New action plan released as Multicultural Queensland Month gets underway

Multicultural Queensland Month is back, stronger than ever with events and activities taking place from today and throughout August.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Leanne Linard encouraged everyone from the Torres Strait to the south-east corner to get involved in Queensland’s largest multicultural celebrations.

“The month is a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge Queensland’s cultural and linguistic diversity,” she said. 

“Our theme is ‘Inclusion in Action’, and we will be exploring the many ways language is fundamental to building a truly inclusive community. 

“Throughout the month we will explore practical ways to break down language barriers and ways to use language that connects rather than divides us.”

This month also marks the release of a new Multicultural Action Plan that will support Queenslanders from diverse backgrounds to overcome barriers to getting involved in local life.

”I am pleased to be releasing a new Multicultural Action Plan during this month of celebrations,” Ms Linard said

“The new plan consists of six actions to build the economy and community, provide better access to interpreters, and improve cultural diversity data to enhance service delivery. 

“It marks the next phase of work that must be done.  The plan ensures people from all backgrounds are supported in practical ways and have opportunities to feel valued and welcome – whether it’s in local neighbourhoods, sporting clubs, community groups, cultural events, school communities or workplaces.

“Communities thrive when we all work together to ensure everyone is supported to connect, contribute and belong.”

Ms Linard encouraged Queenslanders to visit the Multicultural Queensland Month website to see how they could get involved in the community celebrations. 

“There is something for everyone, including a special podcast series being delivered by our media partner, Radio 4EB, which will share diverse Queenslander’s stories and perspectives,” she said.

“You can sign up for the series of free webinars presented by industry experts from 2M Language Services, University of Queensland School of Languages, National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters and the Griffith University MATE program.

Ms Linard said the Multicultural Queensland Awards will also be held in August and will recognise the outstanding efforts and achievements of Queenslanders who support and promote a united, harmonious, and inclusive Queensland.

“I can’t wait to announce the winners and I’m sure their stories will inspire us all to work together to build an even more inclusive Queensland,” she said.

The month is sponsored by the Commonwealth Bank, Telstra Enterprise, GOA Billboards and La Boite Theatre.

“It’s wonderful to have the support of so many great Queensland organisations who recognise and value diversity and inclusion,” she said.

For more information on what’s on during Multicultural Queensland Month visit: www.qld.gov.au/multiculturalmonth.

For more information on the Multicultural Action Plan visit:  www.cyjma.qld.gov.au/multicultural-affairs/policy-governance/multicultural-policy-action-plan

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Media Contact: Catherine Baker, Senior Media Advisor tel: 0498 844 783