Launching a Groundbreaking Research Report
On 15 May, ECCQ, in partnership with QUT and Multicultural Affairs Queensland (MAQ), launched the Phase One Report of the Sustainability of Multicultural Organisations in Queensland at Parliament House. The launch was officiated by Dr Christian Rowan MP on behalf of the Hon Fiona Simpson MP.
This collaborative research marks a major step in identifying the challenges facing multicultural organisations and exploring how their sustainability can be strengthened. The report is the result of surveys and co-design workshops conducted across the state from September 2024 to February 2025, with multicultural organisations directly shaping the process.
Key findings highlight funding instability, limited access to long-term grants, and growing competition. The next phase will focus on co-designing solutions with more community organisations. I thank all members and stakeholders who contributed to this significant work. Click here to express your interest in Phase Two
Read the report here: Sustainability of Multicultural Organisations in Queensland / ECCQ Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland
Engaging with the New Federal Government
This month also saw the re-election of the Albanese Labor Government in the federal election. In response, we have written to key ministers to offer our congratulations and reaffirm ECCQ’s commitment to advancing multicultural communities in Australia.
We acknowledged Dr Anne Aly MP, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, for her dedication to equity and inclusion, and Sam Rae MP, Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, highlighting ECCQ’s relevant services such as Berlasco and Diversicare.
We also thanked Anika Wells MP for her ongoing support, including the opening of Berlasco, and congratulated Tony Burke MP on his new portfolio covering Home Affairs, Immigration, Cyber Security, and the Arts. Further letters were sent to Queensland-based ministers, including Jim Chalmers MP, Senator Murray Watt, and Senator Anthony Chisholm, outlining ECCQ’s priorities and opportunities for collaboration.
Looking Ahead to Refugee Week
From 15–21 June 2025, we will mark Refugee Week, guided by this year’s theme: Finding Freedom: Diversity in Community. It’s a time to reflect on the resilience, strength, and contributions of people from refugee backgrounds, and to advocate for inclusive policies that support their full participation in Australian society.
Australia has welcomed more than 900,000 refugees and humanitarian entrants since the Humanitarian Program began in 1947 (Department of Home Affairs), including over 190,000 who have been resettled since 2000 (Refugee Council of Australia).
Many now actively contribute across sectors such as health, education, business, and community services. In Queensland, refugee and migrant communities are essential to the state’s social and economic fabric, with their contributions recognised in the Queensland Multicultural Policy (Queensland Government) and national reports highlighting their value to regional growth and small business development.
We look forward to coming together with our communities and partners—to listen, to learn, and to honour the journeys of those who have sought safety and freedom in Australia.
Sincerely,
Lisa Ward
Chief Executive Officer
