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GiveOUT | UPDATING | Growing the pot of gold under the rainbow, GiveOUT Day 2023 and more | July 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

This month we have several exciting opportunities to join the growing GiveOUT team. 

Read on to learn more, and for updates on The Amplify Pride Fund, Aurora Ball, and opportunities for LGBTIQ+ organisations.

We're hiring - join the GiveOUT team! 

Marketing Campaign Lead

Are you a marketing and communications superstar with experience delivering creative campaigns and creating engaging digital content?

We have an exciting opportunity to join our growing team as a Marketing Campaign Lead! Working with the CEO and Program Coordinator, this short-term strategic role is responsible for leading the marketing and communications campaign for GiveOUT Day on 19 October 2023.

Position objectives include: 
  • Increase the reach of GiveOUT Day to new audiences 
  • Engage diverse stakeholders and supporters through creative communication channels 
  • Maximise brand awareness of GiveOUT Day and raise the profile of LGBTIQ+ organisations 
  • Increase the capacity of LGBTIQ+ organisations to develop and implement their own marketing campaigns

Communications and Administration Coordinator 

Are you an all-rounder with a passion for digital platforms and systems management?

The Communications and Administration Coordinator is a short-term role responsible for communications and administration support for GiveOUT Day.

Position objectives include:
  • Raise the profile of GiveOUT Day and of LGBTIQ+ organisations 
  • Manage systems and platforms that are used to achieve communication objectives.
  • Ensure smooth administration support to the CEO and GiveOUT Day team.

Applications for both roles will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with these positions to be filled ASAP.


CALLING | Expressions of interest for GiveOUT Day volunteers 

Have you been looking for a way to make a positive impact for LGBTIQ+ communities? We’re currently seeking expressions of interest to join us as a GiveOUT Day volunteer!

Volunteers are the lifeblood of GiveOUT Day. This whiz bang crew assists with building our community, running events, and supporting LGBTIQ+ organisations as they raise necessary funds. Alongside the GiveOUT team, volunteers work to raise the profile of important LGBTIQ+ causes, with the aim of making this the largest GiveOUT Day yet.

We are looking for volunteers who can commit to at least 1-2 hours of their time from the beginning of August until the end of October. You can find out more and apply today at the link below. 

UPDATING | Amplify Pride Fund

In 2022, GiveOUT teamed up with Aurora to create the Amplify Pride Fund, supported by The Snow Foundation and a strong core of community donors.

We are incredibly excited to announce that thanks to the support from the Snow Foundation, the Amplify Pride Fund will return for a second year in 2023. Expressions of interest will open in July/ August. Stay tuned for updates about the application process which will be shared on our social media and in future newsletters.

One of our grantees for the 2022 Amplify Pride Fund round is Trans Justice Project, the first trans-led national campaigning organisation. Led by Director Jackie Turner and in collaboration with Dhaksh Sooriyakumaran (formerly at RESET), the team will deliver a project tackling anti-trans hate speech and disinformation online.

The Trans Justice Project is a national, trans-led organisation working to push back against the influence of the anti-trans lobby and build a powerful movement standing up for justice, freedom, and equality for all trans and gender diverse people.

UPDATING | Aurora Ball

Our friends at The Aurora Group recently hosted their annual Aurora Ball, and it was a great success! Over $250,000 was raised for The Aurora Group’s important work for LGBTIQ+ communities.

Through the generous support of the Snow Foundation and the incredible Aurora Ball attendees, over $70,000 was raised for the Amplify Pride Fund alone!

Last year Amplify Pride funded five game-changing organisations, and we could have funded eleven, if we had the funds. As Aurora and GiveOUT kick off the second year of the Amplify Pride Fund, we would love to reach our goal of $150,000. If you missed your chance to make a pledge on the night, or you’d still like to give, it's not too late to help us reach this landmark goal!

WELCOMING | We have a new Program Coordinator! 

After 10 months as GiveOUT's Communications and Administration Coordinator, we're excited to announce that Leonard will be continuing with GiveOUT as our Program Coordinator! 

Leonard has spent the last five weeks away adventuring in Europe (pictured!) and we're excited to have him back on board to bring GiveOUT Day to life in 2023 - we have lots in store, and can't wait to share more in the coming weeks and months. 
Opportunities for LGBTIQ+ Organisations
 

NSW | CALLING | Nominees for Mental Health Matters Rainbow Inclusion Award | nominations close on 21 July 2023

Nominate a mental health program, project or initiative that demonstrates commitment to the mental health and wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ people to receive an award.

AUST | PRCO | HEARING | Your Say: Philanthropy and Volunteering | Wednesday 19 July 2023 | 2–3pm

As part of a public inquiry into philanthropy in Australia, the Productivity Commission (PRCO) is seeking contributions from LGBTIQ+ organisations to understand their experience of philanthropy and any issues they encounter.

The Commission is seeking contributions from LGBTIQ+ organisations, with two key ways to get involved. 
  1. Make an online submission.
    Find out more information and submit online. 
  2. Join the online consultation.
    To RSVP and receive a calendar invite for the session, please contact The Victorian Pride Centre's Pride Giving Advisor, Bree McKilligan on email.
As always, if you have any questions, comments or feedback, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

With love,
The GiveOUT team

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The GiveOUT Team (GiveOUT)

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MESAC | PRESENTING | Beaumaris Fossil Expo | Sunday 6 August 2023 | 10am–2.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

This annual Fossil Expo features amazing fossils from the nearby Beaumaris foreshore, and for the first time we are privileged to present collections from Fossil Beach on the Mornington Peninsula and the Victorian Surf Coast.

Rare opportunity to learn from the experts - Highlights include: 
  • Private collections of national significance 
  • The display includes Australia’s only model of Pelagornis (a toothed bird with a wingspan of nearly 6 metres). This prehistoric bird is known to have inhabited Beaumaris about 5.5 million years ago! 
  • A collection of Fossil Turtle fragments, never before seen in public. There are less than a dozen fragments of turtle known to exist from Australia, representing the last 60 million years of Australian prehistory. Several will be donated to Museum Victoria at the end of this exhibition. 
  • “Rosie” the partial backbone of a 6 metre juvenile whale. 
Presented by BESS (Bayside Earth Science Society Inc.) and MESAC
  • Where: Beaumaris Secondary College Auditorium, 117-135 Reserve Road Beaumaris, (near the corner of Balcombe Road)
  • Cost: $5 per head or $8 Family Ticket
  • Full Program

REPORTING | Winter Solstice Walk and Talk 2023

A pleasant and informative morning was had by all at the recent Winter Solstice Walk with all attendees receiving a book and fossil. It was great to see participants coming from as far as Mornington and Templestowe.

