Handa
Participate in MCCSA Community Voices Radio Program at 5EBI
Multicultural Affairs Grants Program
Mental Health Kids Hub
Latvian Stobie Pole Project
Executive Chairperson: Miriam Cocking
Deputy Chairperson: Dr Ian Harmstorf OAM BVK
Treasurer: Silvio Iadarola
Board Members
Con Katsambis
Gosia Skalban OAM
Manju Khadka
Nasir Hussain
Patrizia Kadis
Ranielson Santana de Silva
Suren Edgar
Zainab Jimie
HELENA KYRIAZOPOULOS OAM
The Multicultural Communities Council of South Australia has a duty to advocate for our members and the many communities that make up the rich social fabric of South Australia. It is for this reason that we recognised the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, March 21st. It is important for us as individuals and as a society to address these issues openly and with courage so we can collectively find ways to address racism wherever it persists.
MCCSA encourages our communities and key stakeholders to discuss social equity, the harms of intolerance, action for a better tomorrow and how we can build a more inclusive South Australia for all. We all have a part to play in building a world beyond racism.
The Multicultural Communities Council of South Australia continues to advocate for the Government of South Australia to address skilled migrant retention.
As the peak multicultural body in the state, MCCSA calls on all political parties to treat skilled migrant retention as a workforce and economic priority.
South Australia faces ongoing workforce shortages in health, aged care, construction, education, and technical fields. Skilled migrants are already employed across these sectors. However, many leave for other states that offer clearer pathways, stronger incentives, and improved working conditions. South Australia is in need of skilled migrants and our state needs policy reform to support this.
Retention requires the same policy focus as attraction. When skilled migrants leave, the state loses skills, experience, and long-term economic value.
Family settlement affects retention outcomes. Spouses need access to employment, community connections, and support to navigate local systems. Early access to stable housing also affects whether migrants remain in South Australia.
MCCSA looks forward to working alongside state government to ensure economic resilience, workforce stability and furthering the interests of multicultural communities across South Australia.
Enjoy this edition of Community Voices featuring stories from our diverse membership and communities.
MOSAIC Adelaide is a community group that brings people from diverse cultural backgrounds together. Through festivals, community nights, and social activities filled with music, food, and dancing, MOSAIC celebrates diversity and creates a space where people feel welcome. Organisations like this are important because they help individuals build confidence, leadership skills, connections, make friends, and feel proud of who they are while contributing to a kinder and more connected community.
A few months ago, I found myself going through a phase in life where I was searching for something meaningful, a positive distraction and a sense of purpose beyond the usual routine of studies and work. I came across MOSAIC through a short reel on Instagram. The energy and positivity of the people in the video immediately stood out to me, and without much hesitation, I decided to fill out the volunteer form on MOSAIC’s page.
“From the moment I began attending MOSAIC events, I felt a strong sense of belonging.”
What surprised me most was what happened next. I submitted the form, and shortly after, I received a call from the CEO of the organisation. He greeted me in my cultural language and spoke with warmth and kindness that instantly made me feel comfortable. That brief conversation made me feel genuinely welcomed, and by the end of the call, I had already signed up for upcoming volunteer events.
Each community night is filled with people eating together, dancing, singing, and sharing stories from their cultures and personal journeys. I especially enjoy listening to different perspectives and learning from people with backgrounds very different from my own. MOSAIC provides a platform where everyone feels heard and valued.
MOSAIC became more than just a volunteering opportunity for me — it became a community and, eventually, a family. I formed meaningful friendships and never felt left out. Events such as community nights, cooking classes, and group outings like strawberry picking were always filled with authentic connection and joy. For the first time, I willingly set aside work commitments to take part in extracurricular activities because MOSAIC felt like a true home away from home.
Looking back, I can confidently say that MOSAIC has contributed to my personal growth. It reminded me of the power of human connection and the importance of inclusive community spaces. MOSAIC gave me a place where I truly belong.
The Governor’s Multicultural Awards recognise and celebrate outstanding South Australians who promote multiculturalism and increase understanding of the benefits of cultural diversity in our community.
Administered by the Department of the Premier and Cabinet through Multicultural Affairs, the Awards are presented by Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia, on the advice of an independent judging panel.
