The plan was developed in consultation with various agencies, community groups and our Multicultural Action Plan Advisory Committee (MAPAC). It recognised the importance of embracing cultural diversity as a whole of organisation approach and a multi-agency approach to implementation. It underpins our planning and service provision.

Multicultural Action Plan Advisory Committee (MAPAC)

• The central function of MAPAC is to provide advice and guidance to Council Special Committees or staff with delegated powers on multicultural affairs in the implementation of Council’s Multicultural Action Plan (MAP) 2018–2022, and any ensuing plans and policies related to the multicultural community.
• The Committee will promote and celebrate successes, milestones and participation of the multicultural community in the civic life of the municipality to strengthen the multicultural fabric of our diverse community.
• The Committee will also advise Council on barriers to Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) participation, emerging issues, aspirations and good practice initiatives so as to further progress diversity and inclusion, social cohesion, and health and wellbeing of the multicultural community. 

Objectives

• Actively promote the Multicultural Action Plan and seek engagement within their respective organisations
• Enable inter-agency collaboration, opportunities, linkages and community partnerships in the implementation of the MAP
• Advocate for and facilitate inter-governmental involvement including resourcing for MAP implementation
• Advise Council of emerging needs, priority areas and interests of CALD residents in relation to inclusive and culturally sensitive Council’s services
• Provide recommendations to Council on multicultural issues, CALD, cultural practices, expectations, sensitivities and appropriate terminologies
• Contribute to the development of broader Council policies and action plans enabling inclusive planning
• Contribute to the review and evaluation of relevant services and programs
• Provide Council and other relevant stakeholders with an effective network channel through which consultations, engagement and communication can occur to reach the broader CALD communities.
• Support and actively promote an increased awareness and understanding of issues and specific needs of both established and newly arrived multicultural communities by promoting and celebrating cultural diversity.