Multicultural reforms aim to rebuild trust

It is the beginning of a new era for multicultural policy in our state. 

The Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria (ECCV) welcomes the Allan Government’s plans to establish Multicultural Victoria: a new statutory body that will combine the roles of the Victorian Multicultural Commission and the office of Multicultural Affairs.   

The new body will be led by an independent Chair – to be known as the Multicultural Coordinator General – supported by two deputies and a five-member advisory council.  

This strengthened approach, to be implemented next year, flows from findings of the Victorian Multicultural Review led by George Lekakis AO, a former ECCV Chairperson. The Review made 41 recommendations and noted the erosion of trust in government institutions and agencies, in line with global trends.  

The Review found: “Building social cohesion and restoring trust will require ongoing effort, cultural competence within institutions, and a clear dedication to collaborating with Victoria’s multicultural and multifaith communities.” 

ECCV is particularly pleased to note a key reform taken up by Premier Jacinta Allan and Multicultural Affairs Minister Ingrid Stitt: the development of a whole-of-government multicultural strategy. This is a change ECCV has long called for, recognising it as critical to the rejuvenation of multiculturalism in Victoria.

“The development of a new strategy must be informed by migrant and refugee communities to ensure that lived experiences, community voices and aspirations are reflected in the plan,” said ECCV Chairperson Abiola Akinbiyi. 

 “An overarching strategy will certainly help guide government departments to better meet the needs of our diverse communities, especially in challenging times.” 

ECCV CEO Farah Farouque said: “The Review’s extensive community consultations – including contributions from more than 640 Victorians and 150 peak bodies and community groups – adds to its credibility.’’ 

“ECCV commends the detailed work undertaken by Mr Lekakis and his advisory group in finalising the Review. It lays strong foundations for Government to shape Victoria’s multicultural future.’’ 

Other key features of the State Government’s initial response to the Multicultural Review include: 

• Recognition of language services as an ‘essential service’.
• A new capacity-building fund worth $5million to strengthen multicultural and peak organisations. 
• Additional funding for more people to visit multicultural museums. 
• Stronger recognition of the needs of regional multicultural communities.