Our Multicultural Island Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy
Department of Communities Tasmania 1 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOREWORD 4 Message from the Premier Message from the Minister WELCOME TO OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND 6 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND 8 HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND 2013–2018 9 CONSULTATION 10 IS MULTICULTURALISM WORKING IN TASMANIA? 12 MULTICULTURAL ISLAND VALUES STATEMENT 13 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND ACTION PLAN 2019–22 15
1 ACCESSIBLE AND AFFORDABLE SERVICES 17 2 ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY 23 3 HARMONIOUS, INCLUSIVE AND RESPECTFUL ISLAND 29
OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy 2 3 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy MESSAGE FROM THE PREMIER MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER
Our Multicultural Island has a rich cultural diversity Regardless of country of birth, language, culture, of which we can all be proud. religion, or time of arrival, all Tasmanians share common aspirations. Tasmania is home to people born in 177 different countries, with 159 identified languages spoken in We all want a safe place to live, access to affordable Tasmanian homes. According to the 2016 Census, government services, opportunities for employment, more than 61,200 Tasmanians were born overseas. and to be able to participate in our local community. Cultural diversity is a central part of our Island’s story. We all have an important role to play in improving This diversity deepens and enriches our communities. the inclusiveness of our Multicultural Island, to ensure Every Tasmanian benefits from the skills, knowledge, everyone belongs. experiences, innovation, job creation, and personal contributions of our culturally diverse communities. That’s why the Tasmanian Government has developed Our Mulicultural Island: Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy and Regardless of where you were born, or what language Action Plan 2019-2022. you first spoke, here in Tasmania, you belong. It reaffirms six fundamental values to guide us to a This sense of belonging comes from our shared values harmonious, inclusive and safe Tasmania where all that binds us together. We should all be free to express people are treated fairly, with respect and without ourselves, and live free from discrimination. We should discrimination, and have an equal opportunity and all have fair access to the services we need, equitable responsibility to engage in Tasmanian life. opportunities for employment, and equal protection of the law. We should all be able to participate in, The Action Plan acknowledges the Government’s role in and contribute to, the social, political and cultural bringing these values to life. It will realise improvements life of Tasmania. across government that ensures every Tasmanian can belong, contribute, achieve and succeed. Our Mulicultural Island: Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy and Action Plan 2019-2022 enshrines these values. It provides Together we will continue to strive for a connected a plan to achieve an even stronger and more cohesive community where everyone is respected, included State that achieves genuine inclusion and acceptance. and valued for their contribution to our Island’s multicultural way of life. Tasmania has so much to offer to so many. Recognising that diversity enriches us all, now is the right time to By creating vibrant and welcoming communities we spread this message and to share our state. Tasmania’s can attract and retain new Tasmanians, strengthen doors are open. the economy, create more job opportunities and achieve greater diversity. I am privileged to lead a truly Multicultural Island. I look forward to welcoming more people to our Multicultural Island as they discover for themselves The Honourable Will Hodgman MP why Tasmania is the greatest place to call home. Premier of Tasmania The Honourable Jacquie Petrusma MP Minister for Disability Services and Community Development
OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy 4 5 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy Welcome to our Multicultural Island
Our vision is for a harmonious, inclusive and respectful Multicultural Island where Tasmanians of all cultures, languages and faiths have an equal opportunity and responsibility to belong, contribute, achieve and succeed.
Our Island is a multicultural It is in all of our interest to build a The new Multicultural Policy and success story. harmonious, inclusive and respectful Action Plan, Our Multicultural Island, Multicultural Island where people builds on the work already underway We are privileged to share the lands, from every corner of the world across Government to make Tasmania winds and waters of Tasmania’s first can belong, contribute, achieve a more harmonious, inclusive and peoples, who arrived in lutruwita and succeed together. respectful place to call home. It (Tasmania) over 40,000 years ago. begins with the Multicultural Island We acknowledge Tasmanian Recognising population growth is Values Statement which articulates Aboriginal people as the continuing critical to Tasmania’s continued success six fundamental values with a focus custodians of this land, and their – we want to encourage new families on reciprocal responsibilities that we enduring cultures and languages. to settle permanently on our Island. should expect of ourselves, of each Population Growth Strategy other, of our community, and our Today, Tasmania has a rich cultural Tasmania’s State. It is accompanied by an Action diversity. It is home to people aims to increase our population to Plan that acknowledges the Tasmanian from many backgrounds who have 650,000 by 2050. This strategy is a Government’s role in bringing these bought with them their experiences, comprehensive set of actions aimed values to life through implementing their cultures and their traditions. at encouraging more people to our policies, programs and services. Tasmanians come from 177 different State through job creation, migration countries, with 159 identified and ensuring Tasmania is recognised Our Multicultural Island is the languages spoken in Tasmanian homes. as the great place it is to live and Tasmanian Government’s work. Now is the right time to spread commitment to every Tasmanian, This diversity enriches us all. Recent this message and to share our State. that no matter where you were research has demonstrated how Tasmania’s doors are open. born, you will have the opportunity cultural diversity works through to be part of our Island’s success. the economy to greatly benefit our society: in areas from tourism, education, and global linkages, to general community vibrancy, resilience and adaptability.1
1 https://www.sgsep.com.au/publications/economic-benefits-cultural-diversity
OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy 6 7 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy Our Multicultural Island Our Multicultural Island has a rich cultural diversity of which we can all be proud. This diversity brings economic and social benefits that enhance and strengthen communities, and is an integral component in building a harmonious, inclusive and respectful Tasmania. It is a central part of who we are.
