Multicultural Australia: United, Strong, Successful

Australia’s multicultural story is one of remarkable success Federal Member for Mitchell, the Hon Alex Hawke MP, said today.

Alex Hawke was speaking after Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Senator the Hon Zed Seselja, released the Government’s new multicultural statement, Multicultural Australia: United, Strong and Successful.

This statement outlines the strategic direction and priorities for multicultural policy in Australia.

“Cultural diversity has enriched and enlivened our country,” Alex Hawke said.

“From the first Australians to the latest arrivals, we are a blend of 300 different ancestries.”

The Government’s statement highlights the importance of Australian values and democratic way of life to our success.

“This statement sets out our vision for embracing diversity while emphasising our unique national identity and the importance of being an integrated and united people.

As a Government, we place the highest priority on the safety and security of all Australians. We will continue to invest in counter-terrorism, strong borders and national security.

Our security provides the foundation for our society remaining free, diverse and harmonious. Maintaining our strengths of security, diversity and freedom is a shared responsibility between governments, organisations and individuals.

The statement recognises that to strengthen our economy we must support the economic and social participation of our new arrivals who bring with them the skills, knowledge, and networks of a diverse workforce.

The Australian Government will continue to help new migrants become self-sufficient, fully contributing members of society.

“Importantly, the Government’s new statement encourages us to celebrate our success as a multicultural nation and reminds to focus not on our differences but on the shared values and freedoms which unite us,” concluded Alex Hawke MP.

Visit www.dss.gov.au/settlement-and-multicultural-affairs for more information about the statement.