Crisis Appeal then provided lifesaving surgical equipment via Tabletochki to the Clinical Centre of Paediatric Medicine in Lviv, to ensure Ukrainian children receive the vital treatment they need and deserve, at a total cost of $273.000 AUD.

This centre is one of Ukraine’s leading Children’s Hospitals, home to an exceptional neurosurgical team of highly skilled specialists. The team performs over 300 life-saving surgeries each year, including around 120 procedures for children battling cancer. Their expertise and dedication give young patients the best possible chance at recovery, even in the most complex cases.

Over the next five years, 1,500 children will rely on the Centre’s ability to deliver critical, life-saving and life-enhancing care. Each piece of equipment provided through this project directly supports these surgeries — enabling precise interventions, reducing complications, and improving long-term outcomes for young patients.

In the midst of war and instability, this partnership ensures that children with cancer in Ukraine are not forgotten, and that they can continue to receive the world-class medical treatment they desperately need and deserve.

2024 Outcomes:

37 children from across Ukraine received life-saving surgical supplies
40 complex procedures performed at National Children’s Specialised Hospital Ohmatdyt and Children’s Medicine Centre, Lviv

Ambulance & Emergency Vehicle Supply

In 2024 Partnering with Medical Lifelines Ukraine (MLLU), the Ukraine Crisis Appeal (UCA) supported the procurement, refurbishment, and delivery of fully equipped ambulances and emergency response vehicles to communities across Ukraine. Each vehicle is fitted with essential life-saving equipment — from defibrillators and ventilators to trauma kits — enabling medics to provide critical care at the scene and safely transport patients to hospital. These ambulances are a lifeline for civilians and defenders alike, ensuring that urgent medical help can reach those in need, even in the most dangerous and hard-to-access areas.

A new convoy is planned for November and 2026.

Impact to date:

10 ambulances delivered
4 evacuation vehicles deployed
4 Generators
Volunteer drivers, including Australian supporters, ensured safe transport across the Polish border into Ukraine

Nazareth Veteran Rehabilitation Program – established in 2019

Nazareth Rehabilitation Centre provides comprehensive physical, psychological, and social reintegration support for war veterans and their families.

The Ukraine Crisis Appeal funded a gymnasium for the Nazareth Centre, named in honour of our late leader, +Stefan Romaniw. He dedicated his life to Ukraine and its people and the Diaspora, and deeply valued the Centre's work, calling it 'Jesus's work’.

Nazareth is more than a rehabilitation centre — it’s a place of hope and community. Here,veterans find strength to recover physically, heal psychologically, reconnect with family, and rediscover a sense of purpose. Spouses and children receive the care and support they need too, so no one has to walk this journey alone.

Every step taken in the Nazareth gym, every conversation in its counselling rooms, and every shared meal in its community spaces is a step toward healing — proving that recovery is not only possible, but deeply human.

Key Milestones between August 2024 and July 2025:

116 veterans in inpatient psychological recoveryprogram (average duration - 18 days);veterans in inpatient psychological recovery program;
34 veterans in rehabilitation from alcohol, drug and gambling addiction;
40 received direct assistance (foreveling their own business, home repairs, utility bills, medical treatment, etc.)
over 700 covered through outreach activities - pottery workshops, coordination meetings, hospital visits, etc
163 women - wives or mothers of veterans or active seice men ere covered through psychological consultations or oreach actities.
37 children of veterans participate in Nazareth activities.
Gymnasium funded in honour of the late Stefan Romaniw

Humanitarian & Medical Aid Shipments

Since 2022, the Ukraine Crisis Appeal (UCA) has coordinated the shipment of over AUD $2.7 million worth of life-saving medical and humanitarian supplies to Ukraine, working in close partnership with Rotary Donations in Kind in Australia and Rotary Gdynia in Poland.

This effort has resulted in:

Four fully loaded 40-foot shipping containers delivered to the Rotary Lviv warehouse — with a fifth scheduled for late 2025.
Contents including radiology and orthopaedic equipment, trauma care supplies,surgical instruments, dried protein meals, winter clothing, generators,defibrillators, and other urgently needed items.
Support for over 20 hospitals and clinics, ensuring frontline medics and civilian healthcare facilities have the tools they need to save lives.
An additional 232 pallets of supplies airlifted in the first 18 months of the war through the support of Qantas and the Australian Defence Force.

These shipments have reached communities across Ukraine, delivering hope alongside critical resources – from medical devices that enable complex surgeries, to warm clothing and food that sustain families through harsh winters. Every container represents a powerful network of generosity, logistics, and determination to stand with Ukraine in its time of greatest need.

Container # 5 is scheduled for late October 2025 and we are sourcing medical and surgical equipment and would be grateful for assistance with locating donated equipment.

Safe Homes & Psychosocial Care

Through Caritas Ukraine, the Ukraine Crisis Appeal (UCA) supports displaced families with children through the Safe Homes Project — a lifeline for those who have lost everything to the war.

The project provides:

Secure shelter in Dobrivliany for up to 20 families at a time
Counselling, educational support, integration activities, and small-scale farming
To date, 400 children and 40 adults have been supported
UCA has committed over $91k for 2025

Since its launch, the Safe Homes Project has supported over 400 children and 40 adults, offering not just a roof over their heads, but a safe and nurturing environment where they can begin to heal and rebuild their lives.

For 2025, UCA has committed over AUD $91,000 to continue and strengthen this vital program — ensuring that even in the midst of war, children can experience safety, stability and joy.

Child Friendly Space – Berdychiv

In Berdychiv, where the war has left 240 families grieving the loss of a parent, the Ukraine Crisis Appeal (UCA) funds vital trauma-informed spaces designed specifically for children and their caregivers.

These safe, supportive environments provide tailored therapy, mobile outreach, and resilience-building programs that help families navigate the profound emotional challenges caused by loss and conflict.

2025 Results:

450 children & 105 caregivers reached so far
Ongoing goal: support 500+ children and adults annually through mobile outreach, therapy, and resilience-building programs
UCA committed over $70k in funds for 2025

Through this support, children and families in Berdychiv are finding pathways toward healing, strength, and hope – proving that even in the darkest times, compassionate care can rebuild lives and futures.

