Advisory group to advance multiculturalism in Western Australia

Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister John Castrilli today announced the appointment of the State Government's 2010 Multicultural Advisory Group (MAG).

Mr Castrilli said MAG was established as an important election commitment to address the long term needs and aspirations of culturally and linguistically diverse communities in Western Australia.

"The MAG has been appointed for a two-year term and will improve the effectiveness of State services to culturally and linguistically diverse communities," he said.

"I am pleased the State has a strategic team of highly experienced and respected individuals to lead WA in achieving the full potential of multiculturalism."

The Minister said of all the States, WA had the highest proportion of people born overseas and was home to more than 200 cultural groups and nearly 300 languages.

"The State Government can maximise the benefits of this diversity and migration growth through leadership and direct engagement with key stakeholders," he said.

Members of the new MAG are:

·             Mr Steve Bowman, Edmund Rice Centre

·             Ms Josephine Buontempo, Kasali Migration and Visa Services Australia

·             Mr Ernest Gusta, Midwest Multicultural Association

·             Ms Clare Meyers, City of Stirling

·             Mr Michael O'Hara, Metropolitan Migrant Resource Centre

·             Mr Pankaj Pathak, Phoenix English Language Academy

·             Dr Casta Tungaraza, Equal Opportunity and Social Justice, Murdoch University

·             Reverend Joe Vermeulen, Christian Reform Church.

"I congratulate the new MAG members on their appointment and welcome their contribution to advancing multiculturalism in WA," Mr Castrilli said.