Three Generations of Maltese in Australia a Picture Through Surveys of the Population

Three generations of Maltese in Australia A picture through surveys of the population

Maurice N. Cauchi

Maltese Community Council of Victoria, Inc. March 2016

Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population

Acknowledgements Surveys of any kind involve the work of several helpers needed to collect the information by various means, including telephone, email, as well as personal interview. I would like to acknowledge the help of the following persons who have spent hours doing just that: Mrs Rosemary Attard, Mrs Vivienne Fry, and Mrs Susan Zammit. I would also like to thank Dr Edwin Borg-Manché for his assistance in setting up and help organise a user-friendly version of the questionnaire, setting up the online version and disseminating it electronically, for publishing these surveys on the website of the Maltese Community Council of Victoria and my online blog at http://mauricecauchi.wordpress.com, as well as for his assistance in formatting this publication. I would like to thank all those organisations and individuals, in particular, the editors of The Voice of the Maltese and other community newsletters, who helped in disseminating the survey questionnaires. I also thank members of the ethnic radio stations, and particularly Marlene Galea Scicluna for their help in disseminating information about this project on radio.

Content: © Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Cover design illustration: www.freepik.com

Maltese Community Council of Victoria (MCCV) The Maltese Community Council of Victoria, Inc. is a voluntary organisation set up in 1958, initially with the aim of helping newly arrived migrants from Malta. It is an umbrella organisation which includes several Maltese associations (currently over 40). The aims of the MCCV include co-ordinating and representing the views of the Maltese community, provision of a professional service to the aged and home-bound Maltese, and encouraging culture and language maintenance. Maltese language teaching has been a major feature of the Centre for decades. It also houses the largest Maltese library outside Malta. The MCCV has its headquarters at 244 Royal Parade, Parkville, a central suburb of Melbourne, as well as a branch office in Sunshine from where services are delivered to the community. It publishes a regular Newsletter and has an active website (http://www.mccv.org.au). A history of the MCCV has been published – Under One Umbrella: A History of the Maltese Community Council of Victoria, Maurice N. Cauchi, 2009.

Maltese Community Council of Victoria, Inc. (Inc. No. A1737) A.B.N. 66 736475 892 477 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia Telephone (03) 9387 8922 Facsimile (03) 9387 8309 Website: http://www.mccv.org.au Email Address: [email protected]

About the Author Professor Maurice Cauchi has been active within the Maltese community in Melbourne and involved with the MCCV since the 1980s. He has served the MCCV in various positions, including as President for several terms. He has published extensively on issues relating to ethnic affairs, multiculturalism as well as specifically about the Maltese community. He runs an online blog at http://mauricecauchi.wordpress.com and his email address is [email protected].

Content

Foreword ...... 3 Chapter 1 - Aged Maltese in Australia ...... 5 Introduction ...... 5 Life after retirement – analysis of a survey ...... 7 Some Final Comments ...... 9 Services required by ageing Maltese ...... 10 Chapter 2 - The Second Generation ...... 12 Growing up in Australia ...... 12 School Experience ...... 13 Tertiary Education and Racism ...... 15 What promotes maintenance of Maltese language & culture? ...... 17 Contact with Malta ...... 18 What do they expect to get from Malta? ...... 20 Some Concluding Remarks ...... 27 Survey findings summary ...... 27 Introduction ...... 28 Structure of the survey questions ...... 28 Characteristics of the second generation ...... 29 Comments by participants ...... 35 Further reading...... 39 Chapter 3 - The Third Generation ...... 40 Chapter 4 - Some General Comments ...... 43

Foreword

discussion relating to the demography, n Australia, almost 50 per cent of the background, achievements, and needs of this population were born overseas or had parents varied population. Firstly, there is the now who were born overseas, a percentage which I shrinking group of Maltese who were born in is bound to increase in the coming years. This has Malta and referred to here as the first generation. enabled this country to increase its population Secondly there are those who belong to the from just over 7 million in the immediate post- second generation born in Australia to Malta- war period to 24 million in 2016, an increase of born parents. Among these I tend to include over 300 per cent. Maltese and their offspring those who left Malta with their parents at a very have contributed several hundred thousand to young age so that they had the opportunity to this increase in population. integrate more or less fully within the host The history of migration to Australia has been society. Thirdly, there are the members of the well documented, particularly by Fr Lawrence third generation, whose parents were also born Attard who has written several volumes relating overseas, and who are for all intents and 1 2 3 to migration (see Attard L. , Price , and others ). purposes are Australian, with perhaps a hint of Emigration attracted mainly persons from rural Maltese cultural background (minus language). background, and from Gozo in particular where In the following pages we look at surveys which there has been a greater loss to migration cover all three sections of this population, proportional to the size of its population. The starting with the aged. Several surveys have been run-down of the Royal Dockyard provided several conducted over the years to enquire the status of qualified technicians who found themselves these older Maltese settlers. One of the earliest redundant in Malta, and they also flocked to was that carried out by Lawrence Dimech5 Their Australia. By 1975, the flow of emigration had economic condition, their health status, their way slowed down, and in fact several migrants of life has been investigated and are summarised returned home, a process described by Attard as in Chapter 2 below. a ‘watershed’4. Today, Maltese in Australia form a different Most of the immediate post-war Maltese settlers demographic compared to the post-war cohort could find work easily, often related to manual of Malta-born (first generation) migrants. Their work in mines, wharves, railway works etc. children (the second generation) have retained Maltese have always been known for their some of the characteristics of their parents, but capacity for hard work and commitment to home are largely distinguished from them by a higher and family life. Many succeeded in building a standard of education and social standing. They home and settling successfully in the new land. In have obtained a much richer 'social capital' fact, Maltese constitute some of the highest having had the opportunity of a local education, proportion of settlers who own their own home. made friends with children of Australian and Most of these early migrants are now retirees, other nationalities, as well as Maltese, cultivated and although many of them still live in their an accent which is indistinguishable from that of homes, others have down-sized and live in the others (a very important distinguishing smaller houses or in communal living feature and factor in one's ability to integrate accommodation. A few, and as a last resort, live within society), and in general consider in homes for the elderly. themselves primarily as 'Australian'. When speaking of Maltese-background (or often The survey carried out on the second generation just 'Maltese') persons in Australia, one often indicate that this group of Maltese, while totally assumes that they are a homogenous population integrated, still have characteristics that link them who left Malta in the post-war period and who to the country of origin of their parents. have now aged considerably. It is, however, Community leaders bemoan the fact that they relevant to keep in mind three different have all but lost their Maltese language, but there categories of Maltese-background persons in any is still a significant remnant of culture left in their

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 3 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population make-up. These characteristics are seen in the investigations tend to delve deeper into the survey results detailed in Chapter 3. questions asked, and therefore can obtain a more individualised picture of the situation. While Finally, the final survey (Chapter 4) was carried being much more time consuming, both in out to determine several aspects of life in the obtaining the information as well as in its analysis, youngest Maltese of all, those aged from 10 to 18 it gives information not usually available in the years. This is in effect an unknown quantity. We purely quantitative analyses. In this surveys, know very little about their way of life, their plenty of opportunity was given to participants to commitment to Maltese culture and related express their own views on issues of interest. issues. It is hoped that by collecting all these three These surveys were intended to give both categories of surveys: the elderly first generation, quantitative as well as qualitative answers to the second and the third generation, a more questions which were perceived important. holistic view of Maltese in Australia may be Quantitative analysis is more statistically reliable obtained. but tends to lump together persons with widely different personal and cultural characteristics. However, such data is relatively easier to collect, Maurice N. Cauchi often involving filling in of boxes on a March 2016 questionnaire. On the other hand, qualitative

Chapter 1 Aged Maltese in Australia

Introduction question often asked relates to the 70000 number of 'Maltese' in Australia. While 60000 A for the first generation the various 50000 censuses held at five-year intervals give a very 40000 exact answer to this question, the number of second-, and even more so, the third- 30000 generation Maltese is very vague, and some idea 20000 of numbers can be gleaned from the answer that 10000 these persons give to the census question 0 relating to their perceived ethnicity. This has the 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 potential of underestimating the number of Maltese in Australia. Figure 1: Number of Malta-born persons in Australia (data from The number of Maltese of the first the various Australian censuses, ABS) generation has been dwindling steadily since it reached its highest level in 1981 at just under 60,000. From Fig 1 below it can be seen On this basis one can make provisional that the number has been decreasing linearly, projections relating to the number of Maltese in with a hint at a more accelerated rate after 1995. the coming years. Even without an increase in In effect there has been a diminution of around the rate of loss, (an unlikely scenario), by 2020, 1% per year, a rate which of course is expected the number of Maltese-born in Australia would to increase dramatically as the first cohort of be expected to be less than 20,000, and as few Maltese reach a more advanced aged. as 10,000 if one assumes an annual loss of 10%. According to the latest census (2011), the total Fig 2 shows the projected drop in Malta-born number of Maltese-born in Australia was 41,274. population over the next decade depending on the rate of loss.

Projected Drop in Malta-born Population

50,000

40,000 30,000 Figure 2: Projected 20,000 population of Malta-born

Population in Australia over the next 10,000 decade, based on the assumption that the 0 annual loss rate is 1%, 2%, 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 5% or 10% from the data available in 2006 census) Year (from 2006)

Age on Arrival: Analysis of statistics relating to made use of services from the Local Council, the age on arrival shows that the majority (63.4%) Government agencies (e.g. Centrelink) over the were aged between 18 and 30 years, and another previous 12 months. Responses showed that 10.6% over 30 years. A considerable number of 44% made use of Local Government services, migrants (19.7%) were children aged over 10 and another 33% made use of other Government years, and a small proportion (4.4%) were agencies. In addition, another 12% required children aged up to 10. (See Fig 3). hospitalisation. No doubt, these figures will become more pronounced in the next decade, as the population gets older, with increasing Age of Maltese Migrants disability. on arrival in Australia (%) Another important issue relates to the degree of 80.0 isolation faced by an ageing population. The 60.0 survey asked whether the participant lived alone or with other members of the family (husband, 40.0 wife, daughter etc.). Of these, 14% stated that 20.0 they lived alone. It is to be stressed that living alone is not equivalent to being lonely, a 0.0 question which needs to be analysed further. up to 10 up to 18 18 + 31+ So, from this survey one could conclude the following: Figure 3: Age of Maltese migrants on arrival in Australia (as a percent of total)  There is a very high proportion of those who arrived in the 1950s and 1960s who It is obvious from the above data that the have now reached retirement age; proportion of aged persons among the Maltese  The proportion of respondents making community is increasing rapidly. In the 2006 use of government services has reached census, there were 14,486 persons aged 65 years over 70%; and over. This means that one-third of the  A significant proportion (12%) required Malta-born population fall within this category. hospitalisation over the 12-month The greatest proportion was in South Australia period; (36%) and the smallest in ACT (27%). This is  While the majority of respondents still further confirmed in the latest census (2011) live with family members, a significant which shows that just over 50% Maltese-born number (14%) live alone and may suffer are aged 60 years and over, half of them are from isolation. aged 70 and over. Several surveys have been carried out to study In recent years several surveys have been the social conditions of Maltese aged. One of the undertaken on behalf of the Maltese Community first ones was that by Lawrence Dimech in 1992.6 Council of Victoria (MCCV). These will be Since then several other surveys have been discussed in the following pages. carried out. One survey carried out in Victoria One survey which was carried out in 2010 dealt with mobile elderly persons attending a analysed 209 responses to a questionnaire, of typical social club at the Maltese Centre in whom 100 (48%) were male and 109 (52%) were Victoria with a view to understand the economic female. Most of the participants had arrived in and social circumstances in which these people the 1950s and 60s with a smaller number arriving live. The majority were over 65 years of age and earlier or later. 54% were aged 70 years and over. Nearly half of the group (47%) were females. Needs of aging Maltese The following are some further aspects gleaned The vast majority of the first generation who from this survey. arrived in Australia in the 1950s and 60s have now reached retirement age. Home ownership: The vast majority owned and lived in their own homes with only 7% living As one grows older, needs become more in rented accommodation, and only 6% living common. Participants were asked if they had with children or relatives. The vast majority

lived with their spouses, but there was a problems with eyesight (20%), or hearing significant proportion (14%) living alone, and, (18%). while living alone is not equivalent to This is a selected population, but typical of the loneliness, it is one important factor average able-bodied ‘senior’ Maltese living in associated with loneliness. Australia today. Of major concern is the fact that Mobility: is an important issue in relation to health problem form a very significant issue participation within society. The vast majority which is likely to get worse over the coming stated that they had their own car, with only years. Related also is the lack of inclusion of any 18% stating that they did not. However, one form of exercise in their daily regime. point to stress is that a significant proportion Likewise, the issue of loneliness is likely to of women do not drive and find it very increase with the demise of one of the spouses. difficult to cope adequately when their This will have a considerable impact also on their husband is no longer available. mobility, seeing that most females cannot drive Pensions: Most Maltese aged depend on a their own car. This is highlighted further below. pension for their income, with only a small This survey also emphasizes the reliance that proportion (16%) having a superannuation or these persons have on radio and television, other private means of self-support. with never a mention of print media. Moreover, Hobbies: The main sources of relaxation were: it emphasizes the fact that the computer attendance at social clubs (63%), listening to revolution has completely bypassed these the radio, including Maltese radio (65%), and persons. watching television (75%). SBS television also

rated highly being watched by 65% of respondents. Other ways of whiling away the Life after retirement – analysis of time included watching videos, listening to music, gardening and, rarely, using a survey computers. Physical activities were mainly In the latest survey (2015), an analysis was obvious by their absence. carried out to examine in further detail the needs Contact with Malta: Maltese have kept contact of older persons, and in particular the need for with the mother country in various ways, preparation for retirement.7 not least by actually making it a point to visit Old age doesn't come suddenly, but approaches at regular intervals. Almost half of the and hits us over a period of years, during which respondents stated that they had visited time we have to adjust to a more and more Malta in the previous five years. Only a very challenging way of life. few stated that they had never visited Malta since their arrival in Australia. With retirement, there is often the expectation of a great deal of available spare time, to engage in Need for Interpreters: It is interesting to note hobbies for which one did not have time during that none of the participants indicated that working life – at least that is the expectation. In they had used an interpreter during the fact, it is amazing how many people reach previous year. This could merely indicate their retirement without proper preparation for this perception that their knowledge of English change of life. was adequate, a perception that could turn out to be exaggerated. They appear to have Firstly, for most people there is a dramatic made very few extra demands on local change in economic conditions: an ordinary government services, which included pension is never quite enough to cover any extra primarily help with cleaning. expenses. Some resort to downsizing, replacing their spacious home with a smaller more Health Issues: As is to be expected in this age compact one, often with no garden. Secondly, group, a considerable proportion of with advancing years health issues start to participants stated that they had a health become a real problem. Not to be forgotten also problem, as follows: high blood pressure is the fact that mental health, often associated (48%), arthritis (44%), diabetes (30%), with isolation, can become a problem.

