The Australian Government has released the report of the Multicultural Framework Review, the first major examination of the state of our Australian multiculturalism in a generation.
This comprehensive independent report, published today, assesses the health of Australia’s multicultural society, and makes recommendations to strengthen it for generations to come.
Australia’s last major review of multiculturalism was more than half a century ago.
Since then, Australia has transformed into a nation which welcomes people from nearly every country on Earth. More than half of us are born overseas or have at least one parent who was.
In preparing the report, a Panel of three eminent Australians – Dr Bulent Hass Dellal AO, Ms Nyadol Nyuon OAM and Ms Christine Castley – travelled the country and consulted with more 1,430 individuals and 750 organisations, including community groups, in more than 200 consultation events.
The 796 submissions received for the Review were received in all community languages, by written submission, audio or video message. This was a new and innovative approach to fielding submissions. Of those, 126 – nearly one sixth of total submissions – were in languages other than English.
The Federal Government have made the executive summary available in 33 languages on the Home Affairs website, ensuring that all individuals no matter their English language proficiency have the opportunity to access the outcomes of the review.
To complement the release of the Review and the Government Response, the Albanese Government has committed more than $100 million to support a stronger multicultural Australia.
The funding will enable investment in language services, support for increased community engagement and allow multicultural organisations to improve amenities, and strengthen their ability to serve both members of their own community and the broader society.
The Multicultural Framework Review will influence Australia’s understanding of multiculturalism and shape future policy outcomes for years to come.
Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, Andrew Giles praised the report.
“Multiculturalism is one of the great successes of modern Australia, but there is still much work remaining to ensure all communities feel safe and can be proud of who they are, regardless of their religious, ethnic or cultural background,” Minister Giles said.
“The Review writes a new chapter in our multicultural story, and will inform how we can work together to achieve a vibrant, prosperous multicultural future.
“Our shared values of respect, unity, and compassion will underpin our multicultural nation, and the report reflects how these principles can guide us towards peace and understanding.
“Our diversity is our greatest strength, and this review showcases an Australia that we can build together as one united nation.”