Tasmania’s first people arrived inlutruwita ( Tasmania) over 40,000 years ago
over Tasmanians were born in 159 61,200 languages are spoken in Tasmanians were 177 Tasmanian homes born overseas different countries
Tasmania welcomed Tasmania hosted 3,079 9,724 307,000 new international international permanent students visitors are studying in Tasmania 2 migrants in 2017 3 in 2018 4
2 Australian Government Department of Education and Training https://internationaleducation.gov.au/research/DataVisualisations/Pages/ Student-number.aspx as at September 2018. 3 Settlement Database https://www.data.gov.au/dataset/settlement-reports - Break down: (535 Humanitarian, 689 Family, and 1,855 Skilled). 4 https://www.tourismtasmania.com.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/74145/2018-Q2-Tasmanian-Tourism-Snapshot-YE-June-2018.pdf
OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy 8 HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND 2013 – 2018
The Tasmanian Government, in partnership with community organisations, peak bodies and ethnic associations, realised many achievements under the 2014 Tasmanian Multicultural Policy and Multicultural Action Plan.
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: • Establishing a Multicultural Grants • Supporting a state-wide • Providing grants of up to $5,000 to Program aimed at assisting program of events for organisations to deliver activities that migrants to settle and feel Harmony Week in Tasmania. enhance student experience and welcome in Tasmania. develop connected communities for • Supporting work with local interstate and international students • Recognising the importance governments to create welcoming in Tasmania. The Enhance Student of education, establishing a communities for new migrants. Experience Grants program was Learning Grants program to • Funding services that provide released under the GEG Strategy support migrant students in their educational support and in late 2018. senior years of high school, and employment pathways for migrants, supporting their transition from • Fostering opportunities for humanitarian entrants and those Year 12 into tertiary education. outbound mobility and international on temporary protection visas. engagement for Tasmania students • Funding the Multicultural Hub in • Supporting family reunion for and teachers with the aim of Moonah as a place for our ethnic humanitarian entrants. developing connected communities. communities to meet, share, Under the GEG Strategy, the celebrate and learn. • Delivering workplace training and Tasmania Government hosted community education to promote • Encouraging participation of all 99 students from Kinmen Island safe and respectful relationships Tasmanians in festivals and events who lived with local host families within the community and work to celebrate and embrace our in the North-West during their environments. vibrant multicultural diversity. visit. The Tasmania Government • Establishing the Tasmanian then supported 20 students from Government Multicultural Access the North West coast to travel to Point website as a resource for Kinmen Island in late 2018 where migrants in Tasmania and the service our students got to live with providers that support them. local families in homestay style accommodation. The experience State Service Diversity • Releasing the has been mutually beneficial in and Inclusion Framework 2017-20 broadening students’ exposure in March 2017 as a commitment to, and understanding of other to supporting workforce diversity countries and cultures. and building inclusive workplaces where all Tasmanian Government employees feel welcomed, safe and supported. While we are proud of • Welcoming over 3,500 new these achievements, we international and interstate acknowledge that our ongoing students in 11 campuses in Hobart success takes continued and Launceston during student commitment. The new orientations, Harmony Day and Tasmanian Multicultural Policy other key welcome activities, since and Action Plan 2019-22 is the launch of the Global Education the Tasmanian Government’s Growth Strategy (GEG) Strategy commitment to ensuring every in June 2017. Tasmanian can be part of our Multicultural Island’s success.
9 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy CONSULTATION
Between October and December 2018, the Government invited members of Tasmania’s multicultural communities and organisations to have a say in developing a new Multicultural Policy and Action Plan.
The focus of the consultation was ON-LINE SURVEY WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS to identify ways for Tasmania to harness the benefits of our diversity. The survey ran for 10 weeks and Multicultural stakeholders were Participants were asked how we a total of 115 people completed contacted directly by phone and a can create equal opportunities the survey. follow up email, encouraging them to for all Tasmanians to be part of make a written submission. Thirteen a harmonious, inclusive and safe REGIONAL FORUMS written submissions were received. Multicultural Island where all people The regional forums were held in CONSULTATION WITH are treated fairly, with respect and Devonport, Launceston, Hobart without discrimination, and have an and Burnie. Over 100 people GOVERNMENT AGENCIES equal opportunity and responsibility attended the regional forums to engage in Tasmanian life. Tasmanian Government agencies have and provided feedback. been consulted in the development The consultation asked whether of the whole of government policy, multiculturalism is working as well CONSULTATION WITH and many are responsible for actions as it could in Tasmania. It asked for REPRESENTATIVE GROUPS contained in the Policy and Action Plan. feedback on how we can improve multiculturalism through realising The Department of Communities MULTICULTURAL better settlement outcomes, including Tasmania, delivered five direct consultations with representative CONSULTATIVE education and training, language REFERENCE GROUP services, financial security, housing, groups. The consultations sought health and wellbeing, transport, to ensure direct participation in The Multicultural Consultative justice and safety, and governance. It the formulation of the policy by Reference Group provided valuable also asked how we can improve social targeted key population groups in advice during the Consultation inclusion and cohesion in Tasmania Tasmania’s multicultural community. phase of the Policy and Plan, and by addressing discrimination and Approximately 70 people attended promoted the survey and regional creating welcoming and inclusive the group consultations and forums through its network. communities where every Tasmanian provided feedback. can participate in, and contribute to, the social, political, economic and INTERVIEWS AT cultural life of our Island. THE EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL The feedback received was collated and provided to Government The Department of Communities agencies to ascertain future actions. Tasmania conducted interviews with approximately 80 people attending Mechanisms for public the European Christmas Festival in consultations included: December 2018. • an online survey; • regional forums; • consultation with representative groups; and • a written submission process.
OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy 10 11 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy IS MULTICULTURALISM WORKING IN TASMANIA?
The overarching feedback received throughout the consultation process was that while there are significant opportunities to improve settlement outcomes and increase social inclusion and cohesion, multiculturalism is working in Tasmania. Over 90% of online survey participants either strongly agreed (74.4 per cent) or agreed (16.3 per cent) that accepting people from many different countries makes Tasmania stronger.
WHAT DOES EVIDENCE OF A Key themes that emerged were that MULTICULTURALISM TRULY MULTICULTURAL every Tasmanian, no matter where MEAN? TASMANIA? they were born: • has the right to fair and Participants were asked what Participants were asked about equitable access to the services multiculturalism means to them. their views on how we will know provided or funded by the Frequently used words to describe when we have achieved a truly Tasmanian Government, taking multiculturalism included acceptance, multicultural community. into account the needs arising respect, inclusive, equal and harmony. from the cultural and linguistic “ When the diversity of the population diversity of the community; “ An inclusive society respecting is represented at state and local • is empowered to achieve financial personal and shared values in life and government levels, across senior security, including through equitable work while advancing fairness, care management and in the staff teams of access to employment and ” and economic well-being for all. some of our major public and private entrepreneurial opportunities, free ” Participant, Online Multicultural Survey organisations and companies. from cultural and language barriers; Participant, Online Multicultural Survey • has the freedom to express VISION FOR A themselves, including being free to MULTICULTURAL CAN TASMANIA’S celebrate their culture, to declare MULTICULTURAL and practise their religion, to use TASMANIA? their language and to express PRINCIPLES BE IMPROVED? Participants were asked about their their gender identity and sexuality, vision for a multicultural Tasmania. Participants were asked whether within the bounds of the law; Frequently used words to describe they agreed with the existing • is treated with dignity and participants vision for a multicultural principles contained in the Tasmanian respect, including receiving equal Tasmania included accepted, respected, Multicultural Policy 2014, and and effective protection against diverse, welcome, and equal. how they could be improved. discrimination on any ground; There was nearly universal agreement • has the opportunity to “ Where all Tasmanians are with the statements contained in participate in, and contribute respected and accepted no the principles. Over 96 per cent of to, the social, political and matter their social, economic, online survey participants either cultural life of Tasmania; and political or cultural background.” strongly agreed or agreed with the • is entitled to the equal protection statements, which was reflected Participant, Online Multicultural Survey of the law without discrimination, in regional forum and group so they can live free from abuse, consultation feedback. violence and fear.
OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy 12 Multicultural Island Values Statement
1 2 3 We are free to We are treated with We have access to express ourselves. respect and dignity. the services we need.
Every Tasmanian is free to Every Tasmanian is treated with Every Tasmanian has the right to celebrate their culture, to declare respect and dignity. Discrimination fair and equitable access to the and practise their religion, is never OK. We all deserve equal services provided or funded by the to use their language and to and effective protection against Tasmanian Government, taking into express their gender identity and discrimination on any ground such account the needs arising from the sexuality. This freedom can be as race, language, religion, gender, cultural and linguistic diversity of exercised individually or as part sexual orientation, marital status, the community. Regardless of our of a community, in public or in or political belief or affiliation. circumstances or background, we private. It includes freedom of all deserve equal access to quality speech, association with others education and healthcare, suitable and peaceful assembly. The right housing, accessible transport, and to express one’s own culture responsive emergency services. and beliefs involves a reciprocal responsibility to accept the right of others to express theirs. It does not allow people to break the law or to impact on the safety or freedoms of others.
13 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy Our shared values are what binds us together as a peaceful and successful Multicultural Island, where every Tasmanian can belong, contribute, achieve and succeed.
The Multicultural Island Values Statement captures these values, with a focus on reciprocal responsibilities that we should expect of ourselves, of each other, of our community, and our State. These values require that every Tasmanian: • Is able to freely exercise cultural, religious and linguistic expression; • Is treated with respect and dignity, free from discrimination; • Has equitable access to affordable Tasmanian Government services; • Has the opportunity to achieve financial security; • Has an equal opportunity and responsibility to contribute to Tasmanian life; and • Is able to live safely, free from abuse, violence and fear. By practising these values, we can harness the benefits of our diversity, and realise a truly harmonious, inclusive and respectful Multicultural Island. 4 5 6 We have We can participate We have equal financial security. in our community. protection of the law.
