There are crucial gaps that still need to be addressed in the policies of both major parties towards multicultural communities, according to the peak national body for culturally and linguistically diverse Australians.
The Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia said while there have been a number of policies announced by all parties, a “much stronger commitment” is needed to make a difference to people of CALD backgrounds.
“There are gaps that still need to be addressed,” Acting FECCA chair Eugenia Grammatikakis told SBS.
“We have advocated for all parties to make a much stronger commitment and to consider further details in their policies around what measures they will put in place.”
Ms Grammatikakis cited the National Disability Insurance Scheme as an initiative her organisation “fully supports,” but raised concerns about whether the needs of people from different ethnic backgrounds will be considered as the scheme is rolled out.
“We would like to see greater representation and [more of a] voice given to members of different ethnic communities through the process,” Ms Grammatikakis said.
“There are structures in place that are not necessarily fully representative.”
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