Individual First Aid Kits (IFAKs)

The Operator IFAK (Immediate First Aid Kit) is a compact, high-quality trauma care kit designed to deliver life-saving medical attention at the point of injury — critical in fast-moving frontline and emergency situations.

Each kit contains essential tools to manage severe injuries until professional medical help can arrive, including:

1 x Tourniquet for controlling life-threatening bleeding
1 x 4-inch Olaes Bandage for wound dressing and pressure application
1 x Hyfin Vent Compact Chest Seal to treat chest injuries and prevent complications
2 x pairs of Nitrile Gloves to ensure hygiene and safety
1 x CPR Face Shield for safe resuscitation
1 x Trauma Shears for cutting clothing or bandages in emergencies
1 x Casualty Card to record vital patient information for first responders

It is now recommende by the Ukrainian Government that each individual carry an individual first aid kit. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, the Ukraine Crisis Appeal has procured 100 of these life-saving kits to supply to Ukrainians living close to the front lines.

Every Operator IFAK is a vital tool that empowers civilians, volunteers, and defenders alike to provide immediate, effective first aid — saving lives when seconds count.

Committee & Governance

The Committee are all dedicated volunteers and experienced in understanding community and the needs of Ukraine. They oversee project management, partner selection, due diligence, fundraising, and financial oversight.

Conclusion & Acknowledgement

Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of 16,700 donors, volunteers, and partner organisations in Australia and Ukraine, the Ukraine Crisis Appeal continues to deliver hope, vital supplies, and life-saving care to those who need it most.

Together, we stand in unwavering solidarity with Ukraine’s most vulnerable – working to restore dignity, rebuild health, and inspire hope for a brighter future.

Support us today and make a tax-deductible donation to help save lives and rebuild communities. Every gift, no matter how much, makes a difference.

Make a donation

Diahanna (Darka) Senko
AFUO Director Humanitarian and Medical Aid
Chair, AFUO Humanitarian Aid Initiatives Committee (HAIC)
Chair, Ukraine Crisis Appeal and Ukraine Crisis Appeal Resettlement Funds

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6. ANNOUNCING

WORLD | PWR | ISSUING | Statement on Gaza and Peace in the Middle East
AUST | GOV | ENCOURAGING | Eating for your health – at every stage of life
VIC | VMC | THANKING | Sponsors of Premier’s Multicultural Gala Dinner
CoPP | PPEC | WELCOMING | Back to the EcoCentre
CoPP | GOV | ANNOUNCING | Solar Savers has expanded

6.1 WORLD | PWR | ISSUING | Statement on Gaza and Peace in the Middle East

Horrendous human suffering and violations of human rights continue unabated.
Houses of worship, schools, homes, and additional infrastructure, including 94% of hospitals in Gaza, are severely damaged or destroyed.

In Gaza, deliberately caused starvation has placed 500,000 people at immediate risk, amid the killing of over 50,000 and the continued displacement of 2.1 million, which is 90% of the population.

The Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR) calls for an end to the agony in Gaza and a lasting peace in the Middle East with a permanent resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict through the sustained implementation of a two-state solution.

Read full statement

6.2 AUST | GOV | ENCOURAGING | Eating for your health – at every stage of life

Our bodies need different kinds of food as we grow older – and understanding these changes can help us stay healthy for longer.

Children and teenagers need lots of energy and good nutrition to support healthy growth.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, women need extra nutrients for their health and their baby’s development.

In older age, we might need fewer kilojoules but more important nutrients like calcium for bone strength.

Small changes – like eating more vegetables and fruits, drinking more water, and cutting back on takeaway or fried food – can make a big difference to your health.

Healthy eating means finding a balance that works for your body.

Learn more

6.3 VIC | VMC | THANKING | Sponsors of Premier’s Multicultural Gala Dinner

The Premier’s Multicultural Gala Dinner is an important gathering where stories come alive, voices resonate and everyone feels truly seen.

Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) celebrate the diverse communities who work together to build a better Victoria.

A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful sponsors SBS50, Foot Solutions, Language Loop, Stonemart and Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) for supporting the Premier’s Multicultural Gala Dinner 2025.

Your contribution helps bring this vibrant celebration of culture, community and connection to life.

6.4 CoPP | PPEC | WELCOMING | Back to the EcoCentre

The Port Phillip Eco Centre (PPEC) is now open again. After a massive renovation the centre is back with more events and educational programs than ever before.

See all of our events via the link below and we invite you all to visit the centre to see the incredible space and community projects underway.

Explore Eco Events

6.5 CoPP | GOV | ANNOUNCING | Solar Savers has expanded

Researching energy upgrades can be time-consuming and overwhelming. The Solar Savers program eliminates all this hassle.
This City of Port Phillip (CoPP)-backed initiative has already done the hard work – it’s vetted quality suppliers and negotiated competitive pricing for heating/cooling systems, hot water systems, insulation, draught proofing, induction cooktops, solar panels, batteries, electric vehicle chargers and home energy assessments.

So now you can upgrade your home to electric, a healthier and safe choice for your household. Just register through our Solar Savers page and receive up to three quotes from trusted, accredited suppliers.

Learn more

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7. SUPPORTING

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

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

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander
Ageism
Asylum Seeking & Refugees
Climate, Environment & Emergency
Committee Training
Community, Connection & Belonging
Difability & Disability
Employment
Family & Neighbourhood Violence
Health, Sickness & Wellbeing
Kids, Youth, Parenting & Education
LGBTIQA+
Men
Migrant
Racism
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.