It is a fact that life expectancy of women is radio programs or watched the weekly TV several years longer than that of men. This programs available in Victoria. This was means that for many women who have been meant to assess how easy or difficult it was to used to the company and help of their husband, reach this population. About 60 per cent of particularly for driving for shopping, visiting women and 40 per cent of men stated that friends etc, find themselves isolated and limited they listened to Maltese radio. While there in their outreach. are a number of community radios, SBS radio was the one most frequently listened to. It is for this reason that the Maltese Community Council of Victoria (MCCV) became involved in Home help and other social needs: Perhaps the this survey, which was meant to answer several most important question was meant to assess questions relating to these issues. whether persons in this age group were in need of special assistance. Twenty-five In this survey, persons with Maltese-sounding percent of males and 35 per cent of females names were randomly approached by telephone mentioned that they had used home help or and asked if they would like to take part. This other services from local councils or other work was undertaken by volunteers. bodies. On the other hand, 60% of females Randomness was assured by ensuring that only (but only 17% of males) had recourse to help every tenth person in the telephone directory from family members. listing was approached, and only one member of the family was included in the survey. Most Whether they belong to a Maltese persons thus approached had no problem Association. Maltese associations and clubs answering the questionnaire. Only persons over offer an important venue for socialising and the age of 60 were included in the survey. meeting with other Maltese. A question was asked as to whether they belonged to a The following information throws some light on Maltese association. Just under two-thirds of the sort of life experienced by the older Maltese males but only a quarter of females stated persons in Australia. that they belonged to a Maltese organisation. Demographics: All of the participants in this Issues related to possible isolation: A number survey were born in Malta and arrived in of questions assessed the degree of possible Australia in the 1950s and 60s. All were aged isolation among this community. In a place 60 years and over. In other words, they have like Australia, the car plays a very important been in Australia for 50 or 60 years. Most of role, and absence of the ability to drive can them were married but several were lead to isolation. It was found that only 30% widowed. The vast majority stated that they of women could drive a car (compared to had visited Malta, often several times (up to nearly 60% of males). 10 times), often in recent years. In addition, questions were asked in relation to Availability of services: The first questions were hobbies and socialising with friends. Several intended to find whether participants were admitted to having friends, often Maltese. aware of the existence of the Maltese Centre However, some admitted they had none, one and the services provided from there. It was stated: "They are all dead!" considered important for the MCCV to assess whether it is fulfilling its role of representing A relevant question was whether they left their the community in Victoria. The first question house at all for their socialising or entertainment. asked whether they had ever been to the Fully one-fifth of females stated that they did community centre (and therefore where not, whereas few males stated that this was aware of this facility). About three-quarters of problem. women and about half of men answered this Another question enquired whether they had in the affirmative. About two-thirds of males, any hobbies. Most admitted to having hobbies, but only one-third of females were aware of most commonly gardening and watching the full range of services provide by the television but also dining out, and particularly MCCV. males, time on computer. Communications: These questions were intended to find out if Maltese listened to

One can draw several conclusions from this however, that such associations still serve study. an important role in our society, at least for those who still make use of them. 1. The number of Malta-born persons in Victoria (which has the largest number of It must be regretted that studies of this nature Maltese settlers) is now just over 20,000, have been rare. Unless such studies are done, it which is reducing with every census at a rate is impossible to gauge the needs of our citizens of about 5% every five years. Seeing that the living abroad. It is the policy of the Australian majority of Maltese persons in this cohort government to wean 'new Australians’ away are aging rapidly, this reduction in numbers from ethno-specific services, and encourage is bound to accelerate rapidly in the coming them to use generic services within the years. community. This makes sense as a cost-cutting measure, but, as they say, a leopard doesn't lose 2. The obvious conclusion is that the first its spots as it grows older, and neither do generation migrants who left these islands Maltese lose their culture with advancing age. It in the 1950s and 60s have now all reached is much more likely that they lose their fluency in retirement age and often old age. English, and become more and more dependent Retirement is a stage of life for which on their original Maltese language. certain preparations are required, which does not often happen within our community. 3. Isolation is a common predicament of old Some Final Comments age. It would appear from these studies that Surveys have shown that most elderly persons as long as the individual is mobile and free prefer to stay at home. Even when family of any serious disease process, problems members are available, they spend a associated with isolation are less likely. The considerable time by themselves. Many family fact that several respondents replied that members (many of whom are in full-time or part- they have a reasonably number of hobbies, time work), stop short of having elderly relatives and that the majority can drive a car, would actually living with them, as this interferes too help to prevent isolation. However, there is much with their daily routine. The result is that always a minority who are at risk and who after losing their spouse, many elderly persons need to be kept under observation. find themselves living alone and in isolation. 4. In regards to communication with these To overcome this, the Maltese community people, Maltese radio is without any doubt Council of Victoria (MCCV) has been running the best way by which they could be several programs have been initiated from time reached. Various clubs and associations to time. These have included the following: produce regular newsletters, but their 1. Government-sponsored programs enabling circulation is relatively limited. It is also voluntary organisations like the MCCV to pleasing to see that the majority of elderly employ staff to look after elderly frail Maltese still enjoy watching the SBS persons. They are brought to the Maltese television program (where available), Centre and looked after for several hours a prepared on a twice-weekly basis by the day for 4 days a week. At the moment the PBS in Malta. MCCV deals with 25 such persons and there 5. The role of clubs and associations: These is a considerable waiting list. have served a very important role, 2. A home visitation scheme. In Melbourne, particularly in the early days. However, the a visitation scheme was initiated with the number of persons of this age group, who help of the Knights of Malta, later regularly frequent Maltese clubs has supported by grants from the government diminished considerably. This is partly due which allowed the employment of a co- to the fact that these elderly persons are ordinator. This scheme had to stop when finding it more difficult to travel, particularly there were not enough volunteers available at night and in winter, and prefer to stay at to run the scheme. Some financial help home and watch television. I believe,

could induce volunteers to resume this The Elderly service. 15. That special arrangements be made to 3. Library on wheels: Videos, tapes, books facilitate the entry and accommodation in etc: This scheme was started in Melbourne Malta of elderly Maltese living overseas. some time ago through the library at the Maltese Centre. Again this activity depends 16. That Maltese language and Malta-content on delivery of these by volunteers. audio, visual, Braille and other resources be 4. Radio & TV: Radio in Maltese has been a made available to Maltese elderly living great comfort to many and is available to abroad. most persons in Australia. As mentioned 17. That the Government of Malta take steps to earlier this is one of the most important arrange for the portability of pensions of source of entertainment as well as Maltese living, overseas in countries where information to all elderly Maltese and a way this is not currently in place. to keep in contact with them. However, TV is restricted to half an hour a week and does 18. That Maltese communities living overseas not reach all sections of the country. lobby on behalf of the Maltese elderly SO Greater efforts are required to ensure that they receive culturally and socially greater coverage appropriate services from their local authorities. As one grows older, and particularly when one finds oneself alone, the big decision is whether Re the first recommendation (Rec 15), relating to to stay at home and manage as best you can, or accommodation in Malta for elderly now living to find some suitable accommodation in a in Australia, I believe it would apply if at all to a nursing home, or alternative accommodation. It small number of persons. However, it is is a generally accepted fact that most people, incumbent on us to find out how many elderly and perhaps Maltese in particular, do not want people feel that they should be repatriated at to leave their home, and will do their utmost to this late stage of their life, and whether the stay there for as long as they possibly could. I Government is prepared to accept the small can tell stories of people in their 80s, even when number of persons in question. almost totally blind, who prefer to stay at home Re Rec 16, the need for increased Malta-content and do their own cooking, at great risk to audio-visual material, including Braille: I believe themselves, rather than end up in an anonymous that this should remain as an important nursing home. Hence the need for ensuring that recommendation. these people are not forgotten. Re Rec 17: portability of pensions: this applies In Melbourne there are currently some 250 particularly to countries where this is not the Malta-born persons in nursing homes – a case. statistic which rather difficult to get.8 We have only one home run by the Maltese Dominican Rec 18: re culturally appropriate services: this sisters where staff are fluent in Maltese language remains a crucial recommendation and all of us and who are aware of the cultural needs of their should ensure to whatever extent possible that clients. It caters for 50 residents, several of whom governments and service providers understand are Maltese. Most other homes cater for all the issues involved. One cannot, however, but ethnic groups and do not provide ethnic-specific feel that we are fighting a losing battle, where services of any kind. Most residential homes do economic issues are likely to thwart our efforts. not give enough importance to cultural needs. A On the other hand I believe every effort should program was initiated by MCCV to give some be made to provide adequate radio and print idea of Maltese culture to carers in these material for the elderly situations . Recommendations (made at the Convention for Services required by ageing Maltese Living Abroad, 2010) Maltese At the Convention held in 2000, a number of In my book Maltese Migrants in Australia (1990) recommendations were made relating to the published 30 years ago, I emphasized the needs elderly, namely: of the ageing migrant as follows:

1. Need for linguistically appropriate services. Lawrence Dimech in the study mentioned Maltese have the lowest number of already came to the same conclusions. He interpreters, Maltese-speaking nursing staff emphasized the need for coordination of aged and social workers pro rata. and welfares services, raising of awareness and 2. Need for culturally appropriate services: education of the community about issues This is something which governments do relating to ageing, dissemination of information their utmost to forget about. Everybody on Maltese media relating to existing services, seems hell-bound to ensure that ethnic expansion of interpreter services, as well as the specific services disappear and everybody is increasing need for pastoral care for these channelled into mainstream services. One persons. understands that this is driven by economic These suggestions are equally, and in some considerations, but the fact remains that it instances even more relevant today than they is detrimental to the needs of most ethnic were when they were published more than two groups. decades ago, particularly with the increase in the 3. Need for information targeted to the ethnic number of persons requiring such services. age. Hence the importance of ethnic radio and the tokenistic appearance of Maltese It would not be an exaggeration to suggest that television in Australia. issues relating to age are the most urgent 4. Need for appropriate consultative and current issues relating to Maltese abroad. They participatory processes. involve a rapidly increasing section of the 5. Need for appropriate training strategies: population with ever increasing needs. They are efforts to train nurses, social workers and a population who find it increasingly more others who come in contact with what is to difficult to cope with everyday life and who them a foreign culture, in order to give therefore require constant attention. them some background appreciation of the It is easy to say that issues relating to ageing needs for the aged. Such a program is persons are the responsibility of the currently being undertaken by the MCCV in governments of the respective countries where Victoria. they have lived over the past decades. It is, 6. Need for co-ordination of services and however, incumbent on all of us who claim to programs: One often gets the impression have a social conscience to ensure that their that government departments work in needs are met. Such needs are related to the fact complete isolation from each other with few that they are Maltese living in a foreign country, attempts at coordination of the various a country, incidentally, which becomes more services provided by them. and more foreign as one loses one’s ability to 7. Need for appropriate planning and data communicate adequately in the dominant collection systems. This is essential language and where one become more and preliminary in any planning procedures. more dependent on those with little cultural Lack of funds often prohibit such ongoing affinity with oneself. research.

Chapter 2

The Second Generation9

and S.E. Asians where a strong cultural I'm a fragment of this past culture (Paul Borg, background is associated with a high proportion Artist) of persons obtaining a tertiary education. That this is not the whole story, however, is attested e know very little about the second to by the fact that there is no such direct generation. Census data includes only correlation in some other ethnic communities W those who indicate that their where there is a strong cultural tradition but a 'ethnicity' is Maltese, but ignores all those who demonstrable lack of achievement. do not wish to identify themselves as such, or In the following pages the views of persons from who prefer to see themselves as having another the second generation (ie. those born in Australia ethnicity. It is of course obvious that whether of Maltese-born parents) will be sought. In the culture will persist after the first generation has first section, a number of individuals considered gone will depend entirely on the views and to be 'achievers' were contacted and asked to fill actions of these people. in a questionnaire.10 So the ideas expressed are It has been argued that maintenance of culture not random but illustrate some specific issues as is crucial within an ethnic community, but it has these persons saw them. not been so clear as to whether this is considered To note that participants in this group were necessary merely for the peace of mind of the selected on the basis of being a cut above the first generation or whether it confers some rest, and do not reflect the views of the average specific benefit to the second generation Maltese-background person. The aim here was persons themselves. to get in depth responses from these Several studies have argued that the parental participants. Their ages varied from those in their culture and language can be beneficial in that 20s to those who have reached retirement age. they open up vistas, thus enriching their owners There was also a reasonable representation of in a way that monocultural/monolingual persons women respondents. There was no attempt at find difficult to conceive. There is also plenty of being selective, except for the fact that they were evidence to show that possession of a second all considered ‘achievers’, a cut above the language is not only useful for communication average. The study cannot, however, be with people of the same background, but helps considered to be representative of the total in acquisition of other languages. By developing population of second generation Maltese- an extra compartment of the brain (the right side Australians, but only reflects the views of the in left-handed people), learning a second individuals who responded to the questionnaire. language expands the capacity of the brain. In the second section, a questionnaire was It has also been argued that a strong cultural distributed in a random fashion among persons background is relevant, even necessary to belonging to the second generation and the establish a strong self-identity which is found to responses analysed. be a useful support for those buffeted by many currents and hailed as strangers, wogs and given other deprecatory names. Evidence for this has Growing up in Australia been adduced from the high participation rates in tertiary education found in persons like Jews Most parents would have hoped and believed that their children, born in Australia, or brought

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 12 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population over from Malta when still very young ('[virtual down-town Broadmeadows! Henry Briffa, a second generation'), would soon integrate within clinical psychologist, attended a private school. society, and would not be subject to taunts and He says: "I guess I should be grateful that I went pressures such as they themselves had often to a private school, but for most of the time there been subjected to. Their amazement at their I was a wog and a ‘westie’." children’s ability to express themselves in the Discriminatory practice is not restricted to fellow new language led them to believe that they had students, however. Talking about his school become true-blue Australians. experience, York states: "As for school, I had And yet, it is surprising to what extent children quite an amazing experience at Moreland carry the burden of the parents. This is Primary School, when one of the teachers called particularly the case in primary and secondary individuals from the class and lined us up at the schools and it starts to lose its strangling effect front of the room and told the rest of the class later on at tertiary level. There are also marked that we in the line would never be successful and class differences relating to the mode of would never go to university. I’ve never forgotten expression of acceptance or rejection within this incident. It really perplexed me at the time as society. One gets the impression that on the I couldn’t comprehend why I was up there. I was factory floor or on the wharf, one is much more a well-behaved, chronically shy, kid. I’m almost likely to encounter deprecatory names like certain now that the teacher had selected the ‘wogs’, ‘ dagos’ etc, whereas in more cultured students from non-Anglo, non-Irish, professions, one could see more subtle backgrounds." discriminatory practices evidenced by reduced Eddie Micallef, a former member of Parliament in job opportunities particularly in the higher Victoria for several years, aged 64 years at the echelons of power. time this interview took place, is perhaps the Such reactions often come as a surprise to the oldest representative of the group who individual at the receiving end. Barry York, a responded to this questionnaire. He was born in migration historian states: "Strangely enough, Australia - his father having migrated to Australia even though I have never been culturally in the 1920s. He says that as a child he Maltese, I was called “a black bastard” by one of experienced lots of difficulties at school, as a our neighbours in Brunswick when I was a result of "my cultural background and the racism youngster. It was the first occasion in which I from both students and the Roman Catholic recall feeling different. It made me wonder why education system. Melbourne in the 50s was not a she described me in that way and this led me to very enlightened place that we exist in today." He conclude that it was something to do with the believes, however, that the challenges which he ‘funny’ language my dad sometimes spoke over encountered as a child enabled him to cope the phone. The neighbour in question was a more effectively as a teenager, during his decent person who lost her temper with apprenticeship and later at the work-place. something naughty that I had done while playing Moreover, these experiences enabled him to with her sons, my mates, in their house…. None understand the complexities he faced later on in of us ever forgot what she said, in anger, life as member of a Trade Union and in his though." political career. That such feelings of alienation, hostility and School Experience antagonism were not universal is attested to by Schools can prove to be a very challenging the fact that several respondents claim not to environment where bullying has always existed, have been affected to any great extent by racist and where any characteristic which stands out as comments or actions by fellow students or different is likely to be targeted for punishment others within the community. Even allowing for by the group. Andrew Grech, a successful lawyer the fact that time might have enabled them to born of Maltese parents, agrees that growing up forget, many respondents in the last 20-30 years in a multicultural society had its problems. He have positive reminiscences about their says: "In primary school, being from any non- childhood experiences. It is possible that by this Anglo-Celtic background wasn’t too much fun in time, Australia was becoming a more culturally