The 2025 award recipients were announced at a ceremony at Government House on Wednesday 4 March 2026.
Learn more about the recipients and their outstanding contributions to our state at multicultural.sa.gov.au/gma.
Outstanding Individual Achievement Award: MS MARITA ALDRIDGE
Regional Achievement Award: MRS SUZANNE PEPE
Arts and Culture Award: MRS CLAUDIA CALLISTO and MR YOGI DEVGAN (joint winners)
Community Sector Award: BABA MAZARI FOUNDATION
Media Award: UMEEWARRA ABORIGINAL MEDIA ASSOCIATION
Private Sector Award: ACCOR GROUP SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Public Sector Award: INTERPRETING AND TRANSLATING CENTRE, DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
Volunteer Award: MRS MAJABIN ZAIDI
Senior Volunteer Award: MRS BARBARA BOXER AND MR BRANIMIR SPRAJCER (joint winners)
Youth Award: MR GO SUAN PAU
Watch the full ceremony here: https://www.youtube.com/live/EVnqNDlUruw?si=eqKUmvMu2-vb1l6
The Multicultural Communities Council of South Australia (MCCSA) is partnering with 5EBI Multicultural Radio to offer multicultural community groups (MCCSA Members) the opportunity to participate in the Community Voices Radio Program, broadcasting from 5EBI studios at 10 Byron Place, Adelaide SA 5000.
Visit https://5ebi.com.au/ programs/mccsa-communityvoices for more information.
Click here for the location on Google Maps.
This program gives communities the chance to share stories, culture, language, music, information and community updates directly with their audiences over the airwaves.
» Community groups can nominate their interest and preferred timeslot from the available Community Voices programs.
» Each group must have a minimum of two presenters.
» Interested groups must contact and confirm participation with Lenard Sciancalepore | MCCSA Communications Officer and Pattie Todorovic –Station Manager, 5EBI before final scheduling is confirmed.
» Participants will receive training on how to operate the 5EBI radio panel and how to pre-record programs.
» Groups will then be booked into a training session.
» A buddy system will support your presenters for the first three on-air sessions to ensure confidence and smooth delivery.
Participating in Community Voices helps your community to:
» Reach older audiences and listeners with accessibility requirements
» Hear programming in their own language
» Share important community information, services and resources
» Promote cultural celebrations, activities and events
» Provide entertainment, music, storytelling and conversation that reflects your community
If your community group is interested in being part of Community Voices on 5EBI, please complete this Expression of Interest Form and select your preferred timeslot.
We look forward to hearing your voice on air!
The Department of the Premier and Cabinet administer the Multicultural Grants Program. This competitive program assists multicultural communities in celebrating South Australia’s diversity through their festivals, educational and capacity building events and intercultural projects.
The Multicultural Grants Program includes Celebrate Together, Expand Together, Stronger Together, Community Language School Infrastructure and Multicultural Festival funding streams.
For information about these streams of funding, please visit the Multicultural Grants Program. You can find useful grant information, including Frequently asked questions, Grant tutorials and Important terms on the Department of the Premier and Cabinet website at: www.dpc.sa.gov.au/ responsibilities/multiculturalaffairs/grants
You can also contact the Department of the Premier and Cabinet’s Multicultural Affairs grants team on 1300 239 468 or at MulticulturalAffairs@ sa.gov.au to discuss the program or a grant application.
To receive updates on Multicultural Affairs grants and more please subscribe to Multicultural Affairs Quick News
PAULA HAITAMBA
The Multicultural Communities Council of South Australia (MCCSA) is an organisation that empowers and advocates for culturally diverse communities across South Australia. I was introduced to the CAB Project a few months after arriving in Australia. After learning about the programs on offer, I was curious to become part of this welcoming community.
At first, I was not completely convinced that the program would truly connect me with opportunities that matched my interests. That changed when I met Ayma, the connector assigned to support me. She took time to meet with me for relaxed, genuine conversations, carefully drawing out my interests and suggesting activities that suited me. She went beyond simply recommending options, she actively helped facilitate my registrations, participation and set reminders for me.
