The McGowan Government has established a new Ministerial Multicultural Advisory Council (MMAC) to consult on issues facing culturally and linguistically diverse communities of Western Australia.
The Council will advise the Government and Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Interests, on government policy, programs, services and planning processes as well as emerging issues and trends in multiculturalism.
The MMAC will play an important role in assisting the Minister in reviewing and monitoring the implementation of the Western Australian Multicultural Policy Framework, which was introduced by the McGowan Government in February 2020. It will also contribute to consultations with other public sector agencies.
In recognition of the importance of contributions from Western Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the McGowan Government has introduced remuneration for this Council.
The new council includes a Co-Chairperson, selected from CaLD community leaders and representatives, appointed on an initial 12-month term.
The inaugural 15 members of the MMAC are: Enzo Sirna AM (co-chairperson), Nick Agocs JP, Surya Ambati, Dr Ting Chen, Andrea Creado, Joan Hillman OAM, Abdullah Khan, Nafiso Mohamed, Dr Anh Nguyen, Maria Osman, Joansy King, Wendy Rose, Dr Casta Tungaraza, Salim Youssef and Dr Edward Zang. A 16th member is yet to be appointed.
For more information, visit http://www.omi.wa.gov.au
As stated by Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Paul Papalia:
"The newly appointed Ministerial Multicultural Advisory Council will provide invaluable support that will assist the McGowan Government to deliver responsive policies and services, and create equitable opportunities for participation across the community.
"The committee consists of people with a wealth of knowledge and experience. I look forward to working with them to ensure Western Australia remains a strong, vibrant and inclusive multicultural society well into the future."