 

PUBLISHING | Insects and Spiders - new MESAC book

MESAC is very pleased to let everyone know that we have now completed the 5th book in our Urban Sanctuary series.Our congratulations go to the authors, John Buckeridge, Grace Hakam and John Eichler, for their rare and valued contributions.

The book covers many of the beautiful insects and spiders to be found in the Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary, and provides another species benchmarking resource for the future.

The book has now been delivered to various state, national, (and some overseas libraries), and remaining stock is limited.

Copies may be obtained from the Beaumaris Bookshop, 24 South Concourse, Beaumaris, and sometime soon, via a free PDF download via our website.

 

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Marine Education Science and Community (MESAC)
Address: P.O Box 7228, Beaumaris, VIC 3193 Australia

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PWR | UPDATING | Features of the 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions

[Edited extract from public address]

The 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions is 1 MONTH away, convening thousands of faith, spiritual, and civic organizers addressing the threat of autocracy, the backsliding of democracies around the world, the rise of nationalism, the climate emergency, and the humanitarian crises and wars around the world.

Ready to celebrate 130 years of legacy and 30 years of history in the City of Chicago, the 2023 Parliament Convening gathers under a clear understanding that without democracy, freedom, and human rights, our shared mission towards justice, peace, and sustainability is in peril.

Commit to Action, Join Us at the 2023 Parliament

Beyond thoughts and prayers, the 2023 Parliament of the World’s Religions offers a program that celebrates the diversity of participating traditions and equips leaders, organizers, and people with the tools, best practices, and an activated network ready to be a critical line of defense and progress.
Features of the 2023 Parliament Convening

  • The Parade of Faiths
    A pre-Parliament parade featuring Chicago-area faith, spiritual, & cultural communities hosted on Sunday 13 August 2023.
  • The Awards
    Legacy and inaugural awards recognizing changemakers in the interfaith movement.
  • The Sacred Fire
    A Sacred Fire lit continuously the five days of the convening, hosted by the Indigenous community.
  • Langar
    A complimentary vegetarian lunch open to all, hosted by the Sikh community.
  • The Plenaries
    120 minute intersectional mainstage sessions for all attendees in the Plenary Hall.
  • The Assemblies
    120 minute high level breakouts that feature major speakers in the Plenary Hall
  • Film Festival
    Documentaries and short films sharing diverse stories, sponsored by the Wayfarer Foundation.
  • Kids of PoWR
    Interactive and inspiring social justice programs for kids and families.
  • Art Exhibits
    Art and immersive exhibitions from diverse artists.
  • Community Events
    Offsite programs offered by community partners.
  • The Sessions
    Panels, workshops, observances, performances, and other on-site programs.
  • Service Projects
    Offsite community service projects exclusive to Parliament attendees.

Don't miss the world's premier interfaith convening of people of faith, spiritual, and ethical convictions in Chicago this 14-18 August 2023.

The 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions offers a unique opportunity to learn, share, and be an experiential part of the work making a difference in the world. Join us, be a vital partners in this fight for justice, for freedom, for human rights, and for democracy.

MORE:

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

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PHAAA | CALLING | Expressions of Interest for Healing the Spirit Exhibition 2023 | submissions open now until midnight Tuesday 15 August 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

A 4-week long exhibition as part of our Healing the Spirit' Festival' 2023.

The exhibition will be 24 September - 29 October 2023 (dates may be subject to minor variation)

Selected works will be displayed in Artful Yoga Gallery, 1 Vale St, St Kilda 3182
and available for purchase for 4-weeks.
  • Artists will have the opportunity to participate in a professional curatorial discussion.
  • Artists and friends will be invited to our Healing the Spirit' festival and exhibition opening celebration.
  • The exhibition theme is Healing the Spirit' and can include nature, multiculturalism, spirituality, world peace, Eastern healing practices, and/or healing the spirit.

MORE:

Planetary Healing Artists Association of Australia (PHAAA)
Address: PO Box 1638, St Kilda South VIC 3182
Tel: 0415 552 488
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PHAAA | GATHERING | Healing the Spirit Peace Festival | Sunday 24 September 2023 | 1–6pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Healing the Spirit Peace Festival celebrates the International Day of Peace and further strengthens the bonds within our community. 

As part of the festival, we will be organizing a March to the Peace Pole, where we will come together to commemorate this important day and reaffirm our dedication to fostering peace.

We wholeheartedly invite you to join us in this festival, where we will engage in various activities, performances, and workshops centered around healing, well-being, and promoting a peaceful coexistence. We believe that through collective effort and a shared vision, we can create a positive impact not only within ourselves but also in the world around us.

Please mark your calendars for the Healing the Spirit Festival, which will take place on 24 September at O'Donnell Gardens. 

More detailed information regarding the schedule and activities will be shared with you closer to the date.

MORE:

Planetary Healing Artists Association of Australia (PHAAA)
Address: PO Box 1638, St Kilda South VIC 3182
Tel: 0415 552 488
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PHAAA | REPORTING | Peace pole Installation Ceremony | Friday 26 May 2023 | 2-3pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Expressing our heartfelt gratitude to each and every enthusiastic participant in the recent Peace Pole Installation Ceremony held at 30 Jacka Bvd, St Kilda, on the Foreshore. 

Support and contributions made this occasion truly special and meaningful.

A video has been uploaded on YouTube capturing the essence of the Peace Pole Installation Ceremony. The video beautifully encapsulates the moments of unity, harmony, and hope that were shared during the event.

We are immensely proud to have created this inclusive sacred space within our community, and we firmly believe that it will continue to inspire peace and goodwill in the future. The Peace Pole stands as a powerful symbol of unity and serves as a constant reminder of our shared commitment to promoting harmony and understanding in our society.

We invite you to watch and relive the experience by clicking on the following link: 

MORE:

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

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VMC | UPDATING | Building a stronger, more inclusive and socially cohesive Victoria | Thursday 13 July 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

Last month, the Australian Government launched the Multicultural Framework Review.

This is a good step towards redefining the narrative surrounding multiculturalism and building a stronger, more inclusive, and socially cohesive Australia.

It will assess our most important national systems, policies and programs to ensure they work for our multicultural communities.

The VMC will make a submission and we thank you all for your ongoing engagement, which helps inform us in all of our discussions and submissions to government.

I also encourage you all to visit the Home Affairs website to learn more, and to consider participating in consultations or to file your own public submission. We all have the human right to civic participation, and your voice is important in ensuring inclusive decision-making for this reform.

On another note, NAIDOC Celebrations have closed for another year, I want to thank the Monash Interfaith Gathering for allowing me to join their event. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn about the connection between the Indigenous environment and their cultural practices from Uncle Andrew Gardiner.  The VMC is proud to support Indigenous Australians; we are always seeking to collaborate and learn from each other.

And finally, I’m pleased to remind you that the second round of the 2023 VMC Regional Advisory Committee (RAC) meetings have kicked off.