What impressed me most was her commitment. At one point, I even assumed she was part of the organising committee for some of the events she recommended. Later, I realised she often was not connected to the organisers at all. She simply made my engagement a priority because the activities aligned with my goals. That level of personalised support was very commendable.
For a long time, I had wanted to learn how to swim, but back home swimming was not that big of a deal. I mentioned this to Ayma but honestly did not think it would be possible in a new country. To my surprise, she confidently told me, “Paula, I will get you your swimming lessons.” True to her word, she secured an open nomination for me, and my lessons are scheduled to begin this year. This experience showed me that with the right support, the CAB Project truly opens doors.
I have also attended some events hosted by MCCSA, where I have drawn so much
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of this supportive community.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of this supportive community.
wisdom, on how we can better build inclusive societies within our communities. This was an eye opener for me because where I come from, people are grouped based on their abilities, and it is accepted as normal to have such inequalities. I am inspired and it’s my aspiration to pave the way one day at a time for our future generations, to what inclusion really mean and should look like.
This journey has been one of personal growth, meaningful connections, and I could not have navigated it without the strong foundation the CAB Project has provided. To the CAB Project team, thank you for the life changing work you do. You are the epitome of home away from home, changing lives in the most beautiful way.
A strong business begins with knowing your tax and super responsibilities and how to meet them with confidence. To succeed, business owners need strong basics. They need to know their obligations and how to meet them.
Essentials to Strengthen Your Small Business is a free online learning resource from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). It helps small business owners learn the skills they need. It’s simple to use, , flexible, and can be tailored by industry or at different stages of a business. This helps owners get the right information at the right time.
Essentials supports new and growing businesses. It explains how to set up a business, how to run it, and how to close it. The courses are practical and easy to follow – and they help business owners build confidence. When owners understand their responsibilities, they can plan ahead, make informed choicesand stay in control.
Essentials offers more than 30 courses. It’s designed for people from many cultural and language backgrounds.
Business owners can choose their own learning path. They can explore topics such as:
» Reporting obligations – what to do when a business has workers, needs to report goods and services tax (GST) or fringe benefits tax.
» Business management –how to keep good records, improve cash flow, or plan for growth.
» Stages of a business – how to start a business, test if an idea is viable, or prepare to close a business.
Explore these resources today: https://smallbusiness. taxsuperandyou.gov.au
The Southern Adelaide Medicare Mental Health Kids Hub offers free, welcoming mental health and wellbeing support for children up to 12 years old and their families.
The Kids Hub provides a calm, child-friendly space where families can talk openly about their child’s emotions, behaviour, development, or wellbeing.
A key focus of the Kids Hub is early intervention. When children receive help early, it can positively influence emotional regulation, behaviour, social skills, and overall wellbeing.
Each family receives personalised support tailored to their needs, which may include:
» An initial assessment.
» Care planning and practical advice.
» Counselling and therapy (up to 10 sessions).
» Connections to other health, education, and community services.
Interpreters are available to support families who need language assistance. Families from all cultural backgrounds are warmly welcomed.
The Southern Adelaide Medicare Mental Health Kids Hub is operated by Sonder, a South Australian not-for-profit organisation with more than 30 years’ experience delivering health and community services.
To ensure the Kids Hub is inclusive, culturally safe, and responsive. The service is delivered in partnership with:
Multicultural Communities Council of SA - supporting culturally and linguistically diverse children and families through strong community relationships and cultural understanding.
Kudos Services - providing specialist child development and therapeutic support to help families better understand and respond to their child’s needs.
KWY Aboriginal Corporation –offering cultural leadership and strong community connections to ensure Aboriginal children and families are supported respectfully.
The Southern Adelaide Medicare Mental Health Kids Hub is available at:
Marion
Location: GP Plus Marion, Level 1/10 Milham Street, Oaklands Park SA 5046.
Opening hours: Monday –Friday, 9 am – 5 pm.
Aldinga (walk-in support only)
Location: GP Plus Aldinga, Pridham Boulevard, Aldinga Beach SA 5173.
Opening hours: Fridays 9 am –5 pm, Saturdays 9 am – 1 pm.
