Media release – Roger Jaensch, Minister for Community Services, 29 October 2024
Multicultural Action Plan to address racism
The Tasmanian Government is working with the state’s multicultural communities to develop a strategy that will address racism and support social cohesion in the community.
Minister for Community Services, Roger Jaensch, said the strategy addresses three key areas – we feel safe, we participate and we belong.
“An important part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future is delivering support for our communities by working together to build a stronger society, eliminating racism and celebrating diversity,” Minister Jaensch said.
“Tasmania is home to thousands of people from countries right across the world who enrich our communities.
“This week I joined with multicultural organisations including the Multicultural Centre of Tasmania, Migrant Resource Centre Tasmania and Welcome Cultural Services to participate in a working group that is developing the Multicultural Action Plan.
“The Plan will look at strategies for fostering social inclusion and addressing racism, encouraging social, civic, education and economic participation; and ensuring community needs are recognised and met.
“One of the actions we have taken is to introduce the Social Cohesion Small Grants Program, which is providing $200,000 for projects that support social connection and a sense of belonging for migrant and refugee people and communities, in all regions of the state.
“There were 35 applications for the grants, which opened in July, with an announcement of the successful recipients expected soon.
“The Tasmanian Government looks forward to seeing the outcomes of the successful projects and continuing to work closely with the multicultural community on the Multicultural Action Plan.”
Media release – Helen Burnet MP, Greens Multicultural Affairs spokesperson, 29 October 2024
Multicultural Working Group Warmly Welcomed By Greens
The Greens warmly welcome the Rockliff Government’s work with a range of multicultural organisations on a strategy to address racism and support social cohesion in the community.
Multiculturalism is a crucial part of the fabric of Tasmanian society, and the diversity of our community is something that should be celebrated by all. But in recent times we’ve seen an increase in serious racially motivated attacks and incidents. It’s really disturbing.
Tackling racism is an issue for everyone, but it’s important the government leads the way. That’s why ever since my election and appointment as the Greens’ Multicultural Affairs spokesperson earlier this year, I’ve been raising this issue with Ministers – in person, in correspondence and in Parliament. It is pleasing to see work to tackle racism head-on is progressing.
All Tasmanians have the right to a safe, healthy, and happy life free from discrimination and harassment. Everyone benefits with greater diversity. We believe there’s been real progress towards this goal but recognise there’s still a way to go to make sure the state’s diverse multicultural communities are celebrated by all.
We look forward to hearing further updates from the government on their work to lead the way in tackling racism.
