Valuing Multiculturalism

Almost half of all Australians were either born overseas or had a parent born in another country.

Australia is home to people who identify with more than 270 ancestries from all over the world. This rich, cultural diversity is one of our greatest strengths as a nation and is something that should be celebrated.

87% of Australians think that it is good that our community is made up of people from different cultures. It allows us to enjoy new traditions, a more diverse public discourse, and delicious food.

Despite this, many individuals experience unfair treatment and racism because of how they look or where they come from. Racism means that people of all backgrounds are not treated equally and do not have the same opportunities.

For instance, did you know that Australians without Anglo-Saxon names have to send up to 2/3rds more applications to get a job interview?

All people in Australia – no matter what their national, cultural or religious background – have a right to feel safe, respected and part of the community in which they live. This is the way to ensuring a stronger Australia as a whole.