MFO Newsletter

MAY 2023

The month of May marks Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month in Queensland, an annual initiative to raise community awareness of domestic and family violence and coercive control, and the support services available. The theme for 2023 is ‘It’s in our control to end coercive control’. www.mfo.org.au/information-resources


MFO would like to extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who works within Domestic Violence Prevention, to our SARA team, first responders, emergency and support services. We stand with you.

#endDFV

#endcoercivecontrol

#DFVPM2023

Power Nadeshiko - Japanese Women's Empowerment Project  

A series of short videos to raise awareness about how gender inequality contributes to violence against Japanese women and girls in Queensland.

 

Premiere viewing of the videos with topics such as visa options, discrimination and harassment, mental and physical health. Followed by a thought-provoking panel discussion with video participants and other experts from the field. MFO is proud to have been a part of this very important project and thanks to Yoshiko, Isabella, Rhys and Japan Community of Qld Inc and everyone involved. Book your tickets.
 

Saturday 20 May

9:30am for 10am start. Concluding at 12pm with a light lunch, free parking, Griffith University Gold Coast Campus G30_1.09 lecture room
https://events.humanitix.com/power-nadeshiko

 

Sunday 28 May

9:30am for 10am start. Concluding at 12pm with a light lunch, free parking, Griffith University Nathan Campus N16_0.03 lecture room

https://events.humanitix.com/power-nadeshiko-brisbane


This program is funded by
@Queensland Women

#womeninqld #IQWgrants

In an emergency call the police on Triple Zero (000).

DVConnect Womensline

1800 811 811

DVConnect Mensline

1800 600 636

1800RESPECT

1800 737 732

Sexual Assault Helpline 1800 010 120

Lifeline 13 11 14

TIS (Translating and Interpreting Service) 131 450

Gold Coast Youth Service provide vital support for Women and children escaping abusive relationships.

 

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Gold Coast Youth Service for their exceptional work in supporting women who have recently moved out of abusive relationships and are in financial stress while rebuilding their lives after the separation. As a specialist youth and homelessness support organisation, Gold Coast Youth Service provides crucial assistance to these women during their first or second week of renting, a time that can be particularly difficult for those having experienced domestic violence. This can be an incredibly vulnerable time for these women, and their service provides them with the support they need to establish themselves in a safe and secure home.

 

Homeless Connect 2023 is almost here.
More information will come soon on GCYS
Facebook but you can learn more through https://www.gchomelessnessnetwork.com/gold-coast-homeless-connect or email admin@gchomelessnetwork.com

Office for Women and Violence Prevention community events calendar

What has MFO been up to?

"I first heard of MFO two or three years ago, through the annual Multicultural Festival. I was a member of a singing group at the time, and we were asked to perform on stage at the Broadwater Parklands. Up until then, I was totally unaware that there was any organisation working with refugees on the Gold Coast. As I had had some contact with refugees in my previous work life, I was interested in what the MFO did, but really didn’t see that there was much I could do to help.

Then, last year I became a tutor at the University of the Third Age, directing and teaching ukulele and singing groups for retired and semi-retired people living on the southern Gold Coast. I felt that my classes needed a focus for their practise, and decided to put on a concert. I started asking around for suggestions for who we could try to support through a fund-raiser, when I remembered MFO, and made a call to find out more and see if we could do anything that would help. I was so warmly welcomed by Renata, Lillan and Kevin, and so impressed by all the MFO was doing, that I knew this was an organisation we could get behind. So on April 1st, we held our concert at the Elanora Community Centre, and it was an enormous success!"

"I must admit to being more than a little nervous that no one would come! This was, after all, the very first time my members had ever performed in public. Luckily, we received wonderful support from three other groups who agreed to perform on the evening: the Fasolati Singers, the Coolangatta Ukulele Players, and Afrakete Australia. With their help, we not only filled the evening with entertainment, but also filled the hall, leaving standing room only, and managed to raise over a thousand dollars!

 

I have since been fending off queries about when our next MFO concert will be! My members were all very proud of themselves afterwards, that they had both successfully performed on stage and at the same time had helped out a very worthwhile cause. I have also had a number of people approach me to tell me how pleased they were to learn about what was being done for refugees on the Gold Coast, and about the admirable work of MFO in supporting people in so many ways.

I think it is fair to say that it was a very happy outcome for all concerned!"