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 13 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population diverse and tolerant society. As Mark Avellino, a Northern Suburbs of Melbourne where most free-lance photographer comments: "Australia is children were the product of migrant families. a country of many contradictions, especially in Whilst most were Italian and Greek, the Maltese recent years. Growing up as a child of immigrants, community in the area was strong and the family I always felt that we were very tolerant and was a part of it. Also we had an extremely close accepting of cultural differences. I felt that we extended family". It looks as if there is strength in accepted ALL people, despite an underlying fear of numbers! In those localities where there is a the unknown – a quality of which I have always strong ethnic presence, there seems to be lines been proud, particularly when living overseas. We of battle drawn between those who are Anglo- have been fortunate that embracing Celtic in origin (‘Skips’) and all the rest (‘wogs’, multiculturalism during the post-war years ‘dagos’, etc). Numerical strength results in a prevented us from becoming a racist society, and more balanced response, and being different instead fostered a good sense of harmony in our may in fact strengthens identity rather than communities." prejudices it. A number of Maltese-background respondents In trying to explain aggressive anti-social have a positive memory of their school-days. behaviour by fellow students, Barry York. states: Amelia Farrugia, now considered one of the best "It needs to be kept in mind… that I lived in sopranos in Australia, was born in Sydney of Brunswick, a working class industrial suburb that Maltese parents and regards herself as was undergoing a very rapid rate of change “Australian-Maltese”. She states that she brought about by non-English-speaking encountered some snobbery towards her immigration. The old Australians, mainly of Irish ethnicity at school, more in high school than in ancestry, had struggled through Depression and primary school. However, she seems to have had world war and now saw their society changing in no further difficulties after that at University or at ways they couldn’t understand. They sometimes work. As a matter of fact she says "I have found lashed out at those who were different, though my ethnicity to help me in adulthood, especially in my experience this was very rare. I like to think as an opera singer. Clare Darmanin, a young that, ultimately, in Brunswick at least, people lawyer, says that: If I have had any difficulties… I came to realize that we were all pretty much in don't blame it on the fact that I am from a Maltese the same boat, all working class people whose background”. Dr Marie Pirotta, a university main concern was to pay off the house and lecturer and general practitioner, born in survive." Australia of a Maltese professional father and This study is not extensive enough to enable us Australian mother, experienced no problems in to come to any solid conclusion relating to the her school years. This could be related to the fact causes of discrimination, but it is tempting to that her family was well-integrated within the speculate about the possible reasons for such Australian society. activity among children and adolescents. One Other respondents who seem to have had no could argue that difference is manifested not major problems with their schooling include only by a foreign accent, but also by skin colour Sharon Schembri (lecturer), Robert Gatt and status on the social scale. Having one Anglo- (craftsman), and Theresa Borg (soprano). David Celtic parent can help improve accent and Plowman, a professor of economics in Perth says lighten skin colour. Whatever the reason, those that he experienced no troubles at school “once persons falling within this category (David prepared to ‘pitch in’. David Carbon, General Plowman, Michael Zammit, Sharon Schembri, Manager at Boeing/Hawker de Havilland Amelia Farrugia) have been subjected to less (Australia) was brought up in the Northern discriminatory practice compared to those suburbs of Melbourne where most children were whose parents were both Maltese (e.g. Grech). the product of migrant families, mainly Italian This is no explanation, however, for York’s and Greek, and hence there was a better experience, where having an English mother numerical balance between ‘wogs’ (non-English seems not to have been a sufficient protection speaking background origin - NESB), and ‘skips’ against deprecatory remarks. (English-speaking migrants and Australians with Anglo-Celtic background). He says: "I grew up in

Tertiary Education and Racism guarantee the ‘best’ opportunities in the legal profession, indicating that there might still exist As mentioned earlier, ethnic differences tend to hurdles which migrants face in competition with be eclipsed at this level by other differentiating those of Anglo-Celtic background. Now that all factors. In all instances where discriminatory that is behind him, he is not aware of any remarks and tendencies were rife in the primary discrimination or other untoward behaviour and secondary school system, these tended to from the mainstream Australian society. He diminish considerably at tertiary level. This could considers himself to be culturally Australian. be the result of the fact that there is far less Language and Culture loss intimate contact at this level, and hence less exposure and possibility of abuse by fellow Most of the respondents have lost their capacity students. Barry York believes that class to express themselves in Maltese, although there differences become more relevant. He remains a basic framework and some fragments comments: "My admission to La Trobe University of the original parental language lurking in the in 1969 reinforced my sense of being somehow depths of their unconscious mind, unused and different but I really think this had more to do with often useless. social class (most of the students were middle The reasons for ignoring the Maltese language class – I was working class) and family situation. may vary from one individual to the other, but in My personality was based on a strong inferiority general it can be put down to lack of use: there complex, though this changed thanks to the is very little scope for use of another language in intellectual and political stimulation of campus a place like Australia except maybe to speak to life in the late 1960s and early 1970s." your own elderly parents or grandparents when An ethnic background could even prove to be a they do not have an adequate grasp of English, positive element. In relation to his university or when they lose their capacity to use it as often years in the late 1960s and early 1970s, Barry happens in old age. Many second-generation York remarks: "If anything, I think having a Maltese learn enough Maltese as children to be Maltese background worked in my favour. It was able to understand their parents, but as soon as ‘exotic’, and attracted interest: but the main factor they mix with their peers at school they make a was my class background, which was also exotic point of not using the Maltese language more and interesting to those who were removed from than absolutely necessary. it. Most of my comrades at La Trobe had never Intermarriage, of which there has been a high been to Brunswick – and I had certainly never rate among Maltese, necessitates the use of a been to the suburbs, such as Eltham and Ivanhoe, common language, normally English, which where they tended to reside." He touches on a hastens the process of loss of original language. rather ominous point: He says: "My political The reason Barry York gives for not learning activism landed me in serious difficulties during Maltese, which he cannot speak at all, is this: "My my university years. In the 1990s, I applied for mother, who is English, always wanted my father, Special Branch files under Freedom of Information who is Maltese, to teach me Maltese but he felt – and was fascinated to find that the Special Branch as was common in the 1950s and 1960s – that, had noted my father’s Maltese nationality. Also, were I to learn a second language, it would on the campus itself, the student club that was adversely affect my success with the English associated with the DLP/NCC occasionally language at school. I was curious about the referred to the ‘foreign nationals’ among the Maltese language as a young teenager as, when hardcore Left." we obtained a telephone, I’d hear my dad Discrimination at the workplace speaking in Maltese to other Maltese in Melbourne." Most respondents claim that they experienced few or no instances of discrimination at the In fact, fear of interference of one language with workplace based on their ethnic background. another was a very real reason for many parents However, Andrew Grech makes the point that not teaching their children the Maltese when he came to apply for his Articles, he language. They were overwhelmed by the idea realized that academic achievement didn’t that English was the language of communication

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 15 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population now that they were establishing themselves in an long as it's not too technical and have enough English-speaking country, and teaching Maltese time to translate different pronunciations. I live to their children was considered to be not only a on my own so there is no one to speak to in waste of time, but a source of confusion and Maltese. I sometimes speak in Maltese with my quite possibly discrimination, of which they were brothers." themselves quite aware, if not actually the On the other hand a considerable proportion of recipients. This is in marked contrast to certain respondents stated that their grasp of the ethnic groups (e.g. Greeks), where there has language is all but non-existent. Some, like always been an insistence on use of their native Andrew Grech, Amelia Farrugia, Robert Naudi, Dr language, a situation which has lasted until this Marie Pirotta, and Sharon Schembri can speak day. and understand only a few words and A number of respondents however, can colloquialisms, while some, like Michael Zammit, understand or even speak Maltese. Professor can neither speak nor understand Maltese at all. Plowman for instance likes to listen to Maltese Henry Briffa admits that his knowledge of programs on Australian radio or television Maltese is rather slim and that he cannot speak ("when the Maltese side gets its act together!") He the language fluently, but, he adds, interestingly, can understand and speak Maltese, although, he “Unfortunately, I am not a fluent speaker, but my admits, the occasions to do so, since the death son has me teaching him what I know." of his mother, are now limited. David Carbon Michael Zammit is another example of those understands Maltese but speaks it only poorly. who have lost all contact with his Maltese roots. However, he listens occasionally to Maltese He was born in Australia in 1970, the son of a programs on radio or television, including SBS Maltese father (born in Egypt), arriving in Maltese news and the occasional radio program. Australia in 1956.11 His mother is an Italian who He keeps in touch through reading Maltese migrated to Australia in her early teens. He updates from the Maltese Consulate. pursued a science education culminating in a Likewise, Anthony Scicluna, a finance officer at PhD in polymer science. He does not speak or Southern Cross University understands Maltese, even understand Maltese and has no contact or but speaks only a little. Clare Darmanin, a young interest in Maltese Associations. lawyer also states: "I can understand Maltese but Likewise, Mark Avellino states: "I began learning am incapable of speaking fluent Maltese, apart Maltese when I was young, but didn’t continue, from the occasional few words”. This seems to be leaving me with a limited understanding of the pattern for a large number of second Maltese. This is perhaps one of my major generation Maltese. The fluency with the personal regrets, as I now realise the value of language disappears as the need to use it understanding your mother tongue. My parents evaporates. always spoke to my sister and me in English. As A comment by Simone Cremona, a clinical they have aged, my parents now speak in both psychologist, is worth noting. While she cannot languages without realising they cross over. I am be considered a 2nd generation Maltese, having currently investigating learning to speak arrived in Australia as a young adult only a few Maltese." years ago, she says. "I probably speak more Interesting is the comment by Barry York about Maltese here in Australia than I did back home. the reason why he is against teaching Maltese to Being away from Malta meant that language has his children. He says: "I have no interest in my become an important link to my ties and gives me kids learning Maltese. I’d rather they learn a a sense of identity." major language that will open doors on a grand Anthony Figallo, an artist who arrived in Australia scale in this increasingly inter-connected planet when he was eight years old, says: "I can't help we inhabit. Mandarin or Spanish perhaps. But it keep the language alive when I can just read will be up to them. I hope they’ll grow up aware basic Maltese and most definitely not write it. I of their distant Maltese links. That’s important to do listen to and watch Maltese programs on me – but whether it’s important to them is radio and television when I remember to or have entirely up to them. The world is theirs! That’s my the time. I can hold a conversation in Maltese as eternally optimistic outlook, anyway."

It is well to point out that, as mentioned already,  distance from Maltese-centres and meeting this point of view was shared by many of the places, and low concentration of persons Maltese settlers of the 1950s who honestly speaking the same language, believed that they were doing their children a  lack of interest in Maltese culture, favour not teaching them Maltese, which at best  fear that maintaining Maltese culture might they thought was a useless language, and at be detrimental (e.g. divisive, exposes one to worst, they feared that it might interfere with ridicule or contempt, interference with their grasp of English. The idea that learning learning another ‘more useful’ language). another European or Asian language was more Professor Plowman for instance is fluent in the beneficial to them than learning Maltese was Maltese language and has a lasting interest in also very prevalent.12 It is only in recent times Maltese issues, particularly in Maltese child that the Maltese language has become useful in migration. He was sent to Australia as a young its own right if only to enable one to obtain those boy of ten years, and while he has had most of extra few marks at matriculation-type his education in Australia, he is not strictly a 2nd examinations like the VCE or HSC which could generation Maltese (one might say a ‘virtual’ 2nd make all the difference in the race to obtain a generation person). Moreover, he has been to place at a university. Malta several times, - five trips back to Malta in all, two of them in 2004, negotiating with the What promotes maintenance of government about child migration. While he Maltese language & culture? considers himself culturally to be "Australian with Maltese heritage", one can still attribute It is of some interest to speculate why some some of his make-up to his Maltese upbringing. people manage to maintain their language and culture to a much greater extent than others. Most 2nd generation persons of Maltese origin Among the factors that might help maintain the have integrated more or less completely within parental language one could include: the Australian society, to the extent that they rarely have any dealings specifically with other  a strong family commitment to maintenance Maltese individuals or associations. They do not of language and culture. One hears stories feel the need to fall back on their roots in their where a great effort is made to teach day-to-day existence. In the words of Barry York: Maltese even to 3rd generation children. “I had occasional contact with the community These events are, however, few and far through my parents’ occasional attendance at between; Maltese functions and family weddings, dating  a perceived relevance of the language for back to the mid-1950s. These were infrequent business or professional use. In this respect aspects to our life, though". one could mention those who have had political ambitions; Relations with other Maltese in Australia  arriving in Australia as a young child or Most 2nd generation Maltese have lost their young adult already well versed in the contact with Maltese associations and any other language (rather than being born in sources of culture maintenance, apart from their Australia or arriving before become fluent in immediate family. Very few have become the Maltese language); interested in Maltese affairs. Some of them have  frequent visits to Malta, or a longer stay had contact in the past but this has disappeared. there; For instance, Andrew Grech has in the past been  environmental: use of the language within involved with the Maltese community as the family, ethnic clubs etc. secretary of the Maltese Community Council of On the other hand factors which tend to Victoria, and as President of the Malta Youth encourage loss of this inheritance would include: Group. However, his contacts with the Maltese community have become tenuous and he does  intermarriage, where one of the parents is not belong to any Maltese association anymore, non-Maltese, and does not listen to Maltese programs on radio or television. He occasionally picks up a Maltese newspaper when visiting his parents, but

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 17 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population he does not seek them out specifically. This is not For most others, however, the links have untypical of the average respondent. dwindled to insignificance and for most persons from the second generation, links with Maltese On the other hand, John Aquilina is an obvious émigré society are rather slim. David Carbon example where close contact is kept with the states that he does not belong to any Maltese Maltese community. As a Member of Parliament associations or clubs, but he listens occasionally (NSW) he still maintains close links with to Maltese programs on radio or television, numerous Maltese associations and clubs, either including SBS Maltese news and the occasional as a full paying member or patron. Because he radio program. He keeps in touch through can still speak Maltese fluently he is a regular reading Maltese updates from the Maltese contributor via interviews on Maltese radio and Consulate. For most others, including Sharon TV programs. He subscribes to the weekly Azzopardi, Marie Pirotta, Amelia Farrugia, and edition of The Maltese Herald and frequently Kylie Cassar-Bartolo, these links have long ago receives Maltese newsletters from various disappeared. sources. He is often featured in articles in both The Maltese Herald and newsletters. The comments of Simone Cremona, a recent migrant to Australia, are interesting in that they There are other exceptions of course. Clare show that lack of contact with Maltese Darmanin has recently been PRO with the associations does not necessarily imply lack of Maltese Community Council of Victoria, and is interest. She says: “I do make sure I’m up to date involved in several Maltese-related activities. She with what is happening in Malta by speaking to says: "It is only recently that I have been involved family and friends, and reading the news online in the Maltese Community as PRO on the MCCV on a daily basis. I do have some contact with the and in the Youth Group. I have also started MCCV, but due to other commitments, am reading a number of books that are in English but currently unable to attend regularly.” are about Maltese culture and listening to Maltese music." The impression one gets from these comments would be that for most 2nd generation Maltese Others have a professional involvement with persons, belonging to a Maltese association or Maltese. Barry York is a historian of Maltese having a close contact with Maltese cultural migration and began his researches in 1984. He activities of any kind is not felt to be essential, still occasionally, though infrequently, writes for rewarding or in any way necessary. They all have The Maltese Herald and The Times in Malta. As their life to live, and that for most of them does mentioned already, David Plowman also has not include Maltese functions, meetings or maintained a strong relationship with Maltese. activities or other contacts. He belongs to the Maltese Professional and Business Association of WA; he is also a member The persons mentioned above do not represent of the Maltese Association of WA. Moreover, he a true cross-section of the 2nd generation, being has taken a keen interest in the history of child culled as they are from a higher social group, migration, and is the Chair of the Child Migrants well-educated and relatively high achievers. It is of Malta which looks after their continued possible that those who have not quite reached welfare. this level might have greater needs for such contacts. With a few exceptions, Maltese Others, like Eddie Micallef have lost their associations cater for the needs of the first language skills but not their interest in the generation, and serve as clubs for their now Maltese community. He has had a long aging clientele, and thus may offer little relationship with the Maltese Community attraction to the better educated members of the Council and represents the Maltese second generation. Community Council on the Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria. One could cynically suggest that these activities would Contact with Malta have been found useful in promoting one’s Desultory efforts have been made from time to political career, but this does not diminish time by authorities in Malta to encourage their relevance in this context. contact and maintain interest in the home country. Bilateral agreements relating to short-

