Diversity & Tolerance – What the new Council will do.

How does Australia manage it’s many nations in one?
When it comes to diversity and tolerance, this a shared areas of concern by both the Australian Government and new migrant alike.

As new migrants we were keen for confirmation that we would be well received both at work and play.

Our skills and work history are evaluated during the migration process but are tested again, when we are job seeking and entering the Australian work force.

As a family, to settle we needed to find a sense of place and belonging in our community.

Whilst this takes time and effort on our behalf and is partly down to our own ability to connect, network, socialise and communicate, seek advice, learn and grow, accept or complain…our ability to integrate is also partly reliant on the host country to be tolerant and hospitable.

It’s not an easy task, the Australian Government has advice on cultural, racial and religious intolerance…..

The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, is advised by a 16-member council.

A recent release has reported on what the council does:

‘The council will play an important role in articulating the benefits of Australia’s diversity and shaping this Government’s response to religious and cultural intolerance.’

‘The council will provide advice on the government’s cultural diversity programs, including the Diverse Australia Program launched last month, and Harmony Day which is celebrated on March 21.’

The council will focus on:

practical approaches to promoting social cohesion

overcoming intolerance and racism in Australia

communicating the social and economic benefits of Australia’s cultural diversity

the inclusion of migrants in society.

The Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, Laurie Ferguson, said Australia’s approach to immigration and cultural diversity was a national strength.

‘Religious and cultural diversity is a permanent and valuable feature of Australian society and the make-up of the council reflects that diversity,’ Mr Ferguson said.

‘Independent advice from a council made up of experienced and knowledgeable individuals from diverse backgrounds and professional expertise in industry, community, public and private sectors will assist government in developing and strengthening policies and programs to promote social cohesion.’

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