The demographics of regional Victoria are changing at a rapid pace and our RAC’s are an important part of informing the VMC’s priorities and helping us to understand and support local communities through their individual issues, challenges and successes.

If you have a passion for regional Victoria and for multiculturalism I urge you to consider joining our Regional Advisory Committee. We are now inviting expressions of interest for the next term 2023- 2025


Thank you and keep reading below for the latest on VMC news and events and don’t forget to sign up to the VMC database below.

Warm regards,
Viv Nguyen, Chairperson
 

 News and Events 

JOINING | The VMC database!

In the last couple of years, the VMC has played a significant role in supporting, engaging and informing the multicultural and multifaith communities during extremely tough circumstances, like the floods, fires and the pandemic.

In order to continue this effort, we need a robust and up-to-date Multicultural Communities Database.

Please help us by providing your organisation's contact details.

There are two questionnaires - please only fill out ONE. 

You can complete a questionnaire on behalf of an organisation you represent OR as an individual.
If you have any questions, please email the VMC 

You must complete the above questionnaire and consent to the VMC having information about your organisation to be among the first to know of relevant Governmental or community resources, awards, grants, news, events, programs, and other opportunities, including VMC-hosted events such as the Multicultural Gala Dinner. 

The VMC and DFFH will contact people on the database from time to time to ask for their views on important issues.
 

The Scanlon Foundation Annual Community Grants 2023 | applications now open, close midnight Friday 1 September 2023

This year’s community grants will provide up to a maximum of $30,000 for projects that support migrant communities in employment pathways or with English literacy. The grant is open nationwide to all locations in each state. Projects should consider the experience of migrants and of receiving communities and aim to nurture positive outcomes.
 

CEH | PUBLISHING | Long COVID plain language and translations website 

The Centre for Culture, Ethnicity and Health (CEH) has developed a plain language and translated website on long COVID, which addresses the need for inclusivity across diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds and literacy levels.

The site has been professionally translated into Arabic, Vietnamese, and Simplified Chinese, and is also available in plain English for easy comprehension.

Approved by the Department of Health, this website raises awareness about long COVID, including symptoms, prevention strategies, and available treatments. It also offers a library of links to resources in multiple languages from reputable sources, produced locally and internationally.
 

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:
 

 Anti-racism 

VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say: Strengthening Victoria’s anti-vilification laws

The Victorian government wants your input on strengthening Victoria’s anti-vilification laws. 

Consultation between government and community is happening now.

This first stage of consultation is focused on:
  • Extending vilification protections beyond race and religion.
  • Ensuring that Victorians can make vilification complaints for more than one attribute.
Community members can fill out a survey or upload a submission to respond to the consultation paper available on the Engage Victoria page. The deadline for feedback is 5pm Friday 8 September 2023. 
 

VIC | GOV | ADVISING | Victoria bans display of Nazi symbol

It is a criminal offence in Victoria to publicly display the Nazi Hakenkreuz symbol.

Unfortunately, neo-Nazi groups still use this Nazi symbol to intimidate, incite hatred and violence against the Jewish community and other diverse groups. It is fundamentally incompatible with Victoria’s multicultural and multifaith society.

However, the sacred Swastika should not be mistaken for a Nazi symbol - they are not the same. The Sacred Swastika has been used by Buddhist, Hindu and Jain communities for thousands of years to represent auspiciousness, purity, peace, good fortune and love.  Buddhists, Hindus and Jains can continue to display their sacred Swastika for religious and cultural purposes.
 

 Emergency Management 

VIC | EMV | GRANTING | Support for natural disaster preparedness and response in Victoria | applications close 4pm Thursday 10 August 2023 

Applications are now open for Emergency Management Victoria's (EMV) Risk and Resilience Grants Program.

It’s a funding scheme available for initiatives that reduce the risk and limit the impact of disasters associated with natural hazards in Victoria.

Projects are required to focus on at least one of the following key themes:
  • Climate change adaptation and risk reduction
  • Designing for risk and resilience – supporting initiatives that strengthen the resilience of Victoria infrastructure, including government and community infrastructure
  • Managing local and regional risks and building resilience – support initiatives that improve understanding of local or regional disaster risks, strengthen accountability for and governance of regional risks, and/or support initiatives that are seeking to directly reduce disaster risk at a local or regional level.
 

 Gender Equality 

Helping women serve and shape their local communities

The Victorian Government is providing women across Victoria with the tools and connections to advance their leadership ambitions ahead of local government elections next year.

Women Leading Locally is delivered by the Institute of Community Directors Australia in partnership with Women for Election. 65 women are currently participating in the second wave of the program.

Participants were selected from across the state with a focus on regions where women are underrepresented in councils. The 60 participants from the first year of the program will graduate in August.

Women participating in the program also represent other historically underrepresented groups including Aboriginal women, young women, culturally and linguistically diverse women, women living with disability and women who identify as LGBTQI+.
 

 Justice and Community Safety 

Crime Stoppers Victoria empowers communities with accessible support

Crime Stoppers Victoria have expanded their translated resources, which are aimed at providing crucial information and support to people from diverse backgrounds.

Latest additions include:
  • Car security checklist,
  • Home security checklist,
  • Drug harm frequently asked questions pamphlet,
  • Frequently asked questions flyer, and
  • Youth advisory group sign up flyer.
These new resources complement existing materials, such as the Crime Stoppers information poster and the Tri-service magnet, ensuring a comprehensive range of support tools. Crime Stoppers Victoria understands the importance of accessible information in promoting safety and crime prevention within our diverse communities.

These resources are now available in a wide range of languages, including Amharic, Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Dinka, Farsi, Italian Khmer, Korean, Nepali, Punjabi, Somali, Thai, and Vietnamese. While some resources may have more translated options available than others, Crime Stoppers Victoria strive to cover as many languages as possible to reach as many individuals as they can.
 

 People with disability 

EFA | JOINING | Fun at friendship groups for young people with disability

The Tham Gia (Join In) program by Extended Families Australia (EFA) runs inclusive community friendship groups, targeted for young people with disability. There are currently groups located in the western and southern suburbs of Melbourne.

It’s all about helping young people with disabilities and their families with a multicultural background become more involved in community activities and learn skills that assist community inclusion.

There are two streams - the Explorer Program, which is for young adults aged 17-25, and the School Holidays Program, which is for the primary school age group and the secondary school age group.
 

 Senior Victorians 

Multicultural education campaign zeroes in on elder abuse

Launched this year on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (15 June), the ‘Have You Thought About Later Life?’ campaign urges older people to safeguard themselves by organising their wills and other important legal documents.

For elderly Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, additional barriers to later life planning include lack of awareness as well as confusion due to different approaches in their home country.

The campaign provides a range of relevant educational resources in English, Mandarin, Arabic, Greek, Vietnamese and Italian. It is being promoted through community-specific media and by influencers within each community.