Ben McInnes

Tutor - U3A Southern Gold Coast

www.u3asoutherngoldcoast.org.au

FAITH - HOPE - CHARITY

Huge thank you to Ben McInness who organised this evening and to all wonderful performers U3A Singing Co Op, U3A Ukulele Group, The Fasolati Singers, Coolangatta Ukulele Group and the wonderful Christina from AFREKETE Australia. Families and friends were moving and grooving to the music and dance from all eras. There was time to hear first hand experience from Uncle Ben and the plight of a refugee he met while working in Nauru and his journey today. MFO staff shared about their roles and various programs they facilitate along with the support from amazing volunteers with much conviction and pride.

Aloha Nui (Big Love) from MFO and thank you for the kind donations and purchases of the inspirational booklet FINDING HOME that will go towards appreciative individuals and families that MFO works alongside with. It was indeed an honour to MC this event.

Kevin D

Multicultural Women’s Programs

After a short hiatus through the holidays the Multicultural Women’s Friendship group will recommence every Wednesday at the MFO office from Wednesday 3 May. We are also very excited to partner with the Women’s Space at Labrador to deliver monthly cooking classes that will be hosted by our talented women teaching each other how to cook traditional dishes from their country. The sewing group will also be running regularly on Mondays from 11 – 2pm. All women welcome to join in the fun. If you would like to receive WattsApp notifications about our women’s programs please text Rana on 0402261258 to register.

MFO "Sonshine" Men’s network

First Wednesday of the month at MFO office in Southport 5pm, share talk and listen, pls contact kevin@mfo.org 

Thanks to Adam from GC Men's Walk n Talk for joining us and sharing your story and the great initiative at Oxenford Lake so for more information https://www.goldcoastmenswalkntalk.com.au

Thank you from everyone at MFO for the kind invites, warm welcomes, beautiful dinners and company at the many Iftar events held all over the Gold Coast and Brisbane recently. Assalamu alaykum.

Here are a few pics. @ Arundel Mosque

Iftar is the evening meal that breaks the daily fast during Ramadan.

It is served at sunset during each day of Ramadan.

Literally, iftar means "break fast"

@ Australian International Islamic College

@ GC Multicultural Social Network Iftar at Broadbeach

@ Brighton Homes Arena, home to Brisbane Lions, Springfield.

Thanks to AFLQ and Bachar Houli Foundation

Pride, Passion and Pizza was on the main agenda at E_Suarve headquarters in Ormeau for their Graduation 8.0 students

Family members and friends along with local and state officials were welcomed and acknowledged, redemption stories shared, tears shed. More investment into this program is needed, they continue to make a huge difference in community with limited to no consistent funding. Your help is needed here on the Gold Coast!

Find out more how you can assist:

https://www.esuarve.com.au

Alternative Learning Program and Pathway To Employment. Youth Aged 16-24. MFO would like to congratulate the latest graduates and the hard working ESuarve team.

Join live and interactive conversation with Westfield Local Heroes, Camille Pepper and Joseph Te Puni-Fromont, Founders of Everything Suarve, a charity that helps disengaged people aged 15 to 24 turn their lives around.

 

This incredible charity offers a 10-week program that qualifies people aged 15 to 24 for entry-level construction jobs. Through Everything Suarve, they aim to boost people’s wellbeing, teach life skills and help them obtain employment opportunities in their desired career. They create a family environment full of love, support and kindness that otherwise would not be available.

LIVE and for FREE on Friday May 5th 12pm (AEST) by registering through the link below.

REGISTER NOW: https://cuppa.tv/.../a-cuppa-with-westfield-local-heroes...

E_Suarve Westfieldaunz Cuppa Maritza Barone

#westfieldlocalheroes #westfield #cuppatv #community #conversations

Youth At Promise Referral Form

In Depth with MFO

April 22, 2023, history in the making, and I was honoured to be there the very next day at an Australian Citizenship ceremony presided by Australian Prime Minister Albanese along with NZ Prime Minister Hipkins present. I would like to thank and acknowledge good friend and mentor Ms Vicky Rose for your persistence and advocacy along with many others. Read more below.
- Kevin D 

A new direct pathway to Australian citizenship for eligible New Zealand citizens. Changes in 2001 made it more difficult for New Zealanders in Australia to attain citizenship. From 1 July 2023, New Zealand citizens living in Australia will have a direct pathway to Australian citizenship.

All Special Category Visa holders will be able to apply directly for citizenship without becoming permanent residents first, as long as they meet a four-year residence and other eligibility requirements.

