CoPP | OPPORTUNITY | Funding, Grants and Subsidies | CLOSE 29 March/9 April

[Edited extract from public address]

Applications now open for the annual community and arts grants and subsidies.

Grants will be available for activities to promote social justice, inclusion, creativity, innovation, equity, health and well-being, recreation and arts, and cultural heritage within the municipality.

Closing

• 29 March: Cultural Development Fund applications
• Midday 9 April: Community grant applications 

MORE:
Council of Port Phillip
Website: http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/community_grants.htm

CMN | TALK | The Mormon response to The Book of Mormon | Thursday 15 February 2018 | 1pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Guest speaker Alan Fleming from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will share the Mormon response to the play The Book of Mormon.

Where: Bunjil Place in the library, level 2, meeting room 3&4. 

Bookings: not essential, but to assist organisers, please indicate via email your intention.

MORE:
Casey Multi-Faith Network
Email: caseymultifaith@gmail.com
Website: www.caseymultifaith.org.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/caseymultifaith

MESAC | EXHIBITION | Marine Art at Beaumaris Yacht Club | Saturday 17–Sunday 18 February 2018 | 10am–4pm

[Edited extract from public address]

A series of environmental education events to raise awareness of this magnificent centre! Please come along and support this great project.

Artists, Scientists, educators, general public; grandparents, parents, children ….all are welcome!

Where: Beaumaris Yacht Club, Corner Beach & Haydens Roads, Beaumaris VIC 3193

Great activities!

• Saturday 11am – Aboriginal Sea Country & Local Heritage Walk by Ray Lewis OAM
• Saturday 3pm – Making Paper Fish with local artist, Diana Pearce
• Sunday 10am – Children’s sand sculpting with local artist, Betty Knight
• People’s Choice Awards – prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd for artist winners!

Inclusions: Refreshments too.

Who: All welcome! 

Cost: Gold coin donation admission

Considerations: Unfortunately, no wheelchair access

MORE:
Marine Education Science and Community Centre (MESAC)
Virginia Mosk, Tel: 0408 800 685
Email: virginiamosk@gmail.com
Website: http://mesac.org.au

Kindly sponsored by MESAC and Bayside Beaches Real Estate

FIN | TALK | The 'D' word: Exploring beliefs and rituals about death | Sunday 25 February 2018 | 1-2.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

An information session on the topic of death. Explore the perspectives, beliefs and rituals of a range of faiths. 

Panellists will include people from various faith groups including Islam, Uniting Church, Baha'i, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and Judaism as well as a psychologist speaking on grief and bereavement. The panel will initially present their ideas after which audience members will have an opportunity to ask questions of the panel or share thoughts and experiences.

Where: Cube 37, 37 Davey Street, Frankston 3199 (free parking on Baxter street)

Who: All Welcome

Inclusions: Refreshments will be provided

Cost: Free event

Bookings and information: Please click here

MORE:
The Frankston Interfaith Network
Tel: 03 9784 1851
Email: info@FrankstonInterfaith.org.au

RSPCA | INVITING | Eat Better from Treating Better

[Edited extract from public address]

If animal welfare is important to you, find a cafe or restaurant that's putting humane food on the menu.

Choose Wisely celebrates eating spots that serve humane food. Join hundreds of cafés and restaurants who are already a part of Choose Wisely.

For Customers, this means they’re serving eggs, chicken or pork that have been farmed with animal welfare as a priority.

For Businesses, if your business serves cage-free eggs, higher welfare chicken or higher welfare pork, join in to shout about it!

Visit choosewisely.org.au

MORE:
Choose Wisely
RSPCA Australia (RSPCA)
Post: PO Box 265, Deakin West ACT 2600 Australia
Tel: 02 6282 8300
Email: choosewisely@rspca.org.au
Website: www.choosewisely.org.au

AET | INVITING | Submissions for Funding 2018 | CLOSE 5pm Friday 6 April 2018

[Edited extract from public address]

The Trustee of The Angior Family Foundation is now calling for submissions from income tax exempt charities for grants for specific projects.

The Angior Family Foundation is a perpetual charitable trust established by will, with a portion of the income to be paid to:

• Charities having as their main purpose the support of the performing arts in Australia
• Charities as shall be engaged in the provision of medical services or in medical research of any description

To obtain a copy of the application form, please contact AET Services.

MORE:
Australian Executor Trustees (AET)
on behalf of The Angior Family Foundation
Tel: 1800 036 172 during business hours.
Email: trust.services.vic@aetlimited.com.au

Website: http://www.aetlimited.com.au/

GOVV | ANNOUNCING | Regional Parliamentary Education Programs | April-October 2018

[Edited extract from public address]

The Victorian Parliament's outreach team will be visiting 6 regional centres this year to conduct parliamentary education programs for schools.

Who: The programs are for years 5-6 and VCE legal studies students.

Where:

Geelong 18-19 April
Horsham 1-2 May
Echuca 30-31 May
Hamilton 29-30 August
Lakes Entrance 12-13 September
Warragul 24-25 October

How:
Schools can email mark.smith@parliament.vic.gov.au to register and find out more information. Teachers who wish to keep up to date with education resources and programs available from the Victorian Parliament can subscribe to quarterly e-bulletin Springboard by visiting www.parliament.vic.gov.au/education

Also: The Community Engagement and Education Unit provides educational material for students and teachers in the following areas:
Primary and secondary  Victorian Curriculum for years 5 to 10
VCE Legal Studies Units 1 & 3
University and TAFE
Adult education: EAL, VCAL, numeracy and literacy

MORE:
Community Engagement and Education Unit
Parliament of Victoria
Email: mark.smith@parliament.vic.gov.au
Website: www.parliament.vic.gov.au/education

DECC | EAT | Sweets and Savouries | Multicultural and Interfaith Community Lunch | Thursday 1 February 2018 | 12noon-2pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Join in this local commemoration of United Nation's World Interfaith Harmony Week 2018.

Where: Darebin Intercultural Centre, 59A Roseberry Avenue, Preston

Who: All welcome!

Cost: Entry is free

Bookings: to contact details below.

MORE:
Darebin Ethnic Communities Council
Contact: Nalliah Suriyakumaran, DECC Chairperson
Tel: (03) 9478 3737
Mob: 0468 330 113
Email: decc@decc.org.au
Website: www.decc.org.au

This event is supported by the Darebin City Council

SMFC | SENIORS SPORT | Walking Football | Starts: Friday 2 February (weekly) | 10-11 am

[Edited extract from public address]

An indoor soccer program for adults aged 60 + from diverse backgrounds and participants with a lack of mobility that don't have the opportunity to take part in the beautiful game of football. 

Walking football is about people from all shapes and sizes, getting together, and having a bit of fun. Played in a non-contact, relaxed, social environment, South Melbourne FC will be delivering this brand new initiative.

South Melbourne FC Walking Football Ambassador Jimmy Armstrong invites you to come and give it a try!

How: Just turn up

Cost: $5 pp per session.

Where: Lakeside Stadium, 33/31-33 Aughtie Dr, Albert Park

MORE:
South Melbourne Football Club
Samuel Tel: 0406 907 073

BIC | COMMEMORATE | Tranquility Zone | Saturday 3 February 2018 | 3.15pm for a 3:30pm start to 4.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Take time to quite your mind and reconnect with y our spirit in a harmonious and tranquil environment. 

Let's listen to words of wisdom from the world's spiritual traditions and get inspired to transform our lives and our communities with actions that promote unity and betterment of society. The program will consist of readings interspersed with music, followed by discussion and refreshments.

Where: Bendigo Library, 259 Hargreaves St, Bendigo VIC 3550

Who: All Welcome.

