Multicultural Reference Group

Coffs Harbour has been culturally diverse for a long time, with its Sikh population and local indigenous people a prime example. Over the past couple of years however, the City has seen a major increase in its migrant population, adding to its cultural diversity. New residents have settled here from across the globe, with many arriving from Africa, South America and Europe. 

During the development of Council's Social and Community Strategic Plan 2006-2010 (adopted by Council in April 2006), the community identified the need for a mechanism to engage its multicultural community.

It is a acknowledged that the City will continue to grow and evolve as a multicultural society and as such Council in late 2006 appointed its Multicultural Reference Group as the method by which it could connect with this section of the community.

Objectives of the Multicultural Reference Group

To positively promote cultural differences and the benefits those differences can have on the whole community.

To develop and support services and activities in accordance with local needs and promote community participation in the planning, management and delivery of those services and activities to the community.

Membership of the Multicultural Reference Group

The Multicultural Reference Group is made up of representatives from Council, culture-specific persons and multicultural organisations and services.

The Role of the Group

To service people in the community from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, raise awareness of the needs of culturally diverse people, initiate change when necessary through a range of initiatives and advice Council on multicultural issues.

The Future 

The success of the Multicultural Reference Group to achieve change, educate and promote the benefits of being part of a multicultural community will depend on the efforts of each individual member working as a united Group.

Contacting the Group

To contact the Multicultural Reference Group, you can call Susan Clarke at Council on 6648 4833 or email her: susan.clarke@chcc.nsw.gov.au