Young people in the Northern Victoria Region with an enthusiasm and passion for cultural and religious diversity have been urged to apply for a place on the Brumby Labor Government’s Multifaith Multicultural Youth Network, Member for Northern Victoria Region, Candy Broad said today.
Ms Broad said young people aged between 16 and 25 from across the Northern Victoria Region could apply for a position on the network that represents culturally, linguistically and religiously diverse young people across Victoria.
“The Brumby Labor Government is committed to ensuring all Victorians continue to live together harmoniously with the right to practice different faiths, speak freely, celebrate diversity and live without fear of discrimination and vilification,” Ms Broad said.
“The Multifaith Multicultural Youth Network is a great way for Victoria’s young people to inform Government about key issues they face and in turn, develop youth-led projects which respond to some of these issues. I encourage young people to become involved and help shape our future.”
Minister assisting the Premier on Multicultural Affairs James Merlino said the Multifaith Multicultural Youth Network was established in September 2007 to advise the Brumby Government.
“We’re looking for people with a passion for the topics of faith and culture and issues that affect young Victorians – the network is a forum where creativity and innovative ideas on how communities might learn or promote cultural and religious diversity in Victoria is welcomed,” he said.
Mr Merlino said Network members have the opportunity to develop skills in leadership, communication and promoting understanding across diverse faiths and cultures.
“Multifaith Multicultural Youth Network members are encouraged to comment on Brumby Labor Government programs and policy, raise any emerging issues of concern for young people and explore ideas for activities focused on faith, cultural and youth issues.”
Mr Merlino said the Victorian Multicultural Commission’s selection process will seek young people that have the following:
- Diverse background (or experience): identify with a diverse faith, ethnicity or culture, be newly arrived or indigenous and/or have a strong interest in issues of equality, diversity, faith and culture;
- Established links within their communities: successful applicants will be able to demonstrate established links to community groups and/or networks;
- Time to commit: able to commit to a 12 month involvement with the MMYN. During this time, it is expected that MMYN members will be able to attend at least four meetings, be willing to get involved in projects generated within the MMYN and compile an annual report to the Premier, written in conjunction with other members;
- Enthusiasm and passion for cultural diversity: successful applicants will have enthusiasm and passion for the topics of faith and culture and issues affecting young Victorians. Creativity and innovative ideas on how communities might learn, engage or promote cultural and religious diversity in Victoria will be highly regarded.
The Multifaith Multicultural Youth Network is voluntary and meets 4-6 times a year. Applications close 16 August 2009. For further information or to apply go to: www.multicultural.vic.gov.au