The Queensland Department of Children, Youth Justice and Multicultural Affairs in conjunction with Multicultural Australia launched a program called The Culture Collective earlier today at Cleveland District High School.
The Culture Collective program supports schools to build inclusive and safe spaces for everyone. It is founded on evidence-based best practice, and has been developed with students, for students.
Speaking at the launch, Minister for Multicultural Affairs Leanne Linard commended Multicultural Australia for developing the program.
"Communities thrive when we work together to make sure everyone is supported to connect, contribute and feel welcomed," she said.
"The Culture Collective pilot program creates places where everyone belongs and engages young people in the journey of creating safe places.
"This program is about expanding knowledge and awareness of differences and giving young people the tools, they need to think critically so they can challenge stereotypes wherever they appear."
Chief Executive Officer for Multicultural Australia, Christine Castley said they were delighted to be launching this program in partnership with the Queensland Government.
"Our organisation exists to create welcoming places, celebrate diversity, and foster inclusion. This program is a fantastic way of developing these perspectives with young adults, as future leaders of our great country," she said.
"Through storytelling, role plays, and other interactive learning activities, we hope to encourage the 20 pilot schools to build on their existing inclusion and diversity curricula, encourage positive connections, and create welcome in their communities."
The Culture Collective will host its first program at Cleveland District State High School in early November. Multicultural Australia will be working up until August 2022 with other Queensland schools to facilitate the program.
School principals are invited to register their interest for the program to be delivered at their school. To register your interest, please complete the online form accessible on the Multicultural Australia website at https://www.multiculturalaustralia.org.au/news.
