News Archive

The MCNT thanks everyone involved for the success of the AGM on Monday 14 December: new MCNT Committee for 2010 

The Multicultural Council of the Northern Territory Inc (MCNT) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Monday 14 December 2009 at the MCNT Community Room, Malak Shopping Centre.

The AGM was well attended by the MCNT’s members and observers and was very successful. The MCNT would like to thank the Returning Officer Lenore Dembski for her fantastic work planning for and conducting the elections for the 2010 MCNT Management Committee up to and on the evening of the AGM. Thanks as well to the MCNT Public Officer Heather Prendergast and the MCNT’s financial members who attended and participated in the elections.

The 2010 MCNT Management Committee is comprised of volunteers drawn from across the spectrum of the local multicultural community and is headed by new President Mr Sabaratnam Prathapan. Welcome aboard to all of the new members of the MCNT Management Committee. It will be an interesting and exciting year ahead.

For more details of the composition of the new MCNT Management Committee, click on the “About Us/Committees” page on the website.

The MCNT a finalist in National Multicultural Marketing Awards

The MCNT was a nominee for an award in the National Multicultural Marketing Awards in November 2009. These awards are run by the Community Relations Commission (CRC) of the NSW Government and celebrate the achievements made in engaging and providing services to a culturally diverse nation.

The National Multicultural Marketing Awards has been running for 20 years and is one of the highest profile multicultural events in Australia. The winners of the 2009 Awards were announced at a special Gala Presentation Dinner in Sydney on Monday evening 2 November 2009.

The MCNT’s nomination is in AFL Community Award category is open to any community or cultural organisation in Australia which demonstrates the ability for marketing in a way that “makes an improved difference to the community”. The MCNT was nominated primarily because of the quality of its website.

Sahba Delshad, who worked at the MCNT from August to November 2007 on the OMA funded “Triumphs and Barriers to Migrant Employment in the Northern Territory” Project and is now living in Sydney, represented the MCNT at the Awards.

The MCNT was one of 4 finalists in the Community category and was one of the few organisations from smaller states that were finalists for any of the awards. There was a special feature about the Awards in Business section of The Australian newspaper on Friday 6 November 2009.

Click here for the special feature about the CRC’s 2009 National Marketing Awards n The Australian, Friday 6 November 2009

Click here for the MCNT’s Finalist Certificate

ICAE’s “Steps to Work” outreach service for CALD community jobseekers     

The International College of Advanced Education (ICAE) in Darwin has funding from the Department of Immigration and Citizenship for their “Steps to Work” Program.

As part of this program, ICAE are conducting sessions at the MCNT on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons to assist clients from recently arrived CALD communities to write their resumes and job applications. Individual appointments can be made by phoning Kellie Marks of ICAE on 8941 5959.

The MCNT celebrates sisterhood with our friends for International Women’s Day 2010

Each year the MCNT celebrates International Women’s Day (IWD) which is an occasion celebrated by women’s groups around the world on 8 March. This date is also commemorated at the United Nations and is designated in many countries as a national holiday.

IWD is a global day that connects all women around the world and inspires them to achieve their full potential. IWD celebrates emancipation and equality and provides the opportunity to reflect on the gains that women have made to improve society in the past, present and future.

This year the MCNT and partner Darwin Community Arts (DCA) hosted an International Women’s Day Lunch to the theme is “WOMAN” (What does it mean to you to be a woman”). The program features cultural performances, storytelling, kid’s activities, art exhibitions and great multicultural food.

The MCNT thanks event coordinator Sarah van der Sommen for an extraordinary job with organising and compering this successful event which was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone.

On Sunday 7 March the MCNT and our friends joined the International Women’s Day Walk in Darwin CBD. This event was organised by the United Nations Association of Australia - NT Division (UNAANT) and Darwin City Council and was proudly sponsored by the Northern Territory Government.

The theme for this year’s IWD Walk was “Empowering Women to End Poverty”. As with last year’s inaugural IWD Walk this year’s event was very successful with about 100 people joining in the walk down Cavenagh Street.

The guest speakers at the morning tea reception provided by Darwin City Council after the walk were former UNAANT President Dr Christine Fletcher, former Senator Margaret Reynolds and Darwin Lord Mayor Graeme Sawyer.

The MCNT’s peak body the Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA) issued a media release on International Women’s Day calling attention to the potential ill effects of the award modernisation process on women from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.

The 2010 International Women’s Day March in Darwin.

Click here for the article “Sisters band together for International Women’s Day” in the Sunday Territorian, Sunday 7 March 2010

Click here for the FECCA International Women’s Day Media Release

Lunchtime Seminar by Robert Hill – “The Copenhagen Climate Summit – where to from here? – Monday 15 March

Former Senator Robert Hill will present a Lunchtime Seminar at the Northern Territory Library (in Parliament House) on Monday 15 March from 12.00 pm.

Mr Hill is a former Minister for the Environment and Minister for Defence in the Howard Government. He was appointed as Australia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in 2006 and was appointed to by the Rudd Government in 2009 to head the Australian Carbon Trust. Mr Hill is the current President of the United Nations Association of Australia.

Mr Hill will present an overview of the recent Climate Change Summit in Copenhagen and its implications for the future of multilateralism.

This is a free event open to the public – hosted by United Nations Association of Australia - NT Branch and sponsored by the Northern Territory Office of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. For more information, contact Dr Christine Fletcher of the UNAANT on 0419 829 509.

Click here for the Robert Hill Seminar Flyer

The MCNT’s Multicultural Solutions Project moves in exciting new directions in 2010

On Friday 23 October 2009, the MCNT with partner Carers NT presented a Multicultural Lunch for Carers Week 2009 to celebrate the work of carers in the multicultural community and launch the 2009-10 Multicultural Solutions Project.

The MCNT’s Multicultural Solutions project officer Lynne Fisher was appointed in September 2009 and is continuing the Multicultural Solutions project at the MCNT that has been running since 2005. The 2009-10 Multicultural Solutions Project will build on achievements and utilise the networks of the existing project. Lynne has developed new partnerships with service providers and community agencies, energised and engaged the MCNT’s clients and stakeholders and steered this project in exciting new directions in 2010.

This Project has been funded since its inception by the Australian Government Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA). The Multicultural Solutions Project provides responsive and integrated services to meet the needs of families, children and communities from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds and focuses on building a cohesive and socially inclusive multicultural society.

This Project aims to support vulnerable CALD people from children to seniors, build positive family relationships, enable effective social interactions and facilitate linkages with mainstream service providers.

Watch this space for new developments with the Project. If you would like to be involved or find out more about the Multicultural Solutions project, phone Lynne Fisher at the MCNT on 8945 9122 or email: families@mcnt.org.au

The MCNT joins forces with Mission Australia to help refugees develop small businesses   

The New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) is a self-employment program funded by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR). NEIS helps eligible unemployed people become self supporting and independent of Centrelink by establishing and running their own business.

In operation since 1985, NEIS is Australia’s longest running and most successful self-employment program. More than 80% of participants in NEIS indicate that 15 months after starting their business, they are either still operating a business, employed and/or in some form of education or training.

The goal of NEIS is to help you set up a sustainable business. You will be provided income support for the first 12 months of operation of your new business with a professional mentor to guide, counsel, talk through concerns and ideas, business plan assistance and flexible training in Certificate III or IV of Small Business Management.

The provider of NEIS in the Top End is Mission Australia. Mission Australia and the MCNT are keen to assist recently arrived refugees participate in the scheme. If you are eligible for assistance and have a potentially viable business idea that is new and independent, NEIS would like to hear from you. For more information about NEIS, contact Nerida Silva at Mission Australia on ph: 8924 9150 or email: ntneis@missionaustralia.com.au

The MCNT’s Migrant Employment Handbook is now available

The MCNT has produced an updated and redesigned edition of the “Handbook for Migrants Looking for Work in the Northern Territory” with funding from the Northern Territory Government through the Office of Multicultural Affairs.

This resource has been remodeled in a convenient A5 size and provides practical information for migrants and refugees about how to go about finding work in the Northern Territory. The Handbook includes information about the Australian workplace, relevant legislation and agencies for support, as well as useful local contacts and tips for jobseekers.

The Migrant Employment Handbook is available free for all relevant stakeholders, clients and agencies. If you would like a copy phone Sarah at the MCNT on 8945 9122 or email: admin@mcnt.org.au

Volunteer opportunities at the MCNT

The MCNT provides services for recently arrived migrant and humanitarian communities. Volunteers have become an integral part of the MCNT’s activities and programs and do great work for the organisation and our clients.

The MCNT requires volunteers for two of its current activities – the Homework Club and the Sewing Class. If you would like to find out more and perhaps join the MCNT as a volunteer, phone Melanie Moore on 8945 9122.

Click here for the MCNT Volunteers flyer

"My Sister's Kitchen" continues on Monday afternoons at Darwin Community Arts, Malak

In 2008 Darwin Community Arts, based at Malak, was awarded funding from the Community Relations Funding Program of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship for the “My Sister's Kitchen” Project.

This project is designed to promote interaction and understanding between Indigenous, broader community and refugee women through exchange of cultural information contained in cooking and storytelling. Participants develop skills in food handling and cultural enterprise, skills exchanges and opportunities to perform and cater at events at local festivals and cultural development community events hosted by Darwin Community Arts.