Every Tasmanian is empowered to Every Tasmanian can participate Every Tasmanian is entitled to the achieve financial security, including in, and contribute to, the social, equal protection of the law without through equitable access to political and cultural life of discrimination, so we can live free employment and entrepreneurial Tasmania. It is up to all of us to from abuse, violence and fear. By opportunities, free from cultural ensure every Tasmanian is able respecting our mutual rights and and language barriers. By to belong and contribute to our responsibilities according to the increasing access to economic society. By promoting greater law, together we can build a safe opportunities, we can improve communication and understanding and cohesive community. financial security and personal between Tasmania’s cultural and wellbeing for all Tasmanians. religious groups, and increasing opportunities for community participation, we can create a more inclusive and cohesive community.
OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy 14 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND ACTION PLAN 2019–22
The Multicultural Policy will be accompanied by Tasmania’s Multicultural Action Plan 2019–2022 (the Action Plan).
ABOUT THE POLICY The agency responsible for delivering MONITORING ACTION PLAN each action is identified, along with AND REPORTING any partner agency. The six shared values are grouped All Government agencies with actions under three priority areas. These are: The Action Plan is a living document. in the plan will report a summary Actions will be monitored and of their progress at the end of each • Accessible and affordable services; updated during the three-year period financial year commencing in 2019–20. • Economic opportunity; and to reflect new initiatives and priorities. A Multicultural Consultative • Harmonious, respectful and The full contribution of the Reference Group has been inclusive island. Government to realising outcomes for established to monitor and advise culturally diverse Tasmanians extends on implementation of the Policy and The Action Plan specifies actions well beyond the actions in this action Action Plan. This group comprises to be implemented by Tasmanian plan, with many important initiatives key Australian and Tasmanian Government agencies for the period now part of the core business of Government agencies, University 1 July 2019 to 30 June 2022. agencies across Government. of Tasmania and community organisations servicing the settlement and multicultural sector in Tasmania.
15 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy Values Priorities Outcome Areas
We have access to the services we need Accessible and Education and training affordable services
Language services
Health and wellbeing
Transpor t
Housing
We have financial security Economic opportunity Employment opportunities
Entrepreneurial opportunities
We are treated with respect and dignity Harmonious, inclusive Inclusive and welcoming and respectful Island communities
2. A list of acronyms and abbreviations is on page 31. We are free to express ourselves Rejection of discrimination
We can participate in our community Safety and justice
We have equal protection of the law
OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy 16 1 ACCESSIBLE AND AFFORDABLE SERVICES
Regardless of country of birth, language, culture, religion, or time of arrival, all Tasmanians share common aspirations for good health and well-being, equitable access to affordable government services and participation in the community.
The needs and barriers faced by to work in partnership to effectively This outcome area focuses on those migrants and new arrivals vary plan and deliver services that support services provided by the Tasmanian considerably and require a range of the settlement of migrants and new Government to complement mainstream and targeted settlement arrivals in Australia. Australian Government services, supports and services. Services and support settlement across should be available, accessible, timely The Australian Government provides key priority areas that have been and culturally appropriate. a range of services that benefit many identified under the NSF. Australians including welfare and The National Settlement Framework support to vulnerable people in the (NSF) is a high level structural community, and a range of services blueprint for the three tiers of to migrants and new arrivals. government, Commonwealth, State and territory and local government,
WHAT THE CONSULTATION TOLD US At the regional forums, group Areas of focus for action include: consultations and through written • health and well-being; submissions, participants were asked: what Tasmania is doing well in • support to learn English; providing government services to our multicultural community; what the • language services (translating barriers and limitations are; what and interpreting); we can do to enhance our services. • additional support for learning in schools; Access to employment opportunities for migrants and refugees was • education and training support; the leading concern raised during • access to education and consultations and is covered under Government services for Economic opportunity, the second asylum seekers; strategic priority area. • housing and transport; • Government services information; and • data collection.