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 18 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population term working holidays by younger persons, the case of wanting to better know my parents than provision of occasional scholarships at university any inherent interest in Malta or England". He and apprenticeships, exchanges between visited Malta a second time in 1985, and, for a university staff, and most recently, wooing of final time, in 1995 (with his wife and two-year old Australian-Maltese athletes to take part in son). These are his comments: international sport under the Malta flag have "I felt an affinity with Malta and its people – been but some of the efforts in this direction. On indeed I have cousins there – but I returned to the whole, however, there has not been a deluge Australia with a stronger sense of being an of young Maltese-Australians taking up these Australian. Malta and England made me more positions. More recently, considerable efforts appreciative of Australia: its climate and have been made to enhance business links environment, cities and town planning, wide between the two countries, a process which open spaces, broad-mindedness of the people, could be aided through the assistance of acceptance of ethnic diversity, lack of party- Maltese-Australians with interest in both political fanaticism. The thing I liked most about countries. The setting up of professional and Malta was the Maltese people: their decency. I business associations in several states in didn’t like the dominance of the Church over Australia (including WA, Victoria & NSW), might Maltese life and found its architectural centrality help in this process. oppressive and not reflective of the progress It is of interest, therefore, to note that most Malta has achieved over the past 60 years. I’m in respondents have been to Malta, many of them favour of any political, cultural and economic several times. It is also pleasing to note that most moves that modernize Malta, including have found the experience enjoyable, admission into the EU. My relationship with stimulating and many have expressed the hope Malta has come full-circle, as my initial interest of being able to visit again in the future. Dr Marie in it was political. My visits to Malta did not make Pirotta for instance states that she visited Malta me feel Maltese, as I have never been culturally three times, on one occasion to get married Maltese, but I am very committed to my family there! and it meant, and means, an enormous amount to me that I met my relatives over there and am In some instances, a first visit when they were still still in touch with some cousins. In effect, I was a young kindled their interest to return again as tourist in Malta and I also encountered the older persons. Clare Darmanin for instance says: unattractive attitudes that can emerge in tourist- "I have been to Malta twice. On the first occasion, based small island economies. I feel the I was 16 and went for 5 weeks. On the second strongest affinity with the Maltese in Australia occasion, I was 26, and stayed in Malta for 7 rather than the Maltese in Malta. I should add months. My comments regarding Malta are fairly that I am also aware of a Gozitan heritage. My positive. It is a small country, both geographically dad was born in Sliema but all the rest of his and population-wise. However, even though it has family were from Ghajnsielem, Gozo. From a its fair share of problems, I am still proud of the young age, I knew about the sparring between fact that Maltese people have come so far." Henry the Maltese from Malta and those from Gozo. In Briffa has made four trips and plans to go again. the 1980s, I came to see it as fairly harmless, even "I feel quite connected to the land somehow. Being quaint, but I can’t say I like such divisiveness Maltese makes me feel more multicultural as I can when it is taken seriously. As a believer in claim Arabic roots as well as European", he says. multiculturalism, I cannot admire prejudices that Professor Plowman has been there five times, separate people from one another on the basis twice in 2004 negotiating with government of culture or race, and even less on the sheer regarding child migration. coincidence of which island one happens to have Their reasons for going to Malta vary. Barry been born on within the essentially same culture. York’s first visit occurred in 1980 when he was 29 As an enthusiast for modern industrial society years old. He says: "I was always, from a very and globalization, I have little time for the young age, interested in his [father’s] stories reactionary qualities of village life. Thus, in 1995, about Malta and in my mother’s stories about I was heartened to see the progressive influence England. My interest, I now believe, was more a of returned migrants, and the advent of cable

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 19 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population television (even in Gozo!). Malta is such a Manoel. She found that Malta has changed very different place today, compared to the stories quickly. "I was amazed at the difference between my dad told me. He left in 1940, after joining the the Malta of 1981 and then of 1998", she says. Royal Air Force to fight Fascism. In 1995, I was "Malta has progressed a lot and has become more impressed by Malta’s increasingly modern international and I think Malta will continue to aspects. My dad remembers beggars on the progress quickly now as a part of the European streets – how things have changed!" Union." As emphasised by Barry York, one of the main It is not unusual for a first impression of Malta to reasons for visiting Malta is to make contact with be negative, only to be corrected by a relatives, including more distant relatives and subsequent visit. Mark Avellino states: "My first the extended family. However, as Andrew Grech trip to Malta in 1991-1992 was difficult. I met says, having visited Malta several times, as his uncles, aunties and cousins from both sides of parents’ siblings get older, the attraction of the family about whom I had only ever heard going back diminishes considerably. stories and discovered how Australian I really Other young Maltese Australians see benefit in was. I remember finding it difficult to relate to continuing the Maltese tradition and intend to many things in Malta and thought the whole pass it on to their own children. For instance, island seemed to be living in the past. When I Theresa Borg says: "The first time I was thirteen returned in 2003 and again in 2004, I had a and travelling with my family. The second time round in 1999 I travelled with my dad and my completely different perspective. I had felt a need husband. We had an absolute ball and dad ran us – almost a spiritual calling – to visit Malta again. off our feet. Everything was deliciously familiar On these trips I rebuilt connections with family and I drank it in. I loved the company of my dad's and established new friendships, while cousins, the narrow streets, the smells, the craft – discovering a new appreciation for the country everything. I would love to go back again with my and its people. The country seemed a much kids." Likewise, Kylie Cassar-Bartolo who has younger and more vibrant place to me. Amazing been to Malta twice comments: "I would like to how our perceptions change as we become take my children/husband with me again – to embrace the rich historical heritage." older. This latter period coincided with the Project Malta photo shoot and allowed me to The following are further additional comments meet many different people in Malta and help me made by respondents relating to their visit to identify with the country. I often wonder whether Malta: I will relocate to Europe or Malta for a time." Anthony Scicluna : "First visited Malta in 2003. “Loved it. Beautiful country, nice people. Father’s As a matter of fact there were very few negative cousin in Mosta – still keep in touch." comments to be made about Malta and the way of life there. Barry York, for instance, has this to Eddie Micallef: "I have visited Malta on three say: "I didn’t like the dominance of the Church occasions. Beautiful islands – a living museum – over Maltese life and found its architectural welcoming and hospitable. Have relatives on centrality oppressive”. In a lighter vein, Dr Pirotta both Malta and Gozo consequently strong ties complains that “the cooking is not as good as my still exist." grandparents, which was a disappointment.” Anthony Figallo: "I travelled to Malta in 1979 and I loved every minute of the six or eight weeks I What do they expect to get from was there. My tie with Malta is purely emotional Malta? because I felt truly comfortable and at home there. A truly unique experience." None of the respondents expressed a view that they expected anything in particular from Malta. Amelia Farrugia: Amelia has been to Malta a None felt that Malta had any special debt to couple of times, once on holiday with her family, them for the contributions made by their parents for Christmas 1981, and again in 1998 when she to the Maltese economy and general benefit sang at a Christmas concert at the Teatru generated by their migration.

Anthony Figallo: "I made a photographic essay Australia does not depend on any future links that I couldn't get anyone interested in seeing with Malta. Malta is a place to visit for a holiday but it does bring many memories back for me. I and does not feature as part of their daily had a wonderful time and met a lot of interesting professional life. people there but if I go there again it would be Australia in the eyes of 2nd generation Maltese to try and establish contacts for exhibitions." For this generation of Maltese-Australians, Likewise, Mark Avellino has had some very Australia is their home country, where they were productive links with Maltese both in Australia as born and educated and lived for the greater part well as in Malta. He comments: "My connections of their life. It was of interest, however to ask with the Maltese Community have been through them about their views about Australia, to see if the centre in Parkville, MACOYA, the High their hyphenated ethnicity has affected their Commission in the ACT and Melbourne, as well relationship to their country. as through the SBS news and reading ‘The Times of Malta’ on the Internet. I have been interviewed One obvious point that strikes anyone reading several times by SBS about Project Malta in their comments is the fact that they all seem to Melbourne and Sydney, and on ABC and be well-adjusted to their Australian environment, Community Radio in the ACT. I was also the the only one they consider as their home. Malta Maltese team photographer at the Melbourne is seen as a distant land where their forebears 2006 Commonwealth Games." came from and which may still have some emotional albeit slim hold over them, but Few of the respondents claim that they have any Australia is their country. This is also made special relations with Malta, except of course of absolutely clear from an analysis of their those who have some relatives still there. perceived identity, as emphasized further below. Professor Plowman still keeps fairly strong The following are some of the desirable points as relations with the Malta through his interest in they see them relating to Australian society. ensuring a fair and final judgement relating to Andrew Grech says that among the qualities he child migrants of which he himself was one. He likes most about Australian society are its and his committee have been very active in egalitarian nature and the opportunities it promoting the view that both the Government provides on the whole. Dr Marie Pirotta agrees and the Church in Malta should make a gesture, and highlights "our egalitarianism; relative even apologize for the treatment that they freedom; still some sense of social responsibility." received at the hands of the Christian brothers, in the same way that this has been forthcoming John Aquilina speaks highly of the opportunities from Australian and British sources. Australia offers to migrants. "Australia is a land of great opportunity for anyone who wants to Amelia Farrugia has had various operatic have a go. My mother and father brought me to commitments in Malta . She took part in a Australia when I was a boy so that I would have Maltese opera called I Martiri and performed in the opportunity to obtain a good education. In a concert to help raise funds for the opera. She time I was able to not only obtain a good has also performed a couple of times for Maltese education but also to be a Shadow Minister for politicians and businessmen, for special events Education and Training for seven years and a and for fundraising activities, including singing Minister for Education and Training for almost for the Maltese President on his last Australian another seven years." He does not feel that visit. She has also been interviewed on Maltese being of a non-Anglo-Celtic origin has been a radio (by Fred Fenech). She still maintains great drawback in his life. He says: "I have never contact with Tony Cassar Darien at the Teatru felt, as a person of obvious Maltese heritage, that Manoel and also with members of her extended I have ever been hindered in any way in my family when they visit Malta. progress as an Australian because of my pride in But in general, there is very little interest who and what I am." He regards himself expressed by most second-generation persons culturally as an Australian with a special of Maltese origin to develop professional or responsibility because of his Maltese financial arrangements with Malta. Their life in background. "I am conscious that whatever

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 21 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population commitment I make to being an Australian, this Robert Gatt was born in Malta and brought to is unique because of the special background I Australia by his parents (his father was a general have resulting from my heritage as a Maltese- practitioner in Melbourne) when he was one year born person", he says. old, and has devoted his life to the art of glass- blowing. He has this to say: "I like the relaxed Eddie Micallef, previously a member of the nature of Australian society. Australians do not Victorian Parliament, now retired but still very take themselves too seriously and are always active in community affairs, is impressed by the prepared to laugh at themselves. Historically, range of opportunities for career, culture and Australians had felt a bit inferior to other cultures lifestyle in Australia. For David Plowman, the but this has changed and Australians now feel qualities he admires most about Australian equal to all others. There are no particular society are its openness and equality, resulting in qualities that I do not like." a capacity for a person to advance on merit rather than birth. David Carbon says that among Theresa Borg is a soprano with the Australian the qualities he admires in Australian society is Opera and also runs a business called the the ability of not taking anything too seriously. Entertainment Store. Born in Australia of a "Being able to laugh at ourselves", he believes is Maltese father and Australian mother, she says: an important Australian characteristic. There is, "Australia is for me egalitarian, rich in opportunity moreover, a general sense of mateship which and informal. In my experience, my fellow links people together. Amelia Farrugia points out Australians are mostly tolerant, kind people who that among the qualities she likes best about believe in the principle of the 'fair go'." Anthony Australian society one would include "our laid Figallo comments: "you can't go past getting in back, friendly nature, our tolerance of others, our your car and exploring this beautiful large country beautiful weather". Likewise, Robert Naudi with at times not seeing a living soul for hundreds emphasizes "carefree, mateship" as important of miles." characteristics. For Anthony Scicluna it is On the other hand there are aspects of the "security within our country, democratic Australian way of life which some respondents processes, easy-going nature of people, sport did not like. Henry Briffa is rather sceptical about loving nation." the epithets applied to the Australian way of life Clare Darmanin is no doubt speaking for a and believes that these may be myths. However, number of young Australians when she says: "I he says: "I like the myths we uphold: an like the fact that Australia is a multi-cultural egalitarian society, a fair go for all, society that has many people from different multiculturalism… I do not like being reminded cultures who can live together, and at most again and again that these are but myths." times, do so peacefully and this means I have Sharon Schembri points to the fact that: friends who are Australian, Maltese, Italian, "Australian society is very conservative. Generally, Greek, Vietnamese etc. I like the fact that, subject any move away from the dominant or to a few exceptions, I am capable of exercising conservative approach is somewhat discouraged. my rights and liberties, as an Australian, a woman This fundamental element is difficult to manage and a young adult. I like the way that Australia at times." Andrew Grech comments that: "I am has a 'recent' history, that means I am not bound increasingly worried about the lack of leadership by years of tradition or hierarchies. I can walk my being shown by our politicians, manifested more path of life independently and not be scrutinised recently by our appalling treatment of refugees. by 'village-like’ mentality. I like the way the Unfortunately, it appeals to the irrational fear that Government in Australia is accountable and that we sometimes have as a nation of those from there is a system of checks and balances in place different cultures." One could add sarcastically that aims to ensure that things are done that the treatment of refugees in Malta is not our according to the law, and people are most resounding achievement either! accountable to one another. I also like the vast A number of respondents were worried about areas of land and the many beautiful things there aspects of racism that have become apparent are to see". recently. David Carbon dislikes the presence of apathy and racism in some quarters, a point of

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 22 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population view echoed by Amelia Farrugia who says that Malta." She continues: “ The positives can mean she dislikes "our complacency and laziness, our that I am privy to many different cultures, foods, racism, our ignorance." Eddie Micallef also traditions etc, however this can come at the cost believes that there is a considerable amount of of my own culture being lost. There is a lack of residual racism and bigotry within Australian community feeling and vast distances can mean society. loneliness and isolation for many individuals. It is difficult to feel a sense of belonging, when you Dr Pirotta is no doubt expressing the views of cannot truly identify with the culture and the many Australians when she points out that we history.” tend to be "too eager to follow the USA culturally and in foreign policy" – a tendency which is Differences between Maltese and Australian considered unhealthy. cultures as seen by the 2nd generation Maltese Tony Figallo shows a certain amount of It was considered of interest to make some disenchantment with Australian society. "It may comparisons between Maltese and Australian sound like I'm very bitter to say that there isn't cultures as perceived by respondent to the much I like about Australian society, as an questionnaire. Some previous studies have been example, look at the way government is elected made on this issue, the most recent being that of and for what reasons and the way life revolves Victoria Borg,13 consisting of an analysis of around sport and the way they treat each other. Maltese born in Australia compared with Anglo- There are millions of overseas born people Celtic adolescents and those born and living in making major contributions to this country, but Malta. The views of respondents reproduced as I say to visitors from overseas about here are of course not based on in-depth studies acceptance of other nationalities, watch but, as all their comments mentioned here, television and tell me how many foreigners you represent their individual responses. see." David Carbon does not believe that Maltese Others point to the possible signs of weakening values differ greatly from those of Australians. of Australia’s commitment to multiculturalism. "Fairness seems to be a universally held value. The Mark Avellino is worried about some recent religious undertones are certainly different developments. He states: "In recent years I feel generally." He also believes that our common our current Federal Government has used the heritage derived from England gives us a media to promote a sense of fear and a lack of common background. This view is shared by tolerance for people from different cultures. I fear Mark Avellino: "In a strange way, I think that that core Australian values, like giving everyone ‘a through Malta’s common link to Great Britain we fair go’ now comes with conditions. I fear that we share a number of values with Anglo culture – a are bringing up the next generation of Australians sense of right and wrong, attitude to work, value (from all backgrounds) to fear the unknown and of education and the same self-deprecating that which is different. We’re not encouraging humour. The one area in which the Maltese are them to explore and experience other cultures different is in respect to the importance of family. with that spirit of adventure we share, regardless No matter where people of Maltese origin are of our backgrounds. It’s that experience of other born or living, there exists a strong connection to cultures that is a fundamental factor in what family." makes the Australian culture (and people) so Amelia Farrugia believes that Maltese are "more unique and wonderful." internal, Catholic, conservative and traditional," Of interest are the views of someone who has whereas Australians "tend to travel more widely arrived in Australia only recently and can because of the geographical distance between therefore compare life in the two islands. Simone Australia and the rest of the world", presumably Cremona says: "This is a bit of a two-edged sword in an attempt to overcome the restrictions that – I enjoy the independence that living in Australia distance imposes on one. has given me, but miss the contact with family Clare Darmanin believes that Maltese values and friends back home. I appreciate the differ from Australian values in a number of ways: multiculturalism but long for the historical and "Firstly, like many southern European cultures, cultural components I long took for granted in

