The Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs (DIMA) is expected to announce later this year which community and Local Government projects will be funded under its $1.5m Living in Harmony (LiH) programme. Applications for grants between $5,000 and $50,000 closed on August 25.
The Living in Harmony programme aims to engage the whole community to promote Australian values, mutual respect and address racial intolerance. One current LiH project – Building Neighbourhood Harmony – is a partnership between DIMA and Macquarie University’s Centre for Research on Social Inclusion. The project completed a nationwide survey of 695 councils to identify strategies used by councils to foster social cohesion. It also involved qualitative research into intercultural tensions and affinities in three council areas – Ashfield and Griffith in New South Wales and Canning in Western Australia. The research will develop models for community relations projects which can be deployed by local councils around Australia.
In Ashfield, the research focused on the front line role of shopkeepers from different cultural backgrounds. Residents were encouraged to enter shops owned by people from different cultural backgrounds. Shopkeepers were encouraged to make their stores more accessible and inviting to all residents.
In Griffith and Canning, the community was consulted on issues for various cultural groups. The research team cooperated with Councils and community representatives. It identified positive responses to cultural diversity. It also looked at previously unreported issues of intolerance or community tension.
Outcomes from the partnership will be published on the Living in Harmony website at www.harmony.gov.au
