15/12/00
The inspirational stories of people working in one of the world’s most diverse workplaces can be found in a new publication called Voices of Diversity.
Voices of Diversity traces the journeys of 14 migrants now working in Western Australia’s public sector and is a joint project of the Office of Citizenship and Multicultural Interests and the Office of Equal Employment Opportunity.
Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Rob Johnson said Voices of Diversity provided a unique insight into the experiences of migrants in the workplace.
“Many State public sector employees were born overseas and their contributions highlight the importance of this sector as an equal opportunity employer able to support difference and promote diverse management practices,” Mr Johnson said.
“Specifically, these authors provide inspiration for dealing with obstacles, relay positive experiences and offer suggestions to new recruits who may find themselves in similar positions.”
One of the employees, Mandurah’s Eduardo Farate, visited Australia in 1979 on a holiday and liked it so much that he decided to emigrate.
Mr Farate, originally from Monte Estori in Portugal, got his first job in Perth as a result of being sick.
“I had seen a doctor at Fremantle Hospital, which led to a job as a casualty clerk, although being able to speak four other languages was an advantage,” Mr Farate said.
“After working a while, I decided I wanted to study further and did a Bachelor of Social Work Course at Curtin University, where I am now finishing my Masters.
“As a member of the Portuguese community, I became aware of the history of many of my country folk since they started arriving in Western Australia.
“Personally, I have not experienced discrimination in the workplace or in the community in general, but I know there is no room for complacency and that we must all remain active to spread the word of multiculturalism.”
Mr Farate now works as a senior social worker with the Department of Family and Children’s Services.
Voices of Diversity features the stories of migrants from Canada, China, Egypt, India, Malaysia, Philippines, Portugal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Venezuela and Vietnam.
Copies are available from State Government agency libraries or by calling Public Affairs at the Office of Citizenship and Multicultural Interests on 9426 8690.
Media contact: Fran Hodge (08) 9215 4800