Maltese people value their family in a huge way. A relatively recent arrival to Australia, Simone It is not uncommon even to this day that a child Cremona says: "The importance given to family remains with their parents in the matrimonial is probably one of the values that differs greatly home until they are married. Most Australians [ between the countries]. To a lesser extent the would consider this as archaic and 'babyish' and focus on education and expectations imposed encourage their children to leave home at the on the individual from society. Overall, I get a age of 16-18. Secondly, most Maltese people sense that the Maltese tend to be a lot more have a strong sense of faith and are very passionate about most things (except perhaps religious/devout people. This is in contrast to a sport) than Australians." majority of Anglo-Australians who would Eddie Micallef: "Malta has a long history in describe themselves as ‘atheists’." traditions and religion as opposed to Australia’s David Plowman also sees Maltese are being: cosmopolitan country which is made up and "more collective, less well informed, more influenced by many cultures, races and parochial, with a Europe focus, more church religions." oriented." Henry Briffa thinks that "most of what Tony Figallo: "In my opinion values do differ I have seen and might call ‘Maltese’ is subject to between Maltese and Australians. This view a time distortion and perhaps is more closely could be coloured by the fact that I grew up aligned to what Malta was like in the 1950s. But without grandparents and other relatives in this I think on a depth level, the Maltese have had country because I was eight years old when my more of an oral history and a sense of self-based family left Malta. From my limited experience place and family relationships. Again, I suspect Australians can’t wait long enough to have this is being eroded in modern Malta." Sharon nothing to do with their parents and brothers Schembri adds: "Growing up in a small Maltese and sisters and there is a lack of manners and community, I learnt the value of a good work respect to elders." ethic. Over the years however, I have come to recognise that working hard distinguishes you John Aquilina believes that: "Among the from the crowd but it is sometimes a problem as important aspects of our Maltese heritage are others are not working at the same pace. When the values which are dear to all of us. These you are perceived to be achieving above and include a strong emphasis on family, beyond the norm, this is a threat to others and commitment to hard work, honesty and a sense their ethic/pace. Also, given the conservative of loyalty." orientation of mainstream Australia, risk taking is Identity given a lower priority." The question of identity has troubled students of It is perhaps relevant to mention that both ethnicity perhaps more than the 2nd generation countries have and are changing continuously, persons themselves – at least that is one and in the case of Malta, at a considerably rapid conclusion that one is tempted to draw from pace, making prejudgement difficult. Several responses to this questionnaire. In general they recent surveys in Malta attest to the rapidly seem to be well-adjusted and have a solid belief changing mores of the Maltese people, in their identity as being first and foremost particularly the young generation. This is a point Australian. The Maltese aspect of their identity is that Andrew Grech makes. He believes that while given various degrees of importance, from being differences between Malta and Australia were second only to the Australian component to marked 15-20 years ago, they are much less having no relevance to their make-up pronounced nowadays and there is hardly any of whatsoever. major significance. Likewise Amelia Farrugia found a significant difference even within the The fact that many call themselves “Australian- relatively short time. She adds: "I am happy for Maltese’ emphasizes both the duality of their the youth of Malta now that they have the chance background, as a hyphenated citizen, as well as to work throughout the rest of Europe. The the fact that they put emphasis on being Maltese people strike me as very warm and Australian first and Maltese second. This is an generous." important distinction, which is in contrast to responses by persons of the first generation who

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 24 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population often describe themselves as ‘Maltese- anywhere physically. In Malta, a tourist, Australians’. remembering I left when I was eight years old. In Australia, a new Australian because I look, sound, Some, like Andrew Grech, consider themselves to think and my interests are different. I always be culturally Australian, a view shared by Robert identify myself as Maltese when I am being Naudi. Likewise Michael Zammit says he is represented by my art here and overseas. I was Australian first and foremost, having an Italian born in Malta therefore I am Maltese and and Maltese heritage. Dr Marie Pirotta thinks of proud.... Here is a funny yet real example. I have herself mostly as just Australian – while in some been overseas twice. I travel with a Maltese circumstances as Australian–Maltese. Others, like passport as I am not an Australian citizen. Each Sharon Schembri, a 3rd generation Maltese, time I had to obtain a re-entry visa and each time considers herself Australian with a Maltese I was given a lecture about becoming an background. Professor Plowman uses related but Australian citizen and each time I gave the distinct terminology: "Australian with Maltese reason that when I was treated like an equal, I heritage". would become a citizen." Exceptionally for Australian-born Maltese, some Some mentioned the difficulties involved in give priority to their Maltese identity or put equal defining an identity. Henry Briffa for instance emphasis on their dual heritage. For instance remarks: "Adolescence is all about identity Henry Briffa insists: “I am a Maltese AND an formation and at that time I had no idea where I Australian” [his emphasis]. Anthony Scicluna belonged. Most of my mates travelled to explore describes himself as Maltese-Australian. the world. I was more interested in exploring a Some make a distinction depending on who asks tiny little island in the centre of the the question and where – a very relevant point. Mediterranean." The background of the person asking the Similarly, Mark Avellino comments: "Unlike, say, question as well as the location are both relevant the children of Greek or Italian immigrants, I in how a question about identity is answered. If identified myself as Australian – with Maltese a 2nd generation person is asked by someone in parents. It wasn’t until I grew older that my Australia, the answer is likely to be “I am of perception of my identity started to shift Maltese background” or some such description. significantly. Because of my last name, I was When overseas, they are likely to emphasize the often lumped in with the Italians. Often, when fact that they are “Australians of Maltese you tried to correct the misconception, people background”. David Carbon, for instance says: would not even know where Malta was. It was "Within Australia if asked I would respond by common to hear ‘is Maltese like Italian?’ The saying I was Maltese. Overseas however I would negative side of embracing being Australian respond: 'Australian'." from an early age was that I unknowingly turned Some see themselves as exclusively Australian my back on my language and culture for several and do not bother with the hyphenation. Robert years. As an adult, I feel I have re-connected with Gatt says: "I see myself as an Australian. I have my background – fortunately while both my thought of myself as Australian from a very early parents are alive. This has allowed me to move age. I have never had any difficulties with my forward and participate in the Maltese interactions with any community. Once I community through my photography, getting to completed school and went to University I no know more people of Maltese origin. I find that longer had much contact with other Maltese the people in their 20s acknowledge their other than immediate family." Maltese heritage much more openly than my Theresa Borg says: "I am an Australian, informed generation did....I experienced a crisis of not by a Maltese parent and an Australian parent", knowing to which culture I belonged, accepting and Eddie Micallef likewise says that he is "an in the end that I am a product of both. I like to Australian of Maltese descent". think I’m a combination of the best elements of both cultures as they both frustrate me and Tony Figallo: "How do I regard myself culturally? embrace me in equal proportion. I am fortunate A very interesting question. I regard myself as a that I have not experienced open racism in my creative human being who doesn't belong lifetime. Any difficulties I have experienced have

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 25 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population been due to the perceptions about people from because they were strong believers in giving us Melbourne’s western suburbs, and not from my a good education and a means of earning a cultural background. I refuse to allow my living. I will never forget their great sacrifice. Can postcode to dictate who I am and therefore have you imagine giving up everyone you know and the power to hold me back. In the end, hard work love, everything you own and your profession for and belief in yourself and your abilities will your children’s future? I never had kids so I will always prove a winning combination in life." never fully understand." Likewise Mark Avellino comments:"Both my parents have the ability to Children of Returning Migrants use humour to get through difficult situations. As Being a migrant implies a state of semi-stability, I have grown older, I have begun to realise that with regular oscillations between home and host this is a common Maltese trait. Both my parents countries.14 Many migrants have decided to encouraged my sister and me to work and study return to their home, a process which dislocates hard to have successful careers – which we both them and their families and often produces a have done. We both studied to be teachers and considerable amount of psychological trauma, have both completed post-graduate studies. We particularly in children, associated with carry the strong work ethic for which the Maltese separation from friends and relocation in a are famous and our parents were great role strange country. The very threat of moving away models. Like all Maltese, my parents highly value from their familiar environment may be seen by family and tradition." the young child as a worry. Eddie Micallef reminisces: "Times were difficult If there is one event which is seen as a threat by for my father during the depression and these young children it is the possibility of being difficulties carried on for some time as the family uprooted from their familiar surroundings and endeavoured to create a home for themselves in taken back to Malta. Henry Briffa reminisces: "I an outer area of Melbourne. He built his own knew there was something that they [his parents] home while renting and raising four children. My really missed but it was hard to define exactly father successfully integrated with his work what it was. My father would talk frequently of the colleagues and had a strong influence on my walks on the ‘Front’ and the people he would social and political development. My mother meet. My mother would sometimes mourn the was mainly a housewife but there were several ‘mobbli’ she’d left behind. It was difficult to grasp periods when she joined the workforce to as a child what all this meant, but particular achieve financial stability for the family and help feelings were evoked and these memories were give them all an adequate education." brought up again and again. I recall when I was There is obviously no magical recipe for success 13, my parents took us on a trip. It was the first in life, but having parents who appreciate and time they went back after about 12 years in encourage achievement can be a very useful Australia. When we got there I was horrified that background. It is also a fact that nothing they were seriously considering staying on and worthwhile has ever been achieved without a not coming back to Australia at all." great deal of hard work, and this is a Parents of ‘achiever’ children characteristic which migrants in general and It was not the aim of the survey to specifically Maltese in particular are well aware of. It is more elicit any particular traits in parents which a case of how successful they are in passing on resulted in ‘achiever’ children. The comments this trait to their children, and making them reproduced here were largely throw-away believe that it is a worthwhile value. Barry York remarks by respondents. comments: " I had, and have, nothing but respect for Maltese working people in Australia, including Andrew Grech says that his parents having my father and his brothers and sisters. I’ve been arrived in Australia from Sliema in the 1950s fortunate and privileged to meet so many and were "more focussed on the value of education learn from them. So, I think that, later in life, it was (both formal and by life experience) than the a real plus to have a Maltese side to my heritage." parents of most of my friends from Maltese background." This is also the view of Tony Figallo: "My parents brought us to Australia

Some Concluding Remarks Survey findings summary One constant theme that runs through these The following is a summary of the major findings responses is the fact that nearly all participants from this survey involving over 200 participants: are of the opinion that having a Maltese  The second and subsequent generation of nationality is a positive trait, of which they are Maltese-background persons in Australia justly proud. While they may not flaunt their totals 163,990 (Census 2011). ‘Maltese-ness’, they are happy to have this extra string to their bow.  The majority (65%) are under the age of 50, with a few (13%) over the age of 60 years. For instance, Aquilina remarks: "We have never regretted our decision to come to Australia  There were a calculated 1.24 child per despite the sacrifices that were required. participant. Most families had 2 children. Additionally, however, we have always remained Single individuals with children amounted to and continue to be proud Australians of Maltese nearly 7%. heritage". David Carbon comments that cultural  The majority (66%) described themselves as identity is still of major significance to second 'Maltese/Australians' and another 11% as generation persons. 'Maltese', with 23% defining themselves This trait remains discernable even in the third simply as 'Australians'. generation. Amelia Farrugia, a virtual third  The majority (77%) considered themselves generation young person, who has reached the 'Catholic', but only a third (37%) attended top of her career in Australia as a soprano, still church regularly on Sundays. Half of the treasures her Maltese citizenship and her children were said to have the same religious contacts with Maltese. She is an example of a orientation as their parents. cosmopolitan who considers the whole world as her oyster, but whose roots are firmly grounded  Half of the participants (57%) claimed to be in Australia, even though the roots were brought able to understand Maltese at least from Malta onto which was grafted Australian moderately well, but only 21% use it to speak stock.15 to parents or friends. The majority (69%) stated that they never speak in Maltese to their children.  About one-fifth (21%) stated that they keep In the following section, a more quantitative themselves informed about Maltese politics survey was undertaken (in 2015), several years and 39% stated that they kept themselves after the above which both confirms several of informed about European politics. Over 40% the ideas expressed in the above qualitative stated that they would be interested in survey as well as illustrates some other aspects. voting in elections if facilities (e.g. postal The main differences between the participants voting) were made available. was that while the above survey was limited to  A small minority (20%) stated that they were invited persons considered to be 'achievers', the members of Maltese associations, but only survey below was open to anyone who could 6% of these were under 40 years of age. respond via electronic means. While this in itself involves some degree of selection of  A considerable proportion (31%) had a participants, in that only computer literate Maltese passport and another 30% were people could participate, it was believed that in considering applying for one. this day and age, this would not be significantly  Their relations with other ethnic groups selective. varied considerably. Only a small minority (2- 3%) had feelings of antagonism towards persons who were either of Maltese, Australian or of Mediterranean origin. On the other hand there was a higher proportion of participants who expressed

antipathy towards persons of Asian or were themselves born in Australia (ie they belong Muslim background (17% and 28% to the third generation). respectively).  The proportion of participants with a tertiary Structure of the survey questions qualification reached 58%. The aim of the survey is to obtain information  The majority (82%) stated that they had about the following parameters: visited Malta several times, and only a very a. Average age of participants, gender, small number (10%) had never been to marital status, and occupation, Malta. b. Gender distribution,  The majority do not listen to local Maltese c. Level of education achieved, radio or SBS television. About half of the d. Knowledge of Maltese language, participants (45%) stated that they kept in e. Use of Maltese language for touch with Malta news through internet. communication with family and friends,, especially with their own children, Introduction f. Whether they belong to any Maltese Association We are all clear who constitutes the first g. Ethnicity: whether they consider generation. Data, particularly census data, are themselves as Maltese, Australian or quite clear about this, defined as those who were Maltese-Australian, born overseas. h. Citizenship: whether they possess a On the other hand, in countries like Australia, it Maltese passport, and if not, whether is already difficult to give precise details about they intend to apply for one, the size of the second generation, and even i. Degree of intermarriage, more so in relation to subsequent generations. j. Number of children in the family, k. Contact with Malta: how often they As regards the first generation, the latest census visited Malta, and their impressions (2011) in Australia makes it clear that there are thereof, currently 41,274persons born in Malta (first l. Interest in Australian politics and union generation). This has shrunk from the high affairs, watermark of several years ago, when it had read m. Interest in Maltese and European politics reached over 56,000 at its peak. and whether they would vote if this were One can calculate the rate of decline over the possible, years and this has now reached a rate of one per n. Religious affiliation of participants, their cent per year. This rate is of course expected to partners and their children, rise quite sharply in the coming decade resulting o. Whether they listen to Maltese from the rapidly increasing age of the current programs on radio or SBS television, population. p. Whether they keep contact with Maltese media More relevant to this survey is the number of q. Finally, an attempt was made to assess persons belonging to the second and relationships with other ethnic groups. subsequent generations in Australia. According Participants were also given the to the 2011 census, these are the numbers in opportunity to highlight any particular question: issue which was not covered in the a. Both parents born overseas: 85,822 above questionnaire. b. Father only born overseas: 21,150 Over 200 responses were received and analysed. c. Mother only born overseas: 11,254 The following are the results of this analysis. d. Both parents born in Australia: 42,602 e. Parents birthplace not stated: 3,162 f. Total 163,990 From these statistics it should be noted that nearly 43,000 of these were born to parents who