The “My Sister's Kitchen” Project has been very successful and has achieved a strong local profile. The Project has secured additional funding beyond that provided initially by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship to take it into the future. Check out this website for news and updates about “My Sister’s Kitchen”: http://www.mysisterskitchen.org.au/

“My Sister’s Kitchen” continues into 2010 as a fantastic and fun program of storytelling, food and skill sharing amongst women from culturally diverse backgrounds. The group meets every Monday in Chambers Crescent Theatre in Malak Shopping Centre from 2pm to 5pm.

Everyone is welcome, so come along; bring a story and a recipe to share. For more information contact Brenda at Darwin Community Arts on 8945 7347 or email: venue@darwincommunityarts.org.au

Click here for the "My Sister's Kitchen" flyer

Danila Dilba’s Malak Youth Drop In Centre continues into 2010

Back in 2009 Danila Dilba’s Dare to Dream team opened their Youth Drop In Centre at their Malak. This long awaited and welcomed initiative helps to create a safe space for young people from the neighbourhood to share, enjoy and hang out. Supervised activities included pool tables, music, movies and fitness equipment. There will also be direct access to counselling and support staff from Danila Dilba.

Opening hours for the Malak Drop Inn Centre are 3.00 pm to 6.00 pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and 3.00 pm to 9.00 pm on Fridays. All young people 10 to 20 years old, boys and girls, are welcome. For more information, contact Greg Donald at Danila Dilba, Malak Shopping Centre on 8927 9335 or 0437 161 481.

The MCNT leads new Multicultural Aged Care Network in Darwin    

The MCNT has the philosophy to promote and optimise opportunities for a positive and productive aging experience for older migrants and to explore and address service and information gaps to better address their needs.   

On Friday evening 19 February, the MCNT in partnership with COTA NT and Carers NT presented “Creating Community Linkages”. The evening was designed as an interactive information sharing session where service providers and ethnic community leaders met and discussed issues of concern for older migrants.

“Creating Community Linkages” featured guest speakers and presenters from various agencies including COTA NT, Carers NT, Anglicare NT - Linkcare, Northern Territory Interpreting and Translating Service (NTITS), Frontier Services, Happy Migrant Learning Centre and Alzheimer’s Australia NT. As an outcome of this event the MCNT will be chairing the new Multicultural Aged Care Network in Darwin.

Stakeholders from “Creating Community Linkages” 

Keeping Your Children Safe with NAPCAN 

The MCNT’s Multicultural Solutions Project has been funded continuously by the Department of Families, Housing, Communities Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA) since March 2005. Lynne Fisher, the current Multicultural Solutions Project Officer, joined the MCNT’s work team in September 2009.

Lynne Fisher in her role at the MCNT has continued the focus of previous Multicultural Solutions Project Officer Frederica Gaskell on assisting refugee families identify their needs and increase their participation in community life.

Settling into Australian society presents complex challenges for recently arrived refugee families. The Multicultural Solutions Project schedules regular Parents Support Meetings as a forum to discuss issues of concern. Guest speakers are arranged to provide information for refugee families.

On Friday 15 January as a school holiday activity the MCNT hosted the “Keeping Your Children Safe” information session conducted by Lesley Taylor from the Darwin office of the National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN).

The mission of NAPCAN is to prevent child abuse and neglect and to ensure the safety and wellbeing of every Australian child through motivating and empowering all adults to advocate on behalf of children by influencing behaviour, policy, practice and the law.

The “Keeping Your Children Safe” information session was well attended and very successful. The focus on was on reaffirming positive parenting skills and family strengths in the context of rights and responsibilities.  

Lesley Taylor conveyed the message about child protection for refugee parents with sensitivity, warmth and empathy and involved the various community groups with interactive exercises.

If you would like to be involved in future Parents Support Meetings as a participant or as a presenter, we would like to hear from you. To find out more about the Multicultural Solutions Project phone Lynne Fisher at the MCNT on 8945 9122.

Stakeholders from “Keeping Your Children Safe” 

The MCNT works with Elders to ease youth tensions in Darwin

The MCNT has a well-documented leadership role in community consultations about tensions among and between groups of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) youth in Darwin’s northern suburbs.

There have been tensions between Indigenous and African youth in Darwin dating back to 2006 and the MCNT has been directly involved since that time in discussions with other service providers and in consultations with the stakeholders, to identify the causes of and define strategies to address youth tensions. The MCNT has been involved in the delivery of a range of productive initiatives and activities to bring together African and Indigenous young people in friendship and respect.

Most recently in response to an incident between these two groups, the MCNT organised a barbeque/meeting of African and Indigenous Community Leaders and Elders on Saturday afternoon 13 February at Leanyer Recreation Park to the theme of “Let’s Talk It Over”. The meeting was very well attended and there was open and free flowing discussion and dialogue facilitated by ABC broadcaster Charlie King.

From this meeting the idea for an African/Indigenous Council of Elders was floated and achieved wide-ranging support. Watch this space for more developments!
 

Participants from “Let’s Talk It Over” Barbeque

The MCNT celebrates sisterhood with our friends for International Women’s Day 2010

Each year the MCNT celebrates International Women’s Day (IWD) which is an occasion celebrated by women’s groups around the world on 8 March. This date is also commemorated at the United Nations and is designated in many countries as a national holiday.

IWD is a global day that connects all women around the world and inspires them to achieve their full potential. IWD celebrates emancipation and equality and provides the opportunity to reflect on the gains that women have made to improve society in the past, present and future.

This year the MCNT and partner Darwin Community Arts (DCA) hosted an International Women’s Day Lunch to the theme is “WOMAN” (What does it mean to you to be a woman”). The program features cultural performances, storytelling, kid’s activities, art exhibitions and great multicultural food.

The MCNT thanks event coordinator Sarah van der Sommen for an extraordinary job with organising and compering this successful event which was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone.

On Sunday 7 March the MCNT and our friends joined the International Women’s Day Walk in Darwin CBD. This event was organised by the United Nations Association of Australia - NT Division (UNAANT) and Darwin City Council and was proudly sponsored by the Northern Territory Government.

The theme for this year’s IWD Walk was “Empowering Women to End Poverty”. As with last year’s inaugural IWD Walk this year’s event was very successful with about 100 people joining in the walk down Cavenagh Street.

The guest speakers at the morning tea reception provided by Darwin City Council after the walk were former UNAANT President Dr Christine Fletcher, former Senator Margaret Reynolds and Darwin Lord Mayor Graeme Sawyer.

The MCNT’s peak body the Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA) issued a media release on International Women’s Day calling attention to the potential ill effects of the award modernisation process on women from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.

The 2010 International Women’s Day March in Darwin.

Click here for the article “Sisters band together for International Women’s Day” in the Sunday Territorian, Sunday 7 March 2010

Click here for the FECCA International Women’s Day Media Release

Lunchtime Seminar by Robert Hill – “The Copenhagen Climate Summit – where to from here? – Monday 15 March

Former Senator Robert Hill will present a Lunchtime Seminar at the Northern Territory Library (in Parliament House) on Monday 15 March from 12.00 pm.

Mr Hill is a former Minister for the Environment and Minister for Defence in the Howard Government. He was appointed as Australia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in 2006 and was appointed to by the Rudd Government in 2009 to head the Australian Carbon Trust. Mr Hill is the current President of the United Nations Association of Australia.

Mr Hill will present an overview of the recent Climate Change Summit in Copenhagen and its implications for the future of multilateralism.

This is a free event open to the public – hosted by United Nations Association of Australia - NT Branch and sponsored by the Northern Territory Office of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. For more information, contact Dr Christine Fletcher of the UNAANT on 0419 829 509.

Click here for the Robert Hill Seminar Flyer

The MCNT’s Multicultural Solutions Project moves in exciting new directions in 2010

On Friday 23 October 2009, the MCNT with partner Carers NT presented a Multicultural Lunch for Carers Week 2009 to celebrate the work of carers in the multicultural community and launch the 2009-10 Multicultural Solutions Project.

The MCNT’s Multicultural Solutions project officer Lynne Fisher was appointed in September 2009 and is continuing the Multicultural Solutions project at the MCNT that has been running since 2005. The 2009-10 Multicultural Solutions Project will build on achievements and utilise the networks of the existing project. Lynne has developed new partnerships with service providers and community agencies, energised and engaged the MCNT’s clients and stakeholders and steered this project in exciting new directions in 2010.

This Project has been funded since its inception by the Australian Government Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA). The Multicultural Solutions Project provides responsive and integrated services to meet the needs of families, children and communities from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds and focuses on building a cohesive and socially inclusive multicultural society.

This Project aims to support vulnerable CALD people from children to seniors, build positive family relationships, enable effective social interactions and facilitate linkages with mainstream service providers.

Watch this space for new developments with the Project. If you would like to be involved or find out more about the Multicultural Solutions project, phone Lynne Fisher at the MCNT on 8945 9122 or email: families@mcnt.org.au

The MCNT joins forces with Mission Australia to help refugees develop small businesses   

The New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) is a self-employment program funded by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR). NEIS helps eligible unemployed people become self supporting and independent of Centrelink by establishing and running their own business.

In operation since 1985, NEIS is Australia’s longest running and most successful self-employment program. More than 80% of participants in NEIS indicate that 15 months after starting their business, they are either still operating a business, employed and/or in some form of education or training.