Cost: Free event

MORE: 
Bendigo Interfaith Council
Tel: 03 5400 2922
Email: tranquilityzonebendigo@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bendigointerfaithcouncil/posts/532258370477962

RfPV | TALK | UN World Interfaith Harmony Lecture 2018 | Tuesday 6 February 2018 | 5.30-7.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Join keynote speaker Emeritus Professor Desmond Cahill in Appraising the Royal Commission Report into Sexual Abuse and Religious Organizations

Where: Laby Theatre (L108), Physics Building, Melbourne University (located near Melbourne University's tram stop on Swanston street)

Speaker: Emeritus Professor Desmond Cahill OAM B.A., S.T.L., M.Ed., Ph.D, F.A.C.E.L.
Consultant to the Royal Commission on Sexual Abuse and Religious Organisations 2015-2017
Chair, Religions for Peace Australia
Educated in Australia and Italy, Desmond Cahill, Professor of Intercultural Studies at RMIT University, is one of Australia's leading social researchers. In 2006, he was made an honorary fellow of the Australian Council of Educational Leaders for his work in immigrant, cross-cultural, interfaith and international education. He currently chairs the Religions for Peace (Australia), and represents Australia on the Asian Conference of Religion and Peace (ACRP). He led Melbourne's successful bid to stage the 2009 Parliament of the World's Religions, the world's largest interfaith gathering, and is now its Melbourne Program Director. A member of the Australian Partnership of Religious Organizations (APRO) and of the Victoria Police Multifaith Advisory Council, he is a Club Melbourne Ambassador as part of the “Think Melbourne, Think Victoria” strategy of the Victorian Government.

Cost: This is a free event.

Bookings: online through TryBooking
More information.

MORE:
Religions for Peace Australia
Website: http://religionsforpeaceaustralia.org.au

A collaboration between Religions for Peace Victoria and University of Melbourne Chaplaincy

MPIN | WALK | Listening to the Land (Summer Walk): The Briars, Mt Martha | Saturday 10 February 2018 | 10.30am-1pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Listening to the Land is seeking to bring people from different faith and cultural backgrounds together to connect or reconnect with the Land and to be moved to care for the Land.

Our Summer Listening to the Land program will be held at The Briars, Mount Martha on Saturday 10th February, 2018. Program begins at 10.30am and includes an introductory talk, a listening walk, and a meditation. The walk and meditation will be led by Lionel Lauch, a Gunditjmara Kirrae Wurrung-Bundjalung man.

We will be walking the 'Kur-Bur-Rer' track (Boonoorong name for Koala) which is approximately 4 kilometres.

The walk will conclude around 1pm followed by a shared afternoon lunch .

Meeting Point: Car Park around 300m from The Briars entry @ 450 Nepean Highway, Mount Martha

More Information on The Briars: http://www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/leisure_tourism/the_briars

Considerations: BYO Vegetarian food - something easy to share. Plates, cups and drinks will be provided.

Look forward to seeing you there – sunshine or rain.

Cost: The event is by donation.

MORE:
Mornington Peninsula Interfaith Network
Judy O’Donnell
Tel: 03 5974 4969
Mob: 0400 088 410
Website: http://www.mpin.org.au/

The Mornington Peninsula Interfaith Network (MPIN) acknowledges the traditional owners and custodians of the land, the Boonwurrung/Bunurong people, part of the Kulin Nation, and their elders past, present and future.

GOVA | CALL FOR INTEREST | Service Providers: Career Transition Assistance Trials | 2018-2020 | CLOSE 19 February 2018 | 12 noon

[Edited extract from public address]

Career Transition Assistance (CTA) aims to help mature age job seekers become more competitive in their local labour market through a 6-8 week program. 

The trials will commence on 2 July 2018 in five CTA Trial Regions: Ballarat VIC, Somerset QLD, Central West NSW, Adelaide South SA and Perth North WA.

Who: Respondents need to demonstrate their experience in successfully delivering services meeting the needs of mature age people in their local communities.

Where: Department of Jobs and Small Business will hold information sessions in the five communities as well as two online webinars.

What: For more information about the trial go to the Career Transition Assistance website

Register Interest: online

MORE:
Australian Government
Department of Jobs and Small Business
Email: espurchasing@employment.gov.au
Website: https://www.jobs.gov.au/career-transition-assistance-program

JCCV | WORKSHOP | Preventing Gender Violence by being part of a change | Tuesday 20 February 2018 | 10am-12pm

[Edited extract from public address]

An Active Bystander workshop is delivered by trained facilitators.

Lead facilitator: Dr Ree Bodde.

Who: Open to anyone in the community

Where: Beth Weizmann Community Centre, 306 Hawthorn Rd, Caulfield VIC 3162

Cost: FREE Event

Bookings: Registrations & Inquires: David Marlow david@jccv.org.au Registrations ends by 16 February

For more information click here

MORE:
Jewish Community Council of Victoria (JCCV)
Post: 306 Hawthorn Road, Caulfield South Vic 3162
Tel: 03 9272 5566
Email: info@jccv.org.au
Website: www.jccv.org.au

A joint event by JCCV, Think Prevent and Jewish Care

ACM | PERFORMANCE | East West Street: A Song of Good and Evil | Wednesday 21 February 2018 | 7.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

An acclaimed literary and music performance inspired by human rights lawyer Philippe Sands’ prize-winning book East West Street, exploring the origins of genocide and crimes against humanity. 

Focusing on the remarkable, connected stories of his grandfather and three key individuals in the Nuremberg Trials – Cambridge academic Hersch Lauterpacht, Polish prosecutor Raphael Lemkin and Hitler's lawyer Hans Frank – the performance is based on the words, images and music that connected the men, from Bach and Beethoven, to Rachmaninov and Leonard Cohen.

This extraordinary work is narrated by Philippe Sands and award-winning German actress Katja Riemann, accompanied by leading bass-baritone Laurent Naouri and renowned jazz pianist Guillaume de Chassy. It is directed by one of Britain's leading young directors of opera, Nina Brazier.

Duration: 90 minutes (no interval)

Cost: $79 per person
All online orders are subject to a Service Charge of up to $8.50 per order, plus any optional additional postage charges. Members Don’t Pay Booking Fees

Bookings: online through Arts Centre Melbourne

MORE:
Arts Centre Melbourne
100 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
PO Box 7585, St Kilda Rd, VIC, 8004
Administration Tel: (03) 9281 8000
Ticketing Tel: 1300 182 183
Email: https://www.artscentremelbourne.com.au/en/contact-us
Website: https://www.artscentremelbourne.com.au

In association with Arts Projects Australia and in conjunction with Melbourne Law School

AMWA | LUNCH TALK | The Golden Principles of World Peace | Saturday 24 February 2018 | 11.30am-2.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

A counterpoint to an environment of current adversaries and the delicate state of world affairs. 

Join this inspiring interfaith luncheon bringing together women of all faiths, including parliamentarians and civics to engage in meaningful dialogue and infuse mutual understanding between beliefs.

Speakers:

• Ruth Stuettgen; Christianity
• Revathi Balakrishna; Hinduism
• Amar Kaur; Sikhism
• Jo Silver; Judaism
• Saba Janud; Islam

Program:

• 11.30am: Registration
• 12noon-1pm: Speeches
• 1.30pm: Lunch

Please Note: This is a WOMEN ONLY event.

Bookings: RSVP by 20 February 2018 to Saleha Usman Tel: 0424 127 422; Email: womenauxiliary3910@gmail.com

MORE:
Ahmadiyya Muslim Women's Association (AMWA)
Saleha Usman
Tel: 0424 127 422
Email: womenauxiliary3910@gmail.com

MAGNT | CALL FOR ENTRIES | National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Art Awards | OPEN now, CLOSES Friday 16 March 2017

[Edited extract from public address]

Australia’s longest running and most prestigious Indigenous art awards, the Telstra National Aboriginal &Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA)

Capturing the attention of the nation. Each year sees an increasing variety of art forms and media, collectively demonstrating the richness and diversity of current contemporary Indigenous artistic practice. Showcasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, nationwide, within the visual arts.

Heading into its 35th year, Telstra NATSIAA is the longest-running art award dedicated to the work of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, and has come to be regarded as one of the premier national events on the Australian Indigenous art calendar. The exhibition attracts an audience of more than 65,000 visitors.

Prize Pool: Now awarding $80 000 in prizes

Who: The Awards are open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists over the age of 18. There is no particular theme or restriction regarding work that can be entered.

The non-acquisitive Telstra Award of $50,000 cash is awarded to the work considered by judges to be the most outstanding work in the exhibition.