To request an appointment, visit sonder.net.au/kids-hubs
For enquiries, contact the Kids Hub on (08) 8209 0722 or at kidshubenquiries@sonder. net.au
Referrals are welcome from GPs, paediatricians, schools, early childhood services and other providers.
The Kids Hub works alongside existing care providers to support early intervention and continuity of care (with consent).
Referrals can be made online via the Kids Hub webpage, sonder.net.au/kids-hubs or via fax to (08) 8209 0723.
Referral letters and any relevant information e.g. Mental Health Treatment Plan can also be sent via:
Medicare Mental Health Phone Service:
HealthLink: EDI: adphncru
Fax: 08 8121 1802
Kids Hub:
HealthLink: EDI: sonderau Fax: 08 8252 9433
The Northern Medicare Mental Health Kids Hub will be opening soon, expanding access to free early mental health support for children and families in northern Adelaide.
Across South Australia and the rest of the country, people from culturally diverse communities have shared what living well with disability looks like — in the languages they feel most comfortable with, while also providing access to information for others who might otherwise be less likely to gain these insights.
Each story offers a window into real lives: work, family, friendships, hobbies, and the everyday activities that support wellbeing.
The Speak My Language (Disability) program provided the platform for these stories. MCCSA played a crucial role in both highlighting local voices and contributing to the national collection.
In South Australia, MCCSA worked closely with individuals and communities to share stories and provide insights into accessible and inclusive activities and services. At the same time, MCCSA helped capture and amplify stories from across the country, ensuring that people from diverse backgrounds and language groups could share their experiences in ways that felt authentic, accessible, and meaningful.
These stories demonstrate the power of sharing experiences in ways that reflect people’s languages and lives. When information is inclusive and easy to understand, it strengthens connections and helps build communities where everyone can participate and feel welcome.
Access and inclusion are everyone’s responsibility. Each day, we all contribute through the way we communicate, the spaces we create, and the services we provide. You may want to reflect:
» How do you make your communication and services welcoming to people from different backgrounds?
» Who participates and who doesn’t? What factors might influence this?
» What small steps could make your community or your services more inclusive?
Every story shared strengthens communities and shows that everyone can live well. To listen to the stories, visit: https://speakmylanguage. com.au/ or watch our video podcasts series on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ speakmylanguagedisability/ videos
PROGRAM AT A GLANCE
6 years of national delivery
500+ multilingual podcasts and videos
29 languages
130 storytellers with lived experience
The NRNA (Non-Resident Nepali Association) South Australia (NRNASA) recently organised a Community Consultation Program, providing an open and constructive platform to discuss key matters concerning their community.
The consultation focused on:
» Community expectations from all Nepalese organisations, including but not limited to NRNA
» The roles and responsibilities of organisations and community members
» Their collective commitments toward the community
» Future plans, additional topics raised by the community, and strategic ideas for the betterment of the Nepali community
The NRNASA received a wide range of valuable views, ideas, and suggestions. These contributions are highly appreciated and will play a significant role in shaping informed decisions and strengthening the future of the Nepali community in Adelaide.
At the time of writing, the NRNA South Australia is also organising International Women’s Day on 12th March 2026. This event is being delivered in collaboration with Peace Multicultural Services and Relationships Australia SA.
As a multicultural and CALD community, the NRNA South Australia is working on the theme of Healthy Relationships and Strong Communities. Through this initiative, NRNA and its partner organisations aim to provide education, raise awareness, and empower local CALD communities with knowledge, resources, and support systems that promote respectful relationships and community wellbeing.
The NRNA SA remains committed to building a stronger, more inclusive, and resilient Nepali community for present and future generations.
Thir Gurung State Coordinator (South Australia) Board of Directors | NonResident Nepali Association (NRNA) Australia
The Greek Museum of Adelaide Inc, (established in 2019, as a non-profit organisation) has emerged as a vibrant centre of culture, education, and social contribution. Its foundation was not the result of a simple organisational initiative but the expression of a deeper vision: to create an open, inclusive space where Greek heritage meets the wider Australian community through knowledge, art, and lived human experience. This vision was conceived by Chrysoula Melissinaki and Panagiotis Mavraeidis and gradually evolved into a collective endeavour supported by a dedicated team who share the same belief in the transformative power of culture.
