Media Release: SUPPORTING MULTICULTURAL COMMUNITIES IN GILMORE

Media Release: SUPPORTING MULTICULTURAL COMMUNITIES IN GILMORE Main Image

01 April 2025

Fiona Phillips, Federal Member for Gilmore today announced that a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will deliver funding to the Multicultural Communities Council of Illawarra (MCCI) for its Shoalhaven Multicultural Hub.

This $50,000 election commitment will help MCCI to support new migrants arriving in the Shoalhaven region and help them to coordinate local events across all multicultural communities.

The funding will ensure MCCI is able to continue to provide practical support to new migrants and promote community participation and social connections.

Shoalhaven Multicultural Hub provides a range of services to support the multicultural community making sure they are welcomed and have access to the resources they need to feel at home

Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.

Quotes attributable to Fiona Phillips, Federal member for Gilmore:

“I am delighted that a returned Albanese Labor Government will continue supporting MCCI’s Shoalhaven Multicultural Hub with $50,000 for its critical community development work.

“MCCI does fantastic work in our communities across the South Coast, and I have been championing the idea of this hub since before its inception.

“This funding will allow the Shoalhaven Hub to continue supporting our growing multicultural community, to build connections, navigate support services and create social cohesion, as well as provide advice and supports to local organisations doing inspirational work across the South Coast.

“I’m proud to have previously supported the hub’s Italian Seniors Group with a funding boost under the Commonwealth Home Support Program.

“As local people age, social support and connection becomes even more important, especially in regional multicultural communities like ours, that can be more heavily impacted by social isolation.

“MCCI’s social groups aim to support people with company and friendship to overcome isolation and loneliness.

“We are so lucky to have such a vibrant and active community with so many people from all around the world coming together at the hub which provides an inclusive and diverse space for everyone.

“I’d like to thank all of the MCCI team for their advocacy and commitment to improving the lives of our multicultural and interfaith communities.”