Prizes are also awarded in each of the following categories:

• Telstra Bark Painting Award - $5000
• Telstra General Painting Award - $5000
• Telstra Works on Paper Award (includes photography, print making, drawing etc.) - $5000
• Wandjuk Marika Memorial Three-Dimensional Award (sponsored by Telstra) - $5000
• Telstra Multimedia Award (for multidisciplinary and digital works) - $5000
• Telstra Emerging Artist Award (awarded from any medium and for artists working within their first five years of practice who have not been displayed in a major gallery) - $5000
• Telstra People’s Choice Award

When: Winners will be notified by Friday 2 August 2018 and announcements made at the opening ceremony for the exhibition at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) in Darwin on 10 August 2018.
A People’s Choice Award will be presented later to the artist whose artwork receives the highest number of votes from visitors to the Award exhibition. There is no prize money for this award.

Considerations: Prize money for any award does not include GST and GST does not apply.
All awards are non acquisitive.

Read downloadable Guidelines and FAQs

Enter: through online application. You can save your application at any time.

MORE:
Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT)
An independent statutory authority comprising six sites across the NT.
Post: GPO Box 4646, Darwin NT 0801
Tel: +61 8 8999 8264
Email: info@magnt.net.au
Website: http://www.magnt.net.au/

Partnering with Telstra to deliver this unique annual event showcasing the best in Indigenous art from across the country.

GECC | SEEKING | 400 Residents to Join Glen Eira Community Voice

[Edited extract from public address]

An opportunity for residents to be an ongoing information source and sounding board to inform Council projects, services and decisions.

Glen Eira Community Voice is about being innovative and trying something different to improve the way Council consults and listens to the community.

This is envisaged as a quick and easy to participate for all voices and perspectives are welcomed to make sure our whole community is represented.

Commitment: Members of Glen Eira Community Voice are invited to respond to approximately eight (8) online surveys or discussion forums each year. Information provided by the panel helps Council to better understand community views and to make important decisions about the City's future.

Who: Glen Eira residents over the age of 18. No prior knowledge or experience is necessary and individuals can opt out at any time.

Register Interest at www.haveyoursaygleneira.com.au or Tel: 9523 3333

MORE:
Glen Eira City Council (GECC)
Community Planning and Engagement Team
Corner Glen Eira and Hawthorn Roads, Caulfield
Post: PO Box 42 Caulfield South 3162
Tel: 03 9524 3333
Email: mail@gleneira.vic.gov.au
Website: http://www.gleneira.vic.gov.au/

SCFO | REPORT | Mapping Social Cohesion Report | Dec 2017

[Edited extract from public address]

Decade of data paints a picture of a cohesive country. In its tenth year, the Scanlon Foundation’s Mapping Social Cohesion Report has reinforced Australia’s consistently high level of support for immigration and cultural diversity. 

The Mapping Social Cohesion Report has been produced by Monash University researchers since 2007 – with a collective sample of 42,000 respondents. It is the largest survey of its kind and tracks Australian attitudes on issues including immigration, multiculturalism, discrimination and political trust.

"Australia has always been unfurling, Australia has always been making itself. That is a very attractive quality, what makes Australia feel new is because it is constantly renewing itself with new waves of migration."
Professor Margaret Gardner, Monash University Vice-Chancellor

Despite significant demographic change over the decade, including population rise and increased diversity, Australian attitudes have remained, in large measure, stably positive.

Find online the summary findings and report here.

MORE:
Scanlon Foundation (SCFO)
Website: http://scanlonfoundation.org.au

GEIFN | REPORTS | CHARM | COMMEMORATED | Cranbourne's Australia Day 2018 | Friday 26 January 2018 | 11am-4pm

[Report is compiled from multiple public addresses, multiple sources made over multiple publication dates]

This FREE event aims to unite community, celebrate a rich and diverse cultural heritage and explore other reasons for feeling proud to live in City of Casey.

The vibrant and multicultural Casey cultural heritage showcase program featured free performances, Free children activities including colouring, jumping castle, face painting and farm animals and free BBQ Sausage for the first 300+ visitors.


Tea, coffee & soft drinks were available for a gold coin donation with the day billed as great family fun, surprises, giveaways and door prizes.

All members of the public and community were invited to come together in a friendly way to make this a special day. One world, one family together temporarily for this day, a celebration of superficial difference and deeper commonality.

Participants enjoyed free activities and stalls. Available was 'Gathering' - a multicultural community art project aimed to inspire environmental awareness and rekindle appreciation of art and nature. Participants were encouraged to paint objects and develop a collage to be displayed at the Balla Balla Centre.

Lead artist Sohail Yamin accompanied “Salam Mobile - Rumi... based on ‘truck art style painting’, the design transcends beyond mere visual aesthetics which is a hallmark of truck art, to a role of a Dastaango or a storyteller”. Rumi is named after the great 13th century Poet, Sufi mystic & scholar Maulana Jalal-ud-din Rumi

Awakening Yoga/Meditation seemed a bold programming choice by organisers between Lions Concert Band and Drawing of Door Prize. But it worked on the day. Mindful of the hot and confined conditions, the stretching comprised of awakened standing, moving with lightness and sitting assertively. An audience of approximately 50-100 people enjoyed the calming of minds, building inner rainbows and radiating well-wishes to an uncertain world.

Feedback teased out deeper responses not immediately apparent but individuals reported separately benefits from what was shared in a secular, accessible way to presenting audience.

To commemorate the occasion, BCV and GEIFN Quote Photo Cards were read out as collaborator’s messages and left on display table as ‘take home’ postcards.

See also official 10pp program, particularly pages 7-9 on addressing Australia’s National Day, Anthem and Indigenous experience.

MORE:
The Cultural Historical Association of Rodriguans and Mauritians in Victoria (CHARM) Inc.

Supported by the City of Casey, the Balla Balla Community Centre, the Cranbourne Lions Club and local groups, businesses and individuals.

GEIFN | REPORTS | MIDSUMMA | WALKED | Pride March | Sunday 28 January 2017 | 2-7pm

[Report is compiled from multiple public addresses, multiple sources made over multiple publication dates]

A community mobilisation against marginalisation, a march of celebration and solidarity, unfurling of flags, frocking up and fighting ongoing issues facing LGBTIAQ+ communities.

Where: Fitzroy St & Catani Gardens, Fitzroy St, St Kilda 3182

Over 45,000 friends and allies joyfully gathered together for the 23rd year of peacefully taking to St Kilda's Fitzroy Street, rejoicing diversity and achievements.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people were invited to march in the Indigenous Pride Float alongside Elders.

Special guest appearance by Magda Szubanski, a Melbournian Australian television and film actress, comedian and writer who inadvertently became a national public spokesperson for Equality in Marriage.

Post-Pride celebrations at Catani Gardens were expected to include a Lesbian wedding, DJs and live performances from DJ Renee Delay, the Melbourne Gay and Lesbian Chorus entertaining our communities for over 25 years, Brendan Maclean, followed by nexus disco pop band Sugar Fed Leopards to keep up that post-Pride buzz. DJ Tanzer was scheduled to round out the day's post-Pride entertainment.

Equality is an enduring concept and it is important to pause, take stock of successes, assess failures and learn to move together for brighter futures.

Though Australia’s December 2017 legalisation of Same-Sex Marriage is of monumental significance, improvement towards the path of equality will take some some time to gain traction in individuals, families, schoolyards and organisations. While it is good to take pause to celebrate success, the march for equality is never finished. To name but a small selection, equity in access for differently abled, Intersex individuals’ right not to be operated on without their consent, equal pay for women, meaningful reconciliation for our Indigenous, release of illegally detained and mainland relocation of asylum seekers.

Into its 23rd year, Midsumma Pride March is a public and peaceful continuance of advocacy for, demonstrate by and embody with enlightened attitude. Just now with more reasons to sparkle.

On behalf of Buddhist Council Victoria Interfaith (bINTER) and Glen Eira Interfaith Network (GEIFN), thankyou to Organisers and Participants working to redress historical differences, building collaborations, celebrating diversity and fostering team approaches to addressing today's society. Received with gratitude.