The Greek Museum operates as an open school. Its exhibits are not merely objects on display but catalysts for learning, dialogue, and reflection. They come from donations by Greek families in Australia and Greece, from artists, and from museums, carrying with them stories, memories, and cultural traces that connect generations and geographies. The term “Greek” reflects not only the origin of these artefacts but also the Greek Museum’s commitment to presenting historical events, philosophical ideas, and scientific achievements that hold universal significance.
A defining aspect of the Greek Museum’s mission is its social dimension. It offers psychological support to elderly members of the Greek diaspora by preserving their personal heirlooms and recognising their life stories. For many, seeing their objects restored and displayed publicly becomes a profound moral vindication. At the same time, for those unable to travel to Greece, the Museum becomes a bridge: a room can become an island, a photograph can become a homeland, and a piece of embroidery can awaken memories long dormant.
In the field of education, the Greek Museum seeks to cultivate critical thinking and cultural awareness among its visitors. In a society where mass entertainment often overshadows meaningful cultural engagement, the Greek Museum provides encyclopaedic knowledge and highlights values that link the past with the present. Visitors
are treated as learners, not passive spectators.
The Greek Museum also serves both contemporary and traditional art, showcasing works by Greek and GreekAustralian artists and rescuing objects at risk of being lost to time. It supports young migrants as well, strengthening their confidence and reminding them that their identity is a source of richness rather than a burden.
As a non-profit organisation, the Greek Museum relies on volunteerism and the dedication of its people. Despite limited financial support, it has organised 20 successful exhibitions and events within six years, demonstrating that commitment and shared purpose can create a cultural institution with lasting and meaningful impact.
Chrysoula Melissinaki, President, Adelaide 2026. https://www.facebook.com/ GreekMuseumAdelaide
There is no doubt that James ‘Cyril’ Stobie could have ever imagined in his wildest dreams that his innovative idea and design of an electricity pole made from steel and concrete would one day be a canvas for artwoks.
By the way, Stobie’s design was formally patented on the 15th July 1924 (91 years ago).
On the 15th of November 2025, in the City of Unley, the Latvian Community proudly unveiled their contribution to the City’s public art. The unveiling was attended by some fifty people, including Latvian community members, the Ambassador of Latvia to Australia and Goodwood Ward councillors Tony Roach and Chris Crabbe.
To use the phrase “from small things , bigs things grow”, the project started out as an idea shared by a few individuals, which then blossomed into a vibrant community effort.
Contributions of ideas were sought from the Latvian language school students and members of the Latvian community.
A big driving force and motivator was the Latvian Laima Mākslinieki art group leader and volunteer Sandra Lange. The Laimas Mākslinieki Art group volunteered their time to design, create and paint the amazing artworks. A very big thank you to Matīss Reinhards (Latvian Hall) for doing the legwork in getting required permissions from SA
Power Networks, Andris Bilkens (Latvian Association SA Board member) for co-ordinating and completeing all of the requirements from the City of Unley and for connecting, communicating with all of the neighbours.
Latvian culture is deeply connected to nature, a theme reflected in the artworks inspired by the Latvian folkloric calendar — a guide to the seasons, celebrations, and traditions that shape community life.
Featured motifs include Latvia’s national flower, the daisy, and the two-spotted ladybird, symbols of beauty and good fortune.
There is a total of five stobie poles displaying eight artworks. Each stobie pole has a QR code which offers a description of each artwork.
The Latvian Stobie Pole Project artworks are located outside the Latvian Association 34 –36 Rose Terrace, Wayville and continue around to 4 Clark Street, Wayville, Latvian Hall.
The Latvian Stobie Pole Project was supported and funded by The Latvian Association SA Inc.. Thank you also to SA Power Networks and the City of Unley.
A sincere thank you to the neighbours for giving their permission to use the stobie pole outside their residence as a canvas.
The Latvian Association SA Inc on behalf of the Laimas Makslinieki volunteers would like to wish the broader community to come by and enjoy the artworks, including using the QR code and we hope that these artworks will strengthen community connections and offer a glimpse into the richness of Latvian culture and tradition.
