Canberra is to become one of only 38 locations in the world to achieve an ‘Advanced’ level of accreditation with the Welcoming Cities Network.
Celebrating the achievement, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Tara Cheyne said the Welcoming Cities Network was a national network of cities, shires, towns and municipalities committed to an Australia where everyone could belong and participate.
Ms Cheyne said that since 2021, Canberra had held an ‘Established’ level of accreditation with the Network.
“This Harmony Week I’m very pleased to announce we have received provisional approval from Welcoming Australia to elevate Canberra to the ‘Advanced’ level of accreditation,” Ms Cheyne said.
“Canberra is one of only 38 locations across the globe with this level of accreditation,” she said.
“This is a testament to those in our community who work hard to make this a welcoming and inclusive city for all.”
Ms Cheyne said Harmony Week 2023 (20–26 March) was a chance for Canberrans to embrace the city’s cultural diversity
She said the rich diversity of Canberra was part of what made the ACT a great place to call home.
“Harmony Week provides an opportunity to not only celebrate Canberra’s cultural diversity but to reflect on the efforts being made across Government and community to ensure Canberra is a welcoming and inclusive city for everyone,” the Minister for Multicultural Affairs said.
“I’m also pleased to announce that through this year’s Participation Multicultural Grants Program, we have funded more than 50 community organisations for a range of projects, programs and events throughout the year which aim to build social cohesion and foster a sense of belonging in our great city.”