MORE:
Midsumma Festival
Level 8, City Village, 225 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: (03) 9415 9819
Website: https://midsumma.org.au/participate/pride-march/info

GEIFN | MEDIA | Mix | February 2018

MEDIA WORDS
Approx 5 min reads

Intro
Carolyn Cage explores the value of education, pleasure in sex and equity for gender roles when “Remembering sex ed at school makes me shudder. We can do better” via The Brisbane Times
https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/opinion/remembering-sex-ed-at-school-makes-me-shudder-we-can-do-better-20180118-h0k5v6.html

Tammy Mills explores the accumulated cost of intolerance, demonizing and workplace bullying, revealing how “'We are deeply sorry': Victoria Police apologises for what happened to Michael Maynes” via The Age
http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/we-are-deeply-sorry-victoria-police-apologises-for-what-happened-to-michael-maynes-20180116-h0iw19.html

Jane Rocca shares a lived example of respectful relationships, playing to individual strengths, team work and engaged living, meet “Ellyse Perry: Respecting each other's career choices is key in relationships” via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/lifestyle/life-and-relationships/ellyse-perry-respecting-each-others-career-choices-is-key-in-relationships-20180117-h0jnny.html


Intra
Matthew Wade interviews two performers with sincere public health message, revealing how style, grace and humour of two “Indigenous Queer youth are helping to champion visibility through Drag” via Star Observer
http://www.starobserver.com.au/news/national-news/victoria-news/indigenous-youth-visibility-drag/165639

Sandra Hall explores unusual collaborations, remote places and importance of sharing a bigger picture, reviewing “Faces Places: Odd couple Agnes Varda and JR bring heart to hyper-real art” via The Brisbane Times
https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/entertainment/faces-places-review-20180122-h0m2rd.html

Jim Bright explores developments in jobs, workforce’s and grading employee qualities, tips for coping in times when “Disruption is the new normal” via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/business/workplace-relations/disruption-is-the-new-normal-20180117-h0jj3i.html


Inter
Carol Frost explores the value in reaching out to the stranger, cultivating connection and shared empathy, discussing “Faith” via The Age
http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/faith-20180120-h0lggh.html

Andrew Purcell explores identity, anatomy and some individual’s bumpy path to self acceptance, inviting us a glimpse into “Natalie's new world: how gender reassignment is moving into the mainstream” via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/world/natalies-new-world-how-gender-reassignment-is-moving-into-the-mainstream-20171227-h0ag53.html

Jason Di Rosso explores an Australian take on colonisation, crime and pursuing justice reviewing how in "Sweet Country: Warwick Thorton tackles the Western in ambitious new narrative feature” via ABC Online
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-01-17/sweet-country-review-warwick-thorton-tackles-the-western/9329770


Multi
Robert Nelson explores changing civilisations, artistic expression and societal response in uncertain times, reviewing “NGV Triennial: Artists toy with social fabric” via The Brisbane Times
https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/entertainment/art-and-design/ngv-triennial-review-artists-toy-with-social-fabric-20180126-h0olf5.html

Jim Bright explores the role of nurturing environments to raise esteem and balance self-determination, reasoning for “More support and less shouting” via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://www.smh.com.au/business/workplace-relations/more-support-and-less-shouting-20180126-h0opv6.html

Cara Waters explores an example of welcomed migration, supportive environments and encouragement, "From refugee to runway: How migrants are transforming Australian small business” via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/small-business/growing/from-refugee-to-runway-how-migrants-are-transforming-australian-small-business-20180118-h0k7im.html


All
Danny Katz explains his humourous reasons for exploring every-day Interfaith, explaining why “Buddhism helps me to cope with a house full of insects” via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/comment/buddhism-helps-me-to-cope-with-a-house-full-of-insects-20180118-h0kdfk.html

John Bailey reviews a new play exploring identity, personal vulnerability, public expression and freeing of speech as "Nassim Soleimanpour steps inside his own play” via The Brisbane Times
https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/entertainment/nassim-soleimanpour-steps-inside-his-own-play-20180118-h0k4jj.html

Philip Huggins explores, place, people, pain and healing as article of “Faith: A time for healing” via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://www.smh.com.au/comment/faith-a-time-for-healing-20180127-h0p6na.html


Togather
Stephanie Bunbury reviews a new film exploring dispossession, displacement and expressing religiosity, join “Josh Weinstein and Menashe Lustig on their new film Menashe” via The Brisbane Times
https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/entertainment/movies/josh-weinstein-and-menashe-lustig-on-their-new-film-menashe-20180123-h0ml67.html

Ute Junker explores examples of societies regrouping, healing deep wounds and rebuilding for brighter futures, going “Off-limits no more: Why you should visit these countries with a bad reputation” via Traveller.com.au
http://www.traveller.com.au/offlimits-no-more-why-you-should-visit-these-countries-with-a-bad-reputation-h0ifav

Steven Carroll explores an example of past colonization, modern history and redemptive powers in reconciling ‘warts and all’ truth “Rome review: Matthew Kneale's unique approach to the Eternal City” via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/books/rome-review-matthew-kneales-unique-approach-to-the-eternal-city-20180111-h0gx76.html


Nobly
Melissa Singer explores the value of realistic body image, supportive teamwork in hostile environments and striving towards clear goals, revealing how “Jade's trolls told her to 'make a sandwich'” via The Age
http://www.theage.com.au/lifestyle/life-and-relationships/jades-trolls-told-her-to-make-a-sandwich-so-she-did-at-the-south-pole-20180129-h0qc0q.html

Amelia Lester writes a love letter for personal integrity, bridging historical divides, demonstrable respectful relationships and youthful interpretation of old-fashioned approach, reasoning “Why the world can learn a lot from New Zealand and its leaders” via The Canberra Times
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/good-weekend/why-the-world-can-learn-a-lot-from-new-zealand-and-its-leaders-20171215-h05aug.html

Jane Rocca explores identity, lived personal experience and reconciling national differences, hearing from “Four prominent women on why they are proud to be Australian” via The Canberra Times
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/lifestyle/news-and-views/four-prominent-women-on-why-they-are-proud-to-be-australian-20180116-h0jhxm.html


-----------------------------
TED TALKS
Approx 20min presentations

Yvette Alberdingk Thijm: The power of citizen video to create undeniable truths

George Steinmetz: Photos of Africa, taken from a flying lawn chair

Vivek Maruat: How to put the power of law in people's hands


-----------------------------
GUEST SINGS
Approx 5 min presentation

Auriel Andrew - Arnhem Land Lullaby
https://youtu.be/ouKlXeUANa0


-----------------------------
STREET JIVES
Approx 2 min presentation

Sesame Street: LaDainian Tomlinson - Celebration
https://youtu.be/Jks_Ozoo2YQ


-----------------------------
LIFE ILLUMINATES
Approx 14 min presentation

Growing Up Black & Korean | My Blasian Family Story | 한국 혼혈인
Join Cedric as he shares his story of being a mix of two very different cultures.
https://youtu.be/O8gM8QkWlTY

DIC WIN | CELEBRATING The Power of Love - Paying it Forward | Thursday 8 February 2018 | 6-9pm

[Edited extract from public address]

In recognition of the imperative need for interfaith relations among different faiths to enhance mutual understanding, harmony and cooperation among people, the United Nations proclaims the first week of February every year the World Interfaith Harmony Week between all religions, faiths and beliefs.

In the spirit of harmony, the Darebin Interfaith Council and the Whittlesea Interfaith Network join with thousands of partners around the globe to jointly host a UN World Interfaith Harmony Week event.

Event will showcase several performances. There’ll be a presentation on Albert Einstein's letter to his daughter, as well as a fun interactive audience performance by the renowned Melbourne Playback Theatre Company in which people are invited to share their stories that are then instantly translated into performance.

Where: Mill Park Library, 394 Plenty Rd, Mill Park, Vic, 3082
Parking: Library car park, and along Bottlebrush Drive, The Link, and Bundy Place
Public transport: Bus 386, 387

Inclusions: Light refreshments provided

Cost: Free event for all

MORE:
The Darebin Interfaith Council and the Whittlesea Interfaith Network
Aziz Cooper (03) 8470 8519

Sponsored by Darebin Interfaith Council, Whittlesea Interfaith Network, Al-Siraat College, Beacon of Hope, Darebin Ethnic Communities Council, United Religions Initiative, and the Yarra Plenty Regional Library After-dark Program

PWR | CALL FOR INTEREST | Hosting by Global Cities of 8th and subsequent Parliament of the World’s Religions | 7 January 2018

[Edited extract from public address]

The Parliament of the World’s Religions is an international, non-sectarian, non-profit organization, established in 1988 to host the 1993 Parliament of the World’s Religions. Its periodic Parliaments and ongoing initiatives cultivate harmony among the world's religious and spiritual communities and fosters engagement with the world and its guiding institutions in order to achieve a just, peaceful, and sustainable world.

