Policy D15: Multiculturalism

1.      the diversity of Australians’ cultural backgrounds greatly enriches our society and is to be celebrated.

2.      people have the right to celebrate and express their cultural heritage within universally accepted human rights.

3.      all people, regardless of ethnicity, culture, religion, language or place of birth, have equal rights economically, socially and culturally.

4.      Australia to be a cohesive community that respects and is accepting of diverse cultures and backgrounds.

5.      all people to have equal opportunity of access to education, work, and services provided by all levels of government regardless of culture or ethnicity.

6.      all Australians to have equal opportunity of representation and inclusion in local, state and federal government regardless of culture, ethnicity or dual citizenship.

7.      barriers to social justice for every member of Australia’s culturally and linguistically diverse community to be removed.

8.      support education and other programs that seek to eliminate racism, promote belonging and encourage connection between people.

9.      ensure wide and inclusive consultation that respects cultural and linguistic diversity in devising policy and implementing programs.

10. when consulting communities take into account diverse views held by groups and individuals within these communities.

11. ensure services are delivered and programs implemented in languages other than English, when appropriate.

12. ensure fair and effective services, including providing interpreting and translating services and using bilingual and bicultural staff.

13. ensure cross-cultural training is made available for government staff and encourage cross-cultural training for other organisations.

14. ensure data on cultural and linguistic diversity is collected and used to improve services and programs.

15. monitor access and equity outcomes for Australia's culturally and linguistically diverse community and include this data in annual reports and reports to Parliament.

16. ensure government information campaigns include appropriate communication to all people in Australia.

17. oppose any “Australian values” tests as a prerequisite for citizenship or entry to the country.

18. increase resources allocated to the teaching of English and community languages.

19. restore an independent office of multicultural affairs within the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.