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7.1.2 Ageism

Ageism and reducing its impact – reframing the discussion to help everyone better understand how to communicate about age, ageing and issues affecting older people. Download the Framing age message guide and Download the quick reminder Cheat Sheet
‘Ageing well in Victoria: An action plan for strengthening wellbeing for senior Victorians 2022-2026' supporting older Victorians from all backgrounds to connect socially and live healthy, active, and purposeful lives.
Southern Metro Elder Abuse Prevention Network (SMEAPN) free online course: Framing Age Self-Paced Training: 5 Online Modules – EAPN LMS

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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

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7.1.4 Climate, Environment & Emergency

Better Health – Surviving Extreme Heat In-language video
Australian Islamic Centre (AIC) has co-produced award winning Fired Up (36 mins) short documentary which tells the story of AIC volunteers who travelled to areas impacted by the devastating 2019-2020 bushires to provide essential supplies to communities in critical need.
Climate Ready Communities – an innovative program empowering you and your neighbours to tackle climate challenges head-on, right where you live. Through this partnership from City of Port Phillip (CoPP) with The Resilience Canopy, you will be supported to establish, sustain and grow climate action projects for your local community.
Country Fire Authority and Fire Rescue Victoria recommend your smoke alarms are tested regularly, that batteries are replaced once a year, and smoke alarm units are replaced every 10 years. Learn more
Country Fire Authority advises Reduce fire risk by using lithium-ion battery powered devices safely
Country Fire Authority – Summer Campaign Communications Kit includes a range of resources in different languages to help you stay safe during a bushfire
Crime Stoppers Victoria (CSV) with Ethnolink – video on how to report a crime, now available in our 11 priority languages: Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Dinka, Farsi, Greek, Hindi, Italian, Punjabi, Somali, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Watch videos
Emergency management improvement report with engaged multicultural communities, government and emergency services
Fire Safety – translated information
Fire season preparation in Regional Victoria – visit Country Fire Authority's website, sign up to MyCFA to get local information on how to plan and prepare for fires and other emergencies in your area or learn more
Life Saving Victoria (LSV) – remembering safety is everyone’s responsibility – especially around water. If you're new to pools or water settings, please take a moment to speak with a lifesaver or lifeguard before entering the water. Always read and follow the safety signs at your location to ensure you're fully informed.
Royal Life Saving Society of Australia with 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 while swimming, boating, and fishing. Resources: Water safety information in community languages or Download: RLSSA-Stakeholder-Pack-2024.pdf or resources by Language
Scamwatch – Scams targeting people from non-English speaking backgrounds remain a serious concern. To help protect all Australians, free information and resources has been developed in 22 languages, empowering people to recognise and report scams using three simple steps: Stop. Check. Protect.
Solar Savers – Start saving on energy bills with City of Port Phillip
State Emergency Service – SES flood guide – Be aware of your risk, check your local area or call VIC SES on 132 500 for support
Vic Emergency app or Call 1800 226 226 for Vic Emergency hotline
Victoria Health Department – in hot weather or extreme weather, be neighbourly, check in on vulnerable neighbours
Yarra Energy Foundation (YEF) and sustainability consultancy Point Advisory have produced a comprehensive document full of relevant information, step-by-step advice, and guidance on how to tackle the roadblocks faced by apartment tenants, owners, and management companies when approaching solar for apartments. Download guide

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7.1.5 Committee Training

A series of free educational volunteer training videos designed to educate and empower nonprofit organisations.

These engaging Cardinia Shire Council resources are available thanks to the Non Profit Training and provide essential skills and knowledge, helping volunteers and committees maximise their impact and enhance their contributions to the community.

Grant Writing

Conflict of Interest

Financial Records and Reports

Running Successful Meetings

Contractor Management

Managing Difficult Conversations

Governance

Risk Management

For more information

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7.1.6 Community, Connection & Belonging