Traditionally, the Parliament events last for 7 days and comprise more than 500 programs, workshops and dialogues, alongside music, dance, artistic exhibitions and related events hosted by religious communities and cultural institutions.

With a 125-year history, the Parliament of the World’s Religions creates the opportunity for people of faith and conscience from around the world to assemble and to hear from wisdom leaders, which in the past have included His Holiness the Dalai Lama, President Nelson Mandela, President Jimmy Carter, and UN Messenger of Peace Dr. Jane Goodall.

More than 50,000 participants of 200 unique spiritual backgrounds have traveled from more than 80 nations around the world to past Parliament conferences, bringing their attention and action together to dialogue, forge solutions and build networks of action.

Open to anyone interested in experiencing a fresh and sometimes boundary-pushing multi-faith encounter, the Parliament leaves a lasting legacy of cooperation in its hosting cities and changes the lives of all who are drawn into attendance— this extends into the spheres that are also represented in the Parliament, including academia, government, media, business, NGO leadership and grassroots activism.

The international office of the Parliament of the World’s Religions is located in Chicago, Illinois, USA, and has announced that now open is the bid process for global cities to pursue hosting future global Parliament conferences. 

As appointed host, bring thousands of the world’s most dedicated advocates of peace, justice and sustainability to your city. Hosts of the 8th, 9th and subsequent Parliaments of the World’s Religions international events will welcome globally-recognized figures in spiritual and civic institutions, up to 10,000 visitors, and experience an inflow of millions of dollars in revenue for the local economy, over the span of a week of activities in their city.  

Site Slection Committee Chair of the Parliament Board of Trustees Andras Corban Arthen says that future Parliaments will meet in three-year intervals “to keep pace with the fast-developing interfaith movement around the world,” bringing the event to a new nation in 2021 following the forthcoming 7th Parliament of the World's Religions, being held later this year between 1-7 November 2018, in Toronto, Canada.  

“Every city has its distinct identity and, at the same time, every city reveals the challenges and opportunities of all metropolitan areas across the earth. That only increases when a city hosts a global gathering of people of many faiths and cultures but united in a pursuit of justice, peace, and sustainability. Welcoming the world to a city for a Parliament is serving all of humankind.” Larry Greenfield, Executive Director

Since the historic 1893 World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago first established an international forum for dialogue between religions of the East and West, modern Parliaments have been held in Chicago (1993), Cape Town (1999), Barcelona (2004) Melbourne (2009) and most recently in Salt Lake City (2015).

Interested tourism bureaus, advocacy organizations and government offices are encouraged to procure the request for proposals at ParliamentOfReligions.org/FutureSites and email: futuresites@ParliamentOfReligions.org to learn about partnering with PWR in a cooperative process of funding, producing and hosting the Parliament of the World’s Religions conference.

Members of the media are invited to contact: Molly Horan, Director of Communications at the Parliament of the World's Religions with inquiries and interview requests.

MORE:

Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR)
70 East Lake Street, Suite 205, Chicago, IL 60601 USA
Website: https://parliamentofreligions.org/

PPLS | LEARN | English language classes | Monday 29 January - Wednesday 28 March 2018

[Edited extract from public address]

Meet other people, learn individually and developing skills together

When:
Term 1: Monday 29 January - Wednesday 28 March 2018
Term 2: Monday 16 April – Wednesday 27 June 2018

Come along to improve:

• speaking and conversation
• reading and writing
• everyday activities using English

Beginner level classes – Mondays 12pm to 3pm
Intermediate level classes – Wednesdays 12pm to 3pm

Where: Emerald Hill Library & Heritage Centre, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne

Cost:
$50 full price / $35 concession per term
$195 non-residents per term / $25 per class

For bookings and more information: contact Elwood + St Kilda Neighbourhood Learning Centre; Tel: 9531 1954

MORE:
Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)
Post: 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda, Victoria 3182
Tel: 9209 6655
Email: library@portphillip.vic.gov.au
Website: https://library.portphillip.vic.gov.au/Home

UCM | TALK | Women of Faith | Sunday 21 January 2018 | 5.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Come and hear the stories of four women and how faith continues to shape their lives.

Faiths represented are Islam, Hare Krishna, Christianity and Judaism.

Where: Uniting Church Murrumbeena, 117 Murrumbeena Road, Murrumbeena

Cost: Free

MORE:

Uniting Church Murrumbeena
Rev Jay Robinson
Mobile:  0410 465 836
Email: jay@murrumbeenauniting.org.au
Website: www.murrumbeenauniting.org.au

PPLS | ENGAGING | Nostalgique - European Song | Wednesday, 24 January 2018 | 6.30-7.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

An evening with Nostalgique -  a multilingual music box of European song featuring folk, jazz and sentimental favourites from Spain, Russia, Poland, France, Italy and Portugal. 

Jazz songbird Tamara Kuldin sings to the evocative  musicianship of Jon Delaney on guitar, Anthony Shulz  on accordion and Tamara Murphy on the double bass. Swing, bossa, tango, waltz and bolero… immerse yourself in this festive multilingual celebration of love, flirtation and heartache.

Where: St Kilda Library

Cost: Free

Bookings: Please book online through Eventbrite
Event booked out? Put your name down to be notified if a space becomes available. Just select ‘Add to Waitlist’ on the Eventbrite listing page.  You’ll need to do this for each person you want to add to the list.
Need to cancel? Please let us know if you can no longer make your booking. We get a lot of people on the waitlist who might miss out if you can’t come.

MORE:
Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)
Post: 150 Carlisle Street, St Kilda, Victoria 3182
Tel: 9209 6655
Email: library@portphillip.vic.gov.au
Website: https://library.portphillip.vic.gov.au/Home

SKF | ENGAGE | St Kilda Festival | Sunday, 11 February 2018

[Edited extract from public address]

Set against spectacular natural beauty of the St Kilda foreshore, this iconic summer celebration of home-grown talent and local community has something for everyone. 

Boasting a diverse programme of live music, dance, carnival rides, shops, markets, food and drink, and activities for all ages, this free, family-friendly event draws thousands of people together in a well-loved community celebration in one of Melbourne’s—and Australia’s—most recognisable destinations.

Since the first St Kilda Festival in 1980, this well-loved annual summer celebration has established itself as an iconic event that brings hundreds of thousands of people together for one massive day of fun! More than 400,000 visitors of all ages attend every year, often returning between Festivals to enjoy St Kilda’s unique attractions.

Don’t miss Yalukut Weelam Ngargee, the free Indigenous Arts and Cultural Festival taking place the week before St Kilda Festival on Saturday 3 February.

Check out online the full line-up and event information.

MORE:
St Kilda Festival (SKF)
Website: https://stkildafestival.com.au

CoPP | ENGAGEMENT | Yalukut Weelam Ngargee | Indigenous Arts & Cultural Festival | Saturday 3 February 2018

[Edited extract from public address]

A family-friendly festival featuring a jam-packed line up of emerging and established Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander musicians, dancers and artists, plus activities for the whole family.

YALUKUT WEELAM

means ‘river home’ or ‘people of the river’ is a clan belonging to the Boon Wurrung people.

NGARGEE
a gathering for celebration

Join us under the sun and into the summer night in a gathering to celebrate Australia’s Indigenous cultures and local talents.

Yalukut Weelam Ngargee is a family-friendly event so please avoid bringing any glass bottles, containers or items onto the Festival site.

Where: O’Donnell Gardens, St Kilda

Cost: free

Check out online what’s on at this year’s Yalukut Weelam Ngargee Festival

MORE:
City of Port Phillip (CoPP)
Post: Private Bag 3, St Kilda Victoria 3182 Australia
Website: http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au

Yalukut Weelam Ngargee is an Indigenous Arts and Cultural Festival held annually in St Kilda’s O’Donnell Gardens, a significant contemporary Indigenous meeting place.