Characteristics of the second Australian or other background. Less than one- third of persons of Maltese background (26.2%) generation had a partner of Maltese background. According to the information gleaned from this 30.0 survey, and bearing in mind the reservations on this and similar surveys (discussed below), we 25.0 can make the following conclusions: 20.0

Age distribution 15.0 10.0 40 5.0

30 0.0 0 1 2 3 4+ 20 Figure 2: The proportion of participants having the indicated number of children (0 to 4 or more) 10 From figure 2, it is seen that 10.5 % or 0 participants had 1 child, 28.2 % had two children; <40 40+ 50+ 60+ 70+ 15.5% had three children, and 4.1% had four or

more children. The number of participants who Figure 1: Proportion of participants within the age bracket indicated had no children was less than 10%. Single parents with children accounted for 6.8% of the The graph in Fig 1 shows that total.  Two-thirds ( 65 percent) were below the Overall, the total number of children of age of 50, and 34% were below age 40 participants in this study was 273. This resulted years in an overall average of only 1.24 per participant  There is a significant number aged over (ie per family). 60 (12.7%) This is not directly comparable to the total fertility rate as usually defined, because it is Gender distribution calculated as the proportion of the number of There were slightly more female participants children per participant. However, as an compared to males in the ratio (F:M ratio = 1.22) indication of fertility rates, in Australia the total fertility rate is 1.88 (Australian Bureau of Family constitution Statistics), while the total fertility rate per woman in Malta is 1.38, and in most countries in Europe In this survey it was found that the majority (63%) it is well below 2.16 were married and another 9% had a de facto relationship. Another 28% stated that they were Ethnicity single. It should be noted that the survey did not enquire into the age of these persons. Being born and bred in a foreign country is bound to impact on one's understanding and There has been a complete change in the assessment of one's ethnicity. In the early days constitution of the family in the second of settlement, particularly in the immediate post- generation compared to the first. The vast WW2 period, not many Maltese migrants, and majority of the first generation was constituted still less their kids would have thought of of a couple, both of whom (for most couples) themselves as 'Australians', or even as Maltese- were of Maltese background, speaking Maltese Australians. to each other and to their friends, who often were also Maltese. It was, therefore, pertinent to ask whether, with the passing of the years and with changing In this survey it was found that there has been a concepts about multiculturalism in particular, marked shift, with the majority of persons of their assessment of their own ethnicity has Maltese background (73.8%) had a partner s of

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 29 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population changed in any way. This aspect has been these are not shared by a spouse or partner. Half emphasised in the recent censuses in Australia of the number of respondents stated that their which ask questions as to what ethnic groups partner did not have the same religious one considers oneself to belong to. background as themselves (50 %). Perhaps the most fundamental issue is whether Perhaps of more significance is the religious these persons consider themselves Maltese or orientation of their children. Again about half of otherwise. the children (52%) of these couples were said to have the same religion as themselves. A surprising majority of respondents (77 per cent) defined their ethnicity as either This is a world-wide trend, and not peculiar to 'Maltese/Australian'(66 per cent), or simply as Maltese-background persons outside Malta. For 'Maltese' (11.3 %), with 22.6 % considering comparison, in Malta itself, the proportion of themselves simply as 'Australian'. persons attending church regularly has fallen to 51 per cent by 2005.17 It is interesting to note that very few of the participants actually thought of themselves Maltese language maintenance primarily as Maltese and these were largely the older members of the community. One might ask: why do those who have decided to reside permanently in a foreign land bother to Of interest also is the substantial number of keep alive their mother language? participants (over one-fifth of the total) who consider themselves as unhyphenated The answer is complex. Certainly those who 'Australians'. On the one hand, this would depart do not thereby cease to be Maltese, and indicate that they have integrated completely being Maltese normally implies an ability to within society, but on the other, it might imply communicate with others of the same that they have lost completely their interest in background. their culture and may or may not be interested But a more deep and complex reason is the fact in any contact with the mother country. These that a language encapsulates an identity, and issues were not investigated further in this loss of language often is associated with a loss survey. of culture. Many of those who reside overseas still speak their original language because of the Religion emotional links that this entails. Ask any group Several census statistics in the past have of migrants from any one locality what language indicated that the original settlers coming from they prefer to speak (assuming they can speak Malta, like the ones they left behind were several), they would opt for the one which they staunchly Catholic, and regular Sunday church learned from their mother's mouth. Hence the goers. As this survey shows, the link with one's popularity of clubs where Maltese could religion has now become very tenuous, and congregate and speak their language. more and more of the younger generation have There are also emotional needs best subserved ceased identifying themselves as Catholic. by the original language, and no other language, In this study, 77 per cent of respondents who especially if learned rather late in life, is capable chose to answer this rather personal question of replacing it. considered themselves Catholic. But when asked It is, therefore, of interest to enquire about the about their religious practice, only just over one- situation relating to language maintenance third (37%) stated that they go to church among the second generation of Maltese living regularly on Sundays, several other (40%) abroad. indicated that they go to church only on special occasions (Christmas, Easter, weddings, The participants of this survey of persons of the baptisms). Others preferred not to answer the second generation have been born and bred question. under influences quite different from those existing in Malta. These individuals have gone Intermarriage is a factor in reducing church through schooling and have interacted with attendance and loss of one's religious beliefs if others of the same age in Australia, and have

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 30 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population acquired a persona which is almost identical with second generation, is likely to be extremely that of the average native born person in precarious in the third. Australia. It must be admitted that no specific survey has The degree of fluency in Maltese by these been conducted to determine whether children individuals was investigated, to see to what of the third generation can understand any extent they have maintained command of the Maltese at all, and if they do, whether, in practice, language which to them must be considered they use the language with any frequency. (see foreign if not completely useless, or at most, next section relating to survey of the 3rd useful only to communicate with ageing generation). grandparents who have now practically lost any Considerable efforts have been made, and are command of the English language which they being made, by community leaders and other once had. organisations to encourage the teaching of The survey indicates that just over half of all Maltese, to ensure that it remains a viable persons (57%) in the 2nd generation claim to be language. A more energetic approach would able to understand Maltese well or moderately involve convincing the second generation (which well. However, they do not seem to be using this currently exceeds the first in a ratio of 4 to 1) of language regularly. Only 21% admit to speaking the importance of language maintenance. Maltese to parents or friends. Interest in politics among Maltese of the As mentioned above, intermarriage occurs at a 18 relatively high rate among persons of the second second generation generation, and this has a determining effect on It has often been taken for granted that Maltese language maintenance. It is very difficult to who left the Maltese islands a couple of maintain the Maltese language when one's generations ago would not be interested in spouse has a different language. This drawback either local politics in their adopted homeland, can be seen at any function where a mixed and still less in politics in Malta. And if this is true audience is present – not an unusual situation at for the first generation, one would have expected gatherings, parties, homes with mixed marriages, that it might even more so in the subsequent or at more formal occasions – where courtesy generations of Maltese born overseas of Maltese demands that the common language (English) is background. used. Persons from the second generation would be Such mixed marriages are expected to have a expected to be more interested in issues in Malta disastrous effect on language maintenance. The and overseas, partly as a result of better result of this miscegenation (the mixing of education, resulting in better economic and different racial groups through marriage) on top social conditions. The availability of Maltese of a rather small base of Maltese second citizenship which opens a gate into Europe generation speakers, results in a dramatic effect would be another attraction. One has to bear in on language maintenance by children of the mind that the second and subsequent second generation (ie third generation). Just over generations constitute about four-fifths of the two-thirds (69.1%) of respondents stated that total Maltese-background persons in Australia, they never speak to their children in Maltese, and and are still growing (as shown in the latest only 2.3% say that they speak in Maltese census, 2011). frequently to their children frequently. We cannot therefore assume that the political In rare circumstances, parents may decide to use involvement of these persons would reflect both parental languages (in addition to the those of their parents and grandparents. common English language), but this is the Studies relating to the Second Generation exception. Maltese-background persons overseas are quite It can be readily deduced from these data that limited.19 maintenance of language under these In view of this lacuna in our knowledge about the conditions, which is already stretched in the views of the 2nd generation Maltese-background

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 31 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population persons in Australia, it is of interest to obtain, membership varied for several dozen to several more information about their interest and hundred. possible involvement in politics in Malta and in This need to congregate, while still present to Europe. this day, was certainly much more urgent in the One question was meant to assess their interest heyday when migration was at its peak in the and involvement in local politics in Australia. 1950s and 1960s. As the aging process continues While just over half of the respondents (56.2%) to takes its toll, a number of associations have stated that they were interested in Australian closed their doors, and the number of political news, only a very small minority (8.8 %) associations with large numbers of members has were actually personally involved. Of interest is understandably diminished, often necessitating that about one-fifth (22.6 %) of respondents changing their name to 'senior citizen' clubs, but were actually involved in union matters. dinner dances are still held for those who enjoy shaking a leg, and more importantly chat the Of more relevance to the Malta scene is the evening away. interest shown by these respondents about the situation in Malta. About one-fifth of The same cannot be said about members of the respondents (21.2 %) stated that they kept second generation. Only a fifth (20.5%) of themselves informed about the political situation respondents stated that they belonged to a in Malta. Moreover, a larger proportion (39.2 %) Maltese association. stated that they were informed about conditions More tellingly, the majority of these were in the in Europe. age group of 50 and over, and only 6 percent of Questions were also asked about their views as all respondents under the age of 40 stated that to whether they would be interested in they were members of associations. becoming involved in a postal vote for elections It is clear from these data that younger persons to parliament if such a thing was available. It was are not interested in Maltese organisations. They rather surprising to note that just under half of do not want to mingle with the 'oldies'. Dinner the respondents(41%) stated that they would be dances or outings which were so popular with interested in voting in elections for members of their elders hold no attraction to them. parliament in Malta and also for members of the European parliament (44.7%). A second result of these changes of habit is the difficulty of identifying and reaching out to this It is not is not claimed that this is necessarily group of Maltese. All the standard methods that representative of the whole community in have been used in the past to contact these Australia. However, if these trends are confirmed, persons have not been successful in bringing in they would imply that there is definitely an active the members of the second generation.(See also interest by Maltese living abroad in being Section 13 below on communications). involved in the election processes in Malta and Europe. One optimistic development of recent years is the setting up of a couple of organisations which Membership of Maltese associations cater for persons of Maltese-background, organising ethnically flavoured gatherings When migrants first came to Australia, one (cooking competitions, etc.)There is also the prominent requirement was the necessity to occasional jamboree where a popular DJ gives a interact with fellow Maltese, who could speak the performance with Maltese-orientation and same language, and who could share the same flavour, and this can attract several hundred experiences. Practically every sizeable collection participants. of Maltese would form an association, often named after the location in Malta from where Passports they came, or the village titular saint whose feast day they would celebrate every year. A major indicator of ethnicity is citizenship. There was a time when one could not hold citizenship Hence the mushrooming of associations all over of more than one country. Many persons of the the major cities in Australia. The strength of first generation had to make the painful decision

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 32 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population of losing their Maltese citizenship if they applied and antagonistic feelings towards Asians (the so for an Australian one.20 called 'yellow peril'), aborigines etc. Luckily, this situation has now changed With the introduction of the concept of completely, with Australia now recognising dual multiculturalism, largely the initiative of the citizenships, and with Malta declaring that those Whitlam government in 1973, a serious attempt who had Maltese citizenship (the first was made not only to provide a mechanism for a generation) never in effect lost it when they slow integration process, but also to educate the applied for other citizenships. general public about the value of migrant intake in a country like Australia, with vast empty spaces More recently dramatic changes have occurred and perceived problems with under-population. which have extended Maltese citizenship to anyone who in effect could show direct In this survey, an attempt was made to quantify connection with Maltese parentage. In effect, as the degree of latent racism within the long as there had been no interruption of the community. Respondents were asked to classify blood line, one was considered automatically to their relationship with persons of other ethnic have the right to apply for recognition as a groups, answering the question: "How close are Maltese citizen. you prepared to be with any of the following persons?', by ticking a box labelled '1' (most In this respect it was of interest to see how many close), to '5' least close. A low score would thus Maltese-background persons have taken up this indicate a close relationship, while a high score option of applying for a Maltese passport. would indicate a less close relationship. From this survey it appears that just under one- It turned out that respondents gave a score or third (31%) of participants actually had a Maltese around 2 (varying from 2.3 to 2.5) when dealing passport. About an equal number (30%) stated with persons of Maltese, Australian or that they did not have one, but were considering Mediterranean nationality. On the other hand applying for one. they gave a score of 3.6 to describe their One could speculate as to what this would mean closeness of their relationships with Asians, and if applied to all potential persons of the second a score as high as 4.4 to characterise their generation. If this latter datum was translated to relationships with Muslims. apply to all persons who were stated in the Another way of looking at this issue is to census to have a Maltese ethnicity ( stated to be determine the proportion of participants who 163,990 in the 2011 census), then one could gave a score or '4' or '5' (indicating strong expect that there are some 55,000 persons in antipathy) to specific ethnic groups. Only a very Australia who might be applying for a Maltese small proportion of participants gave a score of passport sometime in the future. '4' or ‘5’ in relation to closeness to Maltese or If one were to extrapolate these figures to Australians (1.4% and 0.9% respectively), include all Maltese on a world-wide basis (where indicating quite close relations (as expected). it is calculated that there are as many as an Relationships with other persons of estimated 300,000 Maltese-background Mediterranean origin were also quite close (with persons)21, then one could end up with a figure only 2.8% of participants giving them a high of 100,000 who might be interested in obtaining score on this scale.). On the other hand there was a Maltese passport. a much high proportion of participants indicating antipathy towards Asians (17.1%) and Relations with other nationalities many more (27.6%) towards Muslims . In any society where there is a considerable This seems to indicate that there is a definite variety of ethnic groups, there is bound to be perceived scale of relationships in the Maltese preferences and antipathies between the various community, with participants considering groups. Even when Australia had a 'White themselves to be much closer to those who Australia policy', there was plenty or rivalry and come from certain backgrounds, (Maltese, division between say protestants and Catholics, Australian or Mediterranean) and a considerable degree of antagonism against those belonging

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 33 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population to other backgrounds (Asians and particularly the highest rate of participation in Muslims). apprenticeships.24 While this might reflect a certain degree of latent For the sake of comparison, it is of interest to antagonism, there is relatively little evidence that note that that the proportion of persons who this has resulted in overt racist action. There have obtained a university education in Malta itself in never been any reports in the press of racially- the 1950s and 1960s (at a time when most of the motivated actions by Maltese against other migrants left Malta) was of the same order of ethnic groups magnitude, namely, in the region of 2 per cent of the population. This proportion has increased The marked effect of a strong multicultural policy considerably among the younger members of practiced in Australia since the1970s under the the community in Malta, now reaching around Whitlam government and continued under the the 26% mark in those aged 25-34 years of age.25 Fraser Government has certainly established To note that in the age group 55-64, the Australia as a multicultural community. It is proportion of Maltese with a tertiary education disturbing, however, that the same cannot be is still one of the lowest in Europe. said with confidence about the current Abbot government where remnants of anti- It was therefore of interest to look into the multiculturalism have reared their ugly heads educational achievements of second-generation once more.22 persons of Maltese background in Australia. The main point that comes out of this survey It is of interest to compare these findings with however, is the finding that the proportion of the situation in Malta at the present. In a recent persons with a higher qualification was as high survey carried out among 400 University as 58 per cent, which is far higher than expected. students, conducted by the University Student's There was a higher proportion of women Council23, it was stated that more than one-third participants with a tertiary qualification (female of students were not willing to share their to male = 1.5). In other words, there were about campus with irregular immigrants, and forty per 21 per cent more females than males with a cent stated that they were not comfortable living tertiary qualification. in the same street. More significantly perhaps, one-in-five students were against giving These data have to be taken with a degree of migrants opportunities for work, even if they had reservation. The survey was available to every valid work permits. This attitude is particularly person within the community, through internet, worrying seeing that university students are radio advertising as well as contact through expected to have more liberal views than the Maltese associations and other means. However, average person within society, and, moreover, no attempt was possible to ensure that there they are expected to be the future leaders of the were equal responses from all walks of life. It is country. Such a large proportion of students possible that the results are skewed towards having extreme views would indeed be a cause those who have achieved a higher education, for worry. who perhaps are more computer literate and more likely to respond to questionnaires of this Level of education achieved nature. One major issue that haunted educationalists in Further studies would be required to confirm the early days of migration (1950s and 60s) was these results. the very high rate of loss of students when they reached year10 (Form 4) of secondary schooling, Visiting Malta associated with a large proportion of students One important parameter to test the strength of who did not complete school-leaving certificate, links with Malta is to assess how often let alone participate in tertiary education. The participants have actually visit there, and what situation was particularly marked among they think of the place. Maltese students, who preferred to take up an apprenticeship. The result was that Maltese It is to be noted that less than 10 per cent stated students had one of the lowest participation in that they never had been to Malta. More than tertiary education, compensated for by one of half of respondents (58.2 %) said that they went

