International Women's Day highlights the achievements of culturally diverse women
On International Women’s Day the Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria celebrates the achievements and contributions of Victoria's diverse women.
ECCV Deputy Chairperson Marion Lau said CALD* women contributed to Victoria across many different areas of community life.
“Women from culturally diverse backgrounds have a wealth of skills, knowledge and experience to contribute and we want to see more of them leading our community,” Ms Lau said.
Ms Lau added the ECCV had been working systematically to improve the safety, health and employment outcomes for CALD women.
“We know women face challenges of discrimination, domestic violence and cultural communication barriers,” Ms Lau said.
“Much advancement has been made by governments and service providers but CALD women still struggle to access these services they need to participate fully in society.” MORE
Multiculturalism in Ministry a win for diverse communities
The elevation of Multicultural Affairs to the Federal Government Ministry is proof multicultural policy is high on the Government’s agenda.
The Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria (ECCV) said this month it was gratified the Government’s commitment to multiculturalism was influenced by its advocacy strategies.
ECCV Chairperson Joe Caputo said the new Minister for Multicultural Affairs Senator Kate Lundy must use the portfolio to focus on achieving cohesive settlement strategies for diverse communities.
“Australia has the capacity to absorb more refugees under our humanitarian program regardless of fluctuations in overall immigration program,” he said.
“We urge the Minister to work with the Minister for Immigration to increase Australia’s humanitarian refugee intake from 13 750 to 20 000 per year.”
Mr Caputo added the family reunion program was a vital part of ensuring a robust multicultural Australia.
“Australia’s family reunion program should be steadily increased from its 2011-2012 level of 58 600,” Mr Caputo said. MORE
Protecting Victoria's Vulnerable Children Inquiry reveals diverse communities at risk
Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria welcomed the strong CALD focus in the Protecting Victoria’s Vulnerable Children Inquiry report tabled in parliament this week. ECCV Chairperson Joe Caputo said culturally responsive practice was essential for families from newly arrived refugee communities.
ECCV 2010 representations to the Department of Human Services and submissions to the Inquiry revealed newly arrived communities were fearful of child protection intervention.
Mr Caputo said many child protection issues were not identified in CALD communities because of differing cultural norms.
“We recommend culturally responsive practice for working with newly arrived refugee communities,” he said. MORE
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ECCV Positions Vacant
ECCV has three vacant positions currently advertised: Policy Officer Aged Care (closes 30/3) , Project Coordinator (HACC) (closes 23/3) and Office Manager position (closes 23/3). Applicants can send their applications to eccv@eccv.org.au and position descriptions can be accessed HERE.
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Anti-Racism Strategy Consultations
The Australian Human Rights Commission will hold public consultations around the country over the next few months as part of the National Anti-Racism Strategy.
The strategy promotes a clear understanding of what racism is and how it can be prevented. It is anticipated the strategy will launch in July 2012 and implemented between 2012 and 2015.
The public consultations begin in late March and finish in early May. For details of the consultations click HERE.
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