MIFE | ENGAGEMENT | Midsumma Festival 2018 | Sunday 14 January to Sunday 4 February 2018

[Edited extract from public address]

Midsumma Festival is Victoria's premier LGBTQIA+ cultural festival, made for and by communities who live with shared experiences around diverse gender and sexuality.

Championing LGBTQIA+ cultures, conversations and events. Intersections between generations, people, ideas, stories and experiences – a focal point for connections and belonging. We create inclusive and safe social spaces. Providing platforms for shared experience in a world which often under-represents us. Valuing diversity and we embrace difference. We increase our communities' profiles and amplify the stories that might otherwise not be seen, heard or felt.

Although the primary three-week festival is held in summer each year, Midsumma works year-round to provide artists, social-changers and culture-makers with support and tools to create, present and promote their work. Midsumma Festival brings a diverse mix of artists, performers, communities and audiences together under a single umbrella for a celebration and innovative presentation of queer arts and culture.

Enjoy diverse festival programming, made up of visual arts, theatre, spoken word, cabaret, film, live music, parties, sport, social events and public forums, featuring nearly 170 events in 2018, with involvement by over 500 culture-makers in over 100 different venues across Melbourne and wider Victoria to anticipated audiences of over 200,000.

Check out online full program.

MORE:
Midsumma Festival (MIFE)
Website: https://midsumma.org.au/

AUST | RFP | APPRAISING | The Royal Commission Report into Sexual Abuse and Religious Organizations | Tuesday 6 February 2018 | 5.30-7.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

UN World Interfaith Harmony Lecture 2018

Speaker: Emeritus Professor Desmond Cahill OAM B.A., S.T.L., M.Ed., Ph.D, F.A.C.E.L.
Consultant to the Royal Commission on Sexual Abuse and Religious Organisations 2015-2017
Chair: Religions for Peace Australia http://religionsforpeaceaustralia.org.au

More about the Speaker: Educated in Australia and Italy, Desmond Cahill, Professor of Intercultural Studies at RMIT University, is one of Australia's leading social researchers. In 2006, he was made an honorary fellow of the Australian Council of Educational Lenaders for his work in immigrant, cross-cultural, interfaith and international education. He currently chairs the Religions for Peace (Australia), and represents Australia on the Asian Conference of Religion and Peace (ACRP). He led Melbourne's successful bid to stage the 2009 Parliament of the World's Religions, the world's largest interfaith gathering, and is now its Melbourne Program Director. A member of the Australian Partnership of Religious Organizations (APRO) and of the Victoria Police Multifaith Advisory Council, he is a Club Melbourne Ambassador as part of the “Think Melbourne, Think Victoria” strategy of the Victorian Government.

Where: Laby Theatre (L108), Physics Building, Melbourne University (located near Melbourne University's tram stop on Swanston street)
https://maps.unimelb.edu.au/parkville/building/192s/laby_theatre

Cost: Free

Booking: https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=339119

MORE:
Religions for Peace (Victoria)
Website: http://religionsforpeaceaustralia.org.au/2017/12/05/2018-world-interfaith-harmony-week-lecture/

A collaboration between The University of Melbourne Chaplaincy and Religions for Peace Victoria

PWR | STATEMENT | Peacebuilding in Jerusalem | Saturday 9 December 2017

[Edited extract from public address]

At the Parliament of the World’s Religions, we honor the committed and courageous justice builders and peacemakers on the ground, from all beliefs and communities, whose incredible work has shown us that this conflict need not perpetually tear us apart. 

We are alarmed by the decision of the President of the United States to move the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem. We are distressed by the escalating tensions in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict that this decision is causing.

We entreat all parties to engage in strategies that avoid further provocations, that give the highest regard for the value of every human life, and that envision a future of non-violence, reconciliation, and justice as the most effective route to peace.

To them we say: we are grateful for your solidarity with those who are voiceless and powerless. Despite the odds, you give us hope. With your actions, we believe that there can still be reconciliation, justice and peace -- a possibility rooted in the testimony and commandments of our religious traditions. You who promote and work for justice and peace continue to be an inspiration to us and to all those whose lives you touch.

From the Parliament of the World's Religions Dr. Larry Greenfield, Executive Director
and Dr. Robert P. Sellers, Chair of the Board of Trustees 

Organisers are planning for a Parliament of the World’s Religions to welcome more than 10,000 people of more than 80 nations, from more than 200 unique spiritual traditions at this 7th convening. How will you be there?
Be Supportive by well-wishing organisers and participants, organise local pre-PWR events, pledge your individual or group attendance BY REGISTERING or MAKE A DONATION.

MORE:
Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR)
70 East Lake Street, Suite 205, Chicago, IL 60601
Website: https://parliamentofreligions.org/

YATR | OPPORTUNITY | $1M of Free Advertising to Successful Community Organisations | OPEN 11 December 2017 - CLOSE 4 February 2018

[Edited extract from public address]

The Yarra Trams Community Partnerships Program will provide free advertising across the Melbourne tram network in 2018

Across the Yarra Trams network, $1 million of in-kind advertising space is allocated to Melbourne based community organisations through an annual process. An independent panel has final decision on the partnerships, based on the organisation's application.

Community organisations that are unsuccessful in the process for 2018 advertising coverage are encouraged to apply in future.

In the interests of supporting a variety of communities, Yarra Trams does not support any one organisation for consecutive years.

Yarra Trams reserves the right to establish partnerships with organisations that align with our business values and objectives outside of the panel process.

To be eligible for Yarra Trams Community Partnerships Program, an organisation must:

• Be located in Melbourne and align geographically with the Yarra Trams network.
• Be able to promote the partnership through a range of channels (e.g. website, social media, newsletters, speaking opportunities at events).
• Make a significant contribution to diversity and inclusion in Melbourne.
• Have creative assets available to be shared on the tram network that fit with Yarra Trams advertising guidelines. 
• Align with Yarra Trams values including being passenger focussed, improving our network, placing safety first, and supporting our community.
• Submit a one minute video pitch for the partnership on a Smartphone. [NOTE: Video should be filmed on a Smartphone or equivalent. Highly produced videos will not be valued more. We want to see personality, not professional videos.]

See guidelines online at Yarra Trams

See full program details online at Yarra Trams

MORE:

Yarra Trams (YATR)

Post: GPO Box 5231, Melbourne Vic 3001

Tel: 1800 800 007

Website: http://www.yarratrams.com.au/

GEIFN | REPORTS | CCYP | INFORMATION SESSION | Reportable Conduct Scheme - Religious Organisations | Tuesday 19 December 2017 | 10-11.30am

[Edited extract from public address]

The Reportable Conduct Scheme aims to ensure those who shouldn't work with children aren’t. 

Where: Level 26, 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000

An information session covering:
• The Reportable Conduct Scheme and to whom it applies
• What is reportable under the Scheme
• What organisations are required to report and respond
• How the Commission will work with other organisations and regulators

It is currently being phased in, mandatory for religious organisations in Phase 2 Schedule 4 implementation by 1 January 2018. Requirements builds on existing workplace misconduct and child safety systems within organisations. As everyone is learning at the same time, current requirements may change as new information arises and matters are worked through.

(See 4pp Information sheet 1: About the Victorian Reportable Conduct Scheme referred to hereafter as IS1)

At-A-Glance Key Terms:

• A Child means anyone under the age of 18 years (see IS1, p1)
• Head of Organisation as holding final responsibility (see IS1, p1)
• Employees means persons aged 18+ within or connected to the organisation, even if their work does not directly relate to children. Specifically: (a) paid employees, (b) any persons/entities engaged by the organisation including volunteers, office holders and project officers and certain contractors, (c) religious workers including ministers of religion, religious leader and officers, and (d) certain foster or kinship carers (see IS1, p2)
• Reporting Timeframes (see IS3,p2 and IS7)
• Scope Once any part of the organisation is within the scheme, the whole organisation is within the scheme. Notification to Commission and investigate reportable allegations applies across whole organisation. (see IS1, p4)

In the 6 months of operation, the Commission has over 400 matters reported to it since the Phase 1 implementation 1 July 2017. The volume of reportable allegations are in line with predictions.