On March 26th, the 2026 Australian Awards for Excellence in Women’s Leadership, presented by Women & Leadership Australia (WLA), will be held to recognise leaders who champion meaningful progress for women, girls, and underrepresented groups across the nation.
Now in its thirteenth year, the awards celebrate individuals whose contributions drive systemic change and strengthen pathways to leadership for future generations. This free online event will be streamed live from 11.30am ACDT (to register visit: https://www.wla.edu.au/ impactevent/).
Aligned with UN Women’s International Women’s Day theme Balancing the Scales, the event will explore how leaders drive meaningful outcomes while sustaining their energy and wellbeing. Through real stories and two panel discussions, attendees gain practical insight into influencing change without burning out.
Each year, award winners are chosen at both national and state levels, highlighting the breadth of impact made by leaders from diverse sectors, including health, education, disability services, and social reform. The awards aim to increase the visibility of equityfocused leadership and honour those actively working towards a fairer and more inclusive society.
This year, the national award winner is Kit McMahon, CEO of Women’s Health in the South East (WHISE) National Convenor of Women in Adult Vocational Education (WISE), Director and former Chair of Tradeswomen Australia and inaugural Chair of Gender Equity Victoria.
Kit is recognised for her substantial contributions to improving women’s wellbeing and participation across sectors, especially in traditionally maledominated fields.
The state winners reflect the remarkable depth of leadership across the country: Taylah Peters (NT), Leah Bennett (NSW), Jess Taylor (QLD), Katherine Berney (ACT), Anne Tonkin (SA), Divya Pasupuleti (VIC), Drisana LevitzkeGray (WA), and Dr Heidi Mumme (TAS).
Their achievements span community support, genderbased violence prevention, disability advocacy, First Nations leadership, and broader initiatives advancing equality and opportunity.
WLA emphasises that celebrating and sharing the stories of these leaders not only recognises their contributions but also accelerates progress toward a more equitable society. These awards serve as a powerful reminder that when diverse leaders are uplifted and celebrated, Australia moves closer to a future where leadership is truly representative, accessible, and inclusive.
WLA are delighted to announce a partnership with MCCSA
In celebration of International Women’s Day, WLA are extending some special discounts on selected leadership programs for the month of March. Contact Mary Walker at mary.walker@ wla.edu.au for more information or visit https:// www.wla.edu.au/industry/ iwd2026/
The Port Lincoln Multicultural Council made a powerful and colourful statement at the 2026 Tunarama Festival, proudly showcasing the richness of the local community through its award-winning parade float themed “United in Cultural Diversity.”
The vibrant float captured the attention of the huge crowds lining the streets, depicting people from many nations coming together in a joyful celebration of unity. Young and old participants proudly wore traditional national costumes, waving bright, colourful flags that represented cultures from across the world. The visual message of inclusion and togetherness resonated strongly, with many spectators offering positive comments and applause in support of the float’s message of unity, belonging and respect.
Adding energy and rhythm to the display was the powerful drumming of Japanese Taiko performers, which echoed through the parade route and drew enthusiastic responses from the crowd. The float also featured captivating belly dancers and representatives from many nations including Italian, Croatian, Indonesian, Mexican, Filippino, Indian and Pakistani communities, alongside members of the Kiribati and wider Pacific Islander communities. Together, they created a dynamic and moving celebration of cultural expression.
Throughout the parade, the float highlighted how people from many different nations positively contribute in countless ways to the local community — socially, culturally and economically. The display served as a reminder
that the region is proudly multicultural, and that these diverse communities play an important role in shaping its identity. The parade float itself was a celebration of these contributions and the shared future of a united community.
The outstanding presentation did not go unnoticed by judges, with the Community Multicultural Council’s float awarded First Place for Best Community Float, as well as First Prize Overall, marking a significant achievement and a proud moment for all involved.
The story of multicultural contribution also aligns closely with the history celebrated by the Tunarama Festival. Migrants played a pioneering role in the development of the Port Lincoln fishing industry, and the festival continues to honour those historical links
while celebrating the ongoing contributions of multicultural communities today.
In addition to its festival success, the Port Lincoln Multicultural Council also highlighted the availability of the new Multicultural Hub, located adjoining Flinders Park. The hub is available for hire for birthday parties, cultural celebrations, workshops and meetings, providing a welcoming space for the whole community to come together. Contact plmulticultural @gmail. com for bookings.