Australian citizenship test resource booklet Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond is developed by Department of Home Affairs. Available for download, it has all the information you need to help you pass the test. Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond - Testable - English (14MB PDF)
Australian GLBTIQ Multicultural Council (AGMC) – Living and Loving in Diversity: An anthology of Australian multicultural queer adventures. Read More and buy
Better Boards Australasia (BBA) – free online minute-taking course.
The Boîte is a cornerstone of Victoria's multicultural music scene and champions diverse artists and musical experiences, enriching Australia's cultural landscape.
Carer Gateway (CAGA) Real Carers, Real Stories - In Their Own Words digital photographic exhibition.
Carer Gateway (CAGA) is a national initiative program funded by the Australian Government – free and diverse range of short term services to help you manage your caring role and improve your wellbeing. There are more than 2.65 million unpaid carers in Australia, and 1 in 12 are under 25 years old. If you are an unpaid carer and wish to get access in your language you can call Uniting on 1800 422 737 or visit website to learn more.
City of Port Phillip (CoPP) Neighbours and Seniors Register creates links between Port Phillip residents over 55, enabling getting to know each other and better supporting each other. Register by using the seniors registration form (PDF 78 KB)
Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) – ‘Know the Funda-rentals’ campaign to help renters across the state understand their rights and access support.
The Conversation (THCO) – continuing to grow, making an important contribution to public knowledge
Cultural Infusion (CUIN)'s online Cultural Calendar is designed to assist schools with organising cultural incursions throughout the year.
Embrace Access – Easy Read books
Equality Project (EQPR) Better Together Training Academy – for LGBTIQ+ and Allies to hone advocacy, transform leadership Initiate, activate, lead to make a positive impact in your community.
Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) Speak My Language podcasts feature people sharing stories and practical advice about living well with disability in a range of community languages.
Ethnolink Language Services – Multi-lingual resource library with information available on coronavirus in 71 languages.
Expression Australia – Keep up to date with regular Auslan videos on breaking news in Victoria, Australia and abroad.
Faith Communities Council of Victoria (FCCV) have published their annual multifaith calendar outlining major holy days and festivals for Baha'i, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, Judaism and Sikhism. View 2024 Multifaith Calendar (pdf) and view 2025 Multifaith Calendar (pdf)
Faith and LGBTQA identity can coexist resources kit developed Victorian Equal Opportunity & Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC).
Foundation House – The Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture for a world without torture and where communities respect, embrace and empower people from refugee backgrounds to thrive
The Jeder Institute - Toolkits for creating positive change for individuals and communities, around the world, by bringing people together to realise their full potential, build on their existing networks and community strengths and to empower individual’s choice and control.
Multicultural Framework Review (MFR), ‘Towards Fairness – a multicultural Australia for all’ – towards realising Australia's full potential as a nation made up of many cultures, faiths and lived experiences.
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 Anti-Scam Centre (NASC) is an activity of Australian Competition and Consumer Commission(ACCC) – Australia's national competition, consumer, fair trading and product safety regulator. Read more and hear or download The Little Book of Scams a useful resource available in 18 languages. Other translated resources include posters, audio recordings, and short videos.
National Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters' Council (NEMBC) is the peak organisation representing ethnic community broadcasters across Australia. Listen to news
Paramount Chief Kuol Adol Foundation (PCKAF) aiming to improve the livelihoods of South Sudanese communities through programs in both South Sudan and Melbourne.
Port Phillip Men’s Shed provides a safe and caring mateship environment. Our members hail from all walks of life and from different age groups. Women are welcome to participate.
Professional Migrant Women (PWM) – Undefeated is a collection of 118 stories from 90 migrant women, who against all odds, overcame the challenges and barriers of living in a foreign land, speaking a different language, and being singled out for the wrong reason. Find out more and buy
Social Connection - Explore Practice Toolkits brimming with actionable strategies, tips, and guidelines to foster stronger community bonds.
St Kilda Repair Cafe (SKRC) – free monthly repair cafe sessions at the Port Phillip EcoCentre on the second Sunday of each month from 2-5pm. Volunteers fix or mend, offer their time and skills to help make possible repairs free of charge to damaged items from home
SBS عربي News streams live at 8pm on weeknights and SBS 中文 News is live from 8.30 pm on weeknights and available to stream at any time on SBS On Demand.
SBS Interactive 2021 Census Explorer
SBS 2023 Multicultural Film Festival via SBS OnDemand!
Scanlon Foundation Research Institute's (SFRI) 2022 Mapping Social Cohesion
Spiritual Health Association (SHA) in partnership with Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) has been running The Spirituality & Diversity Discussion Project since 2019. Read More
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%. Learn more
Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) is an interpreting service provided by the Department of Home Affairs for people who do not speak English and for agencies and businesses that need to communicate with their non-English speaking clients. Over 70 years' experience in language services and access to more than 2700 interpreters in more than 150 languages. The phone interpreting service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year for the cost of a local call for any person or organisation in Australia who needs an interpreter.
Victorian Department of Families, Fairness and Housing has recently launched 37 profiles of cultural communities. The profiles are designed to be a snapshot of each community, showing their diverse and unique needs.
Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC), free voter education sessions about elections can be delivered in some community languages and we can provide interpreters. Free online education sessions to your community or Learn to vote | Victorian Electoral Commission
Volunteer West (VOWE) – culturally inclusive toolkit.
Victorian Multicultural Commission have published Victorian Multicultural Commission Impact Report. or Watch 40 years of the Victorian Multicultural Commission video (6 min)
Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH)'s new podcast episode 'Diversity Of Communities: Who Is Left Behind?' Read More or Listen to podcast (38 mins)
Voices of Australia - Scanlon Foundation Research Institute (SFRI) podcast exploring all things interesting in the world of social cohesion. Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also watch the recording on video, in addition to audio-only! Tune in every Thursday at 10am for a new episode!

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7.1.7 Difability & Disability

Arts Access Victoria (AAV) offers Future Reset – Maker Space is a year of free in person and online visual and digital arts workshops and is for young Deaf and Disabled people aged 18–25 who live in Victoria. Beginners welcome!
Aspergers Victoria (ASVI) – support groups and events for people who have Aspergers, autism, or other similar neurodiverse profiles.
AUSLAN – Updates by Expression Australia - Regular Auslan only videos on updates of breaking news in Victoria, Australia and abroad.
Australian Government Department of Social Services – Daily update on NDIS participants and workforce and easy English information on COVID-19.
Autism friendly workplaces – We all deserve a workplace that works and sometimes the smallest things can make the biggest difference. Find out how you can start to make your workplace more autism inclusive by learning more at amaze.com
Blind Citizens Australia – Information on coronavirus for people who are blind or vision impaired.
Disability, Engaging Australians with Ask Me First and How to – 16 mins episode of a discussion on support and advocacy for people with disability and inclusion from CALD communities.
Disability Gateway Service – the Australian Government provides free information and services to help people living with disability, their families, friends and carers in key areas including finance, employment, health and equipment. Translated fact sheets and videos
Down Syndrome Australia – Easy Read guide about using money on the internet.
Extended Families (EXFA) – vibrant social events for children and young adults with a disability in Melbourne’s Southeastern suburbs.
IncludeAbility: employment for people with disability – an initiative of the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC), designed to support employers who want to create meaningful employment opportunities for people with disability, and people with disability seeking employment, developing a career or considering self-employment. Learn more
LGBTIQ+ Health Australia – free training activities for LGBTIQ+ people with disability
MiACCESS Multilingual Information Access to resources & information – A purpose-built website for CALD people with disability, carers and communities.
Migrant Resource Centre North West Region (MRCNWR) – Diversity and Disability YouTube Channel
National Disability Gateway – a one-stop shop from the Department of Social Services assisting all people with disability, their families and carers to locate and access services across Australia
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) – Information about changes to how the NDIS work during the COVID -19 pandemic in 12 languages.
National Ethnic Disability Alliance (NEDA) – free training activities for LGBTIQ+ people with disability
NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission – Information contains links to updates, training, alerts, and resources for NDIS participants and providers.
Self Advocacy Resource Unit (SARU) supports Victorian self-advocacy groups run by and for people with intellectual disability, people with acquired brain injury and people with complex communication support needs. Watch 'Live Our Lives' (4 mins music video).
Summer Foundation (SUFO)'s Reasonable & Necessary podcast series helps simplify the NDIS for participants, their families and anyone supporting NDIS participants.
VALID – 16 Page plain language guide to NDIS Specialist Disability Accommodation
Vietnamese resources supporting people with disability and their families, friends and carers – a suite of Vietnamese resources available in English and Vietnamese informing how to articulate rights and entitlements, negotiate service agreements and conditions with support providers.
Women With Disabilities Australia (WWDA) – women and non-binary people with disability, sharing a diverse range of experiences

