Multicultural Affairs Newsletter - April 2024

Before we jump in, please ensure you update us on any changes for your multicultural organisation community association by: # Reviewing the details listed on the website:

• Multicultural Organisations Darwin and Regional
• Multicultural Performance Groups
• Contact a Multicultural Service

Email any updates including any new contacts to tfhc.multiculturalaffairs@nt.gov.au.

Please use generic email addresses, for example ‘multicultural_group@gmail.com’ and organisational numbers, not personal phone numbers or personal email addresses. This is to ensure the security of your personal details.

Quick Response Grants 2024-25 open July 2024

Launching in July, Quick Response Grants 2024-25 will offer up to $2000 for migrant and multicultural communities in the Northern Territory.

Managed by the Office of Multicultural Affairs, these grants support projects, events, and changing circumstances, promoting social inclusion and celebrating diversity.

The Quick Response Grants round will open on the GrantsNT portal in July 2024.

Charles Darwin University Pathway to Politics Program for Women NT

Embark on your political journey with the Charles Darwin University Pathway to Politics Program for Women NT. Expressions of interest are now open for the 2024 program.
Apply now to:

• Participate in skill-based workshops for success.
• Cultivate your political identity in a supportive environment.
• Gain insights from political experts.
• Shape the political landscape of the NT and Australia.

To participate in this accessible, diverse, and fully funded program, NT residents must apply by 24 April at Pathways to Politics

Quick Response Grants 2023-24 have been exhausted

The Quick Response Grant has been closed on the GrantsNT portal. The 2023-24 financial year grant funding has been exhausted, and no funding is available.

Support for People with Disability

APM Communities supports individuals with disabilities and their families through the NDIS.

Their services are free and government-funded, aiming to empower individuals for greater independence, skill development, employment, volunteering, and quality of life. Visit the official NDIS website for detailed information and contact us for further assistance at 1800 276 522 or apmnet@ndis.gov.au.

Language support is available through the Translating and Interpreting Service. Find us at 2/90 Ross Smith Ave, Fannie Bay, NT 0820. They are here to help with your NDIS journey.

To find out more, please visit What is the NDIS? or to view this information in different languages, visit Languages - NDIS

National Community Survey on Ending Racism in Australia – Have Your Say

The Australian Human Rights Commission has asked the Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils (FECCA) to conduct consultations on a National Anti-Racism Framework.

FECCA has created a survey to gather insights on combatting racism from a wide range of voices, including those from diverse backgrounds. The survey is anonymous and takes 5-10 minutes to complete. We invite you to participate and share the survey to help create a more inclusive society.

For further information and to access the survey, please visit National Community Survey on Ending Racism in Australia

Voluntary Assisted Dying – Have Your Say

With the Restoring Territory Rights Act 2022 now in effect, the NT has the opportunity to consider legalising voluntary assisted dying (VAD).
The NT Government is conducting a community consultation process to develop a framework for VAD that prioritises accessibility and safety. Share your feedback through the survey by 30 April 2024.

For more information, access the Terms of Reference and Discussion Guides on the VAD website. You can also contact the Priorities Deliveries Unit at vadinquiry@nt.gov.au or 1800 973 393 for group engagements, available until the end of April 2024. Your participation is vital in shaping our community's future.

Good news stories

The Indian Australian Association of NT recently hosted a Teej/Teeyan concert on September 16th at the Haileybury Rendall School. Teeyan, celebrated for its themes of happiness, prosperity, and well-being, provided a wonderful opportunity for women to come together, connect, and freely express themselves through traditional Teej songs, singing, and dancing.

On November 25th, the Tamil Society of the Northern Territory held its annual Deepavali celebration, a cherished festival symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. Drawing a crowd of approximately 200 attendees, the event was a vibrant gathering where the community came together to share food, snacks, and heartfelt greetings, spreading joy and camaraderie.

The festivities were further enriched by captivating performances from various groups, including spirited presentations by Tamil school children, adding to the cultural richness of the occasion.

Both events received partial funding through the Multicultural Grants Program, highlighting the program's commitment to supporting diverse cultural celebrations and community gatherings.