The Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA) today released its 2019 Federal Election Platform titled Governing for culturally diverse Australia, and has called on the major parties to respond by outlining how they intend to ensure Australia continues its legacy of successful multiculturalism.

FECCA’s election platform outlines ten major priority areas for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) Australians, from migration and citizenship to social cohesion and workplace diversity.

FECCA wants to see a commitment to a National Anti-Racism Strategy with funding earmarked for national and community-based projects which further promote social cohesion in Australia.

The policy platform also calls for the expansion of the role of the Race Discrimination Commission to include Multiculturalism in its scope. The National Multicultural and Race Discrimination Commission would ensure an independent body is able to encourage ways to foster social cohesion and advise the Government.

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FECCA has also asked that wait times for citizenship applications be reviewed and that the backlog of visa and citizenship applications be cleared.

“This policy platform is designed to encourage the major parties to adopt policies that respond to Australia’s cultural, linguistic and faith diversity,” FECCA Chairperson Ms. Mary Patetsos said.

“Australia’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths, and FECCA wants to encourage the major parties to adopt policies that ensure all Australians can fully participate in and contribute to society.

“FECCA also reminds all candidates to be respectful of multicultural communities during the federal election campaign and to avoid some of the dog-whistle tactics we have seen in recent times.

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“In the wake of the Christchurch tragedy, this is one way we can ensure our political system helps make Australia a safer place, rather than a more divisive place for its citizens.”