As the Australian Multicultural Council (AMC) gets its feet under the table, the search is on for a tier of advisors from within communities across Australia to champion inclusion and highlight the benefits of diversity to Australian society.
The People of Australia Ambassador program was announced by the Prime Minister at the launch of the AMC last month, with Julia Gillard encouraging Australians to nominate local champions from their own neighbourhood and communities who have helped to promote inclusion and participation in their community.
Up to 40 people will be selected as ambassadors to provide grassroots advice to the AMC. The AMC has been established to provide advice to government on multicultural policy and to ensure government services respond effectively to the needs of diverse communities.
Across the nation, the call has gone out this week for the ambassadors to be identified. The Federal Member for the electorate of Calwell in Victoria – Maria Vamvakinou says the ambassadors’ suggestions will be able to filter right through to the top. “The ambassadors’ advice will be able to provide advice to the Prime Minister and have an opportunity to promote the positive work they undertake in our community.”
Nominees for the People of Australia Ambassador program must have demonstrated a strong commitment to inclusion, or may have involvement in a diverse range of community work which unites all Australians.
The AMC’s selection criteria for People of Australia ambassadors say anyone nominated must have demonstrated a strong commitment to a socially cohesive society through active community engagement; have a good understanding of their community; be able to demonstrate strong leadership in the community, and have a strong community network with a capacity to influence and engage with people from a wide range of backgrounds
Nominees must be of good character and be able to exemplify honesty, integrity and ethical conduct in the course of their ambassadorial duties.
Nominations will be considered by the Australian Multicultural Council and close on Friday, 7 October. Further details at www.amc.gov.au