The goal of NEIS is to help you set up a sustainable business. You will be provided income support for the first 12 months of operation of your new business with a professional mentor to guide, counsel, talk through concerns and ideas, business plan assistance and flexible training in Certificate III or IV of Small Business Management.

The provider of NEIS in the Top End is Mission Australia. Mission Australia and the MCNT are keen to assist recently arrived refugees participate in the scheme. If you are eligible for assistance and have a potentially viable business idea that is new and independent, NEIS would like to hear from you. For more information about NEIS, contact Nerida Silva at Mission Australia on ph: 8924 9150 or email: ntneis@missionaustralia.com.au

2009 Reclaim the Night at the Palmerston Markets, Friday 30th October

Reclaim the Night is a global women’s protest against men’s sexual violence on the last Friday in October each year. On Friday 30th October 2009, the NT’s Reclaim the Night rally and march will be held at the Palmerston Markets for the first time.

Reclaim the Night is held on the last Friday of October every year. It is a community owned event, which celebrates the courage of survivors and raises awareness about the rights of women and children to live free from sexual assault.

This year will have a strong youth focus, and will include music and creative performances. Reclaim the Night is open to all members of the public: women, men, young people and children. For more information, please contact the Ruby Gaea team on 8945 0155 or info@rubygaea.net.au

Click here for the 2009 Reclaim the Night Flyer

2009 Annual African Dinner Dance and Cultural Extravaganza, Saturday 31st October 

The Australia-African Friendship Association (NT) invites you to celebrate African music, culture and cuisine at this year’s African Dinner Dance.

The main purpose of the Australia-African Friendship Association (AFFA) is to provide a social and cultural support group to its culturally diverse members as well as assist new African arrivals to the Northern Territory. To achieve its aims, AFFA provides a forum for the promotion of African culture and sharing fun and friendship with other Australians, and undertakes cultural functions, sports and educational activities.

AAFA has presented the African Dinner Dance every year since 2000 as a means to encourage social interaction and maintain and strengthen African heritage and culture within the Territory society and is usually attended by hundreds of people.

The African Dinner Dance is on this year at the Cyprus Community Centre, Batten Road Marrara on Saturday 31st October from 7.00 pm; gates open at 6.30 pm. Tickets can be purchased from African Beauty, Shop 22/48 Rapid Creek Business Village, Trower Road Millner. For more information phone mob: 0411 790 166

Click here for the 2009 African Dinner Dance Flyer

Fundraising Appeal for Survivors of the Asia-Pacific’s Natural Disasters, Saturday 7th November 

On Saturday 26th September, Typhoon Ketsana tore through Luzon in mainland Philippines, and then cut a path through central Viet Nam, generating significant flooding on Wednesday 30th September. Cambodia and Laos also bore the impact of the typhoon. The Philippines declared a 'state of calamity' in early October, when a second disastrous weather pattern - tropical storm Parma - struck, complicating the relief effort.

Almost 4.2 million people across the Philippines are picking up the pieces, after a monsoon month's worth of rain deluged the country over six hours, killing hundreds, displacing more than 60,000 families and separating many from their loved ones.

On Wednesday 30th September, an 8.0 magnitude earthquake struck offshore, between the islands of Samoa and American Samoa. The earthquake triggered a tsunami of up to 1.7 metres in height, which caused severe damage in island areas that are only metres above sea level.

Also on Wednesday 30th September, an earthquake struck 57 km southeast of the city of Padang in West Sumatra followed by a second earthquake. On Thursday 1st October a further earthquake struck in neighbouring Jambi province. The Indonesian government estimates almost 300,000 houses have been either destroyed or damaged. Classrooms, roads, offices and places of worship are also damaged.

A fundraising appeal for survivors of the recent natural disasters in the Asia-Pacific region will be held on Saturday 7th November from 4.00 pm at the Filipino Community Centre at the corner of Amy Johnson Avenue and Batten Road, Marrara.

There will be food and drink stalls, a huge lawn sale, items for auction as well as a cultural show. This is a joint project by the Indonesian Consulate, the Philippine Consulate General and the Darwin Samoan Community together with the Australian Red Cross. Show your support and attend.

Please give generously to the Red Cross Appeal for Crisis Victims of the recent natural tsunamis, earthquakes and typhoons. Please contact the Supporter Services Centre on 1800 811 700 or email: communityfundraising@redcross.org.au  

Click here for the Fundraising Appeal for Survivors Flyer

The Bhutanese Community’s Vijaya Dashami Celebration, Monday 28th September

The Bhutanese community in Darwin is comprised of recently arrived refugee families of the displaced Nepali speaking Hindu minority of the Himalayan nation of Bhutan.

The Bhutanese Community of the Northern Territory, My Sister’s Kitchen and the MCNT invite you to celebrate the Bhutanese community’s first public event in Darwin on Monday 28th September from 5.00 pm to 8.00 pm at Chambers Crescent Theatre, Malak.

This event is celebrating Vijaya Dashami, an international Hindu celebration which  commemorates the victory of good over evil, and is one of the most important festivals on the Hindu religious and cultural calendar.

The event will feature stories, poetry readings, dancing and traditional food. For more information and RSVP, contact Bhakti Mainaly of the Bhutanese Community of the Northern Territory on 0423 778 982 or Email: bhakti_mainaly@yahoo.com

Chinese Moon (Mid-Autumn) Festival and China’s 60th Birthday, Saturday 3rd October

The Australia-China Friendship Society (ACFS) NT Branch based in Darwin promotes and exchanges culture, friendship and understanding at all levels between Australian and Chinese people.

The ACFS is inviting the community to celebrate China National Day and the Moon (Mid-Autumn) Festival with a social function on Saturday evening 3rd October at the Chung Wah Society Hall, 25 Wood Street in Darwin city.

The Chinese Moon Festival is one of the two most important holidays in the Chinese lunar calendar, the other being the Chinese New Year. This year China National Day celebrated annually on 1st October takes on a special significance as it is the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

Join in the celebrations with the ACFS and the Chinese diaspora around the world on this weekend. Entry is free to this function and a gold coin donation is welcome. Light refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact Ms Shu Qin Li Secretary on Mob: 0410 551 532 or Ms Lily (Guiyu) Hao on Mob: 0401 279 769 of the ACFS NT Branch.

Click here for the Chinese Moon Festival/60th Birthday Invitation

FECCA Congratulates Government on Refugee Reforms

The Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA) today congratulated the Rudd Government on the significant restoration of the human rights of refugees following this week’s sitting of Federal Parliament.

New laws were passed this week which abolish immigration detention debts thereby ending the cruel, inhumane and ineffective system of billing immigration detainees for their stay in detention.

The Senate also voted down attempts to overturn Government reforms that restore equitable work rights for asylum seekers in Australia so as to lessen their chances of becoming destitute.

In further good news the Rudd Government also introduced new laws to better protect refugees at further risk of death, torture and inhumane treatment if deported.

“It is terrific news that Australia is in the process of restoring decency and a human rights focus to our immigration and refugee policies. Minister Chris Evans and the Senators who have supported these measures deserve to be congratulated for their stand this week,” said Voula Messimeri, AM, FECCA Chair.

“Australia can again begin to hold its head high as a country that treats people who are often fleeing persecution, misery and worse with more dignity and respect. We look forward to seeing further reforms under the Government and also participating in reinstating and redeveloping Australia’s multicultural policies in the coming months”, concluded Ms Messimeri.

Click here for this FECCA Media Release

Eid ul-Fitr Celebration at Darwin Islamic Centre, Saturday 26th September

Eid ul-Fitr is the most important holiday of the year for Muslims around the world. The term Eid al-Fitr literally means the “Festival of Breaking the Fast” and marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.

Around the world, apart from fasting between dawn and dusk, Ramadan for Muslims is the period of spiritual reflection and goodwill and is characterised by acts of charity, kindness, generosity and forgiveness.

The 30 day period of Ramadan falls on the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and commemorates the revelation of the Holy Quran. This year Ramadan began on Saturday 22nd August with Eid al-Fitr celebrated on Sunday 20th September.

By tradition, the local Islamic community celebrates with the wider community on the Saturday after Eid al-Fitr. The Islamic Society of Darwin (ISD) is inviting its friends to celebrate with them on Saturday 26th September from 7.15 pm at the Islamic Centre, Vanderlin Drive, Wanguri.

For more information about this event contact Mr Adil Jamil, President of the ISD, on Mob: 0447 843 085 or Email: president@islamicsocietyofdarwin.org.au

Click here for the Eid ul-Fitr Invitation

Liberian Youth Anniversary Festival, Friday 25th to Sunday 27th September

The Liberian Youth Organisation in the Northern Territory (LYONT) with the support of Multicultural Youth NT (MyNT) are presenting a three day festival from Friday 25th to Sunday 27th September.

All events are free for all ages and are proudly sponsored by the Northern Territory Government and Darwin City Council. Everyone is invited!

On Friday 25th September from 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm, there is the youth development workshop to explore education and employment pathways and health issues at the Darwin City Council Malak Community Rooms.

On Saturday 26th September from 9.00 am to 7.00 pm, there is the community soccer tournament at Nakara Oval. Come along and watch friendly soccer matches involving local and interstate players.

