NSW Premier’s Multicultural Harmony Dinner

NSW Premier and Minister for Western Sydney, Barry O'Farrell, has unveiled the NSW Government's strategy for the advancement of multiculturalism during the inaugural Premier's Harmony Dinner on 28 March 2012.

Speaking to 600 community guests, Mr. O'Farrell launched the Multicultural Advantage Action Plan with the Minster for Citizenship and Communities, Victor Dominello.

“The Multicultural Advantage Action Plan is a package of reforms designed by the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government for one purpose: to improve the social, economic and cultural well-being of our diverse communities,” Mr. O'Farrell said.  “One of the key elements of the plan is a proposal for a whole month of multicultural activities in March 2013,” Mr. Dominello said.

“Initiatives will also be established to give ethnic communities every opportunity to be fully involved in Australia Day activities, as what binds us together as Australians is ever important. “An exciting new collaborative program will also be rolled out for the 'established' communities to reach out and mentor 'emerging' communities and help them to fully participate in our society,” Mr. Dominello said. “There is so much unlocked potential within our culturally, linguistically and religiously diverse communities, and I am excited that tonight, we embark together,” Mr. Dominello concluded.

Mr. O'Farrell and Mr. Dominello thanked the Chair of the Community Relations Commission, Stepan Kerkysharian, for the Commission's dedication in producing the Action Plan.

Fr. George Veselinovic from St. George Church in Cabramatta, along with his wife, Karen, graciously attended the event on behalf of His Grace Irinej Bishop of the Serbian Orthodox Metropolitanate of Australia and New Zealand. Mr. O'Farrell and Mr. Dominello both expressed their gratitude of the representation for the Serbian community and encouraged a continuing presence at future multicultural events.

Source: www.soc.org.au