“As we mark the 50th anniversary of the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, I look forward to strengthening our relationship.”

“We know that many New Zealanders are here on a Special Category Visa while raising families, working and building their lives in Australia. So I am proud to offer the benefits that citizenship provides.”

Prime Minister Albanese:

 

“Today’s changes will strengthen ties with our closest neighbour, and will mean the many people already living and working in our communities can enjoy the benefits of citizenship.

Minister Clare O’Neil:

2023 MFO Volunteer profile:

"My name is Yanyan, a current Year 10 student at QAHS, and a volunteer at MFO. I came to Australia about four years ago without knowing anyone on this land. I wouldn’t be here today without the help from many people; this is why I became a volunteer at Multicultural Family Organisation, to give back to society. I, and many others provide free tutoring and educational support to students who are in need every week. As a young person, I wanted to help more youth, whether they are refugees, immigrants, or have English as their second language like me. This opportunity not only allows me to teach, but to learn. Hearing stories from students who lived in different parts of the planet opened my mind and made me think about some very concerning real-world problems."

"This is my third-year volunteering at MFO.

Last year I was selected to represent MFO in the Moncrieff Youth Roundtable and discussed priority areas for Australian youth. Our discussion was later taken by MP Angie Bell, Shadow Minister for Early Childhood Education and Shadow Minister for Youth, to the Federal Parliament in Canberra. I had the pleasure of giving a speech, show my Chinese traditional dress and perform Hanfu at the 2022 MFO annual Leaders of Positive Change dinner. After my performance, I was presented a copy of Ms Bell’s Federal Parliament Speech by MP John-Paul Langbroek. As a member of the Moncrieff Youth Cabinet, we were also responsible for helping before, during and after the first Gold Coast IMPACT Youth Summit. It was a great opportunity for Youth to hear from incredible speakers and be prepared in making the world a better place for future leaders.

 

These experiences are unreplaceable and memorable for me and my future goals. This year I have been part of the Gold Coast Junior Council and started a Chinese Dance Group in my school to continue sharing my culture, ready to make more positive impacts, and to be, as my MFO shirt always says, a Leader of Positive Change"

YOUTH HOMELESSNESS MATTERS IN AUSTRALIA!

Multiple services collaborated with Gold Coast Youth Service to support and celebrate young people, promote the Gold Coast Youth Network QR code that has contacts for essential services, safe spaces and hubs for health and well-being. https://taplink.cc/help.contacts...

Thanks to Gold Coast Youth Service, MFO, Fierce Females, Mi Best Life, TMC, Mission Australia, Women’s Self Defence, Anglicare, City of Gold Coast, Tenancy QLD.

More Fantastic Opportunities

Women’s Employment Program

Our next WE EARN employment workshops will commence on Tuesday 2nd of May at MFO supporting women to build their confidence, build their capacity and be get ready for the Australian workplace. We still have a few spaces available if you would like to register please contact rana@mfo.org.au. One on one mentoring is also available by appointment from the beginning of June.

The NDIS have recently introduced a New Participant Safeguarding policy to better protect people with disabilities and their families to manage risks that may be present in their lives.

 

The aim of the policy is to:

•            improve how the NDIS support people with disability, participants, and their support networks to create or increase safeguards

•            be more proactive to support people with disability, participants, and their support networks to identify, assess and manage risk of harm

•            have clear roles and responsibilities in the NDIS support system

•            improve safeguarding resources for people with disability and our staff.

 

MFO welcomes these safeguards and supports the implementation on this policy.

If you or someone you know is in need of disabilities support or assistance, please do not hesitate to contacts us on 07 5571 0381 or to reception@mfo.org.au We currently have space to assist individuals with Plan Management, Support Coordination, In-home supports and assistance to connect in the community.

"What a great time away. I just recently spent a week in Bali. It was a great experience, spent most of the time by the pool or getting a massage. There were a few adventures like; ATV bikes, Swings, Jet Ski’s, and speed boats. It was amazing holiday; however, it is great to be back with the MFO team and clients. Here are a few photos from the trip"

Tash - NDIS Admin for MFO

 

We are currently 4 weeks into our 3rd intake of our Certificate III in Individual Support, where has the year gone?! It’s awesome to see the passion and drive each of the students have, on their journey to becoming an Individual Support Worker. BePath Education have been amazing in delivering an engaging course where the students feel excited to learn. Our next intake is in August 9th so be sure to register your interest early if you would like to enrol.

