The Federal Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Dr Anne Aly, has today announced that the Department of Home Affairs will create an Office for Multicultural Affairs.
In the 50 years since the release of Australia’s first multiculturalism policy, Australia’s modern multicultural diversity has become a fundamental aspect of its identity.
The Office for Multicultural Affairs will bring together key functions within the Department of Home Affairs, more closely aligning the policies and programs that help to unite and strengthen Australia.
The new Office will drive a national approach to a multicultural Australia, providing leadership across the three tiers of government.
The Office will help strengthen the cohesiveness of Australia’s diverse, multicultural society by engaging across whole-of-government and whole-of society interests to drive a coherent approach to multiculturalism and an inclusive society.
By bringing together multiple functions into one location the Office will ensure Australian Government policies, programs and services are accessible and equitable for all including by modernising community grant programs.
The Office will also take carriage of Australia’s settlement and language services including the long-standing Adult Migrant English Program and Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National).
In addition, the Albanese Government has also elevated to Cabinet the stand-alone position of Minister for Multicultural Affairs – the first time in Australia’s history.
Minister for Home Affairs, Tony Burke, welcomed the announcement.
“Modern Australia and multicultural Australia are the same thing,” Mr Burke said.
“This Office provides a central hub for government work and makes sure every Australian feels welcomed and at home.”
Multicultural Affairs Minister Dr Aly said, “Multiculturalism is not just about or for a section of our society, each and every one of us belongs to an Australia that has been enriched by our 65,000 years of First Nations culture and the successive stories, traditions and histories of those who have come across the seas.”
“Our success as a modern multicultural nation is underwritten by our mutual respect for individual freedoms and equality of opportunity for Australians in all our diversity,” Dr Aly added.
“The establishment of a federal Office for Multicultural Affairs is a significant step, recognising the importance of not just celebrating multiculturalism but valuing diversity.”