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7.1.8 Employment

Bicultural workforce toolkit - The Victorian Government toolkit is an online resource that aims to educate public sector organisations so they can harness the value bicultural workers bring to the workforce.
Equal pay matters – educational resources for organisations by Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC). For small-to-medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to understand and implement equal pay in their workplaces.
Fair Work Ombudsman – language help
Jobs that Matter campaign highlights a range of roles available across the community services sector in Victoria.
Middle Years and Youth Services (MYYS) are now offering a platform for local businesses or organisations to advertise job opportunities that would suit young people. The jobs appear regularly on the Port Phillip Youth Instagram page.
Migrant Workers Centre – resources
Modern slavery is when a person forces someone to work, marry or do other things through coercion (like manipulation, control or violence), threats or lies. What is modern slavery, Types of modern slavery, Warning signs, Modern slavery in Australia & Research and data
Professional Migrant Women (PWM) – Undefeated is a collection of 118 stories from 90 migrant women, who against all odds, overcame the challenges and barriers of living in a foreign land, speaking a different language, and being singled out for the wrong reason. Find out more and buy
Social Services Jobs Guarantee program - Victorian Diploma of Community Services graduates 1 September 2022–31 August 2024
The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) – supporting employers in fostering safer, more inclusive environments with Guideline: LGBTIQA+ Inclusive Workplaces.
The Victorian Sick Pay Guarantee provides 38 hours a year of sick and carer's pay at the national minimum wage ($21.38 per hour). Translations available in 19 different languages.
Victorian Volunteering opportunities available.

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7.1.9 Family & Neighbourhood Violence

Domestic and family violence and your visa Department of Home Affairs web page. Learn more
Orange Door – for adults, children and young people experiencing family violence
Our Watch (OURWATCH) – Australia’s leader in the primary prevention of violence against women. We work to embed gender equality and prevent violence where Australians live, learn, work and socialise. Download Change the story summary (698 kb); Download Change the story full suite of graphics (4 mb); Change the story: Three years on (2018) reflecting on the uptake and impact of Change the story since publication in 2015.
Public Transport Victoria (PTV) – STOPIT aims to educate public transport users on what constitutes inappropriate behaviour while empowering vulnerable communities – including women, girls, LGBTIQA+, and multicultural passengers – as well as bystanders to report incidents to Victoria Police’s STOPIT service.
Respect Victoria (REVI) – brings light to common types of non-physical violence that can be used in intimate relationships, how to spot the warning signs, and how to look out for yourself and your friends. 
Safe and Equal (SAE)'s Are You Safe at Home? website features lots of helpful information around family violence and where to go for help. Learn about family violence. Watch a video in your language
Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre – Victoria’s statewide first response service for women, young people and children experiencing family violence. Tel 1800 015 188 – family violence specialists available 24/7
Safer and Stronger Communities Pilot, South East Community Links (SECL) – In-language videos for family violence prevention and multilingual resources for Dari, Hazaragi, Hindi, Punjabi and Tamil speaking community members. View on SECL website

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7.1.10 Health, Sickness & Wellbeing

Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria (ARCVic) – a state-wide, specialist mental health organisation, providing support, recovery and educational services to people and families living with anxiety disorders.
Australian Psychological Society Referral Service – Tel 1800 333 497
Be You is the national mental health in education initiative delivered by Beyond Blue, in collaboration with Early Childhood Australia and headspace. Offering a range of online, evidence-based tools, resources and professional learning aimed at improving the skills and knowledge of educators to support mental health and wellbeing in children and young people.
Beyond Blue – translated information on managing your mental health during COVID-19 in 63 languages.
Cancer Council Victoria (CCV) – online resources in simple English to support linguistically diverse Victorians learn about bowel cancer screening. Watch video (10 mins). Download cancer information in Vietnamese and Modern Standard Arabic. Read Victorian Cancer Plan 2024-2028
Dementia information for multicultural communities
DirectLine alcohol and drug counselling - 1800 888 236 - confidential drug and alcohol counselling and referral
Gambling Help Online (GHO). Free, confidential and available 24/7. Take a step forward
GP Expert Advice Matters – a website for patients translated into Arabic, simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Hindi and Vietnamese, and has practical information on how to access a local GP, telehealth and interpreter services
Headway – a small business package of free wellbeing services and resources for all Victorian sole traders and small business owners, their employees and advisers.
Health Translations – Australian health and wellbeing information - free online library multilingual translations including Auslan and Easy English.
Hepatitis B and the importance of testing and management to reduce liver cancer risk. Protect against liver cancer by raising awareness message by Cancer Council Victoria (CCV)
Hepatitis B In-language videos – allowing people in CALD communities to access clear and simple information about liver health, available in Arabic, Burmese, Khmer, Mandarin Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese.
Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA) is a free state-wide non legal advocacy service for people at risk of or subject to compulsory treatment in Victoria.
Influenza vaccines are free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for: children aged 6 months to under 5 years; pregnant people at any stage of pregnancy; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; people 65 years or over; people who have certain medical conditions which increase their risk of serious illness. Translated resources are available in 15 languages. You can also get more information from your doctor or clinic.
Lifeline – 13 11 14 – crisis support available 24/7 via phone, text or online chat
LiverWELL advises liver cancer is now the fastest growing cause of cancer death in Victoria, with a 191% increase in deaths over the past four decades. Now is the time to act. Learn more, talk to your doctor about screening, and help spread awareness in your community. Read more information and find culturally appropriate support
Mental Health & Wellbeing Hubs – 1300 375 330 – appointments for anyone feeling overwhelmed or in need of support with mental health.
Mental Health Complaints Commission (MHCC) – Digital and print resources in 20 languages through community-approved translations that are culturally and linguistically appropriate for each community.
Mental Health Foundation Australia (MHFA) – Small Business Engagement Program to benefit business owners, staff, and customers.
Moving Pictures launched 12 new short films aimed at raising awareness about dementia, and the importance of early diagnosis to enable better treatment and quality of life. Watch the films
mpox vaccine – protect yourself and your loved ones
from this virus. Find out if you qualify for free vaccination and get vaccinated today.
Multicultural Anxiety Support Group – an inclusive and confidential space for people of varying ethnic and cultural backgrounds who experience persistent anxiety:
Regular meetings seek to foster connection and confidence by providing participants with the opportunity to discuss challenges, self-help ideas, and coping strategies.
Multicultural Health Connect (MHC) – hotline that can be used to find health services such as doctors, hospitals, and community health centres. The hotline is available 11.30am-8pm, 7 days a week - including public holidays. Call the hotline on 1800 186 815.
MyMedicare is a new, voluntary and free way by Australian Government to register with your regular doctor or clinic. These are government-funded telehealth consultations with your regular doctor and it gives your doctor more resources to treat you
NURSE-ON-CALL – 1300 60 60 24 – expert health information and advice
Palliative Care Advice Service (PCAS) – supporting people diagnosed with life-limiting illnesses and those who support them.
Quit Victoria – Tired of letting cravings control you? Beat the cravings, one at a time.
R U OK? is a national suicide prevention charity that encourages people to stay connected and have conversations that can help others through difficult times. Key resources are also translated in six languages Arabic (العربية), Simplified Chinese (中文), Greek (Ελληνικά), Hindi (हिन्दी), Korean (한국어) and Vietnamese (tiếng Việt)
Staying safe in the water – how to enjoy our state's waterways including beaches, rivers and lakes.
Survive the heat campaign – raising awareness of the risks extreme heat poses to the health of all Victorians.
Trans Justice Project (TJP) – building a movement standing up for justice, freedom, and equality for all trans and gender diverse people.
Transport Accident Commission (TAC) - safest way to know for sure that you are under 0.05 Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) level is to completely separate drinking and driving. Sign up for the Spokes newsletter. Read more about Only Protected for a Moment campaign.
Victorian Polio immunisation factsheets
Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) seminars are open to individuals, from all disciplines and working in all sectors, who are based in Australia and interested in diversity and mental health.
Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH) have created the 'Community Engagement with Purpose' resource.
Water Well Project works with people with migrant, refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds to provide health education to improve health and wellbeing. Releasing a series of simple but informative videos on health and wellbeing topics including COVID-19 vaccination, mental health for kids, and preventative healthcare. Learn about The Water Well Project