Early Commission observations are that:

• Organisations feel challenged by:
• having to report conduct perceived to be less serious
• having to report conduct that has been pre-judged as justified 
• Requirements to investigate conduct outside the workplace 
• Significant variance in quality of investigations by organisations

Reportable Conduct in Brief
There are five types of ‘reportable conduct’ listed in the Child Wellbeing and Safety Act 2005:

• sexual offences (against, with or in the presence of, a child)
• sexual misconduct (against, with or in the presence of, a child)
• physical violence (against, with or in the presence of, a child)
• behaviour that causes significant emotional or psychological harm 
• significant neglect.

(See 4pp Information Sheet 2: What is reportable conduct?
referred to hereafter as IS2)

Misconduct vs Reportable Conduct
Misconduct is a breach of professional standards or Association stated codes of conduct. They may or may not involve reportable conduct. Reportable Conduct is a sexual offence, sexual misconduct, physical violence, behaviour that causes significant emotional or psychological harm to a child, significant neglect of a child (see IS2, p1)

Reasonable Belief and Suspicion
Allegation based on reasonable belief
= Reportable Conduct
Notify the Commission? Yes

Misconduct +
Allegation based on suspicion
= May involve reportable conduct
Notify the Commission? Yes

Misconduct
Notify the Commission? No
(see IS2, p3-4)

Head of Organisation’s obligations under reportable conduct
Notify
You must notify the Commission within 3 business days of becoming aware of a reportable allegation.

Investigate
• You must investigate allegations – subject to police clearance on criminal matters or matters involving family violence.
• You must advise the Commission who is undertaking the investigation.
• You must manage the risks to children.

Update
Within 30 calendar days you must provide the Commission detailed information about the reportable allegation and any action you have taken.

Outcomes
You must notify the Commission of the investigation findings and any disciplinary action the head of entity has taken (or the reasons no action was taken).

(See 2pp Information sheet 3: Responsibilities of the head of an organisation referred to hereafter as IS3)

Reporting Deliverables
Section 16M requires the head of an organisation to within 3 business days initially notify the Commission of a reportable allegation; within 30 calendar days update the Commission of progress; as soon as practicable investigate the reportable allegation and provide the findings of the investigation to the Commission. (See IS3, p2)

Investigation Overview
An investigation into a reportable allegation is a workplace investigation aimed at gathering and examining information to establish facts and make findings in relation to allegations of child abuse against an employee. The investigation may also make recommendations about what disciplinary or other action should be taken (if any).

An effective investigation requires a systematic approach to assessing and managing an allegation, followed by a sound decision-making framework that enables procedural fairness for all parties in the investigation process.
(See 3pp Information sheet 4: Investigation overview)

Supplementary
See 2pp Information sheet 5: Other reporting obligations
See 2pp Information sheet 6: Child Safe Standards and Reportable Conduct Scheme
See 2pp Information sheet 7: Reporting to the Commission

Future Information sessions
https://ccyp.vic.gov.au/child-safety/resources/information-sessions/

Reportable Conduct Scheme
• Melbourne, Thursday 22 February 2018 | 10-11.30 am
• Melbourne, Tuesday 6 March 2018 | 10-11.30 am
• Melbourne, Tuesday 27 March 2018 | 10-11.30 am Child Safe Standards
• Melbourne, Wednesday 18 April 2018 | 10-11.30 am

On behalf of Buddhist Council Victoria Interfaith (bINTER) and Glen Eira Interfaith Network (GEIFN), thankyou to Organisers and Participants working to redress historical harms, build upon existing reporting mechanisms and redress/minimise injustices. Received with gratitude.

MORE:
Commission for Children and Young People (CCYP)
Post: Level 18, 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne Victoria 3000
Tel: 1300 78 29 78
Email: childsafestandards@ccyp.vic.gov.au
Website: https://ccyp.vic.gov.au

GEIFN | MEDIA | Mix | January 2018

MEDIA WORDS
Approx 5 min reads

Intro
Ray Edgar explores meaning-filled effort, humanity and lasting impressions “When every picture of a building tells you more about our history” via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/art-and-design/when-every-picture-of-a-building-tells-you-more-about-our-history-20171225-h0a2q6.html

Nafeesa Syeed explores examples of overcoming historical constraints to face  new reality, entrepreneurship in refugee camps revealing “The women fleeing Yemen's cruel war, and their enterprising new lives” via The Brisbane Times
https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/world/the-women-fleeing-yemens-cruel-war-and-their-enterprising-new-lives-20171220-h0842w.html

Christos Tsiolkas explores expression, public interest, repetitive human need to create terror from personal to nation state, asking “Frankenstein's legacy 200 years on, is righteousness the new social menace?” via The Canberra Times
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/entertainment/frankensteins-legacy-200-years-on-is-righteousness-the-new-social-menace-20171220-h089b8.html


Intra
Terry Durack explores connections, conflicts and conundrums between ethics, knowledge and everyday living, reasoning that “When buying meat, we need do our homework” via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://www.smh.com.au/good-weekend/terry-durack-when-buying-meat-we-need-do-our-homework-20171130-gzvybq.html

Fergus Hunter explores discussions about redressing entrenched societal disadvantage, citing “The plan to take thousands of children out of Australia's prisons” via The Age
http://www.theage.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/the-plan-to-take-thousands-of-children-out-of-australias-prisons-20171128-gzu40t.html

Adele Ferguson explores familial exploitation and ongoing attempts to find redress, citing “'We worked like slaves and no one cared': 7-Eleven worker” via The Brisbane Times
https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/business/companies/we-worked-like-slaves-and-no-one-cared-7eleven-worker-20171222-h092ff.html


Inter
Cara Waters explores the value in networking to defined markets, playing to natural strengths in “Secret women's business: Women's only networking groups” via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/small-business/entrepreneur/secret-womens-business-womens-only-networking-groups-20171207-h00p6z.html

Tom Cowie explores how positive role modeling and positive active engagement improves educational outcomes and broadens opportunities, revealing how “Mentorship of African boys boosts school's year 12 graduate numbers” via The Age
http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/mentorship-of-african-boys-boosts-year-12-graduate-numbers-to-highest-ever-at-one-school-20171216-h05to0.html

Cara Waters explores an example of a mother being the necessity of this invention, regarding "'No regrets' for inventor of $50m Springfree trampoline who sold out years ago” via The Brisbane Times
https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/business/small-business/no-regrets-for-inventor-of-50m-springfree-trampoline-who-sold-out-years-ago-20171215-h051f3.html


Multi
Ben Groundwater explores longevity, prosperity and relationships creating "Countries with the longest life expectancy: The 10 countries where people live longest” via Traveller.com.au
http://www.traveller.com.au/the-destinations-where-people-live-the-longest-gz6cyw

Cara Waters explores an example of local land knowledge combining with metropolitan taste buds to make a "Business boost for Indigenous entrepreneurs” via The Age
http://www.theage.com.au/small-business/entrepreneur/business-boost-for-indigenous-entrepreneurs-20171222-h0960b.html

Michael Short explores a 2014 example of war-ravaged societies, health-care, rebuilding, obstacles and working together to make brighter futures, interviewing Bronwyn Stephens realised experience on “How to save lives in Cambodia” via The Canberra Times
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/national/how-to-save-lives-in-cambodia-20141205-1218nu.html


All
Nick Miller explores an example of history repeating, fear and loathing, prosecuting war criminals and healing humanity, reviewing “Nazis and Bach collide as Philippe Sands brings East West Street to the stage” via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/nazis-and-bach-collide-as-philippe-sands-brings-east-west-street-to-the-stage-20171218-h06qbm.html

Adam Carey writes of positive development in Indigenous reconciliation, reporting how “Aboriginal treaty is about shared pride, not your backyard, commissioner says” via The Age
http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/aboriginal-treaty-is-about-shared-pride-not-your-backyard-commissioner-says-20171212-h03c9s.html

Nick Miller explores decision making gaining wider acceptance when it is sincerely inclusive for greater benefits, in how to “Give them a nudge, avert a war: behavioural economics comes of age” via The Brisbane Times
https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/world/give-them-a-nudge-avert-a-war-behavioural-economics-comes-of-age-20171205-gzyrtl.html