On Sunday 27th September from 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm, there is an awards night with cultural performances at the Portuguese and Timorese Social Club, Marrara. Come along and enjoy great African cultural performances from Darwin and interstate and a free delicious African dinner to be followed by a youth dance party.

For more information, contact Elizabeth Warnock, MyNT Youth Coordinator on Ph: 8945 9122, Mob: 0414 595 822 or Email: youth.mynt@gmail.com

Click here for the LYONT Youth Development Workshop Poster
Click here for the LYONT Soccer Tournament Poster
Click here for the LYONT Awards Night and Cultural Performances Poster

Malak Neighbourhood Watch meets the people, Wednesday 16th September

The Malak Neighourhood Watch group was re-launched in July 2008 and has been meeting monthly at the MCNT Community Room. The meetings are on the third Wednesday evening of each month from 6.00 pm. Everyone – neighbours, friends, stakeholders – are welcome to attend.

Malak Neighbourhood Watch is opening its meetings to the suburb’s public places to engage local residents and increase public awareness of the group and its work. The next Malak Neighbourhood Watch meeting on Wednesday afternoon 16th September will be held in the park on Darwent Street adjacent to the bus shelter near the corner of Patterson Street and opposite Halpin Street.

Come along and join us for a sausage sizzle from 5.00 pm; the meeting will be on from 6.00 pm. For more information about this meeting and Malak Neighbourhood Watch, contact Wayne Lee on 0410 214 578.

Click here for the Neighbourhood Watch in the Park flyer

Peace In The Park at Malak, Saturday 19th September

The International Day of Peace on the 21st September each year is the legacy of the extraordinary efforts of peace campaigner Jeremy Gilley to have this day declared as the only official permanent commemoration for peace by a United Nations resolution in 2001.

Since 2002 the 21st September has been observed by nations and individuals around the world as a day of global ceasefire and non-violence. The International Day of Peace has a global outreach with peace-related events and activities to support the United Nations in its mission of world peace.

In 2007, the United Nations declared 2nd October as the annual International Day of Non-Violence. This day commemorates the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of non-violence to achieve civil rights and social change around the world.

Darwin Community Arts (DCA) and the Malak Community will be celebrating international movements of peace and non-violence on Saturday 19th September with an open picnic and BBQ from 4.00 pm to 7.00 pm. The event is on in the park at the end of Fawcett Court, Malak and everyone is invited to bring a plate to share so that we can get a taste of the diversity of the communities in and around Malak.

Come along and enjoy a picnic with us! As well as an opportunity to share a plate of food with your neighbours, there will be performances themed around issues of peace and non-violence.

In the spirit of openness there will be an open microphone and stage between 5.30 pm and 7.00 pm for members of the community to come and share a message of peace. If you would like to sing, talk, act out, or convey your story in any way you like on the day, the stage can be yours.

This event is organised by the DCA Community Steering Committee with help from Melaleuca Refugee Centre and MCNT. For more information contact Zac at the MCNT on mob: 0404 129 307 or email: zac.rudge@darwincommunityarts.org.au

Click here for the “Peace in The Park” flyer

PNG 34th Anniversary of Independence Celebrations, Saturday 19th September

Papua New Guinea (PNG) achieved independence from Australia and became a sovereign nation on 16th September 1975. The Papua New Guinea - Australian Social and Cultural Group Inc (PNGASCG) is celebrating Independence Day at the Filipino Community Centre on Saturday 19th September from 6.00 to 1.00 pm.

The PNGASCG is a Darwin-based association for all ages with the common interest of Papua New Guinea through links with family, friends, business, sport, art and culture. The mission of the PNGASCG is: “To embrace diversity, share culture, foster and promote friendship, understanding and good relations between peoples of Papua New Guinea and Australia.”

Anyone interested in joining the association is welcome to do so. The membership of the PNGASCG includes Papua New Guineans, expatriate Australians and New Zealanders as well as overseas students. For more information about the PNGASCG visit the website: http://www.pngascg.org/

The 34th Anniversary Independence Celebrations will feature a floorshow including traditional PNG dancing, dinner from 7.30 pm with a combination of traditional PNG tucker and international cuisine, and music with a DJ to dance the night away.

For more information about this event and ticket prices, click on flyer below.

Click here for the PNGASCG 34th Independence Celebration flyer

Free CALD Morning Tea for World Alzheimer’s Day, Monday 21st September

Australia’s ageing population is a major demographic challenge and the population from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds is growing faster than for other Australians. Darwin has the fastest growth rate of the CALD population projected for any capital city in Australia. By 2011, it is expected that one-third of Darwin’s older residents will be from CALD backgrounds

Alzheimer’s Australia NT, Education Services, are holding a Free Morning Tea with Music on World Alzheimer’s Day, Monday 21st September 2009 at historic Burnett House from 10.00 am – 11.30 am. The morning tea is particularly for people of CALD backgrounds of any age.

It you would like to attend or know of individuals and groups who would like to attend, please RSVP Kim Fry Alzheimer’s Australia NT by Monday 14th September on ph: 8948 5228 or email: kim@alzheimersnt.org.au

Click here for the Alzheimer’s Day Morning Tea flyer

Muslim Australians celebrate Ramadan from Saturday 22nd August – a message from the Federal Government

The following message is based on a media release dated Friday 21st August from the Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, the Hon Laurie Ferguson MP.

Ramadan began at dawn on Saturday 22nd August. Ramadan is a time when Australia’s Muslim community commemorates the month in which the Holy Quran was revealed and is a period of fasting, spiritual reflection and goodwill. It is also entails acts such as charity, kindness, generosity and forgiveness.

“In Australia, some 340 000 people from more than 100 countries are Muslims. In fact, nearly 40 per cent of Muslim Australians were born in Australia,” Mr Ferguson said.

“The Islamic community has been a part of Australia’s cultural landscape since the 1800s, comprising a large number of diverse ethnicities and cultural backgrounds.

“It was the Afghans 150 years ago who played an essential role in opening up the Australian outback.  The Ghan rail train is named in honour of these pioneers and is testimony to their contribution to our society.”

The commencement of the holy month of Ramadan begins with the first light of dawn commemorating the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad.

“Australia prides itself as a nation which cherishes religious freedom, welcoming people from all religious and cultural backgrounds,” Mr Ferguson said.

“Muslim Australians have contributed to almost every sphere of community life, helping our nation to become more open, enterprising, innovative and creative.

“Ramadan is a time of the year when I would invite everyone to lend support and understanding to the Muslim community.”

“I wish all Muslim Australians the very best for Ramadan – Ramadan Karim – and I look forward to celebrating at the Chand Raat Eid Festival at its conclusion,” Mr Ferguson said.

Filipino Barrio Fiesta, Saturday 29th August

The Filipino-Australia Association of the Northern Territory (FAANT) presents the 13th annual Barrio Fiesta on Saturday 29th August from 5.30 pm at the Filipino Community Centre in Batten Road, Marrara.

The Barrio Fiesta has been running since 1997 and is one of the highlights of the cultural calendar of Darwin. The festival provides the opportunity for all Filipino-Australians of Darwin and the Top End to showcase their cultural heritage and share their artistic and performing talents with the wider community.

The highlights of this year’s Barrio Fiesta include choreographed traditional cultural dances, contemporary performances and a live concert featuring interstate artists. As well other aspects of Filipino culture will be showcased including great Filipino food and San Miguel beer.

For more information about the Barrio Fiesta contact John Rivas on ph: 8927 3926, mob: 0417 081 546 or email: john.edna.rivas@bigpond.com

Click here for the 2009 Filipino Barrio Fiesta flyer

Michael Jackson Tribute Dance Party, Saturday 29th August

A tribute dance part of the late and great Michael Jackson is the first major event for Youth Blast II which is a series of activities coordinated by a consortium of youth service providers in Darwin and funded by the NT Office of Youth Affairs.

The Michael Jackson Tribute Dance Party is on at the Portuguese and East Timorese Club, Batten Road, Marrara from 8.00 pm to 12.00 midnight on Saturday 29th August, the date which would have been the 51st birthday of the world’s greatest entertainer.

The event is being organised by a group of young women from Multicultural Youth Northern Territory (MyNT) in partnership with Darwin Community Arts (DCA) and aims to bring all the youth of Darwin aged between 12 and 19 together to celebrate the life of Michael Jackson in style.

Gold coin donation on entry; an alcohol and drug free event; security will be provided. On the night there will be DJs, prizes, competitions, and some great MJ performances from local crews. MyNT and DCA invite you to let your youth networks know about this to and help make it an awesome event!  

For more information contact Zac at DCA on ph: 8945 7347; mob: 0404 129 307 or email: zac.rudge@darwincommunityarts.org.au   

Click here for the Michael Jackson Tribute Dance Party flyer

Employing Refugees Makes Business Sense” Breakfast, Thursday 3rd September

The MCNT is on the steering committee for the Employer Cultural Awareness Project which is being driven by Melaleuca Refugee Centre and the NT Chamber of Commerce and funded by the Westpac Foundation. The overall goal of the project is to assist employers to develop cross cultural skills which will ease the way for new employees from newly arrived and CALD backgrounds into their workplace.

The MCNT believes that meaningful employment and career development are essential to social inclusion, successful integration and effective participation of migrants and refugees in the mainstream Australian society and economy. The MCNT recognises that one of the major challenges for new settlers in the Northern Territory is finding meaningful and sustainable employment.

