Apply now to join Council’s Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Advisory Group

The advisory group’s role is to progress projects that align to Council’s Cultural Diversity Action Plan, discuss challenges and opportunities for residents from culturally diverse backgrounds and to provide advice to Council on its policies, plans and services.   

Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Cr Brett Owen said that the group also works alongside Council to promote an inclusive shire that respects human rights, celebrates diversity and fosters participation in all aspects of community life.  

“Cardinia Shire Council recognises the importance of supporting diversity in our vibrant and growing communities. Our diversity is highly valued and a source of great strength and resilience,” Cr Owen said.   

Chairperson of the CALD Advisory Group Councillor Jack Kowarzik explained that the group assists in helping all residents to feel valued, included, respected and able to access the range of services, programs and facilities Council offers.  

“The CALD Advisory Group seeks to be a platform to mobilise and coordinate local community resources. It represents the ideas and needs of culturally and linguistically diverse members of our community and works in partnership with Council to improve the wellbeing of our new and emerging communities,” Cr Kowarzik said. 

“Our shire is playing an important role in the settlement of residents from refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds, as well as continuing to be an attractive destination for skilled migrants. Our new communities have unique health and social wellbeing needs requiring appropriate responses.” 

Cr Kowarzik is joined on the CALD Advisory Group by Officer Ward Councillor Tammy Radford and Central Ward Councillor Collin Ross, and he encourages interested community members to apply. 

The group meets for two hours once a month on a weekday determined by member’s availability.  

For questions or to express interest in applying to join the CALD Advisory Group, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/multiculturalgroups or contact the Council’s Social Inclusion Officer: A.Brash@cardinia.vic.gov.au or 1300 787 624.  

Applications close 5pm Wednesday 10 March 2021.   

For an interpreter, please call the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) on 131 450 and ask them to telephone Cardinia Shire Council on 1300 787 624.