MORE:

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

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CUIN | UPDATING | From London to New York: Around the World with Diversity Atlas

[Edited extract from public address]

This month's newsletter is packed with event highlights from the DEI Data Summit, London Tech Week, to a webinar with New York University. 

We are happy to announce the launch of the Diversity Atlas Programs and free DEI Health Check, along with our recent submission to the Australian Parliamentary Joint Committee. Don't miss a quick introduction to our littlest & youngest Diversity Atlas members. 
     

PRESENTED | Global Inclusion Online Forum: DEI Data Summit

The Global Inclusion Online Forum is a global digital platform comprising an annual forum and smaller-scale events throughout the year promoting diversity, equity and inclusion for advocates and practitioners. Our Director of DEI Roman Ruzbacky and CTO Rezza Moieni are presenting a session at 4.00am AEST, ‘Addressing Diversity Fatigue in Data Analysis and Reporting Impacting Decision Making’. 
"As a leader, I am forever trying to co-create a culture & an organization where everyone continues to feel valued & appreciated & always keeps sight of our organization’s vision."  –Peter Mousaferiadis, CEO Cultural Infusion
     

ATTENDED | London Tech Week

Diversity Atlas was proud to be selected to represent Australian Innovation as part of a trade mission to London Tech Week in June 2023 by the Victorian State Government. We represented a group of over 600 people internationally, and one of 36 businesses from Victoria, Australia as a Trade Mission.
 
London Tech Week is a huge annual event, that showcases the very best of tech and this year had the largest audience to date of over 15,000 people.

There were many worldwide experts, thought leaders and speakers with the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak kicking the week off with the opening address. There was a vast range of topics covered, AI featuring heavily and as expected, Diversity Equity and Inclusion were a common thread to many discussions, in particular to better reporting with ESG’s but also the complexities and need for greater understanding as well. 

This was evidenced by Caroline Brady, Director of Impact Management & Research, Fundamental Equity at BlackRock when she spoke about the growing need for organisations to have a closer look at their own operations. What training, data, teaching, biases do they have. And not to just look at the Boards, but all the way down. She also pointed a more outside stakeholders view for organisations with growing expectations from investors who are now expecting much more, but also the need to be more representative of customers that are served. 

Impact investment is not at the very forefront and Laura Citron CEO, London & Partners (an independent industry body that represents and advances the global FinTech community in the UK) also spoke key values of belonging, where everyone needs to be welcomed. With the growth of AI it was clear the need for greater humanity existed and from topics and presentations these two topics and how we grapple with them are clearly front of mind.
"My clear takeaways and hot topics for LTW; AI and Humanity – how can we grow the importance and understanding of the latter, not at the cost of the former". – Michael Walmsley, Chief Experience Officer
We also caught up with some of our UK clients and Partners and established many new great contacts in what an incredibly informative and valuable visit. A huge shout out to the Global Victoria team that organised many supporting workshops and networking events spread across central London. From the Oval Cricket ground, to lawyers, consultants offices, Australia House and some great rooftop bars their network and organisational skills was incredible and hugely valued. The entire mission was amazed and grateful of the opportunities Global Victoria helped open up.
 
We look forward to future events and expanding our reach in UK and Europe.
     

SHARING | Outside the Box with NYU

“Every classroom is an act of making citizens in the realm of that room, and every room is a figure for the larger community.” – A. Bartlett Giamatti (1938–89)
On Thursday 22 June, our CEO & Founder Peter Mousaferiadis, Cultural Ambassador Wanah Bumakor and Executive Assistant Catherine McCredie attended a New York University online seminar on Ethnic Conflicts run by Prof. (Adj.) Amb. (Hon.) Colette Mazzucelli. 

Wanah discussed the origin and nature of ethnic conflicts in Africa, while Peter asked everyone for their definition of ‘diversity’, prompting a range of interesting replies and conversation. 

Not just a powerful diversity data and equity tool, Diversity Atlas itself creates a space of inclusivity and unexpected connections, and we felt lucky to share insights with this clever cohort. 

ANNOUNCING | Recent Submission for Australia's Human Rights Framework   

We are proud to announce that Cultural Infusion's recent submission to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights has been approved and released as a public document. 

The upholding of human rights is an essential precondition for a healthy democracy. Human rights are closely linked to peace, stability and sustainable social and economic development, but the rights of minority groups, in particular, are often overlooked in democratic systems.

Our submission to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights' Inquiry into Australia’s Human Rights Framework calls for a Human Rights Act and a revised national Human Rights Framework, and includes the following recommendations with supporting detail: Incorporate a strategy for data management; Incorporate DEI strategies; Embed intercultural capability into the Framework; Extend education and training around human rights in cooperation with the entire community; Take care with language.  

We are also recommending that the group overseeing revisions to the Framework include strong representation from minority groups in Australia and at least one person from a very small minority group (fewer than 200 members) for the essential insights their perspective can offer. 
     

WELCOMING | Babies, Babies, Babies!

The Diversity Atlas team is celebrating a baby boom! Welcome to the world, Kimmi and Amani and congratulations to respective parents Mylinh Le (kickass Database Analyst) and Wanah Bumakor (Cultural Ambassador extraordinaire). We are overjoyed for you both. We also have 7 month old Nate (baby of Marketing Specialist, Eileen) joining us remotely all the way from Malaysia. We are anticipating more new arrivals quite soon so stay tuned!


HIGHLIGHTING | Bastille Day

Our spotlighted date for July is France’s National Day, known in English as Bastille Day, which falls on 14 July each year. 

France’s National Day in commemoration of the ‘storming of the Bastille’ when on 14 July 1789, a crowd of around 1,000 people (the majority local artisans) surrounded and eventually broke into the Bastille prison. The Bastille, which had been built in the 1300s as a military fort to protect Paris, was seen as a symbol of the monarchy’s tyranny.

It held many political dissidents, including the writer Voltaire, though by 1789 it was scheduled for demolition and only held 7 prisoners: 4 accused of forgery, 1 at the request of his family and 2 ‘lunatics’. 

The event is widely considered to be the instigating event of the French Revolution.

MORE:

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

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PWR | COMMEMORATING | Global Ethic Symposium: Celebrating 30 Years of the Global Ethic

[Edited extract from public address]

At the 2023 Parliament of the World's Religions this August, the Global Ethic Symposium celebrates 30 years of the Parliament's foundational document Towards a Global Ethic (An Initial Declaration). 

The Symposium is generously sponsored by Notre Dame University’s Ansari Institute for Global Engagement with Religion.

The Global Ethic Symposium brings together prominent representatives from several religious and spiritual traditions to tackle this question: 
How do we put into practice our commitments to foster a culture of respect for life, of economic justice, of truth and compassion, of women’s rights, and of care for the Earth?
The Symposium opens with the assembly The Global Ethic in Action on Monday 14 August 2023. During the assembly, luminaries discuss how the Global Ethic relates to their personal and organizational efforts to improve the social good.