The MCNT takes the view that migrants and refugees in general are a highly resourceful, adaptable and resilient group of people with a strong desire to succeed and have a lot to offer employers in terms of skills and experience. Furthermore these new settlers are very loyal employees, thus reducing turnover, downtime and recruitment costs for businesses.

As part of this project there is a free Employer Cultural Awareness Breakfast on Thursday 3rd September from 7.00 am at the Vibe Hotel, Darwin Waterfront. If you are an employer and you are interested in attending, registration is essential. Contact Liz McCouaig on ph: 8982 8140 or email: lmccouaig@chambernt.com.au

Click here for the “Employing Refugees Makes Business Sense” invitation

“Many Cultures, Same Dream” Open Day, Thursday 3rd September 

The Council for Aboriginal Alcohol Program Services (CAAPS) is holding their annual Open Day, with the theme of ‘Many Cultures, Same Dream’, on Thursday 3rd September. CAAPS focuses on residential rehabilitation and accredited VET training, and runs a range of programs targeted at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the Northern Territory.

It is CAAPS’ 25th birthday and everyone is invited to join in the celebrations from 10.00 am to 3.00 pm. CAAPU are inviting the general community to experience Indigenous culture first hand, enjoy lunch cooked in a traditional kup-murri and then sit down to enjoy cultural and musical performances from around the Territory.

Activities during the day including bush tucker displays, weaving classes, yarning circles, art workshops, dancing lessons and sporting skills workshops. There will be plenty of special guests to meet on the day, a birthday cake to share, and stalls from various community service providers to browse through. It’s a great day out and it’s free!

For more information contact Sarah-Jane at CAAPS on ph: 8922 4814 or email:
sarah-jane.saltmarsh@caaps.org.au 

Click here for the “Many Cultures, One Dream” invitation

Cypriot Food & Wine Festival, Saturday 5th September

The Cyprus Community of the Northern Territory presents its major annual cultural festival the 'Cypriot Food & Wine Festival' on Saturday 5th September from 5.00 pm until late at the Cyprus Community Function Centre on Batten Road, Marrara. The festival showcases Greek Cypriot culture, traditions and cuisine. The famous Cypriot Commandaria wine, one of the oldest wines on earth, will be featured.

This is an event all the family, and includes rides for children. For more information contact Evan Fitirikos of the Cyprus Community on ph: 8927 0111, mob: 0419 219 404 or email: nt.cypruscommunity@yahoo.com.au

Click here for the 2009 Cyprus Food & Wine Festival flyer

International Student Lunch at CDU, Wednesday 26th August

The International Office at Charles Darwin University (CDU) is inviting leaders and representatives from Darwin’s multicultural community as their guests to meet with and welcome international students for a lunch on Wednesday 26th August at Student Square (near the basketball court) from 12.00 noon to 1.30 pm.

The CDU is keen for people from the local multicultural community to find the time to spend a lunch-time on campus and assist international students with developing social networks and meeting people and groups in the local community with similar cultural backgrounds.

CDU’s new and current international students come from a range of cultural backgrounds and nationalities from around the world including: India, China, Philippines, Indonesia, Nepal, Thailand, Lebanon, Canada, Germany, Malaysia, Timor Leste, Pakistan, South Korea, Sweden, UK, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, USA, Zimbabwe, Denmark, Kenya and South Africa.

If you are interested in attending, please RSVP Delphine Swat at CDU on ph: 8946 7270 or email: delphine.swat@cdu.edu.au  by Tuesday 25th August.

Click here for the CDU International Student Lunch flyer

"In This Together" Video Exhibition at Darwin Community Arts, Malak, Friday 21st to Friday 28th August

The “In This Together” touring video exhibition with seven screens, developed and curated by Khaled Sabsabi, is on at Darwin Community Arts (DCA), Malak Shopping Centre as part of the 2009 Darwin Festival. The exhibition is proudly presented by Artback NT: Arts Development and Touring, Darwin Community Arts and Kultour.

Kultour is a national network of arts organisations that aims to increase awareness of Australian multicultural arts through touring and is initiative of the Australia Council for the Arts. Khaled Sabsabi is an accomplished community arts practitioner and artist from Sydney who specialises in multimedia and music production.

The Arab world and its people are diverse in culture, tradition and religion. “In This Together” is a video series exploring Arabness from a broad social, political and religious spectrum, and aims to address misrepresentations of global Arab culture through video and providing Arab commentary and self-representation.

Collected over a three year period, the exhibition includes the works of seven video makers across a variety of genres and showcases stories from Arabic speaking cultures in Australia, Canada and Lebanon. This exhibition favours a pluralistic approach to conflict resolution and presents a diversity of beliefs, opinions and hopes from the Arab world and its diaspora to mainstream Australia.

Exhibition opening hours at DCA, Malak Shopping Centre are from 11.00 am to 4.00 pm daily from Friday 21st to Friday 28th August. For more information, contact Christian (Bong) Ramilo at DCA on ph: 8945 7347 or email: eo@darwincommunityarts.org.au

Click here for the “In This Together” brochure

Red Cross "Humanity in the Midst of Conflict" Multimedia Exhibition, Wednesday 5th to Monday 31st August 2009

The Australian Red Cross is commemorating the 60th Anniversary of the 1949 Geneva Conventions with a Multimedia Exhibition “Humanity in the Midst of Conflict” at the Supreme Court Darwin from Wednesday 5th August until Monday 31st August. Entry is free.

This exhibition features photos from the International Red Cross archives detailing the impact of war on civilians around the world, as well as work from a number of media organisations covering hostilities in Afghanistan, Iraq, Lebanon and East Timor. The exhibition also features artwork and a DVD from Darwin's local refugee community.

For more information phone Joan Washington at the Australian Red Cross Darwin on 8924 3931. 

Click here for the “Humanity in the Midst of Conflict” Exhibition Flyer

Cantonese Opera Delights at the Playhouse DEC, Saturday 15th August

Once again Cantonese opera fans and stage art lovers can indulge their passion with the return of the Cantonese Opera following the success of previous Darwin Festival performances. The evening will include four opera extracts in full costumes, piano solo and dances. The extracts will be subtitled in English and Chinese and the MCs will address the audience bilingually.

As part of the 2009 Darwin Festival, the Australian Darwin Cantonese Opera Association (ADCOA) is presenting “Cantonese Opera Delights” at the Playhouse, Darwin Entertainment Centre, on Saturday evening 15th August from 7.30 pm. The duration is 3 hours including interval.

Take this opportunity to experience the richness, vitality and energy of traditional Cantonese opera in these colourful and lively performances. Tickets to this event are available from the Darwin Entertainment Centre Box Office at 93 Mitchell Street, Darwin or at ticketing outlets.

ADCOA is proudly sponsored by the Northern Territory Government and auspiced by the MCNT. For more information contact Louis Wong, Secretary of the ADCOA, on 8946 6397 or visit the website at: http://aco.win-louis.com

Click here for the Cantonese Opera Delights Flyer 

Family History Workshop at the Northern Territory Library, Saturday 8th August

To celebrate Family History Week, the Northern Territory Library at Parliament House is hosting a workshop “Unusual and unexpected sources of family history” from 9.00 am on Saturday 8th August.

This workshop will demonstrate how to use common and not-so-common sources to gather information about family history. Lesser-known or more obscure sources can contain details to really flesh out the stories of family members, and forge meaningful links between the generations.  

Genealogical research is a popular pursuit at Northern Territory Library, and the staff can assist you to get started with tracing your family tree. This is a free event with guest speakers; open to the public. Bookings are preferred on 1800 019 155 or libraryevents@nt.gov.au

MCNT’s Welcome to Darwin for 2009 Senior Australian of the Year, Friday 7th August

The 2009 Senior Australian of the Year Mr Pat LaManna OAM is visiting local communities in the Northern Territory in August. Mr LaManna, an Italian immigrant, overcame racism and economic diversity in the years after arriving in Australia in 1948 to become a successful entrepreneur and well-known philanthropist.

As part of Seniors Month in the Northern Territory, the MCNT and the Australia Day Council NT are hosting a lunch as a welcome to Darwin for Pat LaManna. The lunch is on from 11.30 am to 1.30 pm at the MCNT Community Room on Friday 7th August.

Pat LaManna readily empathises with social and economic disadvantage. He has been an active member of the Lions Club for more than 30 years and has used his entrepreneurial skills and generous spirit to serve the community, raise funds for worthy causes and contribute to charities in Australia and the Third World.

The MCNT is inviting its friends and members to attend this function and be inspired by Pat LaManna’s story of personal endurance and commitment to the Australian family.

Everyone is invited to this function. For more information phone Sarah at the MCNT on 8945 9122.

Click here for the Pat LaManna Multicultural Lunch Flyer

Darwin consultations to improve refugee services, Monday 3rd and Tuesday 4th August

On Monday 3rd and Tuesday 4th August, the Hon Laurie Ferguson MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, met with Darwin community service organisations and recently arrived communities to discuss ways to improve services for refugees.

These consultations in Darwin, part of national tour in capital and larger regional cities, are designed to obtain feedback from stakeholders to improve and strengthen services are assist in the tendering process for the Integrated Humanitarian Settlement Strategy (IHSS) which worth $62 million annually.