Togather
Carolyn Cummins explores a sustainable development realising a pipe dream, turning the tap on “Lendlease's Barangaroo: set to export water” via The Age
http://www.theage.com.au/business/property/lendlease-completes-barangaroo-20171208-p4yxj5.html

Rosamund Barton explores an example of personal reality, principled stances, daily reality, relationships and realising dreams, meet “Alex Houseman and Eleanor Nurse: 'When there's friction we're very frank'” via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://www.smh.com.au/good-weekend/how-a-gap-in-the-market-spurred-alex-houseman-and-eleanor-nurses-icecream-business-20171205-gzzany.html

Nassim Khadem explores examples of equality in opportunity, gender equity and increasing societal benefits, “From Hyderabad to Nashville: small cities creating global hubs for entrepreneurs” via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/business/world-business/from-hyderabad-to-nashville-small-cities-creating-global-hubs-for-entrepreneurs-20171222-h09emk.html


Nobly
Amanda Hooton explores civic responsibility, evidence-based logic, sincere debate of opposing ideas, intentional democracy and voting in brighter futures for a greater number, shining a light on “Same-sex marriage's unlikely hero Liberal Dean Smith, the 'invisible man'” via The Canberra Times
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/good-weekend/samesex-marriages-unlikely-hero-liberal-dean-smith-the-invisible-man-20171205-gzyuvd.html

Tony Wright explores an example of compassion, Civic duty, leadership and in the public interest, recounting “How Tim Fischer ended an armed siege and made a promise to a refugee” via The Age
http://www.theage.com.au/national/how-tim-fischer-ended-an-armed-siege-and-made-a-promise-to-a-refugee-20171214-h04ehm.html

Andrew Purcell explores a realist and activist peacemaker “Heading to Australia, Iraqi cellist Karim Wasfi on the healing power of music” via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/heading-to-australia-iraqi-cellist-karim-wasfi-on-the-healing-power-of-music-20171219-h07i66.html


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TED TALKS
Approx 20min presentations

Liza Donnelly: Drawings Upon Humor For Change

Christian Benimana: The next generation of African architects and designers

Suzanne Simard: How trees talk to each other


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GUEST SINGS
Approx 5 min presentation

Harris J - Salam Alaikum
https://youtu.be/u_-McEvEGvI


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STREET JIVES
Approx 2 min presentation

Sesame Street: Ian McKellen Teaches Cookie Monster to Resist
https://youtu.be/GxCplsdCwxY


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WISDOM ILLUMINATES
Approx 25 min presentation

David Suzuki - For Thought: Hope for the Planet
Scientist, broadcaster, author, co-founder of the David Suzuki Foundation and Grandpa and Elder. He is Companion to the Order of Canada and a recipient of UNESCO's Kalinga Prize for science, the United Nations Environment Program medal, the 2012 Inamori Ethics Prize, the 2009 Right Livelihood Award, and UNEP's Global 500. Dr. Suzuki is Professor Emeritus at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver and holds 29 honorary degrees from universities around the world. He is familiar to television audiences as host of the CBC science and natural history television series The Nature of Things
https://youtu.be/Rb1Oxibmb60

MAV | PERFORMANCE | Sthithi: We Stand, We Belong | Saturday 16 December 2017 | 6-6.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

One’s first act of belonging to a city is to stand with confidence.

Sthithi performed by students of Monica Singh Sangwan (Sohamasmi Centre for Performing Arts) brings together dancers of diverse ethnicities to reflect contemporary Asia in our city of Melbourne.

The word ‘stithi’ comes from the Sanskrit root word ‘stha’, meaning to stand, to place, to be. Yoga in its myriad forms, as well as martial arts, has become part of the city’s cultural melting pot.

This dance composition choreographed and conceived by Sharmila Biswas, with music composed by Sukanta Kumar Kundu modernizes the movements and techniques of Indian classical dance (namely Odissi), yoga and martial art.

Where: Queensbridge Square, 3 Queensbridge St, Southbank, Vic 3006

Cost: Free

MORE:
Multicultural Arts VictoriaAddress: South Melbourne Town Hall Level 1, 208-220 Bank Street, South Melbourne VIC 3205
Post: PO Box 5113, South Melbourne, VIC 3205, Australia
Tel: 03 9188 3681
Email: office@multiculturalarts.com.au
Website: www.multiculturalarts.com.au

MAV | PERFORMANCE | Festivity | Saturday 16 December 2015 | 6.30-8pm

[Edited extract from public address]

A contemporary Thai performance incorporating physical movements and exhibition to create an understanding of how Thai people embrace a special parade called ‘Hae Krua Tan.’

The air of tranquility and harmony in this performance will captivate you in its surrounding space. This powerful sense of calm through body movements will guide the audience to synchronize internally with the performance.

Watch as performers Candice Boonjua, Khwanlarp Sudjunta, Wichittra Changchaya, Shuchinthara Suebsamarn, Saranya Chaovarad and Ampornkarn Artanyoota entertain the audience with this interactive performance inspired by a traditional ceremony from the northern region of Thailand.

Where: from Princes Bridge along Southbank Promenade to Queensbridge Square, Southbank

Cost: Free

MORE:
Multicultural Arts VictoriaAddress: South Melbourne Town Hall Level 1, 208-220 Bank Street, South Melbourne VIC 3205
Post: PO Box 5113, South Melbourne, VIC 3205, Australia
Tel: 03 9188 3681
Email: office@multiculturalarts.com.au
Website: www.multiculturalarts.com.au

RSPCA | APPEAL | Guardian Angels Needed to Support Animal Rescue

[Edited extract from public address]

Give the gift of kindness this Christmas. Be a Guardian Angel to a homeless animal in need.

Annually: RSPCA receives over 50,000 animal cruelty complaints nationally
Nationally: RSPCA receives and cares for over 120,000 animals
Seasonally: 10,000 animals will call RSPCA home

If in interested and in surplus, donate online.

MORE:
RSPCA VIC
Post: 3 Burwood Highway, Burwood East Vic 3151
Tel: 1300 777 221
Website: www.rspcavic.org

MCM | APPEAL | Homeless Christmas Fund

[Edited extract from public address]

Everyone is busy at Christmas... especially Melbourne City Mission.

More young people are facing homelessness than the Mission has ever seen before and funding unfortunately only goes so far. The Mission believes no young person should have to sleep rough, on a couch, or in an unsafe place over Christmas.
If in surplus, please give your support.

As a guide:

• $37 helps to fund a crisis bed in e mergency accomodation
• $53 will help a person share a Christmas lunch and a small gift
• $87 could provide an Emergency Pack with toiletries, clothes & underwear.

In interested and in surplus, donate by calling 1300 364 507 or online

MORE:
Melbourne City Mission Head Office
Post: PO Box 13210, Law Courts, Melbourne, VIC 8010, Australia 
Address: 164–180 Kings Way, South Melbourne VIC 3205 Australia
Tel: 03 8625 4444

Website: melbournecitymission.org.au

BSL | CREATE | The Hope Prize short story competition | Closing Wednesday 31 January 2018

[Edited extract from public address]

Australia is the proverbial ‘lucky country’, yet amid our remarkable prosperity too many pockets of poverty and disadvantage persist in our cities, regions and remote areas. This narrative deserves to be explored through evocative writing.

The Hope Prize, the Brotherhood of St Laurence’s national short story competition, is open for entries. Encouraging writers to explore people's resilience in the face of poverty and disadvantage, to look beyond all too common stereotypes to depict the strengths that people and communities show in dealing with hardship.

Short stories entered for The Hope Prize can be fiction or fact. Whatever the genre, the story submitted must convey the experience of people facing hardship in their lives.

The total prize pool is $17,500, while two Women’s Writing Career Development Scholarships — of $5,000 each — will also be awarded.

Authors must be Australian residents, entries must be between 2000 and 5000 words. and received by 31 January 2018.

The eminent judges for this competition are actor Cate Blanchett, former governor general Quentin Bryce and author Kate Grenville. They are passionate about defeating disadvantage and care deeply about encouraging good writing.

Find out online more about this prize 

MORE:
Brotherhood of St Laurence (BSL)
67 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065
Tel: (03) 9483 1183
Email: info@bsl.org.au
Website: https://www.bsl.org.au