A new multicultural policy kit is expected to help New South Wales local councils deliver services better tailored to culturally diverse communities.

The guideline, Implementing the Principles of Multiculturalism Locally, was jointly developed by the Department of Local Government and the Community Relations Commission (CRC).  

Launching the kit, NSW Local Government Minister Paul Lynch said the framework would assist councils in devising strategies to make the most of challenges and opportunities that have arisen by demographic change and immigration.

“Councils have an important responsibility to show leadership, encourage community harmony and ensure the community can access the services they provide,” Mr Lynch said.

CRC chairman Stepan Kerkyasharian said the publication completed the “unfinished circle” of planning for services that meet the day-to-day needs of the multicultural community. 

“It means that from the most basic needs at the street level up to sophisticated medical or legal needs, local government will be working in concert with the now well-established high level services provided by most State Government agencies, tailored correctly to a culturally diverse society.”

The launch followed a series of pilot projects conducted by the Walgett Shire Council and Baulkham Hills, Blacktown and Griffith City Councils. 

“The implementation of the framework makes NSW a place where there is consciousness of diversity and routine provision of services that fit the nature of the community,” Mr Kerkyasharian said.

A copy of the framework, which includes feedback from the pilot projects, is available at www.dlg.nsw.gov.au.
Two copies of the kit will be sent out to each council in NSW.