The consultations covered topics such as hanged demographics of the humanitarian intake and focus on youth programs, intergenerational issues, cultural orientation, the accommodation crisis, retention rates for refugees in Darwin, vocational training and employment pathways, short-term torture and trauma counselling, health services and referral to mainstream services.

As Mr Ferguson stated in his media release: “Australia is consistently ranked in the world’s top three refugee resettlement countries, and we should feel proud of what we contribute to international efforts to make many people’s lives more secure”. The national IHSS consultations throughout Australia are an “extremely valuable process [which] will doubtless unearth many ideas and suggestions to further improve Australia’s settlement services”.

The Together for Humanity team visits Darwin schools, Monday 1st June and Tuesday 2nd June – do you want to join us?

The Together for Humanity team in Darwin L to R: Imam Adama Konda, Rabbi Zalman Kastel, Natasha Nathanielsz and Auntie Ellen Gapany.

The Sydney-based Together for Humanity Foundation is funded by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship to organise and present interfaith/cross-cultural programs in schools. The aim of Together for Humanity programs in upper primary and middle/high schools is to foster inclusion and acceptance among and between young people from different cultural, ethnic, religious and social backgrounds.

The MCNT has been involved with this organisation for some time. It has been hosting meetings with local stakeholders to set up an independent local steering committee to formulate sustainable programs for Darwin and regional schools focussed on addressing local issues, raising awareness and creating opportunities for cross-cultural and interfaith dialogue.

The Together for Humanity team including the National Director Rabbi Zalman Kastel visited Darwin to catch up with the Multicultural Council and presented programs with local presenters at Sanderson Middle School on Monday 1st June and Kormilda College on Tuesday 2nd June. 

This Together for Humanity team at Kormilda College comprised Rabbi Zalman Kastel (the National Director of Together for Humanity), Imam Adama Konda (the Imam of Darwin), Ms Natasha Nathanielsz (Australian-Sri Lankan/Christian from Sydney), and Auntie Ellen Gapany (Indigenous Elder from Arnhem Land).

If you are interested in joining the Together for Humanity team as a local presenter to make a difference, then we would like to hear from you. To find out more, click on the Expression of Interest form below.

• Click here for the Together for Humanity flyer for Primary Schools
• Click here for the Together for Humanity flyer for Middle and High Schools
• Click here for the Expression of Interest Form to join the local Together for Humanity team

MyNT “Kick Off” at Malak Drop In Centre, Wednesday 17th June

Local kids enjoy a game of basketball at the “Kick Off” launch

Multicultural Youth Northern Territory (MyNT) is an exciting new organisation affiliated with the Multicultural Council of the Northern Territory and run by young people for young people. MyNT is funded by the Foundation for Young Australians. Elizabeth Warnock is the newly appointed full-time Youth Coordinator working out of the Multicultural Council’s office at Malak.

The MyNT team is working to develop a long term plan to engage, empower and provide a voice for multicultural youth and to inform the wider community about issues relevant to young people from CALD backgrounds through interagency meetings, organised social events and awareness campaigns.

The MyNT officially launched its operations with a “Kick Off” function at Danila Dilba’s Drop In Centre in Malak on Wednesday evening 17th June. This function and social gathering was a great success and featured a free barbeque from Malak Neighbourhood Watch as well as sporting and recreational activities including basketball. As well Young Australian of the Year and anti-violence advocate Jonty Bush me the locals and spoke about her ‘one punch can kill’ campaign. 

World Refugee Day in Darwin, Saturday 20th June

World Refugee Day was celebrated this year in Australia on Saturday 20th June to the theme of “Freedom from Fear”. The quest for freedom from fear is at the heart of a refugee's flight from conflict and persecution and this year there was a renewed focus on efforts to provide refugees protection and security in their new home.

This year Melaleuca Refugee Centre joined with the Multicultural Council of the Northern Territory and other local agencies to celebrate World Refugee Day in Holzerland Park in suburban Malak. This year’s program from 4.00 pm attracted hundreds of people and featured cultural performances, community and agency displays, multicultural food and the screening of the 2009 Refugee Film Festival.

World Refugee Day held special significance for nine Darwin locals who originally came to Darwin from Liberia, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo as refugees and became Australian citizens at a special ceremony as part of the event.

Cultural Competence Training at the MCNT, Friday 26th June

Migrants and refugees have the right to culturally appropriate and responsive services. The MCNT believes that all workers involved at the interface with migrant and refugee communities should undertake cultural competency training to create awareness and to communicate and interact more effectively with newly arrived refugees from diverse cultural backgrounds.

The MCNT is hosting a Cultural Competence training seminar on Friday 26th June. The presenters are Dr Joseph Masika and Martin Maya from the African Communities Council of South Australia. The training seminar is on at the MCNT from 10.00 am to 1.30 pm. The cost is $60 per person and lunch will be provided.

Cultural competence is the ability to interact effectively with people across different cultures and ensure that they receive access and services appropriate to their cultures. The seminar will address cultural competence with a particular focus on African settlers.

Places are limited so to register, complete and return the accompanying Registration Form by Thursday 25th June. For more information, contact Frederica Gaskell, MCNT Multicultural Solutions Project Officer on 8945 9122 or email: families@mcnt.org.au

• Click here for the Cultural Competence Flyer and Registration Form

Malak celebrates Neighbourhood Day, Saturday 27th June

Malak Neighourhood Watch and the Multicultural Council of the Northern Territory have been working together closely over the past 12 months to address issues of personal safety and anti-social behavior in suburban Malak and with other local agencies have been involved in a range of volunteer community activities.

Neighbourhood pride is alive and well in Malak. This Saturday 27th June from 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm Malak Neighbourhood Watch is presenting Neighbourhood Day in Holzerland Park at Malak opposite the shopping centre. This event is supported by Darwin City Council, local member the Hon Delia Lawrie MLA and the local business community.

Activities include raffles and prizes, a jumping castle, rock climbing wall and a shoot the hoop competition. The legendary free sausage sizzle from Neighbourhood Watch will be there with drinks for sale. Everyone is invited to this free family event which celebrates 12 months of the re-launched Malak Neighbourhood Watch group.

• Click here for the Malak Neighbourhood Day flyer

Discover India at Mindil Beach, Saturday 27th June

India at Mindil will be held on Saturday 21st June at Mindil Beach. Entry is free and the fun starts at 4.00 pm. Presented by the Indian Cultural Society of the NT since 1997, India at Mindil is Darwin’s premier Indian festival that showcases Indian art, culture, food and music.

The theme this year is “India on the Move”. There are food and specialty stalls, displays and demonstrations about Indian traditions and genuine Bollywood dancing to entertain you from sunset.

For more information contact Rajeev Sharma the President of the Indian Cultural Society of the NT on 0407 466 528.

• Click here for the India at Mindil 2009 flyer

Lakeside Drive Community Garden “Visioning Day” Sunday 28th June

CDU Talloires is a new student group committed to engaging with the community and making a difference. The group is working on a range of interesting and innovative projects that are sustainable, ethical and forward-thinking.

The proposed community garden at Lakeside Drive on the Casuarina campus is a student led initiative of CDU Talloires. Lakeside Drive Community Garden is an official CDU project with in-principle support from Darwin City Council.

Community gardens are recognised worldwide as a great way to grow food, promote healthy lifestyles, meet people, share knowledge, create an urban green space and cultivate vibrant socially inclusive communities. The Lakeside Drive Community Garden will meet provide an opportunity for local residents, community organisations, CDU students and staff to grow organic fruit and vegetables. 

CDU Talloires students and Linda Cuttriss the Coordinator of Community Engagement at CDU are inviting their friends to a “Visioning Day” on Sunday 28th June from 2.00 pm to 4.00 pm at the Alawa Community Hall on Lakeside Drive.

Expressions of interest are invited for participation in the community garden project. If you would are interested in contributing to the shared vision for this project, come along in Sunday and join in the “Visioning Day”. Please RSVP to Anjea Travers on 8946 6361 or email anjea.travers@cdu.edu.au

• Click here for the Lakeside Drive Community Garden Visioning Day invite  

PNGASCG Island Night Fundraising Event, Saturday 4th July

The Papua New Guinea - Australian Social and Cultural Group Inc (PNGASCG) is a Darwin-based association for all ages with the common interest of Papua New Guinea through links with family, friends, business, sport, art and culture.

The mission of the PNGASCG is: “To embrace diversity, share culture, foster and promote friendship, understanding and good relations between peoples of Papua New Guinea and Australia.”

Anyone interested in joining the association is welcome to do so. The membership of the PNGASCG includes Papua New Guineans, expatriate Australians and New Zealanders as well as overseas students.

Members and non-members are invited to participate in a variety of activities throughout the year. Members receive quarterly newsletters. For more information about the PNGASCG visit the website: www.pngascg.org/

On Saturday evening 4th July from 6.00 pm the PNGSCG invites their friends to a fundraising event Island Night at the Filipino Community Centre at Marrara. So put on your Island shirt/skirt, dancing shoes, lace/frangipanis and come along. Dinner will be served at 7:30pm. There will be lots of fun and entertainment with DJ music.

For more information about tickets and contacts for this event, click on the flyer below.