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7.1.11 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.
Raising Children Network – Translated parenting resources
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
Smile Squad – school dental program is helping thousands of families save up to $400 per child per year by providing free, high-quality dental care at government schools across Victoria.
Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) online community VMConnect is home to a dedicated Group for multicultural young people living in Victoria
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.

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7.1.12 LGBTIQA+

Australian GLBTIQ Multicultural Council (AGMC) – Living and Loving in Diversity: An anthology of Australian multicultural queer adventures. Read More and buy
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.
The Equality Project – training and conferences
Faith and LGBTQA identity can coexist resources kit developed Victorian Equal Opportunity & Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC).
Gay Asian Proud (GAP) – a social group for same sex-attracted Asian men based in Melbourne and wider Victoria. Find out more
GiveOUT – growing the pot of gold under the rainbow by supporting LGBTQIA+ organisations to access and use resources for the better.
I'm From Driftwood – LGBTQIA+ first-person stories
LGBTIQ+ Health Australia – free training activities for LGBTIQ+ people with disability
Our Point 3 (OP3) – not-for-profit organisation, led by and for LGBTQIA+/queer international students, alumni, and allies.
Trans Justice Project – Impact Report 2023
Unsaid Says A Lot is an Australian-first campaign by Victoria's Department of Families, Fairness and Housing(DFFH) in support of trans and gender diverse communities. A nation leading campaign. It was co-designed, produced and created by TGD communities. Watch Video (2 mins) and stay connected via Socials Facebook | Instagram | Linked In | Youtube

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7.1.13 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.

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7.1.14 Migrant

Australian citizenship test resource booklet Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond is developed by Department of Home Affairs. Available for download, it has all the information you need to help you pass the test. Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond - Testable - English (14MB PDF)
The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) is an interpreting service provided by the Department of Home Affairs for people who do not speak English and for agencies and businesses that need to communicate with their non-English speaking clients. Eligibility Requirements and Free Translating Service or by calling 1300 847 387
Migrant Workers Centre – resources
Modern slavery is when a person forces someone to work, marry or do other things through coercion (like manipulation, control or violence), threats or lies. What is modern slavery, Types of modern slavery, Warning signs, Modern slavery in Australia & Research and data
Professional Migrant Women (PWM) – Undefeated is a collection of 118 stories from 90 migrant women, who against all odds, overcame the challenges and barriers of living in a foreign land, speaking a different language, and being singled out for the wrong reason. Find out more and buy

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7.1.15 Racism

Australian Government – Addressing Hate in Our Communities. Everyone deserves to live free from hate and discrimination. Learn more and access reporting links
Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) have continued their national campaign: Racism. It Stops With Me. Learn more
Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) – releasing National Anti-Racism Framework, a comprehensive plan featuring 63 recommendations aimed at addressing racism across critical sectors including justice, health, education, media, and workplaces. Read full report
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.
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
Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC) is supporting culturally and linguistically diverse community leaders to become Anti-racism Ambassadors in partnership with IndianCare, the Centre for Holistic Health and the Communities’ Council on Ethnic Issues. Learn more
Independent Broad-Based Anti-Corruption Commission (IBBACC) is Victoria's independent body responsible for preventing and exposing police misconduct. You can report anything police do to deny your rights to IBAC.
Prejudice Motivated Crime in Victoria and Reporting – Victoria Police website, an animated video (2 min) and poster. Resources are available in English, Arabic, Chinese (Traditional and Simplified), Hindi, Korean, Persian, Punjabi, Somali, Urdu and Vietnamese. Explore the resources
Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) partnering with Cinespace developed a fictional short film that tests contestants on their knowledge of racism. Watch the video (6 mins) and how to report racism in Victoria through VEOHRC. Visit Reducing Racism information hub to understand your rights, know the options available to report your experiences, and obtain help.

