Government Intervenes: Victoria Reassessing Multicultural Policies Amid Increase in Hate Crimes
The Allan Labor government is launching a review of Victoria’s multicultural policies and institutions in response to a series of disturbing incidents, including attacks on a synagogue, Nazi salutes, and assaults on women wearing hijabs.
With hate-fuelled attacks increasing, the government aims to strengthen protections against discrimination and division in the state of Victoria.
Led by George Lekakis AO, the former chair of the Victorian Multicultural Commission, the review will assess how well the state’s systems handle conflicts, promote unity, and celebrate diversity.
The government highlighted Lekakis’s extensive experience in multicultural and multifaith communities, government institutions, and policies.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt emphasized that the review will engage directly with communities, stakeholders, and multicultural organizations to combat hate more effectively.
The recent incidents, such as the synagogue attack and assaults on women wearing hijabs, have prompted this review to strengthen Victoria’s multiculturalism and address division.
Spike in Hate Crimes Prompts Action
Seven men in Victoria were recently charged for performing a Nazi salute, a banned act under state law with severe penalties.
Another disturbing incident involved the assault of two women wearing hijabs, leading to the arrest of a 31-year-old woman in Melbourne.
NSW Takes a Proactive Approach
Meanwhile, the New South Wales government has launched the NSW Social Cohesion Grants for Local government to combat hate and polarization in local communities.
These grants will provide funding to councils to strengthen connections, trust, and resilience, empowering them to address these challenges effectively.