17 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy WHAT THE GOVERNMENT • Providing a Learning Grants WHAT WE CAN IS DOING Program to assist refugee DO TOGETHER students in Senior High • Providing strategic advice and schools with their learning. • Facilitate new initiatives that system support through Public address key challenges in Health Services to improve access • Offering a range of programs settlement, across the range to services and improve the health through TasTAFE to develop of identified areas in the of culturally and linguistically English language skills, including consultation. diverse people in Tasmania, courses for students with no • Support innovative projects that especially those with additional English language, more advanced address barriers for humanitarian vulnerabilities or who are at risk students, and skills for education entrants in relation to education of poorer health outcomes. and work. and training. • Providing free comprehensive • Working with the National • Recognise the importance of assessments through the Refugee Accreditation Authority for English language proficiency to and Humanitarian Arrival Clinic Translators and Interpreters education, employment and to help GPs address on-arrival (NAATI) to address regional settlement, and further assist health needs of refugees. challenges in interpreting. migrants with learning English. • Assisting acute and primary health • Continuing to make available • Further support and encourage services to work with culturally on-arrival properties for refugees. the growth of community and linguistically diverse patients • Supporting driver-mentor language schools. accessing care. programs to assist refugees • Address identified barriers to • Delivering the ‘Get Outside’ to obtain a Tasmanian Driver education for students from program for culturally and Licence. migrant and refugee backgrounds. linguistically diverse groups. This • Providing a range of concessions innovative program is a to asylum seekers and temporary • Increase the supply of collaboration between the refugees, including transport. credentialed interpreters in Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife new and emerging languages. Service (PWS) and Wildcare Inc. • Providing State Government subsidised training for all holders • Through the Affordable Housing • Promote Ticket to Play, a sports of temporary humanitarian visas. Action Plan 2019-2023 build voucher system to boost upon the work we are doing to participation in sport and physical • Facilitating access to information increase the supply of housing activity for Tasmanians aged five on services through the across the spectrum. to 17, whose parent or guardian Multicultural Access Point (MAP) holds a Centrelink Health Care website. • Continue to foster opportunities for outbound mobility and Card or Pensioner Concession • Working in partnership at the Card. international engagement for inter-governmental level to plan Tasmanian students and teachers. and deliver services that support the settlement of migrants • Improve data collection on and new arrivals in Australia, service accessibility for people under the National Settlement with little or no English Framework. proficiency. • Work with the Multicultural Consultative Reference Group to identify gaps and opportunities to support people of diverse cultural and linguistic background to access services.
OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy 18 Spotlight on
GET OUTSIDE WITH COMMUNITY
The Get Outside with Community program is an innovative social inclusion project run in collaboration between the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) and Wildcare Inc. that puts new arrivals in touch with Tasmania’s great parks and reserves. The program encompasses a number of excursions to Tasmanian reserves with people seeking asylum, people from a refugee background and with other culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) cohorts in the broader Tasmanian community. Before coming to Tasmania, many participants had limited experience of the natural environment. Visiting Tasmania’s national parks and reserves has been a great opportunity to get to know Tasmania and develop skills. Between 2012 and 2019, more than 170 programs were delivered across the state with over 2,600 CALD participants. On these trips, the CALD participants are joined by PWS Discovery Rangers, Wildcare volunteers and migrant leaders. Since 2013, over 75 new arrivals to the state have been trained in outdoor leadership to support the trips by leading walks, delivering safety briefings and facilitating sensory experiences. The program aims to connect CALD Tasmanians with members of the wider Tasmanian community who are passionate about sharing their love of our Island with newcomers. It builds knowledge, skills and confidence in CALD Tasmanians to independently visit Tasmania’s reserves, and helps to foster a sense of purpose. It also develops employment and volunteering pathways for CALD Tasmanians into the NRM/tour guiding/ conservation industry.
19 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy ON THE SAME WAVE
Water environments can pose risks and potential dangers for people lacking the skills to safely participate in water-based activities. Australia has the highest rate of drowning and preventable rescues for people who were born in non-English speaking countries with over one-third of coastal fatalities represented by foreign nationals by birthplace or nationality, according to Surf Life Saving Australia. To improve water safety education and skills, Surf Life Saving Tasmania (SLST) has been organising Multicultural Youth Swimming and Water Safety Programs for young people aged 12-25 years. The program, delivered in partnership with the Migrant Resource Centre, has helped empower young people to use lifesaving skills in a range of aquatic environments, including rivers, lakes, dams, beaches and pools. SLST has also organised interactive information sessions for people of all ages to learn about how to identify a rip, what do if caught in a rip and the role of Surf Life Savers in emergency situations. Language, often a perceived barrier to being able to easily teach each participant to swim and understand the dangers of the aquatic environment, is overcome by engaging interpreters and distributing multi-lingual resources to families. The program has reached over 200 participants since July 2016. Throughout the program, SLST has worked with the Migrant Resource Centre Tasmania, Study Tasmania, Catholic Care and Save the Children. By working with Study Tasmania and Communities, Sport and Recreation, SLST is able to promote water safety messages to international students, TasTAFE, and Government and independent schools.
OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy 20 2 ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY
For most temporary and permanent migrants and particularly for humanitarian entrants, being able to participate in the economy is a crucial step towards successful settlement in Tasmania.
Secure and stable employment Overall, many migrants face barriers to While this outcome area focuses on enables economic security and meaningful incorporation into Australia’s actions that can be taken to improve a positive sense of identity. labour market. Many professional and employment outcomes for migrants, qualified people find themselves trapped the Government recognises that Migrants are not a homogenous in ‘survival’ jobs which do not utilise their migrants can be very entrepreneurial group and their experiences differ skills, expertise, and aptitudes, while and take advantage of opportunities. widely. Some refugees may arrive others are not able to enter the labour in Australia highly skilled and with market at all. Accordingly the Government a high level of education. is keen to support economic The availability of work opportunities in participation through self- Others arrive with little education or any community is a key determinant of employment and social enterprise. English language skills — a result of a whether people will remain in regional lack of educational opportunity in their Australia. It is one of the necessary home countries or disrupted education conditions for successful settlement. as part of the refugee experience.