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 34 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population several times (1-4 times), and a considerable These various methods of communication were number (17.3%) having been 4 – 10 times. A assessed through this survey and these are the relatively small number (6.4%) stated that they results: had been to Malta more than 10 times. Local radio stations: These are quite popular with the first generation, but not so popular This would suggest that there is still a strong link with the second. Two-thirds (66%) of between the second generation and Malta, and respondents stated that they never listened to they consider this as a suitable destination to go local radio, with another third (28%) stating for a holiday. that they sometimes listened to these An attempt was made to assess the degree of broadcasts. Only per cent stated that they satisfaction they had from their visit to the listened to these radio broadcasts frequently. islands. The questionnaire asked the participants to indicate on a scale of '1' to ‘5’ how 'impressed' SBS television: The situation here is that just they were with what they found (with '1' almost half or respondents (46.5%) stated that indicating complete satisfaction, and '5' indicate they watched SBS television sometimes and least satisfaction.) An average mark close to '1' another few (14.6%) stated that they watched it would therefore be expected to indicate good frequently. Just over one-third (38.9%) stated satisfaction with their visit to Malta. that they never watched this program. In this survey, most participants appeared to be quite satisfied: overall an average grade of 1.7 Maltese radio stations: In relation to accessing was obtained. information directly from sources from Malta, it was stated that 14.5% accessed Maltese There were, however, a few (13.6%) who were radio directly, and about half of respondents disgruntled and not too impressed with what (44.5%) stated that they have contact through they found. It would be important for those internet. A relatively small proportion (15%) involved in the tourist industry to inquire as to stated that they look at Maltese newspapers. the reasons for their dissatisfaction (an aspect not covered in this survey). These findings indicate that there is still a relatively strong interest within the second Communications with Malta generation in relation to keeping in touch with what is happening in Malta, through the use of For anyone interested in keeping in touch with one or other means of communication, most Matla, the main means of communications fall frequently through electronic means. into two main categories: a) those produced locally, including print, radio, Comments by participants and electronic media. Print media has all but Participants were encouraged to send any disappeared, apart from the production of comments relating to topics raised by the survey newsletters by various organisations. questionnaire, or other related aspects. The Particularly for the younger generations who following is a summary of some of these are quite computer-savvy, reading comments which deal with various aspects of life newsletters via emails has become the as a second generation person. favourite way of keeping in touch. Television programs (on Special Broadcasting Service - SBS) are transmitted (half-an-hour twice a A. Culture and heritage week), and these consist of selected news In spite of the distance in time as well as prepared by the PBS in Malta. geography, many second-generation persons b) Information may also be obtained directly still feel the need to belong to the greater from sources based in Malta, primarily Maltese citizenship and to consider themselves newspapers and radio stations which are to be partly Maltese. As one respondent put it: easily accessed these days through the "Malta is equally my home as well as Australia". internet. And another: "[I am] Australian, but I will always be Maltese".

One respondent emphasised that: "There is a regret that I have not kept up my Maltese need to keep the Maltese culture alive for current language. I understand 75% - 80% of spoken and and future generations of Maltese descent". written Maltese but do not speak it as fluently as I would like because of lack of practice. I have A young lady under 40 years of age wrote: "While attended Maltese classes at MCCV and am very born in Australia, Malta will always hold a special grateful for that. I applaud MCCV for their place for me as the birthplace of my parents and initiative and encourage you to keep them going a country I have very fond memories of as a child for future generations." from our many visits. Having recently taken our 3 children to Malta it was pleasing to see that Another participant put it this way: "My only they loved it just as much as we did as children regret in terms of my nationality is that I cannot and loved going there....It will always hold a speak and read Maltese. Although my mother's special place in my heart." family speaks Maltese (which I can understand but cannot speak very well), Maltese was banned A number of respondents were worried to see in my father's family ... as a way of making them that they were rapidly losing their culture and become 'Australian' quicker. As a result my Maltese identity. The following are some father stopped speaking Maltese (at age 6), and comments in relation to this aspect. "It is getting as a result no Maltese was spoken in our sad watching my own children who only know household when I was growing up." some Maltese words and seeing that slowly we will lose the real Maltese culture our parents This is not an uncommon situation. With the best taught us. As second generation born in Australia, intention in the world, namely, to ensure good we are more affiliated with the Australian way of integration within society, many Maltese families life and the multi-cultural aspects it offers us." decided not to converse in Maltese with their children, with the result that Maltese Another respondent put it thus: "As a Maltese disappeared as a language of communication Australian second generation I feel we are losing within these families. the identity of our heritage. The Maltese adapted to Australian way of life and mixed well with The same view was expressed by another other cultures and in the process they lose their respondent who said: "I feel sad that I don't know culture. Most [of] the 40-50 age group next my language well enough to speak fluently. I generation don't keep traditions or even know believe it was my parents fault by not raising me the language." to speak Maltese as my first language. I can understand and speak a little but not as much as B. Language maintenance I would like. " As clearly shown by the survey, second We constantly hear Maltese in Australia generation persons may be able to understand complaining that it is getting more and more spoken Maltese to a greater or lesser extent, but difficult to understand Maltese as it is spoken in they are certainly not using the language for Malta. This is the result of the influx of communication, and especially not to speak to neologisms which are finding their way into the their children. language, and particularly the incorporation of words from European (particularly Italian A minority of respondents appreciate a language) which make it difficult for Maltese who fundamental aspect of culture and bemoan the never studied Italian to understand. fact that they are losing their heritage and strive to do something about it, as in this comment by Some comments were made about the way one respondent: "We love our Maltese heritage. Maltese language is changing. For instance, one My husband who is Australian has never stopped respondent wrote: "I think it is sad that in Malta my parents talking to my children. He has itself they use way too much English and feel the encouraged it. He loves the sense of Maltese language has changed...I feel that in our country, family." Malta, they are ruining the language themselves. My culture is very important to me. .... I have Others try to explain why they have lost their done some Maltese language classes in the past language. A 69 year old respondent who arrived at MCCV to improve." in Australia when only 4 years old comments: "I

Another participant agrees: "When watching or of books regarding Maltese History. I suppose it's listening to Maltese programmes it's in the blood." disappointing to hear the Maltese language On the other hand there are those who have broken up with English words. Whereas other moved away from the feeling of belonging to the European countries talk their language fully." larger Maltese community as this young lady stated: "I am proud of my Maltese heritage C. Facilities to learn Maltese however do not feel I have any reason to identify As mentioned above, several respondents as Maltese." referred to efforts to learn Maltese. In Australia, Another contrarian viewpoint was expressed by schools for teaching Maltese have been available the following participant: "I would encourage all for decades, at least in the major cities. However, persons of Maltese background (born here or in a large country it is often difficult to attend otherwise)who are Australian citizens to describe centres where Maltese language is taught. With themselves first and foremost as Australian. time, with further suburban sprawl which is Many Maltese Australians I speak to use the term occurring in the larger cities, this is getting worse 'Australian' to describe Australians of Anglo or if anything, Irish background. However, many Australians of The following are some comments relating to Anglo or Irish heritage have not been in Australia this issue: "I have tried to learn to speak Maltese, nearly as long as many Maltese Australians but there are only a few venues and they are over (whose family or themselves first came to an hour's drive away from my residence. Also Australia anywhere from 50 to 100 years ago). As their teachers do not have a curriculum that such, it is important that Maltese Australians excites me as an adult learner. A pity as I think claim Australia as being as much theirs as others in my family would be interested to learn Australians from other ethnic groups. The game as well." and psyche of identity politics in Australia is very important and Maltese Australians should claim Other respondents follow along the same line: "I what is theirs and what they have earned and have attended Maltese classes at MCCV and am forged through toil in Australia, and not think of very grateful for that. I applaud MCCV for their themselves (or allow others to define them) as initiative and encourage you to keep them going outsiders when defining notions of who or what for future generations. I am going to Malta in is Australian." 2014 for 2 months and intend to do a lot Maltese conversation." It is arguable that describing oneself as 'Maltese- Australian' somehow reduces one's claim to These comments emphasize the need for being a fully integrated Australian. What is establishment of distance learning. All the above certain is that those (a minority) who describe commentators would be in a position to take themselves as 'Australian' are more likely to have advantage from such a development. forgotten all about their Maltese background and culture. It is also unlikely that losing a D. Ethnicity culture, whatever the culture, is beneficial to the individual concerned. The whole concept of As has been shown from the results of the multiculturalism as practiced in places like questionnaire (above) the vast majority of Australia and Canada is that a different culture is persons of the second generation think of an enriching experience to be valued and added themselves as Maltese-Australians. Their on to the majority culture of the country one is comments enlarge on this sense of belonging to living in. both Malta and Australia: "While being brought up an 'Australian' and with no Maltese language – (my father died when I was 13 and my mother E. Visiting Malta is Australian with no Maltese language), I still As seen from the results of the survey, the vast consider myself Maltese to a degree. I regret I was majority of persons from the second generation never taught the language as a child. I look have visited Malta, often on several occasions. In forward to visiting Malta and have read a number general these visits have been met with

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 37 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population considerable satisfaction and complaints have immigrants supported families remaining in been minimal. These are some comments from Malta while facing great personal challenges to the participants in relation to their visit to the move to Australia. They have remained as home island: "I love it, it is my second home". The Maltese citizens but for whatever reason are thought of never going to Malta again fills them unable to return to Malta...however there is very with sorrow: "My parents, my brother and I came little support for them here unless they to Australia in 1951..... As I am turning 70 this personally choose to search out a Maltese year, I will probably not see Malta again. It is too community group who may hold social functions long a journey now. I keep in touch with my but very little else." cousins in Malta via internet and Skype." The sad history of child migration is still very It is amazing how quickly the returned migrant much alive among those who were affected by can settle back to the old life and feel at home in this scheme. One participant asks for: "More Malta, even in the case of those who left Malta recognition in Malta for the children sent to as very young children, or those who were not Australia in the 1950s. A monument to be erected born in Malta. at a special place where the boats departed. My father was included in one of the first groups in On the other hand, there are those who, when 1950. His picture appeared in a special report in finding themselves in a different environment, 'The Times' a number of years ago. More become much more aware of their differences. recognition given to the people of Malta who One participant, a male aged under 40 years with emigrated due to necessity to help family. Today's a Bachelor degree, who described himself as generation in Malta have no knowledge or have 'Maltese/Australian', stated: "In Malta I feel forgotten about this. What would have happened Australian; in Australia I feel Maltese". to families if this did not take place?" The odd negative remark is the exception: "I have And finally, on the issue of transmission of Maltese family on one side of the family. I have Maltese television to Australia, which currently visited Malta and loved the place but found takes place on a twice-a week basis, one some of the people very rude". participant vents his frustration thus: "For Christ sake can we have more than 20 minutes on F. Assistance from Malta Maltese programs on TV?" Some participants seem to expect the Government of Malta and other institutions G. What needs to be done by the community (including the Church) to be more visibly A number of participants expressed their supportive of the needs of the community in satisfaction that something is being done relation to maintenance of language and culture. (through this survey) to assess the situation and This aspect is of course well appreciated by needs of the second generation. Typical among practically all other European nations who these is this remark: "I am glad to see that the provide ample material to ensure culture MCCV are conducting research on the issue of maintenance of information to members of engagement (or lack of) between 2nd generation other communities. Maltese and the Maltese culture. I would be In particular, one respondent remarks: "The prepared to assist with this research if required." Maltese offer little to nothing to our children as We also got some advice by some participants in means of interactive activities or interest." on ways to improve communication with the Another respondent asks: "Why can we not have second generation and emphasising the need to Maltese-speaking priests within Australia in involve them in the management of welfare and areas where there is a high level of people who other issues relating to the community. On speak Maltese? People have contacted Bishops respondent states: "The Maltese Community in Malta requesting this and there has never Council of Victoria needs to encourage our age been any response... Why is there not financial groups in the committee to keep the Maltese support from the Maltese Government to second generation alive and well." And again: provide more Maltese translators for public "The MCCV needs to recruit young people to its support systems available in Australia? These

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 38 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population board to ensure the local Maltese community is states of Australia, many of the issues raised are sustainable." still relevant today as much as they ever were. In particular, it was hinted that most of the Moreover, what holds for Australia, most likely activities organised by Maltese organisations, holds also for Maltese Diaspora in other including the MCCV, usually attract the older continents. (first) generation, and provide little engagement To overcome the problem of the lack of for the members of the second generation. One communication, a number of actions have been participant writes: "Of all the activities organised taken in the past, including the formation of the by the Council and Maltese Societies there is Federation for Maltese Living Abroad (FMLA), almost nothing that might attract later which is open for participation by all members of generations of Maltese... I believe that in general the Maltese community. More recently, the 2nd generation and later generation of Maltese government of Malta has set up the Council for are alienated from the Maltese Community both Maltese Living Abroad (CMLA) consisting of by the unattractive activities and the behaviour of representatives from various continents to old leaders towards them." And again: "The advise the Minister of Foreign Affairs on issues Maltese Community Council of Victoria need to relating to Maltese living abroad. Through these encourage our age groups in the committee to avenues it is hoped that the voice of all Maltese keep the Maltese second generation alive and living abroad will be heard and action hopefully well.- Thank you for allowing me to participate." will be taken. A number of responders took the opportunity through this survey to ask questions relating to their situation and particularly in relation to passport facilities. Some questions related to the process of getting original copies of papers necessary for filling-in passport applications, Further reading others requested information about non- Maltese-background persons right to obtain a Cauchi, M, Borland, H, Adams,A (eds): Maltese Maltese passport. Background Youth., 1999, Victoria University. It is to be noted that so far, the website Cauchi, M.N, 'The Second Generation in (www.maltamigration.com) of the Migration Australia', in The Maltese Migrant Experience, Museum has been the only one available where Malta, 1999. persons can ask and obtain answers about issues Cauchi, M.N. 'The View from the Future: the that concern them. Second Generation', in Maltese Achievers in Australia, 2006, Maltese Community Council H. Some conclusions from respondents’ of Victoria. comments Cauchi, MN. Under One Umbrella: A History These comments simply illustrate the point of of the Maltese Community Council of view of individual participants. One cannot, of Victoria, 1958-2008. (2009). course, draw conclusions from single statements Malta Migration Museum website: like these, but such statements certainly give an www.maltamigration.com extra dimension to a survey, where the responses are limited to a tick. A number of respondents Personal Website: More information relating to expressed their gratitude for the opportunity of these and related issues may be obtained giving their point of view, perhaps for the first from the website: time ever. mauricecauchi.wordpress.com While many of the above issues have been discussed at several levels, including especially the Maltese Community Councils in the various