• Click here for the PNGASCG Island Night flyer  

Please leave the message The MCNT’s Migrant Employment Handbook is now available as well as the other following messages and attachments as they are but please delete the Permanent Office Manager Vacancy at the MCNT message

Islamic Awareness Week Friday 19th to Sunday 21st June

Darwin’s Islamic community is working towards its major annual community awareness and outreach event, Islamic Awareness Week from Friday 19th to Sunday 21st June. Islamic Awareness Week 2009 is presented by the Islamic Society of Darwin and proudly supported by the Australian Government’s National Action Plan and the Northern Territory Government through the Office of Multicultural Affairs.

Major draw-cards of the program this year are Darwin’s award-winning Imam Mr Adama Konda and interstate guest speaker, Brisbane-based academic and scholar Dr Mohamad Abdalla. Dr Abdalla, Director of Griffith University’s Islamic Research Unit, is a charismatic and authoritative advocate for Islam. Dr Abdalla was very popular on the Islamic Awareness Week program for the past two years and impressed Darwin’s faith, community and political leaders with his knowledge and wisdom.

The program this year includes an Information Stand at Casuarina Square Shopping Centre on Friday 19th June, an Open Day on Saturday 20th June and a Family Day on Sunday 21st June. A special event for this year will be an interfaith dialogue seminar on Sunday evening 21st June with Christian and Muslim speakers to the theme of “Common Ground, not Fighting Ground”.

The aim of Islamic Awareness Week is to address prevalent misconceptions and negative stereotypical views of Islam and Muslims, and to find common ground between people of all faiths in the Territory.

All events in the program are open to the public and refreshments will be provided. It’s on at the Darwin Islamic Centre, 53 Vanderlin Drive, Wanguri. To find out more about the Islamic Society of Darwin and the 2009 Islamic Awareness Week program, contact Ishfaq Haider, President of the Islamic Society of Darwin 0412 426 453 or visit the website at http://www.islamicsocietyofdarwin.org.au

Click here for the 2009 Islamic Awareness Week program

Greek Glenti, Friday 5th to Sunday 7th June

The Greek Glenti Festival, traditionally held over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend, is an initiative of the Greek Orthodox Community of Northern Australia Inc. that began as the Greek Community’s contribution to the Australian Bicentenary celebrations in 1988.

From its humble beginnings in 1988, the annual Greek Glenti Festival has developed into the largest ethnic celebration on the Northern Territory social calendar that attracts more than more than 15,000 locals and visitors each year.

The Greek Glenti is held at Bicentennial Park on the Esplanade in Darwin and admission is free. It provides the opportunity for the Greek Community to share with the wider community their traditions, culture, language, food, dance and music.

The Greek Glenti kicks off this year at 8.00 pm on Friday evening 5th June with two great days of fun and entertainment over Saturday and Sunday. Special attractions for this year’s festival include performances by renowned Greek singer Kaiti Koullia and a special appearance by the soccer club from Kalymnos.

The Greek Glenti is organised by the Greek Orthodox Community of Northern Australia. For more information about the Greek Glenti and the Greek Community in Darwin contact John Nicolakis on 0419 813 866 or visit the website at: http://www.gocna.com.au

Latino Annual Party Saturday 6th June

The NT Latino Association Incorporated is a non-profit community organisation comprising migrants from about 20 Latin American countries.

It is holding its annual Latino Party on 6th June 2009 at the Darwin Convention Centre. For this fourth annual party, the NT Latino Association is celebrating in style. This year’s party will feature the Latin Fusion Band, La Mezcla from Melbourne. There will be guest speakers, lots of exiting Latin music and dancing and a buffet dinner. Tickets are still available. Phone Pablo on 0401 647 049.

Click here for the Latino Party flyer

Midnight Basketball at the Karama Shopping Centre, Friday 27th February

The MCNT and other local agencies including Malak Neighbourhood Watch, YWCA Brotherz Program, The SHAK, Mission Australia Youth Beat and headspace are bringing Midnight Basketball to the Karama Shopping Centre car park for the first time from 9.00 pm on Friday evening 27th February. This initiative is proudly supported by Mrs Nica La Pira, the owner of the Karama Shopping Centre.

The inaugural Midnight Basketball event in the Malak Shopping Centre car park on Friday evening 5th December was a great success; so successful in fact that it will be happening on a regular basis in the future. This project was a collaboration between local agencies including the MCNT and was supported by Darwin City Council. In all about 50 young people, mostly from Malak, participated in the first Midnight Basketball event, demonstrated their skill and felt welcomed and empowered.

Come along with your friends and family on Friday 27th February for a great night of fun. There will be a free sausage sizzle and iced water provided on the night, and drinks will be available for sale. Volunteers will be assisting with organising and scoring the basketball games. Individuals or organisations who would like to assist with this initiative are asked to contact Paul Wyatt, Manager of Neighbourhood Watch NT on 0488 131 744.

Click here for the Midnight Basketball flyer

Have your say in the review of the NT Government’s Multicultural Policy – closing date for submissions is Monday 2nd March

There is a current review of the NT Government’s Multicultural Policy. As part of the review process, the NT Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) is inviting the community to provide comments on the current policy and discuss ideas for changes if required.

In particular, the NT Government would like the views of the multicultural community on the four Principles that are at the core of this review of Multicultural Policy: Valuing Diversity, Fair Access, Encouraging Participation and Mutual Respect. 

Written submissions are encouraged and the closing date is Monday 2nd March. The MCNT is preparing a submission and would welcome your input.

Click here for the link to the NT Government Discussion Paper “Building on the Territory’s Diversity – a Multicultural Policy for migrant and ethnic Territorians”

Launch of the MCNT’s Migrant Employment Handbook on Wednesday 4th March by the Hon Malarndirri McCarthy

The MCNT is inviting its clients, friends and members to attend the official launch of the updated edition of the “Handbook for Migrants Looking for Work in the Northern Territory” by the Honourable Malarndirri McCarthy, Minister Assisting the Chief Minister on Multicultural Affairs.

The Handbook is based on an existing resource of the NT Government and has been designed for the MCNT’s clients. This resource has been updated and remodeled in a convenient A5 size and provides practical information for migrants and refugees about how to go about finding work in the Northern Territory. The Handbook includes information about the Australian workplace, relevant legislation and agencies for support, as well as useful local contacts and tips for jobseekers.

Come and join us for the launch and afternoon tea with the Minister. The Handbook is available free for all relevant stakeholders, clients and agencies. If you would like a copy phone Fiona at the MCNT on 8945 9122 or email: admin@mcnt.org.au

Click here for the Migrant Employment Handbook Launch flyer

International Women’s Day Dinner Saturday 7th March

International Women’s Day on the 8th March is an occasion celebrated by women’s groups around the world. This is the day that we celebrate and acknowledge women’s achievements and contributions to society past, present and future, and to highlight issues and challenges that still confront women.

The MCNT continues the long-established tradition of hosting the International Women’s Day Dinner. This high profile annual event recognises the contribution of Darwin’s women to the community as leaders, role models and mentors.

The MCNT and the NT Anti-Discrimination Commission (NTADC) are inviting their friends to this year’s International Women’s Day Dinner at the Cyprus Community Centre, Marrara on Saturday evening 7th March from 6.00 pm til late. Tickets are $25 (and must be paid in advance).  

The Key note speaker is Indigenous health advocate Pat Anderson. Come and join us for great entertainment, cultural performances, good company and delicious food … men are welcome to attend as well. For more information contact Anna Lalara at the NTADC on 8999 1496 or email: anna.larara@nt.gov.au   

Click here for the IWD Dinner flyer

International Women’s Day Walk Sunday 8th March

The United Nations Association of Australia - NT Division (UNAANT) in partnership with the MCNT and Darwin City Council are staging the “Women Are Our Future” Walk on International Women’s Day, Sunday 8th March.

Join us for the inaugural International Women’s Day Walk in Darwin. The “Women Are Our Future” Walk commences at the Darwin City Council Car Park in Cavenagh Street (near the GPO) at 10.30 am and concludes at the Tree of Knowledge, Darwin Civic Centre.

Refreshments sponsored by Darwin City Council will be provided at the conclusion of the walk at 11.00 am with speakers addressing the participants: the Honourable Malarndirri McCarthy, Minister Assisting the Chief Minister on Multicultural Affairs, Senator Trish Crossin and Alderman Robyn Lesley, Deputy Lord Mayor, Darwin City Council. 

This event is free. To register for the walk and for more information contact Christine Fletcher on 0419 829 509 or Dorothy Fox on 0410 935 264.

Click here for the IWD “Women Are Our Future” flyer

Harmony Day “Bridging the Gap” Social Soccer Match Sunday 22nd March

The MCNT in partnership with the NT Police, Malak Neighbourhood Watch NT and the Africa-Australia Friendship Association are organising the “Bridging the Gap” Social Soccer Match between the NT Police/NHW and local young people on Sunday 22nd March. It is on from 3.00 pm at the Malak Oval and is part of a weekend of activities to celebrate Harmony Day at Malak.

Come and join us to enjoy for this community event. There will be drinks for sale and the legendary sausage sizzle from Neighbourhood Watch with a demonstration of Ultimate Frisbee from O’Loughlin College students at half-time. For registrations and more information, contact Ron Mitchell at the MCNT on 0412 314 517.

Click here for “Bridging the Gap” Social Soccer Match flyer

MCNT Joins “Human Rights in the Park” on 8th December

Agencies from Darwin’s community services and social justice network are joining forces to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the International Declaration of Human Rights with a series of free events from Monday 8th December to Friday 12th December.

