Queensland is home to over 1.2 million people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, representing more than 220 countries and speaking over 180 languages ((Australian Bureau of Statistics Standards for Statistics on Cultural and Language Diversity). These communities contribute billions of dollars annually to our economy through entrepreneurship, innovation, and workforce participation. They are also deeply engaged in civic life, volunteering, leading community organizations, and enriching our cultural landscape. Small businesses, many of which are CALD-led, make up over 97% of all businesses in the state and contribute significantly to employment.
During this month, ECCQ has been privileged to join significant events, from the Premier’s Multicultural Month reception to the Australian Institute of International Affairs (AIIA) Annual Dinner with former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, to meetings with the Hon Julian Hill MP and Senator Paul Scarr alongside the Chin community. It is wonderful to see our communities recognised through receptions and public events. These occasions matter and they show that diversity is valued. But the real test of commitment is taking the time to engage deeply with the issues that matter to our communities. Receptions should not be the end of the conversation, but the beginning, a chance to secure commitment for a serious discussion.
As I reflect on Multicultural Month, I am deeply moved by the impact our communities continue to make. The month began with the Migrants Expo organized by Bhartiya Samaj, followed by the inaugural Cultural Fashion Show, proudly supported by ECCQ alongside MCCQ, both events bringing together talent, skill and innovation.
A highlight for me was the Vietnamese Women’s Association of QLD’s Gala Dinner, commemorating 50 years since the first Vietnamese arrived in Brisbane on 9 August 1975. Their ongoing contributions, influence and impact were reflected in this year’s gala. Special thank you to President Mai Nguyen-Tu for three decades of dedicated leadership.
Finally, I would like to extend an invitation to ECCQ’s upcoming members meeting on Tuesday 9 September 2025. Our members regularly interact with highly influential people, yet many are not fully capitalising on these opportunities to create positive outcomes for their communities. To help build the skills and confidence needed to change that, we have invited Kirsty Nancarrow as our guest speaker.
Read more on Kirsty: Kirsty Nancarrow | Australian Author & Media Trainer
RSVP to attend: ECCQ Members Meeting: Impact Through Media & Storytelling
Kindly,
Lisa Ward