WHAT THE CONSULTATION TOLD US Access to employment opportunities A number of respondents indicated for migrants and refugees was the need for employers to have the leading concern raised during training to reduce unconscious bias. consultations. It was identified as being critical to migrant and Areas of focus for action include: refugees’ decision to permanently • unconscious bias in employment; settle in Tasmania or look for opportunities interstate. • employment pathway assistance; Many respondents indicated that • work experience opportunities; they had skills and/or qualifications • traineeships and apprenticeships; that were valuable or needed in Tasmania, but that it was not easy to • recognition of overseas find employment that utilised their qualifications; skills and/or qualifications. Others • employment pathway assistance; indicated they had experienced problems with recognition of their • connecting skills with overseas qualifications. opportunities; • support for international Respondents indicated that they students and graduates; would appreciate more work experience and apprenticeship • employment opportunities opportunities, and improved within government; and employment pathway assistance. • support for entrepreneurship. International students requested specific support in finding part time or casual work during their studies, and programs that link graduates to employment opportunities.
21 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy WHAT THE • Supporting mentoring programs • Work nationally and at GOVERNMENT IS DOING for migrants to increase economic state government level engagement, and increase to improve the Australian • Supporting workforce employer engagement. system for the recognition participation of people with of overseas qualifications. cultural and linguistically diverse • Providing no-interest micro- backgrounds and reducing business loans to migrants on low • Increase small business support barriers to employment by incomes to start or grow and mentoring to assist developing appropriate training, their own business. migrants to establish and grow resources and other tools to their own small business. promote more inclusive practices. WHAT WE CAN • Work with the Australian • Targeting work placement and DO TOGETHER Government to attract work experience opportunities • Promote Agency workforce successful business investors for people from CALD diversity data and equity to establish new or to develop backgrounds. strategies being incorporated existing businesses in Tasmania into senior leaders’ performance through the Tasmania State • Working with industries and Nomination Migration program. employers to establish practical conversations. initiatives to assist humanitarian • Develop a training module for • Fund and support innovative entrants to overcome barriers to selection panels on recruiting projects that address barriers employment, including coaching for diversity and addressing for humanitarian entrants in and mentoring support. biases. Conduct an education and training. • Delivering the Tasmanian ‘Understanding and Addressing • Provide grants to community Employer of Choice Awards, Bias’ forum for organisations to start and grow which recognise Tasmania’s best all members of the Senior enterprises to support migrants practitioners in creating a work Executive Service. who face barriers to entering culture that values diversity and • Promote State Service the labour market. attracts, retains and develops a Graduate Programs to • Proactively engage with the diverse workforce. multicultural communities. Multicultural Consultative • Through the Tasmanian • Support initiatives that promote Reference Group on how to Employment Networking Service international students gaining facilitate economic opportunities (TENS) providing assistance work experience to enhance for people from culturally and to people seeking employment diversifying workplace cultures linguistically diverse backgrounds. in construction, engineering, in Tasmanian businesses. information and communication technology (ICT), health and • Address barriers to participation hospitality related fields by and employment for young connecting them with relevant people. industry and business contacts. • Work with industries and • Funding services to work with employers to establish practical industry councils, employers initiatives to assist humanitarian and temporary and permanent entrants to overcome barriers to refugees to meet labour shortages employment, including coaching in growth areas of the Tasmanian and mentoring support. economy.
OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy 22 Spotlight on
MRC TAS CATERING: A TASTE OF THINGS TO COME
Food has been an important ingredient for many immigrants for gaining entry into employment or starting their own businesses in Australia. The Australian appetite for trying international cuisines has helped immigrants with their entry into the food business. In May 2019, a new social enterprise catering project, MRC Tas Catering, was launched by the Migrant Resource Centre Tasmania. This initiative provides practical kitchen skills and workplace experience to multicultural Tasmanians seeking work in the hospitality industry. The project, which is funded by the Tasmanian Government and operates in Hobart and surrounding suburbs, offers the Tasmanian community authentic and delicious food with recipes sourced from local migrant communities, featuring Tasmanian produce. The idea for MRC Tas Catering arose after migrants requested training in hospitality with the view of either seeking employment in the hospitality sector, or to start their own businesses. The training focuses on kitchen hygiene and cleanliness, kitchen orientation and basic knife skills. Participants are offered training in small groups, with wrap-around support, including workplace English and vocabulary support for clients with English as a second language; education about workplace procedures and Workplace Health Safety; feedback on work performance; job references; and links to external work and training opportunities. In 2018, MRC Tas ran a series of cooking workshops with members of the Tasmanian migrant community to test and record their recipes. This resulted in a successful series of market stall popups selling delicious authentic food and offering participants the opportunity to sell their food to the public at events such as the Taste of Tasmania and Taste of the World Moonah Festival. Catering is available for corporate meetings canapé functions and various events.
