Tuesday, November 12, 2024

ACT to put multiculturalism into law

The ACT Government has introduced its Multiculturalism Bill 2022, which it says will define what an inclusive city looks like and what Canberra is striving to achieve as a community. 

The Bill will create a Charter and enshrine in law the Ministerial Advisory Council for Multiculturalism, as well as providing ways for the ACT Government to report back to the community on Canberra’s progress as a welcoming and inclusive city. 

In tabling the Bill, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Tara Cheyne (pictured, centre) said the legislation will support the Territory’s continuous growth and improvement as an inclusive city. 

“The ACT is a rapidly growing culturally and linguistically diverse community,” Minister Cheyne said.  

“We are a city that welcomes people and supports them to belong and participate in the social, political, cultural, economic, educational and civic life of our city. 

“Initially titled the Multicultural Recognition Bill, the new title ‘multiculturalism’ reflects the feedback we received from the community that the legislation should celebrate multiculturalism and diversity, not only recognise it.” 

The Government consulted extensively with the community on the legislation, with a first round of consultations in April 2021 and a second round in June and July 2022. 

Chair of the Multicultural Advisory Council, John Kalokerinos said it was important that the ACT follow other states in putting this legislation in place. 

“The bill reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring Canberra continues to grow as an inclusive and diverse place to live,” Mr Kalokerinos said. 

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