Luminaries of the Global Ethic Assembly

  • Nitin Ajmera is the Chair of the Parliament of the World’s Religions, a senior management professional, and a practitioner of the Digambar Jain tradition.
  • Rev. Charline Manuel is a New Thought Unity Minister, Chair of Unity World Headquarters, a Trustee of the PoWR, and Chair of its Global Ethic committee.
  • Dr. Mahan Mirza is a teaching Professor of Islam & Science in the Keough School of Global Affairs at the University of Notre Dame and Director of the Ansari Institute for Global Engagement with Religion.
  • Rabbi David Rosen is the former Chief Rabbi of Ireland and International Director of Interreligious Affairs of the American Jewish Committee. 
  • Dr. Daniel Gómez-Ibáñez helped launch PoWR in 1988, served as Executive Director, and worked with Hans Küng on the Global Ethic, co-writing the section, “Declaration Toward a Global Ethic.”
  • Steve Sarowitz is a film producer, business leader, humanitarian, changemaker, Director of Payescape, partner in Wayfarer Studios, and a practicing Bahá’í.
  • Rev. Traci Blackmon is the Associate General Minister of Justice & Local Church Ministries for the United Church of Christ (UCC) and Senior Pastor of Christ The King UCC in Missouri.
  • Karma Lekshe Tsomo is the founder and past president of Sakyadhita: International Association of Buddhist Women and director of Jamyang Foundation.
  • Kehkashan Basu is a Canadian environmental and human rights activist, founder of Green Hope Foundation that currently works at a grassroots level in 28 countries, and trustee of PoWR.
  • Dr. Stephan Schlensog is the Secretary General of the Global Ethic Foundation founded by Hans Küng in Tübingen, Germany.
The Symposium’s first five programs are on 15–16 August 2023—part panel and part workshop—engage each of the Global Ethic’s commitments. The final program offers a chance to envision the world described by the Global Ethic, the world we all want to live in. And on 17 August 2023 join the Ansari Institute for The Pen and the Sword series featuring an awards ceremony and reception.

About the Ansari Institute

Established in 2017 and inaugurated in 2018, the Rafat and Zoreen Ansari Institute for Global Engagement with Religion is dedicated to studying, learning from, and collaborating with religious communities worldwide for the common good. Its wide-ranging work includes research, teaching, outreach, and interaction with religious communities, faith and civic leaders, academics and journalists, and the general public. Together, these efforts enable the institute to foster deliberation, offer training, implement transformative educational programs, and generate ideas on how religion can continue to serve as a force for good in the world.

MORE:

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

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ILF | COMMEMORATING | NAIDOC | For Our Elders | 2-9 July 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

The 2023 NAIDOC theme ‘For Our Elders’ acknowledges the incredible role that Elders play in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and Communities.

For many First Nations peoples, Elders are tasked with passing down cultural knowledge and guidance. Many First Nations Elders are Survivors of the Stolen Generations, advocate for social justice and human rights, and have passed on thousands of generations worth of knowledge and culture to the younger ones today. 

For the Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF), Elders have guided the stories that we help publish and are the backbone of the Communities we work with. 

Elders in remote Communities are the knowledge holders of cultural practices that have existed on these lands for thousands of generations. Being strong in one’s culture and language is the aspiration of our Elders, both past and present. Whether it is through our Book Supply, Book Buzz, or Community Publishing, the work of the ILF would not be possible without the expertise and care that Elders have for their Communities. 

Murli La: Songs and Stories of the Tiwi Islands

Written by the Ngarukuruwala Women’s Group from the Tiwi Islands and Dr Genevieve Campbell, Murli la is a beautifully designed book that celebrates the culture of the Tiwi Islands through song. 

The songs presented in this book hold cultural, genealogical, geographical and spiritual knowledge that has been passed down through thousands of years of Tiwi storytelling, ceremony and in the songlines that circle the islands. There is also a QR code so that you can listen to the songs in language while you read. 

The Ngarukuruwala Women’s Group have been sisters and friends all their lives. As young women, they composed songs to pass on the stories of their islands, culture and ancestors.

As Elders and mentors in their Community, these women draw on the old ways of Tiwi song traditions to help young Tiwi people connect with their language and cultural identity.

Murli la comes from the knowledge and wisdom of the Tiwi Elders and honours them because it encapsulates, in a written and visual format, what they wish for the young people to learn. 
“I reckon it’s a wonderful thing to do this, to show our children, to know and sing well in their Tiwi language. We know they can speak in English, but in two languages. English and Tiwi” – Tiwi Elder Mary. 
“I think it is wonderful. The presentation today will be real best for our younger women to look at the older people, you know, singing and dancing, and it’s all about this book” – Tiwi Elder Elaine. 

We Look, We Find

One of ILF’s newest titles, We Look, We Find, was written and illustrated by the Napranum Community in Cape York, Queensland. The story explores the importance of being on Country with Elders and is the first time Thaynakwith language has ever been commercially published in a book.

This book was guided by the expertise of Community Elder Thanakupi, who created the book Thanakupi's Guide to Language and Culture. 
“As a proud Indigenous woman, Thanakupi taught the Community that language is a part of you, and you should be proud of that” – Trish, a Director of the Napranum PaL Group.
Thanakupi was a renowned ceramic artist, educator, linguist and Elder of the Napranum Community that helped establish the first preschool and was one of the first preschool teachers in Napranum.

She was the last fluent speaker of Thaynakwith and spent much time documenting and passing down knowledge for the next generation.

Thanakupi’s passion and teachings significantly influenced We Look, We Find, and it is the hope of the Napranum Community that this book will help to keep her legacy alive.

What NAIDOC means to ILF Staff

Hear from proud Kamilaroi and Dunghutti woman, Jolene (ILF's Book Buzz Manager) and proud Jingili, Mudburra and Mangarrayi woman Cindy (ILF’s Publishing Projects Editor) about what this years NAIDOC theme means to them. 

MORE:

Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF)
Address: 17/207 Kent Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Tel: (02) 9280 0644
Website | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Instagram | LinkedIn
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CoPP | UPDATING | Community Sector News | 4 July 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

Welcome to the first Community Sector News for the FY 23-24. 

This month there are some new grant opportunities for Port Phillip community groups. Also, the Port Phillip Library Service are hosting a lot of interesting activities for the community.

 Training and Professional Development 

These workshops are part of the City of Port Phillip Community Training Calendar.