Chapter 3

The Third Generation

(64%) stated that they spoke Maltese sometimes or the purpose of this survey, the third to family members. One presumes that such generation is defined as including those communications referred only to some basic persons born in Australia to parents who F words, (greetings etc). were also born in Australia. The aim of the survey was to enquire to what extent these children Culture maintenance: have maintained their culture and traditions, Several questions were asked with a view to including language, and to what extent they are elicited whether elements of Maltese culture still aware of their connections with Malta and its thrive amongst these children. traditions. a) Food: practically all participants without any In the previous chapters the views of the 'second exception declared that they like Maltese generation' were considered. Among these were food (pastizzi, ravioli, rabbit stew, ross-il-forn; included a considerable number whose parents bigilla, ġbejniet, għagin-il-forn (macaroni), were born in Australia, and therefore technically qara bagħli, figolli, froġa tat-tarja, stuffat tal- they would be considered as 'third generation'. qarnit, qaqoċċ mimli, lampuki, stuffed However, in that survey, all participants were calamari, biskuttini tar-raħal, tal-lewż, galletti, adults whereas the main emphasis in the etc) following survey was to establish the views of children below the age of 18 years. b) Attends Maltese functions: about one-third (35%) stated that they attended Maltese In this survey 66 participants took part. The clubs, but very few indicated which types of majority (76%) were between the ages of 13 and functions they attended or what was the 17 years with the rest being 12 years or under. purpose of attending such functions. There were twice as many females as males (67 vs 33%). c) Attends Maltese classes: A very small proportion (3%) stated that they attend Parent ethnicity: Less than one-third of Maltese classes, and the odd participant participants (29%) had both parents of Maltese. stated that they attended classes in the past. In the majority of families (55%) only the mother The vast majority did not attend Maltese was Maltese, and in another 17% only the father classes. was. This shows that the majority of children result from mixed marriages. This is very relevant d) Church attendance: Religion has been part from the point of view of culture and language of the Maltese culture for generations, and maintenance. certainly the original Maltese who came from Malta in the 1950s and 60s were regular Visits to Malta: Over one-third of children have church goers like their relatives in Malta at the been to Malta, at least once (18.2%) and some time. Thus it was considered relevant to ask (15.2%) on several occasions. There were, questions relating to church attendance, even however several (50.0%) who had never been to though this might have been regarded as Malta. rather intrusive in a secular country like Speaking Maltese: Only a very few children Australia. Just over one-third of participants (3%) stated that they spoke Maltese well,. The (31%) stated that they attended church vast majority said that they speak a little (67%) or regularly on Sundays. The other two-thirds none (32%). In spite of this two-thirds of them stated that they attended on special

occasions, like weddings, baptisms etc (41%), The main causes of language loss may be or rarely (28%). summarised as follows: e) What do they know about Malta? An  competition by major language (English); open question tested their knowledge about  low status: especially among children Malta. The responses varied widely. Most of language serves to mark them as 'different' them had some idea of Maltese history, and therefore abhorred; including for instance that Malta's history is a very rich one, dating back to the Phoenicians  lack of facilities for learning language; and beyond; that the temples in Malta are  seen as useless: does not serve any older than then pyramids of Egypt, that intellectual, commercial or social purpose; Ġgantija is the oldest free standing building in the world. Many knew about the role of  main value in Maltese children is ability to Malta in the Second World War, that it was communicate with grandparents: but these heavily bombed and was awarded the George are also fast disappearing; Cross.  Although many Maltese children have They also know something about the geography visited Malta, Maltese language is not found of the islands, that Malta lies in the to be of great value as a 'tourist' language, Mediterranean, just south of Italy; that it was a because, (as one child remarked), 'nobody very important shipping route in the past. They speaks to you in Maltese!' are also familiar with some places, like Valletta as  Parental Intermarriage: While this does not the capital, the Grand Harbour, Fort St Angelo, help maintain language and culture, it is Mosta church (and the famous bomb that went likely that already their parents had lost a lot through the dome without exploding, that there of their culture (as mentioned in the previous is a ferry to Gozo, etc. chapter on the second generation). There were particularly impressed with Malta as Apart from language, Maltese children are not a place to relax on the nice beaches and the very taking part in most Maltese activities in clubs warm weather in summer. which are mainly venues for the first generation Their visits to Malta left obvious memories. One (the grandparents) and not attended much by liked “all the old buildings where nannu and their parents. Attempts have been made by nanna used to live". Another one, aged 15yrs, various organisations to stimulate this interest. stated: "'I recently got my Maltese citizenship, so For instance, the MCCV organise an annual I intend on visiting Malta again , hopefully very Children's party for Christmas, and children's soon". And finally, another satisfied visitor concerts were a feature of the past, but these stated: "'when I finish school I am going back activities are certainly not enough to maintain with some of my Aussie friends so they can Maltese culture. experience the culture". The issue of church attendance as a marker of Some comments: culture can be seen as problematic. It is difficult to decide whether this marked reduction in One may draw some obvious conclusions from church attendance is in any way related to this survey, namely: culture loss, or, as is more likely, reflects the There is a great preponderance of mixed secular culture in Australia. It is relevant to point marriages within the Maltese community, out that that church attendance in Malta has involving 2/3 of parents. As a result of this, gone down also to very low levels, which of maintenance of language becomes difficult if not course has nothing to do with culture impossible.. One has to bear in mind that when maintenance. one parent comes from a different ethnic group One aspect Maltese culture which appears to be the choice of which parental language to choose as strong as ever is the Maltese cuisine which (if any) becomes more problematic. To note also seems to have survived well and which all that only a very small number of children are participants say they appreciate. attending Maltese language schools.

Language forms a very significant part of culture, religious regimen. Moreover, intermarriage, may but culture involves additional elements which involve a partner who might have a different may persist for a longer period of time after loss religion (or no religion), which makes it more of language. difficult to encourage one's children to follow a particular creed. What constitutes culture? It includes language, religion, cuisine, social habits music, history, arts, When it comes to loss of culture one has to literature,etc . remember that the vast majority of migrants who left Malta in the 1950s and 60s were not It is convenient to distinguish 'high' culture from particularly familiar with the cultural wealth of 'popular' culture, even though the distinction the country. Before Independence (1964) there may sometimes get blurred. High culture was hardly any emphasis on 'high' culture. It includes a knowledge or interest things like art, took the post-Independence revolution of the history, music, literature of a particular place. 1960s for the average Maltese to start becoming Popular culture includes all those particular interested in literature, history, Maltese music interests including cuisine, sport, hobbies, folk etc. These aspects did not inform the make-up of music, festa celebrations etc. Religion, has the average Maltese at the time. In spite of the always been a very important part of culture and various efforts by organisations, included the while it is much less so now than previously, it Maltese Historical Association or the Maltese still has a significant influence, particularly in the Literature Group in Melbourne, and the various older generations.. community Councils and individuals, there was In Malta there has been cataclysmic changes in never a very strong grasp of high culture the role of religion, since Malta joined the EU in amongst the Maltese in Australia. This has not 2004. From practically 100 per cent attendance been helped by the almost complete lack of at church on Sundays, in the past, now support by the various governments in Malta. attendance has fallen to one-third of the Perhaps the most significant mechanism which population26. This reflects particularly the enables continuation of awareness of the rich attitude of the younger generations. Maltese culture comes from the individual On the other hand, the low degree of church efforts, particularly those who visit Malta on a attendance by the younger generation of fairly regular basis, in spite of the off-putting Maltese in Australia may be seen as part of the distance between the two countries. We see this integration process, which includes becoming not only in the Malta-born (first generation) similar in all aspects to other members of the settlers, but also, refreshingly, in the third community generation, many of whom have visited Malta, As in Malta itself, the second generation is a on one or several occasions. highly educated one, and this seems to impact on one's ability to adhere to a strict conventional

Chapter 4

Some General Comments

n is of interest to compare the characteristics are mostly reasonably healthy, can look after of members of the various generations as themselves, and can deal with issues associated I seen in these surveys. The original migrants, with life in general. They still often congregate mostly consisting of younger Maltesem who in clubs and have their own way of entertaining were of course identical with those they left at themselves, as these surveys clearly show. home in the middle of the 20th century. These On the other hand, those over the age of 75 are were largely manual workers, and primarily from much more likely to need assistance. Several the villages of Malta and Gozo. A not health issues come to the fore, including inconsiderable number were dockyard workers dementia and the complications of chronic who brought with them expertise and disease, and diabetes in particular. Many expectations that their children will follow a become too frail to look after themselves and technological career. require assistance. In this respect the Maltese The characteristics of these migrants, the first Community Council of Victoria has always been generation, have been fully described in various at the forefront looking after their needs. monographs. In general, these people brought When we come to the second generation, with them the culture as extant at the time in which ae now form the majority of 'Maltese' in Malta, imbued and informed as it was by a strong Australia, their distinguishing characteristics are attachment to religious values espoused by the quite different from those of the first generation. Catholic church, keen on their village festa, and Firstly, they are practically indistinguishable from in general, in keeping the traditions that they the majority of other Australians in such aspects were brought up in. They missed the socialising as education, employment, and including other that occurred back home, be it in the nature of secondary but important distinguishing features the local cafe or the village square. Because they like accent. As these surveys show, they are fully missed these contacts, they felt the need to integrated and hold their Maltese background as create organisations ('clubs') where they could an exotic but nonetheless desirable addition to talk to their friends and acquaintances in the make-up. Maltese, eat Maltese food, celebrate their village patron saint, and in every way try to emulate the The aim of the surveys described here were home environment and continue the culture aimed at eliciting those characteristics which which they brought with them. What they mark them as Maltese, with an effort to brought with them certainly persists amongst determine to what extent they still keep or lose the survivors. What tend to disappear is the their Maltese cultural background, grasp of the second language, in this case, the One of the most obvious characteristic of the English language, which may become a real second generation is their readiness to problem in older persons. intermarry with non-Maltese partners. On the The main scope of these surveys was to analyse one hand this illustrates their degree of the needs of these persons, particularly as they integration within the wider Australian society. grow older. On the other this process facilitates loss of culture, and particularly language. Most of the One must be careful not to lump all first participants have admitted that they had just generation migrations into one bag, because about lost the facility in speaking Maltese, either their needs depend very much on age and between themselves, or indeed with their associated health issues. In general persons children. They are also in danger of losing their aged between 60 and 70 or even 75 years of age cultural attachments seeing that they have

© Copyright Maurice N Cauchi, 2016 Page 43 Three generations of Maltese in Australia – A picture through surveys of the population difficulty mingling with the older generation Maltese clubs or taking part in functions of Maltese associations. One major issue relating to the second generation is the fact that they seem to have disappeared from the screen and the established Maltese organisations have found it difficult to contact them. Youth groups have had periodic success in establishing a link, and a couple of organisations have been set up in recent years specifically to organise get-togethers, concerts or even cook-offs. One would hope that these organisations will have long-lasting effect on this group of Maltese. Finally, the younger members of the third generation have been surveyed in this latest survey (2015). This cohort of Maltese citizens have very little in common with the first generation apart from their genes. They live in a separate world determined by internet connectivity. They depend on their friends (most of whom are not of Maltese-background) to determine their ethos and hierarchy of values. They appreciate the extended family life, that hallmark of Maltese character. But in most other ways, they cannot be distinguished from other children of their own age. It is, however, encouraging that even within an environment which does not encourage maintenance of Maltese culture, they still know precisely where they come from and have a good understanding of several aspects of Maltese way of life. They still maintain familiarity with the popular culture which their grandparents brought with them, even though they are no more familiar with 'higher' Maltese culture than (most of) their grandparents ever were. So while the Maltese in Australia will soon be losing their language, as soon as the first generation disappears, I believe that other aspects of culture maintenance will be maintained for generations to come.

 Andrew Grech: solicitor References and notes  Eddie Micallef: politician, Victorian State Parliament  Robert Naudi: chartered accountant  David Plowan: professor of Industrial 1 Attard Lawrence: books on migration to Australia Relations Management University of W include: Early Maltese Migration, PEG, 1983; The Australia Great Exodus PEG 1989; The Safety Valve, PEG,  Sharon Schemri: Ph.D in health care 1997; L-Emigrazzjoni Maltija, Malta Kullana  Anthony Scicluna: Finance Officer, Southern Kulturali, 1999; Beyond Our Shores, PEG 2007. Cross University 2 Price Charles A. Malta and the Maltese: A study in  Barry York: Migration Historian Nineteenth Century Migration. Georgian House,  Michael D Zammit: Ph.D in polymer 1954, Reprinted by Maltese Community Council chemistry of Victoria, 1989. 11 Agius, Albert, W. : Maltese Settlement in Australia 3 Other publications about migration to Australia: II, Maltese Literature Group, 2004, p 323 Cauchi, M.N: Maltese Migrants in Australia MCCV 12 Terry L. et al, “To Learn More than I have: The 1990; York, Barry, Empire and Race: The Maltese Educational Aspirations and Experiences of the in Australia 1881 - 1949, NSW University Press; Maltese in Melbourne.” 1993 Agius Albert W.: Maltese Settlement in Australia The Farsons Foundation, 2001; Agius, Albert W: 13 Victoria Borg: Thesis presented to Victoria Maltese Settlement in Australia II, Maltese University. Literature Group, 2004. 14 For a full discussion of this issue, see: Cauchi, M.N., 4 Later on, in the 1980s, a number of Maltese left Worlds Apart: Migration in Modern English the Island to settle in Australia because of the Literature. Europe-Australia Institute, 2002. unfavourable political situation. 15 For further information about the persons 5 Dimech, Lawrence: Aeeing Maltese - a minefield mentions in this section see: Cauchi, M.N: of need and neglect. 1992; Telqu ghal Ghonq it- Maltese Achievers in Australia, MCCV, 2006; and Triq. Cauchi M.N. A Who's Who of Maltese-Background Persons in Australia and New Zealand. Maltese 6 Dimech, Lawrence: The Ageing Maltese: a Historical Association ((Aust) Inc, 2008. minefield of need and neglect. La Valette Social Centre, 1992. 16 Eurostat 2011 7 This paper was presented at the Convention for 17 See: http://www.discern-malta.org/research.html Maltese Living Abroad, May 2015. 18 See also: Cauchi M.N., ‘Maltese politics from afar’, 8 Information provided by Paul Lia, Maltese The Sunday Times, January 30, 2014. Community Council of Victoria. 19 See, for instance, Maltese Background Youth, by M 9 Reproduced from Maltese Achievers in Australia, Cauchi, H Borland and R Adams, published by Maltese Community Council of Victoria, 2006. Victoria University, 1999. 10 This survey was carried out in 2005. The following 20 For further details relating to citizenship, see persons took part in this survey: Cauchi M.N.: Under one Umbrella: A history of the  John Aquilina: politician, formerly Minister, Maltese Community Council of Victoria, 1958- NSW parliament 2008. MCCV 2009, p 238-242.  Mark Avellino: freelane photographer 21 See Borg-Manché, Edwin: Federation of Maltese  Kylei Cassar Bartolo: PhD in psychology Living Abroad (FMLA) website page at  Thereas Borg: soprano with the Australian http://malteseabroad.org/index.php/diaspora opera  Henry Briffa: clinical psychologist 22 Since the election of Mr Malcolm Turnbull, Sept  David Jonathan Carbon: General Manager, 21015, there has been a mellowing of rhetoric Boeing/Hawker de Havilland Australia and an increased appreciation of the need for  Simone Cremona: PhD in psychology multiculturalism, particularly with respect to  Clare Darmanin: solicitor relations with the Muslim community.  Farrugia Amelia: soprano, Australian Opera 23 Times of Malta, Saturday, March 22, 2014.  Anthony Figallo: artist and designer  Robert Gatt: artist, glass blower 24 Cauchi, M: Maltese Migrants in Australia, 1996.

25 Eurostat 2011. 26 See for instance: http://archive.maltatoday.com.mt/2009/04/08/t1. html.