23 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy SKILLING UP FOR MANUFACTURING
The project will investigate the TMEC’s welding simulators allow With appropriate training matched training and development pathways students to repeatedly practice with to real jobs, these workers will be for a group of CALD people living in real 3D objects in conjunction with equipped to enter the workforce in Launceston who are willing to pursue virtual computer-generated images, a region that is keen to fill vacancies jobs in North-West Tasmania, where offering them the most realistic in welding. skills and labour shortages exist in welding learning experience possible, advanced manufacturing. MRC North all without physical risk and with TMEC will facilitate introductions to (MRCN) will work in partnership with zero gas emissions. potential employers, and together with the Tasmanian Minerals and Energy MRCN’s wraparound support, provide Council (TMEC) and access TMEC’s The project targets migrants and the participants with great prospects welding centre in Burnie to assist humanitarians entrants who are of successful employment outcomes. up to 12 participants with pathways not yet gainfully employed but have to acquiring entry-level nationally pre-arrival skills in manufacturing. The Project is funded under the 2019 recognised training, assessment and Funding Round of Department of certification to ISO9606 category, State Growth’s Training and Work to fill existing vacancies that local Pathways Program. businesses are finding difficult to fill.
OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy 24 3 HARMONIOUS, INCLUSIVE AND RESPECTFUL ISLAND
Throughout the multicultural policy consultation, the most frequent words used by the Tasmanian community to describe their view of multiculturalism were ‘harmonious, inclusive and respectful’.
Successful multiculturalism is based and that migrants can hold onto diversity brings culturally, socially and on a readiness to cooperate, mutual their culture and still be a part economically. It also includes actions respect, and an understanding of the of mainstream society. that aim to foster a society free of importance of successful integration discrimination, prejudice and bias, and social cohesion. This outcome area includes actions and a community which is safe and to promote inclusive and welcoming secure for all Tasmanians. Tasmanians who participated in communities, which value and the consultation considered that celebrate Tasmania’s diversity, multiculturalism is working well, and recognise the strengths that
WHAT THE CONSULTATION TOLD US Participants were asked how we Suggestions for creating more can improve social inclusion and inclusive and cohesive communities, cohesion in Tasmania, and whether (if particularly for new arrivals are: a migrant) they feel they are a part of • increase social and a welcoming and inclusive community civic participation; that creates a sense of home and belonging, where every Tasmanian • address social isolation; can participate in, and contribute to, the social, political, economic and • support new arrivals; cultural life of Tasmania. • build the capacity of local Government to meet the needs The general feedback from regional of new arrivals and create forums, group consultations and the welcoming cities and communities; online survey, was that participants felt that they were a valued part of a • increase representation of people welcoming and inclusive community, from culturally and linguistically in which they were able to contribute. diverse backgrounds in all aspects of community life; More than 80 per cent reported actively participating in their • facilitate leadership opportunities; community, and more than 70 per • build inter-cultural connections; and cent said they were connected to a broad range of people in their • empower multicultural community. More than 70 per communities. cent also reported wanting more leadership opportunities, with more than half wanting people from multicultural backgrounds to be better represented in politics (local, state and Commonwealth governments).
25 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy WHAT THE WHAT WE CAN • Promote opportunities for GOVERNMENT IS DOING DO TOGETHER multicultural women to participate on boards and • Providing a Multicultural Grants • Build and promote Tasmania’s in leadership positions. Program to build the capacity of liveability and foster a culture ethnic organisations to deliver which is vibrant, inclusive • Facilitate job creation and identify positive outcomes for the respectful and supportive. current and future employment community, and foster greater opportunities to inform • Support communities to maintain cross-cultural understanding. investment in education and languages and culture. training, and migration attraction • Funding events and celebrations • Leverage existing work by strategies. that show the diversity of the Brand Tasmania Council, Tasmania’s many cultures. • Provide outreach clinics in government, local businesses community settings, such as • Funding a peak body to promote and the Tasmanian community. Migrant Resource Centres, a culturally and linguistically diverse The Government has established to increase awareness of and harmonious Tasmania that is a new statutory authority, Brand discrimination law and assist just, fair and inclusive. Tasmania, to ensure Tasmania members of the public to continues to stand out from the • Working with the Australian make complaints and report crowd and competes in the global Government to facilitate migration discriminatory behaviours and market place. opportunities for Tasmania. related offensive conduct. • Implement the Tasmanian Global • Supporting Tasmanian businesses to • Develop new training modules Education Strategy to grow attract and retain skilled migrants on discrimination law suitable Tasmania’s international education to fill skill shortages through the for delivery to newly arrived sector, and attract international State Nomination Program, which refugees and culturally and and interstate students to provides an avenue for skilled linguistically diverse students Tasmania. migrants to be nominated by the studying at TAFE Tasmania and State to apply for an Australian visa. • Strengthen our work with Local the University of Tasmania. Government to meet the needs • Actively pursuing overseas and • Support Tasmanians to be safe of new arrivals in the community interstate migration to Tasmania and secure in their own homes and connect them with local and encouraging Tasmanians living and communities, though the services and opportunities. elsewhere to come home. new Safe Homes, Families, • Further support ethnic and Communities: Tasmania’s • Building the capacity of local multicultural organisations to response to family and sexual Government to create welcoming respond to community need, violence 2019-2022. cities and communities. self-organise, and build • Further promote respect for • Supporting family reunion for experience and skills within people of diverse religious, humanitarian entrants. these groups. racial, cultural and gender • Implementing the Tasmanian • Enable and support community backgrounds in Tasmania to Global Education Strategy to grow groups to be able to more build harmonious communities. Tasmania’s international education readily access affordable meeting • Proactively engage with the sector, and attract interstate and places, including reviewing the Multicultural Consultative international students to Tasmania. Community Use of Facilities Reference Group on how to Policy to maximise opportunities build a safe, harmonious and • Providing training and delivering for use by community groups. workplace and community inclusive community. education to promote non- discriminatory practices, and increase awareness of rights and responsibilities under discrimination law, and help people understand and exercise those rights.
OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy 26 Spotlight on
STUDENTS AGAINST RACISM
A Fairer World is a values-based to know people who have arrived as people to transition to part-time community organisation that provides refugees and migrants. The workshop work and further study. As part of ways for schools, workplaces and includes stories and activities that the program, employers will have the the Tasmanian community to learn, explore the consequences of racism opportunity to connect with young connect and act together for positive and how it can be addressed. Over people and also to experience the social change. 10,000 people in Tasmania and other Living in Between workshop. states have participated in Living in In partnership with A Fairer World, Between workshops since 2008. Women’s Business is a fashion show the Students Against Racism have been with a difference that over the last working on three inclusion programs. In 2019 and 2020 funding is three years has been presented to being provided by the Tasmanian the public in Launceston, Wynyard, Living in Between is a multi-award Department of State Growth to Sorell, Kingston and Hobart. The show winning anti-racism workshop that pilot the Pathways to Opportunities celebrates the cultures of Tasmanian aims to create more inclusive schools project. The project aims to link young women from migrant and refugee and workplaces by providing an people from multicultural backgrounds backgrounds and builds understanding opportunity for Tasmanians to get with employers. It supports young and positivity about multiculturalism.
27 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy CELEBRATING OUR CULTURAL DIVERSITY
The Tasmanian Government is proud to support a large range of festivals and events that enable the community to join in and celebrate our diversity. The Community Participation and Appeals Fund was established in July 2015 to support significant community events, as well as charitable appeals. The Fund aims to encourage participation in community and cultural events, and to facilitate the Tasmanian Government’s contribution to raising funds for worthy community appeals. Festa Italia, the Estia Greek Festival and Chinese Lunar New Year Festival all receive Community Participation and Appeals Fund grants. The Government’s Multicultural Grants program provides grants of up to $10,000 for projects that showcase the vibrancy of multiculturalism through festivals and/or events that encourage the participation of the whole community. A diverse and harmonious Tasmania has benefits for us all, and the exciting cultural offerings of these festivals contributes to the rich multicultural fabric of our community. The 2019 Moonah Taste of the World Festival is the ninth Festival presented by the Glenorchy City Council. The Festival is an annual event that celebrates the cultural diversity, multicultural heritage and social inclusion in the Glenorchy Municipality through food, music, dance and cultural activities from around the world. The Festival has grown into one of Tasmania’s largest multicultural focused events. The Festival coincides with Harmony Week each year. Harmony Week builds on national Harmony Day, which is celebrated on 21 March to coincide with the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Harmony Day celebrates Australia’s cultural diversity through activities that promote inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone. The Government is a proud supporter of Harmony Week.
OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy 28 Spotlight on
LEARNING THE ROPES
Imagine setting sail on a Brigantine It’s a good way to meet and get In 2019, the challenge has received voyage. The Windeward Bound’s to know others. a grant of $12,000 from the Annual Youth Challenge builds Tasmanian Government’s young people’s skills, confidence and The Youth Leadership Challenge is Multicultural Grant Program. friendship networks as they ride open to young people between the the waves and learn the ropes by ages of 15–18 living in Tasmania, and The Windeward Bound Trust has embarking on a sail training adventure. promotes understanding, inclusiveness, enjoyed a significant relationship with and community by bringing together Rotary in Tasmania since 1994, and The Windeward Bound Trust’s 20 young people of vastly different the Rotary Club of Hobart has been Annual Youth Leadership Challenge backgrounds for the voyage aboard a driving force in the development provides an opportunity for 10 young the STV Windeward Bound. and success of the Youth Leadership people from refugee backgrounds, Challenge since its inception in 2012. who recently arrived in Tasmania, and 10 local young people to embark on a 10-day sailing expedition.
29 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy 30 31 OUR MULTICULTURAL ISLAND Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy
Our Multicultural Island: Tasmania’s Multicultural Policy 2019–2022 © State of Tasmania 2019 Department of Communities Tasmania Department of Communities Tasmania Excerpts from this publication may be reproduced Communities, Sport and Recreation with appropriate acknowledgement, as permitted GPO Box 65, HOBART TAS 7001 under the Copyright Act 1968. Phone: (03) 6233 7133 First printed 2019 Email: [email protected] ISBN: 978-1-925906-09-7 Visit: www.communities.tas.gov.au