Grant Writing Workshop (in person) | Tuesday 25 July 2023 | 9.30am–12noon 

This free grant writing training session will cover all aspects of grant writing from where to find grants, understanding the guidelines and selection criteria, working through an application and budget and how to frame your project. Presented by Debby Maziarz.
  • Where: Council Chamber - St Kilda Town Hall, 99A Carlisle Street, St Kilda Victoria 3182
  • Cost: Free
  • Bookings: essential, online via Trybooking

Grant Writing Workshop 2023 (online) | Thursday 3 August 2023 | 6–8.30pm 

This free grant writing training session will cover all aspects of grant writing from where to find grants, understanding the guidelines and selection criteria, working through an application and budget and how to frame your project. Presented by Debby Maziarz.

Grant Writing for Creatives 2023 (online) | Thursday 10 August 2023 | 6–8.30pm

​This free grant writing training session will share:
  • practical and transferable ways to approach grant writing for arts and cultural projects
  • developing and communicating your project idea and your project plan
  • developing budgets and funding strategy
  • working with an auspice organisation
  • finding project partners
  • presenting support material
  • evaluating your project
  • more information about City of Port Phillip 2023/24 Cultural Development Fund grants.
Presented by Debby Maziarz. 
For more information: Sharyn Dawson, Arts Grants and Funding Organiser 03 9209 6165

Environmental Leaders Course 

The Port Phillip Environmental Leaders course for August 2023 is now open! The course is open to anyone who wants to be an environmental leader. Be inspired by like-minded people, develop an existing idea or come up with a new idea. There's no experience necessary. Your ideas, enthusiasm and openness are what they are looking for.
 

Challenging Ageism Free online short course 

The free online Challenging Ageism short course is designed to give you the knowledge and confidence you need to recognise and challenge ageism wherever you see it.

What is ageism?
Ageism is all around us. In fact, because ageing is a universal experience, it is an unfortunate reality that most of us will experience ageism at some point in our lifetimes. You may be on the receiving end of it, see it happening to others or perpetuate ageism yourself, even unintentionally.

The Challenging Ageism Short Course will shine a light on what it's like to experience ageism and the common assumptions and behaviours that are contributing to ageist attitudes.

In this one-hour course, you will explore what ageism is, where it comes from and the serious consequences it has for older people and the societies they live in. You will learn to recognise ageism, including within yourself, and explore a range of proactive strategies you can put in place to challenge it.

 Grants and Funding 

Council's Seniors Festival Events Grants 2023 | applications closing 4 pm Friday 15 July 2023

The 2023 Seniors Festival runs from Sunday 1 October to Sunday 15 October 2023.

The City of Port Phillip Seniors Festival is a celebration for seniors. It includes free and low-cost events that recognise the valuable contribution seniors make to our community.

The City of Port Phillip 2023 Seniors Festival Events Grants applications open at 9 am on Friday 30 June and close 4 pm Friday 15 July 2023.

The City of Port Phillip provides grants to fund events in Port Phillip. The purpose of the Seniors Festival is to promote a positive attitude to ageing amongst the whole community.

We are interested in hosting events that showcase your organisation or community such as open days at sporting clubs and cultural groups, musical and literary events, dances and art exhibitions, events that prioritise inclusion and celebration.

Applicants who are interested in hosting an event are required to apply for a grant online through the Smarty Grants website.

Applicants can apply for a Seniors Festival Event grant up to $800.

For further information or if you require assistance with your application please contact, Assist on 9209 6777 and ask to speak to the Community Building Officer.

Quick Response Grants Program 2023-2024

The Quick Response Grant Program is open for applications.

The Quick Response Grant Program is a small grants program with 2 categories available for eligible community organisations, social enterprises and individuals.

Category 1: Support for Individuals
Maximum funding per application: $500
  • Purpose: To fund individual residents experiencing barriers to participate in elite and competitive local events or activities.
  • Objective: Support for individual residents who are experiencing barriers to participation and have been selected and or invited to participate in an educational, sporting, cultural, recreational, or artistic pursuit through elite and competitive local events and activities.
Recipients are only entitled to one-off funding under the grant program per financial year.

Category 2: Support for Community Organisations and Social Enterprises
Maximum funding per application: $2,000
  • Purpose: To fund community organisations and social enterprises to deliver programs and projects that support Council to achieve its strategic directions, and do not align with the objectives and / or other timelines of other Council grant programs.
  • Objectives:
    Support for:
    • programs and projects that increase social connection and participation, particularly for marginalised, vulnerable, and disadvantaged cohorts.
    • programs and projects that enhance, beautify, and celebrate our local neighbourhoods.
    • sustainability initiatives that maximise reuse and recycling opportunities and supports the circular economy.
    • economic and creative initiatives that encourage access to employment and education.
Recipients are only entitled to one-off funding under the grant program per financial year.

Program Timeframes
Applications are open during each financial year until funds are expended. Applications must be submitted at least eight weeks prior to commencement of the planned activity.
  • Applications close: 1st Monday of each month (7 August, 4 September and 2 October)
  • Applications assessment period 1 - 3 Weeks (from closing date)
  • Applicants notified and funds issued to successful applicant 3 - 4 weeks (from closing date)
  • Acquittal completed 4 weeks from activity, project or event completion.

South Melbourne Community Chest Grants 2023 | applications close 5pm Monday 7 August 2023

Annually, the South Melbourne Community Chest distributes proceeds from their OpShop, financial donations and bequests as grants to a wide variety of community organisations including environmental groups, after school programs, gymnastics, meal programs, and older persons groups and clubs within the City of Port Phillip.

If your group/club needs funding for a project that will benefit the local community and residents of the City of Port Phillip, you are encouraged to apply.

If you wish to apply for a grant in the current round, you will need to download and complete the grant application form below.

Heritage Talk: Enchanted Beneath the Bluff | Tuesday 25 July 2023  | 6.30-7.30pm

Within a place of love, sorrow and salvation, where Elwood’s Swamp met St Kilda’s Red Bluff, two daring Theosophists – Agnes Simmons and Geraldine Minet – sought to bring prosperity to Colonial Victoria of the 1890’s in the midst of the Depression, challenging providence and geology.

Their engine ‘Helena’ was fired up to bore deeper for their black diamonds than any other coal exploration in the world!

Join us for a presentation by local historians Isaac Hermann and Heather Arnold on this little known aspect of Elwood’s history.

The talk will be specially introduced by architect and former Councillor David Brand.
Copies of the book will be available at the event.

 Other programs and initiatives 

Power Saving Bonus for all Victorian households | closing 31 August 2023

The Power Saving Bonus (PSB) is a one-off $250 payment to Victorian households who look for a better energy deal on Victoria’s Energy Compare website.

The new $250 payment builds on the existing PSB program, previously available to eligible concession card holders.

The PSB4 program will close 31 August 2023. Applications can be completed online.

Need help? Make an appointment to have face to face assistance at:
Port Phillip Community Group, 161 Chapel Street, St Kilda. Phone 8598 6600.
Elwood St Kilda Neighbourhood Learning Centre, 87 Tennyson Street, Elwood. Phone 9531 1954.