On Monday 8th December, as part of Human Rights Week 2008 the MCNT will be part of the “‘Rights in the Park” event that is being organised by the Darwin Community Legal Service for Raintree Park, Darwin City from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm.

The event will feature displays, entertainment, prizes, activities and a working mural to be featured in the annual “Rights on Show” in the Supreme Court flyer for a week from Friday 12th December. Information and advice will be available from services and agencies that contribute to strengthening human rights.

Click here for more information about “Rights in the Park”

Click here for more information about Human Rights Week 2008

MCNT and NTADC Celebrate UDHR in Style on 10th December

This year is the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations in 1948 in the aftermath of WW2 with Australia’s support.

The UDHR was the first international recognition that all human beings have fundamental rights and freedoms. On 10th December this year, International Human Rights Day, the 60th anniversary of the UDHR (UDHR 60) will be celebrated around the world with a renewed focus on human rights.

The MCNT and the NT Anti-Discrimination Commission are organising a function on the evening of Wednesday 10th December – International Human Rights Day – to celebrate UDHR 60. This function is sponsored by the NT Office of Multicultural Affairs.

The venue for the UDHR 60 function from 4.30 pm to 6.00 pm is the Darwin Wharf Precinct Function Centre. The program will feature former NT Administrator Mr Ted Egan AO as the guest speaker as well as local cultural performers.

Everyone is invited to the UDHR 60 function. Refreshments will be provided and there is no cost. Contact Karyn Jessop at the NTADC on 8999 1461 or email: karyn.jessop@nt.gov.au to find more and to RSVP your attendance.

Click here for more information about the UDHR function

Midnight Basketball at the Malak Shopping Centre 5th December

The MCNT and other local agencies including Malak Neighbourhood Watch, YWCA Brotherz Program, Danila Dilba, Darwin Community Arts and Mission Australia Youth Beat are trialing Midnight Basketball at the Malak Shopping Centre car park from 8.00 pm to 2.00 am on Friday 5th/Saturday 6th December. This idea is proudly supported by Henry Yap the landlord of the Malak Shipping Centre and Darwin City Council.

There will be a free sausage sizzle and iced water provided on the night, and drinks will be available for sale. Volunteers will be assisting with organising and scoring the basketball games. There will be 10 balls and two portable hoops, so there will be lots of opportunity to show your skill. Bring your friends and family for a great night of fun.

Individuals or organisations who would like to assist with this initiative are asked to contact Wayne Lee the Malak Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator on 0410 214 578.

Click here for more information about “Midnight Basketball”

2009 Harmony Calendar Poster Competition

The Multicultural Council of the Northern Territory and the NT Division of the United Nations Association of Australia are inviting the Territory’s Middle School students (Year 7 to Year 9) to submit poster artworks for publication in the 2009 Harmony Calendar sponsored by the NT Government.

The theme this year is the 60th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). We want our young people to express the spirit of the Articles of the UDHR through original inspirational artworks.

The closing date is Friday 17th October, with an award ceremony in Darwin on the UN Human Rights Day, Wednesday 10th December.

For individual entry forms and more information about this competition, phone the Multicultural Council on 8945 9122, and see the attached flyer, entry forms, conditions for entry, and information about the UDHR.

The Human Rights & Equal Opportunity Commission has a great resources for students Celebrating International Human Rights Day 10 December 2008.

MCNT’s AGM - Thursday 25th September

The Multicultural Council of the Northern Territory Inc (MCNT) invites financial corporate and individual members to its Annual General Meeting on Thursday 25th September 2008 at the MCNT community room from 5.30 pm.

Nominations are encouraged from interested members of the community to serve on the 2008-09 MCNT management committee. To find out more, phone Fiona at the MCNT on 8945 9122.

CulturFest - Saturday 20th September at Malak

The Multicultural Council of the Northern Territory (MCNT), in partnership with Darwin Community Arts, is presenting CulturFest 2008 at Malak on Saturday 20th September from 5.00 pm to 9.00 pm at the Malak Shopping Centre.

CulturFest is an annual event for the wider community to experience and celebrate the richness of cultural diversity through food, arts and crafts, performance and film. Come and join us for the festivities. CulturFest this year will include a mobile cinema in the car park and a dance party in Chambers Crescent Theatre from 7.00 pm.

MCNT members and ethnic community groups are invited to participate in CulturFest 2008. To find out more, phone Fiona at the MCNT on 8945 9122.

Bagot Cultural Gathering

Bagot Cultural Gathering will be held from 24 to 29 June at the Bagot Community Reserve, Darwin.  All events are free and open to the public. Events include an art exhibition which will be open throughout the week and an all-indigenous concert will be held on Saturday 28 June from 5.30 pm to late. Sunday is billed as a family day of fun and is part of NAICOC week. There are many activities during the day, commencing at 10.30 with the official welcome and free morning tea and finishing at 6.00 pm with the Rhythm Train.

The program and a site map of Bagot Reserve is attached.

World Refugee Day 2008

Discover India at the Mindil Beach

Islamic Awareness Week

Darwin’s Islamic community will be holding its annual Islamic Awareness Week from Friday 27 to Monday 30 June 2008. Brisbane-based academic and scholar Dr Mohamad Abdalla and Sydney-based psychologist Sr Hanan Dover will be engaging with Darwin’s Islamic and wider community in public lectures, discussion forums and question and answer sessions. All sessions are open to the general public. For further information, please see the attached flyer (PDF).

Strong Families Sharing Cultural Parenting Knowledge

The Multicultural Council of the Northern Territory and the Northern Territory Government’s Family and Children’s Services program recognise the challenges facing families arriving in a new country. We have produced this DVD to show how strong families of all kinds and from all cultures can offer a positive vision for what works well in families.

Click here for more information

Celebrate Harmony Day 2008

The Pakistani Association of the Northern Territory extends an invitation to join them at the Jingili Water Gardens on Sunday 6 April from 4.30 pm onwards to celebrate Harmony Day. Everyone is welcome to come along and join in the fun and enjoy the free barbeque.

Contact Sharin Qureshi on 8948 1049 for further information.

Download the invitation here (PDF)

Multicultural Youth of the NT ‘What Ya Sayin’ workshop

Multicultural Youth of the NT are having a 2 day interactive workshop and games at the Community Room in Casuarina Square (next to Woolworths) as part of the National Youth Week activity. If you are aged between 12 -25 years old and you want to be ‘heard and have a say’ on issues affecting you and the young people then this would be the chance you are waiting for.

Click here for more info

2008 International Womens Day Celebration

The dinner was held at the Italian Club on Saturday 8th March. It drew a crowd of over 300 and was represented by different ethnic and community groups in Darwin including some supportive men. The women were very glamorous wearing their respective traditional costumes from Africa, Burma, Cambodian, Thailand, the Philippines and more.

Click here for more info and photos from the night

Open Road 2008 Conference: Multilingualism and the Information Society

Stunna Shadez Showcase

THE MULTICULTURAL YOUTH COUNCIL OF THE NT & INDIGENOUS YOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE INVITE YOU TO THE PREMIER 'ERACISM' YOUTH FORUM.

The MYCNT and Danila Dilba's IYAC have joined hands to organise a forum to empower young Terrritorians with the knowledge and skills to overcome the issue of racism and inspire them to work towards a more compassionate and understanding society, free of prejudice and stereotyping. It will feature guest speakers, fun workshops and activities, and lunch will be provided for participants. This is a free event, proudly sponsored by the NT Government as part of the Youth Blast Initiative.

We strongly urge all youth to be part of this fun-filled, and stimulating event. Please pass this through all your youth networks.

DATE: Friday, 25th January 2008
TIME:10 am till 5 pm
VENUE: Charles Darwin University, Casuarina Campus, Building 24

*Registrations will be taken on the day, but it will be a great help if you could let us know if you or your contacts will be attending (contacts are below).

Please find attached a flyer giving some more inormation on the event.
Thanks and looking forward to seeing you on Friday.

Finding Common Ground Poster Competition

The MCNT’s Finding Common Ground poster competition is part of the Youth Blast initiative of activities for northern suburbs youth, involving a consortium of service providers, and funded by the Northern Territory Office of Youth Affairs. 

The MCNT’s NT-wide Finding Common Ground poster competition for young people is also designed to secure creative artworks for publication in the 2008 Harmony Calendar produced by the MCNT and sponsored by the Northern Territory Office of Multicultural Affairs.  The MCNT will promote the poster competition throughout the Territory and conduct a series of poster workshops in local schools and libraries.

The NT’s young people aged 12 to 15 years are encouraged and invited to submit artworks that are consistent with the theme of “finding common ground” and the objective of fostering cross-cultural friendships and breaking down barriers.  The competition closes in late October, and there will be sponsored prizes and an award ceremony for the winning entries”. 

Interfaith Education for the Global Citizen: Towards Unity and a Culture of Peace

A paper by our Policy & Project Director Ron Mitchell about Interfaith Education for the Global Citizen.

Australia Needs Skills Expos in Australia

The Australia Needs Skills Expos will be held in the future. The first one being held in Sydney on the 29th September 2007 at the Syndey Convention Centre. Great opportunities for skilled workers currently not working in their qualified field, temporary visa holders etc. A chance to meet employers and State and Territory governments who want to recruit skilled workers.