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7.1.16 Women

Koorie Women Mean Business
National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) - envisioning Zero Deaths from breast cancer
Made by Many Minds is a one-stop digital platform that provides migrant women in business with a range of services including legal, finance, marketing and merchandising.
My Body. My Health – a five-part series of educational presentations to help organisations deliver health information to women from migrant and refugee backgrounds.
Respect Victoria
Rural Health Connect (RHC) – telehealth psychology sessions to women and families who have experienced stillbirth or miscarriage. Sessions are bulk-billed or available at low cost, depending on a person’s situation. Find out more
Safe and Equal
SisterWorks is a not-for-profit social enterprise, empowering migrant and refugee women by connecting them with entrepreneurship and employment opportunities. Empowerment Hubs are workplaces and training centres providing opportunities for women to share their experiences with other women and develop pathways to education, employment, entrepreneurship and leadership.
Victorian Women’s Trust
Women Leading Locally is delivered by the Institute of Community Directors Australia in partnership with Women for Election.
Women’s Information and Referral Exchange (WIRE) – Free support, referral and information for all Victorian women, nonbinary and gender-diverse people.
Women With Disabilities Australia (WWDA) – women and non-binary people with disability, sharing a diverse range of experiences

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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
AUST | AICR | ENCOURAGING | YES23. Recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Constitution through a Voice
AUST | LWB | TRANSLATING | Resources in 45+ community languages on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice
AUST | REAU | EXPLAINING | Voice to Parliament and Referendum 2023
AUST | RJfV | ISSUING | An Open Letter to the Australian Public: The Voice to Parliament would enhance Australian governance
AUST | TLW | CALLING | Those Interested to Lace Up Your Shoes and Come Walk with Michael Long in support of the "Yes" campaign
AUST | WRITERS | ENDORSING | The Voice as a major reform leading to better outcomes for First Nations Peoples
AUST | GiveOUT | SUPPORTING | Proudly for a First Nations Voice to Parliament
VIC | ECCV | ADVOCATING | Victorian Multicultural Voices for ‘Yes’ campaign
VIC | VWT | ENGAGING | Listen and learn together through kitchen conversations. It’s time to say yes
VIC | VTMH | DEMONSTRATING | Solidarity In Context to the Referendum
AUST | GEIFN | HOW | To Accept No: Contest of Binaries | Sunday 15 October 2023
AUST | GEIFN | WHY | To Accept No: Contest of Timing | Monday 16 October 2023
AUST | GEIFN | WHEN | To Accept No: Contest of Terra nullius | Tuesday 17 October 2023 and beyond
AUST | VTMH | OFFERING | Reflections following the Referendum
CoPP | PPCR | STRIVING | Towards Meaningful Reconciliation
AUST | CHGR | BUILDING | First Nations kids learning and loving to learn. Their families walking beside. Seeing hope for the future
AUST | YSS | EDUCATING | Aboriginal Pedagogy, Social Justice and Self-Determination
AUST | EVCO | BUILDING | Stronger, more inclusive organisation through Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Competence Training Programs
MELB | NGVA | EXHIBITING | Wurrdha Marra – Many Mobs

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.

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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.

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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:

Three social media tiles in 45+ languages that are shareable and easy to disseminate.
Factsheets in 45+ languages letting communities know about the Referendum
30-second in-language videos – with subtitles and voiceovers.

For more information

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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.

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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.

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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.

Register to share with us which legs you'll be joining.
Subscribe to get special offers, free giveaways, and once-in-a-lifetime deals.
Make a donation. Financial support will help to make this journey a reality.

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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.

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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:

Going public with your support of YES to a Voice
If you’re an LGBTIQA+ community organisation, adding your organisation’s name to Equality Australia’s statement
Take action via yes23.com.au

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

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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.

Read full article

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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:

Help create a safe place for thinking, talking and taking action
Acknowledge the experience and wisdom each person brings to the table
Enter discussions in good faith with an open, constructive spirit
Engage in respectful discussion, even in the face of dissent
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.

Watch video (3 mins)
Visit website
Stay in the Loop
Become a Conversation Host. Bring others with you.

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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.

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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."

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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."

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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."

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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:

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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.

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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.

Watch video (4 mins)
Make a donation

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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.

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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.

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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

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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 find out if your local council is participating, check the collection sites in your neighbourhood at coronavirus.vic.gov.au/get-a-covid-19-test
For simple tips on staying ahead of COVID-19 and staying well this summer, visit: coronavirus.vic.gov.au/health-advice
Coronavirus in-language information

To learn in other ways about Victoria's responses:

Call the Victorian Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398. International, interstate and mobile callers can phone (+613) 9096 9000.
Department of Health's website in English or Other Languages
What to do if you are a close contact
Financial support for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Isolation and quarantine – extra help and support
Mental health resources
Mental health support services
Information for people with disability - coronavirus (COVID-19)
Emergency relief packages
COVID business information
COVIDSafe religion and ceremony guidance
Safe accommodation and support for family violence is available. Call Safe Steps on 1800 015 188 or email safesteps@safesteps.org.au for help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
People with a high risk of getting very sick with COVID-19 can get medicine to help them stay well. There are medicines to reduce your chances of getting COVID-19 and treat COVID-19 symptoms if you get infected. Only people most likely to need hospital care can get COVID-19 medicines. This includes people who are aged 70 and over; are aged 50 and over with certain health conditions (or 30 if they're Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander); or have a weakened immune system, disability or are born with heart disease. Learn more

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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

Australian Government Department of Health – Translated resources into 60 different languages, informing communities about COVID-19 vaccines and availability across Australia.
Access Easy English – Over 70 resources developed on coronavirus.
Amaze – step-by-step social scripts outlining the COVID-19 vaccine process to help people with autism.
Better Health – COVID-19 and flu vaccinations health information available in more than fifteen languages. Learn more
Centre for Culture, Ethnicity & Health (CEH) has translated Long COVID fact sheet into nine in-language written resources and five in-language audio recordings. The Long COVID project focuses on priority CALD communities particularly impacted by COVID-19 in 2020. Read the factsheet
Council for Intellectual Disability (CID) – Easy English information for people with intellectual disability and videos about COVID-19.
DHHS – Victorian Government Department of Health and Human Services advice and information on coronavirus available in 56 languages
Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) – Multicultural COVID-19 Outreach Program
Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV) – COVID-19 video series Protecting Our Communities
MyAus Covid-19 app – Multilingual resource application produced by Migration Council Australia (MCA) for Australia's culturally and linguistically diverse communities about COVID - 19, it's impact and available support.
National Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters' Council (NEMBC) – translated audio explainers of COVID-19 and flu vaccinations on SoundCloud. Translated audio available includes Arabic, Cantonese, Dari, Dinka, Hindi, Mandarinand Vietnamese. Listen today
NWMPHN Maintaining good mental health through the pandemic through in-language videos. Help spread the message of looking after our mental health in Hindi, Cantonese, Mandarin, Dinka and Vietnamese.
Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) – promoting The Older Persons COVID-19 Support Line (OPCSL) within ethno-specific communities.
SBS – news and information about coronavirus (COVID - 19) available in 63 languages.
Scope - Key word sign video, posters and easy english resources on communicating COVID-19.
StarHealth fact sheets on COVID-19 are now available – using only valid information sources for its fact sheets, distilling the key points from only trusted sources.
Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) surveyed 1500 Victorians and targeted follow up interviews were used to create the commission’s new research pandemic snapshots – Supporting workers with disability and Juggling parenting, caring and work. Explore the research snapshots, FaceBook
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8. ACKNOWLEDGING

