Media Statements - Nominations sought for 2006 Multicultural Community Service Awards

4/01/06

Western Australians who work to promote multiculturalism and combat racism should be nominated for commendation in the 2006 Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Interests’ Multicultural Community Service Awards.

Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Margaret Quirk is encouraging nominations from individuals and community organisations that have made outstanding contributions in advancing multiculturalism, human rights, and anti-racism in WA.

“Our community is enriched by people from many cultural traditions and histories. One in two Western Australians was born overseas or their parents were born overseas,” Ms Quirk said.

“These Awards are an important way to publicly recognise and applaud those people who promote the ideals of multiculturalism and community cohesion through excellence and innovation in empowering minority communities.

“The Gallop Government is committed to building an inclusive society which is free of prejudice and discrimination.

“All Western Australians are entitled to exercise their rights and participate fully in society, regardless of their different linguistic, religious, racial, and ethnic backgrounds.”

The Minister will present up to five awards to individual Western Australians and one award to a service organisation. Winners will receive a cash prize of $500 and a trophy.

The 2006 Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Interests’ Multicultural Community Service Awards ceremony will be held during Harmony Week in March 2006.

Nominations for the awards, which opened on November 14, 2005, close on Friday January 13, 2006.

Information and nomination forms can be obtained from the Office of Multicultural Interests’ website at http://www.omi.wa.gov.au or by calling the Office of Multicultural Interests on 9222 8800.

Minister's office: 9213 7000