The Port Lincoln’s Multicultural Council’s participation in the 2026 Tunarama Festival was not only a visual highlight of the parade, but a heartfelt reminder that strength lies in diversity — and that the community is truly united in cultural diversity.
MCCSA provides an affordable and reliable transport solution for communities and organisations in the Adelaide region. Our fleet consists of 3 minibuses with capacity for 11 passengers, and one wheelchair-accessible minibus. MCCSA also provides experienced volunteer drivers and is currently seeking expressions of interest for our "Going Places" guided tours.
For more information, please contact transportadmin@mccsa.org.au or call 8213 4605.
CVS has expanded and has been renamed to ACVVS. This program facilitates oneon-one friendships between older people and visitors speaking their language. They visit to build relationships and add warmth to the lives of senior citizens, reducing their loneliness and isolation.
If you would like to volunteer, please email Aveen Muhamad via aveen.muhamad@mccsa.org.au or call 8213 4604.
MCCSA offers a variety of community spaces for meetings, forums, workshops, and functions. These facilities include a 50-seat hall that is free of charge for registered MCCSA community groups, with a donation appreciated for rubbish removal and electricity. The hall is also available for commercial hire.
To hire an MCCSA community space, call us on 8345 5266 or email mccsa@mccsa.org.au
MCCSA's Men's Council serves as a specialist advocacy body that represents the voices of multicultural men, identifies priorities, and guides strategic direction. It gathers community input to shape advocacy, engages in lobbying and policy awareness, and builds partnerships with stakeholders. Through MCCSA, it supports communityled initiatives, promotes men's health and wellbeing, positive masculinity, and socio-economic participation, while strengthening grassroots leadership, health literacy, service access, and accountability.
For further information, contact Lenard Sciancalepore via lenard.sciancalepore@ mccsa.org.au
MCCSA's Community Boards and Governance Program supports community organisations to strengthen governance capacities.
Key focus areas include: Governance: Providing training and resources for board members to navigate local policy and advocacy effectively Financial Capabilities: Ensuring that organisations understand management of resources, budgets and grant acquittals Strategic Oversight: Aligning activities with goals, succession planning, sustainability, professional networking Organisational Cultural Competence: a core governance capability for fair, informed and effective leadership
Using AI to support administration, grant writing, effective leadership skills and more.
For further information, please email Somi Lindsay at somi.lindsay@mccsa.org.au
MCCSA's Multicultural Playgroup provides a safe and inclusive space for parents and children from diverse cultural backgrounds to connect and socialise. It aims to support children's development and help families overcome isolation through a range of social activities.
To get involved, contact Abby Liu via abby.liu@mccsa.org.au
Through The New Mainstream, MCCSA connects businesses, industries, and researchers with culturally and linguistically diverse communities across Australia. With decades of experience and a multilingual team speaking over 20 languages, we deliver qualitative and quantitative research including focus groups, surveys, interviews, and concept testing. Our trusted relationships with CALD communities in urban and rural settings provide unparalleled access to multicultural markets.
Contact George Gouzounis, Coordinator, at george. gouzounis@mccsa.org.au
Build culturally intelligent teams and leaders with culturalQ. Strengthen collaboration, inclusion, and client engagement across community, public, and private sectors. Move beyond awareness to practical action - driving innovation, stronger relationships, and lasting organisational capability in today's ever-more diverse environment.
Contact us to get started. culturalq@mccsa.org.au
Connect Access Belong is a community participation initiative that helps people with disability from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and their families and carers, to connect, access, and belong in mainstream community settings through personalised support.
Email project coordinator, Katherine Greer with your details or those of someone you think would benefit at katherine.greer@mccsa.org.au
MCCSA offers many exciting volunteer opportunities for those seeking a meaningful way to give back to their community.
From Playgroup volunteers to tour guides and bus drivers, community visitors, and guest speakers, there's something for everyone. By volunteering with us, you'll be making a positive impact on the lives of CALD individuals and families, while also gaining valuable skills and experience.
Join our team today and make a difference! Email your CV and cover letter to mccsa@mccsa.org.au