English Conversation Cafe at the St Kilda Library | Tuesdays 11, 18 & 25 July 2023 |  1.30–2.30pm

Do you know someone who is interested in improving their English speaking skills and connecting with new people?

Join the FREE Conversation Café at St Kilda Library and practice speaking English in a fun and relaxed environment.

MORE:

City of Port Phillip (CoPP)
Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182
Email: news@portphillip.vic.gov.au

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CHUFFED | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Ben Pennings' Legal Defence Against Billionaire

[Edited extract from public address]

Despite already being ‘worth’ $100 billion, Gautam Adani is suing Ben for a whopping $17million. He wants to take away the suburban home of Ben’s family, as punishment for undertaking peaceful climate action. Adani even hired security contractors to follow Ben’s wife and kids around, taking photos without their consent.

Aussie legend Bob Brown called to send his support to #StopAdani protest leader Ben Pennings:
"Billionaire Gautam Adani has bullied my friend Ben Pennings and his family for three years in an aggressive attempt to stifle peaceful protest. Please give Ben your help to fend off Adani's attacks in the Supreme Court and to defend the political freedoms of us all."
Ben told me “Bob’s bravery inspired me when I was a kid, watching the Franklin Dam protests on the 7pm news. We’ve both faced violence, death threats, Murdoch slander and vicious lawsuits. Bob standing behind me gives me the confidence to stand firm, defend the right to protest. People power will and must win.”

Ben isn’t a billionaire - so he needs the support of people like Bob, and you. Can you top up his legal fund to protect peaceful protest?

So far almost 5,000 donors on Chuffed have chipped in over half what he currently needs to defend this vicious lawsuit.

Thank you for defending the people.

MORE:

Team Chuffed
Address: Level 2, 60 Martin Place, Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia
Website: www.chuffed.org

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

[Edited extract from public address]

Yamandhu marang.

We are pleased to announce that the first release of Book Supply is now out in Community! So far, we have delivered over 88,000 books that are going to be used in more than 380 remote Communities. Even though we have not even finished Book Supply for 2023 yet, we are expecting for publishers to send us their submissions for the 2024 book packs. The selection panel are excited to meet next month.

Next month we will be celebrating NAIDOC week (2 - 9 July), a time to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We welcome all Sydney-siders to join us at International Tower 3 at Barangaroo to celebrate with the ILF team, browse our books and hear from key speakers. 

ILF would like to acknowledge the very generous support of Mindshare Australia & New Zealand and UnLtld who through their media networks have provided over $2M in pro bono of national advertising support for our new national fundraiser, Busking For Change.

Please consider making a tax-deductible donation this End of Financial Year (EOFY). Click here to learn 5 reasons why we are working hard to support remote Communities with books in First Languages that inspire curiosity, spark imaginations, and promote a love for reading and learning. Just $10 puts one culturally relevant book into the hands of a child in a remote Community. Donate today.

Thank you for sharing our vision that reading opens doors.
Mandaang guwu,
Ben Bowen, Chief Executive Officer

SPOTLIGHTING | Word of the Month

To celebrate UNESCO's second year of the Decade of Indigenous Languages, each month we encourage readers to learn a new word in either an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander language. 
 
This month's word is magpie in Bundjalung language. Bundjalung Country is in the far North East Coast of NSW and the Southern Eastern coast of Queensland.
 

 News 

ANNOUNCING | ILF Impact Report 2022

We are pleased to announce that our 2022 Impact Report is now available to view online. This document allows our organisation to reflect on how far we came in 2022, and what we wish to achieve in the future. 
 

JOINING | Busking for Change | registrations still open!

Join 85 schools across Australia for this joyful and inclusive, Term 3 primary school fundraiser. There is nothing like a sing-along to bring out the best in kids and raise their spirits! Busking For Change engages kids in song, music, movement and language. Simply put, schools learn a song in English and Kriol and raise funds for the ILF.

ATTENDING | BookPeople Conference

We enjoyed connecting with booksellers and publishers at the BookPeople conference this month where we showcased how to get involved with our Book Supply program. We would also like to thank those that participated in the silent auction as we have raised over $3,000 which will help fund our programs.

SAVING | The Date for ILD!

In collaboration with Sydney Opera House, we are proud to present a 15-minute film celebrating Indigenous Literacy Day with stories and songs from remote Communities. Download a Save the Date banner to share within your networks. Registrations open 9 August. 

CURATING | 2023 Reading Opens Doors Library | available now!

We are very excited to showcase our new 2023 Reading Opens Doors Library! This specially curated bookshelf includes 18 titles from some of Australia’s best First Nations authors such as Bruce Pascoe, Anita Heiss, Ash Barty as well as many more books for adults, young adults and children. Learn more here.

 

CLICKING | For More Stories

 

 Work in Community 

ATTENDING | Barunga Festival

This month our team travelled to the Barunga Festival in the Northern Territory for the launch of Shordi Krik, a commercial picture book written and illustrated by students from Barunga School with ILF lifetime Ambassador Justine Clarke. The book's text is a song about the local creek where Barunga kids like to swim and play, and is written in Kriol and English. An English language version of the song has been released through ABC Music. 

LAUNCHING | Ngaanyatjarra Book

ILF Regional Coordinator Josie attended a book launch at Kalgoorlie Goldfields Language Centre this month, where three books have recently been translated into Ngaanyatjarra. At the launch, copies of Kata, Yarlipiri, Murti Tjine (Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes), Kunkunarrikitjalu Watjala "Goodnight" (Say Goodnight), and Tjilku Kurlunypa (Hop a Little, Jump a Little) were given out to excited kids to take home!

PUBLISHING | Bilingual book about the seasonal changes of the Kimberley

Country Tells Us When… is one of our newest titles from Western Australia, and teaches readers all about how the Yawuru people read the seasons. 

TRANSLATING | Can You Dance? into Miriwoong

We are pleased that our first book in Miriwoong language, Wanja warrg nemben? (Can You Dance?) was published earlier this month. Miriwoong is a language of the East Kimberley region. This non-commercial book is a language version of Can You Dance? by Sally Morgan and Kathy Arbon, translated by Mirima Dawang Woorlab-gerring Language and Cultural Centre (Mirima Place for Talking). We are already discussing publishing more books with this organisation!

SHOPPING | The Full Range of ILF Books

 

 Ambassador News 

David Lawrence

Congratulations to ILF Ambassador David Lawrence on his new book, Ruby and the Pen, available to purchase from the 5th July. Ruby and the Pen is the story of a 12-year-old, cartoon-drawing girl who buys a pen from a mysterious stall at the local market. 
 

A. Professor Wayne Quilliam

Curated by ILF Ambassador, A. Professor Wayne Quilliam, Connection is a walk-through experience that will see visitors explore the spiritual connections to land, water and sky through a vibrant and multi-sensory symphony of sound, light, colour, and aromas. 
 