Certificate II in Supply Chain Operations is a fantastic opportunity to upskill and gain a FREE FORKLIFT LICENCE! We have had great feedback from our previous students who are now in full time employment. Our next intake starts May 18th.

 

To register your interest in either of these courses please contact Nicole on nicole@mfo.org.au

Fee-Free TAFE which replaced the Free TAFE for under 25s program from 1 January 2023, will allow eligible Queenslanders to study high priority qualifications for free at TAFE Queensland and Central Queensland University (CQU) only. “FEE-FREE” means that some or all of the students’ course costs will be covered by the Australian and Queensland Governments.

 

For those already training under the previous Free TAFE for under 25s program, there are no changes to their free training. The Free apprenticeships for under 25s program is separate and is available for new enrolments until 31 December 2023.

 

The Queensland Government's Good people. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022–2032 aims to connect, educate and attract the people needed to meet the state's unprecedented workforce demand in existing and new industry sectors to support continued economic growth.

 

Over 90 industry-recognised courses are being offered at TAFE including those in-demand skills in high-priority areas such as:

  • Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

  • Diploma of Community Services

  • Diploma of Business

  • Diploma of Nursing (*eligible to First Nations Australian, people with disability or people from cultural and linguistically diverse background)

  • Certificate III in School Based Education Support

  • Certificate III in Information Technology

  • Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

  • Certificate III in Individual Support and Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability)

  • Certificate IV in Cyber Security

  • Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping

 

Currently eligible students are only able to complete one (1) Fee-Free TAFE funded qualification.

 

To be eligible for Fee-Free TAFE funding, you must be:

  • an Australian or New Zealand citizen or Australian permanent resident (including humanitarian entrants), or a temporary resident with the necessary visa and work permits on the pathway to permanent residence

  • a Queensland resident

  • be aged 15 years or older, and no longer in school

  • no longer at school

  • not currently enrolled in a qualification (not including foundation skills training)

 

For those who may not meet eligibility criteria, they may be eligible for some other subsidised training course options available HERE. If you hold a visa, you must ensure your visa subclass is eligible for subsidised training.

 

Students from the following priority groups are strongly encouraged to apply:

  • First Nations Australians

  • young people aged 17-24

  • people out of work or receiving income support

  • unpaid carers

  • women facing economic insecurity

  • women undertaking study in non-traditional fields

  • people with disability.

 

For more information on courses available and how to enrol please go to Fee Free TAFE | Department of Employment, Small Business and Training (desbt.qld.gov.au)

The Voice referendum transcends political and cultural divides.

That is why our communities are uniting to support the referendum on Indigenous constitutional recognition. Multicultural community organisations must take a leadership position in raising awareness on the importance of enshrining a First Nations Voice into the Australian Constitution.

 

https://www.multiculturalforvoice.org/ was developed to encourage our Multicultural communities to be a part of this important and historical referendum.

Pasifika and Māori Health Strategy Website

The website is designed to be the online ‘home’ of the Strategy. A collaborative place where you can easily find and can read all things ‘Pasifika and Māori Health Strategy’ including strategy updates/reports, view culturally appropriate health resources, and locate community services via our interactive online directory.

 

How to access?

https://pasifikamaorihealthstrategy.org.au/

Multicultural Connect line 1300 079 020
The Refugee Health Network Queensland

Sunday 18 June – Saturday 24 June 2023 is Refugee Week

MFO is looking forward to engaging with local schools in the lead up.

Order your copy of "FINDING HOME - Journeys of Hope"
For the past 23 years Multicultural Families Organisation has had the privilege of supporting thousands of refugee families settling on the Gold Coast. We have comforted them through their tragedies, and rejoiced with them through their celebrations. We have assisted them to adapt and thrive in their new country and have seen the incredibly valuable contribution that their vibrant cultures have brought to our beautiful city. These are some of their inspirational stories of strength, resilience and survival and their long journey to their new home on the Gold Coast.

 

100% of all proceeds of this book go back into supporting newly arrived refugees on the Gold Coast.

MFO acknowledge and pay respect to the Traditional Custodians of this land, the Kombumerri People of the Yugambeh Language Region, and pay our respect to Elders past, present and emerging on this land we work and provide services. We extend respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and acknowledge their continuing connection to their culture, community and country.

 
Contact Us

Crisis support

In case of an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) for Police, Fire or Ambulance.

  • DV Connect 1800 811 811
  • Lifeline 13 11 14
  • Mental Health Access Line 1300 MH Call (1300 642 255)
  • Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
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