City pushes for stronger multicultural policies in state review

THE City of Greater Geelong has called for a stronger support for multicultural communities in a recent submission to the Victorian Multicultural Review, urging greater investment in inclusive planning, anti-racism measures and accessible services.

The review, announced by Premier Jacinta Allan in December last year with the aim of strengthening “community harmony”, will provide recommendations to the state government to address and prevent racism and discrimination, promote social cohesion and rebuild interfaith dialogue.

The city’s submission made several recommendations the council hopes will help to improve the effectiveness of the state’s multicultural policies and programs. They include:

• Ensuring all planning and service provision across education, employment, housing, health and transport focuses on inclusivity and equity
• Greater support to build the capacity of multicultural communities in areas such as employment, education and leadership
• Ensuring all communication channels offer translation services and develop resources in community languages
• Continued promotion of health and wellbeing for Victorians from diverse multicultural backgrounds, including food equity
• Increased collaboration between various agencies, community groups and advisory committees to address barriers to participation and promote inclusivity
• A continued strong, public stance against racism and discrimination to promote social cohesion
• Ensuring culturally sensitive services are designed with input from the communities they serve, and
• Continued opportunities for the community to provide feedback to help guide the development of multicultural policies and plans.

Cr Andrew Katos, who serves as chair of the council’s multicultural affairs and citizenship portfolio, said the council was grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the review.

“As a son of Greek migrants, I believe multiculturalism enriches our local community and contributes to its social and economic vitality.

“We’ve made recommendations to the state that will benefit not only Geelong but Victoria as a whole, such as providing translation services in multiple languages across communication channels and continuing a strong, public stance against racism and discrimination.

“Addressing these issues requires a collaborative approach involving community consultation, inclusive planning and targeted support services that recognise local context.”

Almost 18 per cent of Geelong’s total population was born overseas, with the top five most common countries of origin being the United Kingdom, India, New Zealand, China and the Philippines.

The city has also reported noticeable increases in humanitarian arrivals from countries such as Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, South Sudan, Congo and Myanmar.

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the region’s diversity brings a wealth of perspectives, traditions and innovations, and the council remains committed to creating a “welcoming and inclusive environment for all”.

“By fostering inclusion, we ensure a future where every voice is heard and valued.

“As a child of Slovenian migrants, I can personally attest to the importance of breaking through barriers and effectively engaging with multicultural residents.”

Submissions to the Victorian Multicultural Review have now closed.