Anita Heiss AM

We would like to thank ILF Lifetime Ambassador Anita Heiss AM for her efforts in hosting a Great Book Swap at Avid Reader in West End, Queensland. We would also like to congratulate Anita as she will also celebrate the launch of her new novel Red Dust Running (Audible) at the event. 

 Special Thanks 

We would like to thank Emu Trekkers who have been supporting us through funding from their various guided walks - nearly $100,000 so far!  If you would like to join them for either a Blue Mountains (Three Sisters) or Royal National Park trek (and help the ILF) please book in via their website.

We are grateful for the support of Safewill. The ILF has partnered with Safewill to provide our supporters with the ability to write their will for just $180.

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

 Community Fundraisers 

A heartfelt thank you to Nic, Ana and Daisy who have raised over $2000 by ‘dipping’ in the ocean once a week for a whole year. A dip means that at least their shoulders must be under the water. We are so grateful for their efforts and support! Learn more about the fundraiser. 

We would like to thank The Commute who have been supporting the ILF consistently for the last three years by donating 2% of their profits to the ILF. As a result The Commute has raised an incredible amount of over $4,300! 

A big thank you to Emilie, Marieke & Elise from Better Off Said who have raised over $8,500 for the ILF in the last two years and are supporting us this year with their special NAIDOC edition show. Purchase your tickets for their Melbourne show.

MORE:

Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF)
Address: 17/207 Kent Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Tel: (02) 9280 0644
Website | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Instagram | LinkedIn
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VICNAIDOC | GATHERING | Gala Ball | Saturday 8 July 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

The Vic NAIDOC Gala Ball is the jewel in the crown of VicNAIDOC Week! An exceptional line up of First Nations entertainers and a sumptuous 3 course menu await you.

Join us for a breathtaking celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, where tradition and elegance intertwine. 

Immerse yourself in a world of vibrant art, mesmerising performances, and rhythmic beats, while we honour Elders. 

Don't miss this unforgettable evening of inspiration, unity, and pride, as we come together to celebrate the rich heritage and indomitable spirit of First Nations peoples. 

Secure your tickets now and be a part of this remarkable event.

Make a weekend out of it! Accor Hotels have partnered with VicNAIDOC to provide 10-15% off their flexible room rate for selected hotels throughout Melbourne all NAIDOC week long. Simply CLICK HERE and book the best rate around town.

Get Tickets

MORE:

Vic NAIDOC
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VICNAIDOC | CELEBRATING | Pride Gala | Thursday 6 July 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

Vic NAIDOC Pride Gala will present prolific speakers, performances, Artist from the Blak LGBTQIA+ community, by grassroots for grassroots.

We welcome our First Nations LGBTQIA+ community to celebrate our Elders and cultural historical existence. We welcome all who have been staunch with the Blak LGBTQIA+ community.

Our community will gather to celebrate and show gratitude to our Elders at Fitzroy Town Hall in Fitzroy.

In 2023, we want to honour our Elders in line with the NAIDOC theme 'For Our Elders' by hosting a Gala dinner that offers full accessibility requirements and comfort for our respected Elders. Join us for a night of celebration, performance, art and blak excellence.

MORE:

Vic NAIDOC
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VICNAIDOC | WALKING | NAIDOC March | Friday 7 July 2023 | assembling from 10am for 12noon

[Edited extract from public address]

For Our Elders. Open to all people, councils, organisations and businesses to come and march with us.

Join us at the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS) from 10am. Make your banner for the march, get the kids face painted, and enjoy the entertainment! Vic NAIDOC merchandise will be available to purchase.

The march leaves from VAHS on Nicholson Street, Fitzroy at 12:00 pm.

We welcome all people, councils, organisations, and businesses to come and march with us.

We will march past, Fig Tree on top of Gertrude Street, Pastor Sir Doug and Lady Nicholls statue, Parliament House, corner of Bourke & Swanston, corner of Flinders & Swanston Street

MORE:

Vic NAIDOC
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CHUFFED | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for homes, food, and trusted care to re-connect Elders and families with communities

[Edited extract from public address]

The First Nations grassroots collective led by DJ Kirra, funded by hundreds of Chuffed donors has stepped up to provide homes, food, and trusted care to re-connect Elders and families with communities.

One Aunty recently told DJ on the phone: "I used to teach the young ones how to weave and sing back home. I loved it. Because of a violent relationship I had to move to Cairns and am now on the street. I hope I can get a house soon." 

Can you chip in today to house an Elder like her tonight? 

This upcoming NAIDOC week is "For our Elders," celebrating the cultural knowledge holders, trailblazers and survivors from the oldest living culture in the world. 

Let's show DJ and these incredible Elders some love this NAIDOC week  ðŸ–¤ðŸ’›❤️ 

MORE:

Team Chuffed
Address: Level 2, 60 Martin Place, Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia
Website: www.chuffed.org

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VICNAIDOC | RAISING | Flag Ceremony | Monday 3 July 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

The annual Flag Raising Ceremony officially marks the beginning of NAIDOC Week in Victoria. 

Bringing members of the community together to publicly commemorate the importance of NAIDOC week. 

The event honors continued connection to culture, country, and language of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with a Smoking Ceremony, Welcome to Country and a moment of silence for our people who have gone before us.

NAIDOC week is an opportunity for our people to come together in a positive and cultural context – encouraging families, community and elders to recognise the enormous contribution that mob make to the community.

MORE:

Vic NAIDOC
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CoPP | CELEBRATING | NAIDOC Week in Port Phillip | 2–9 July 2023

[Edited extract from public address]

NAIDOC Week is a great opportunity for people from all walks of life to celebrate and support our local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

Head to the South Melbourne Market to catch a fantastic line-up of local musicians performing live to round out the week of celebrations across Port Phillip.

Performers include Olivia Cromarty, Darren Clinch and Monica Weightman.

MORE:

City of Port Phillip (CoPP)
Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182
Email: news@portphillip.vic.gov.au

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CHUFFED | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for additional life-saving metal detectors to Ukrainians

[Edited extract from public address]

The ABC recently reported that Ukraine is now covered in more landmines and unexploded ordnance than any other country in the world. 

Every day on average three innocent civilians are being killed or injured, some being children. 

Almost a third of the country is now covered in landmines, booby traps and tripwires. Other countries have successfully de-mined, but in the meantime, every passing day Ukrainians are risking their lives.  

In response, everyday legend Nathan Burraston is urgently raising funds for a 7th shipment of metal detectors straight to Ukrainians on the ground to save lives. 

Can you help Nathan get a new load of life-saving metal detectors to Ukrainians?

MORE:

Team Chuffed
Address: Level 2, 60 Martin Place, Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia
Website: www.chuffed.org

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