Acknowledgment to Sources
Bye bye to Essentialists
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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NAVIGATION

NAVIGATION

GEIFN | AWAKENING | Peace in Conflicting Times – Commemorating UN International Day of Peace | 21 September 2025

In This Edition

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

Collected video stories of identity, connection and belonging by First Nations, Settlers and Migrants from downunder the rainbow.

Primary Collaborator

How to Reconcile

How to get involved?

MORE:

VIC | VMC | UPDATING | Community, News and Information | Wednesday 3 September 2025

Not a week goes by that doesn’t present both challenges and opportunities that strengthen our resolve towards promoting a diverse and socially cohesive Victoria.

News and events

HIGHLIGHTING | Premier's Multicultural Gala Dinner

MELB | RMIT | SCREENING | MFF tour | Thursday 25 September 2025 | 5.30-7.30pm

VIC | VMC | GATHERING | From dumplings to dialogue – let’s talk mental wellbeing | Saturday 8 November 2025 | 11.15am-3pm

VIC | GOV | INTRODUCING | Victoria's Treaty is here!

VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Supporting Regional Multicultural Community Organisations to deliver events across regional Victoria in 2026 | applications opening soon and close October 2025

Bendigo Information Session | Wednesday 1 October 2025 | 6.30pm

Ballarat information session | Thursday 2 October 2025 | 6.30pm

VIC | GOV | CALLING | Applicants to be a Board Member with Creative Victoria | expressions of interest close 11.59pm 8 October 2025

VIC | GOV | COMMITTING | Until every Victorian is safe – Victoria’s third rolling action plan to end family and sexual violence 2025-2027

MORE:

VIC | VMC | UPDATING | Community, News and Information | Wednesday 3 September 2025

In recent weeks, we have witnessed both tragedy and strength across our state. These moments remind us of the importance of compassion, unity and our shared commitment to a safer, more inclusive Victoria.

News and Events

VIC | CELEBRATING | Victorian Seniors Festival

AUST | FECCA | TRAINING | Community or faith leader supporting multicultural communities?

AUST | GOV | HELPING | Your community stay safe online

VIC | VicSRC | GATHERING | Twenty years of student-led change: Join VicSRC Congress 2025

THANKING | Sponsors for Premier’s Multicultural Gala Dinner

MORE:

AUST | CUIN | UPDATING | Making Technology Cultural Again and more | August-September 2025

Our lives are entangled with technology, our CTO Rezza Moieni told a TEDx audience in South Korea.

INTRODUCING | A Note from the CEO

Tech-driven Diversity

ANALYSING | The Big Breakthrough: Cultural Identity with Scientific Precision

REPORTING | TechDiversity Awards Night

ANNOUNCING | TechDiversity Academy Starts Soon!

Education and Experiences New Programs and Projects

Cultural Infusion's Atlas for Schools: FREE Limited Spots

ANNOUNCING | New Program and Touring Highlights

SPOTLIGHTING | Project: School Holiday Program with Junior Adventures Group

HIGHLIGHTING | In the Media and on the Blog

Coming Events

ANNOUNCING | Author Talk 3 September: You're Invited!

ANNOUNCING | Cultural Infusion Partners with Tech Show Paris 2025

CONGRATULATING | Kasia!

COMING | Up

HIGHLIGHTING | Calendar Spotlights

STAYING | Up to date

MORE:

GEIFN | CONSOLIDATED | Community Information | Monday 1 September 2025

Fast Facts: Community Responses Victoria & Australia

Topics List

1. HIGHLIGHTING

1.1 MELB | ICM | GATHERING | Vigil for Children of Gaza | from 7.30am Wednesday 3 September until 1.30pm Thursday 4 September 2025

1.2 MELB | FDPN | GATHERING | 2025 Queer Displacements Conference Program & more | Wednesday 3-Friday 5 September 2025

Pre-Conference day | Wednesday 3 September 2025 | 1pm-5pm

1.3 CoPP | GOV | SUPPORTING | Free pads and tampons

1.4 CoPP | SKF | CALLING | Community Groups for participation in St Kilda Festival | Expressions of interests close 5pm Wednesday 17 September 2025

The Festival Team

Your community group

What we are looking for

1.5 CoPP | WNOW | IMPROVING | Men’s Health Through Connection, Mateship and Community

1.6 AUST | EQPR | GATHERING | The Program for Better Together 2025

Three Kinds of Sessions

Better Think

Panel

Workshop

Now that you know what's on offer, make sure you have your ticket to Better Together 2025!

1.7 VIC | VMC | SCREENING | Multicultural Film Festival on Tour

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

2. GRANTING

2.1 SYDNEY | AFS | GRANTING | Funding for projects that make Sydney more awesome | Applications close 6.30pm first Wednesday of every month, next closes 3 September 2025

Application deadline

2.2 AUST | GOV | GRANTING | Strengthening Australia-Latin America Ties

2.3 TAS | GOV | Youth Arts | applications close Monday 8 September 2025

2.4 VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Round 3 of Victoria's 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program | applications close 15 September 2025

2.5 VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Support for Chinese Community Centres | applications close Wednesday 17 September 2025