Recent findings from the Scanlon Foundation reveal worrying trends in Australia’s migrant communities, including increased levels of discrimination and a reduced sense of belonging.

The Foundation’s Citizenship Discussion Paper has found that there has been an “increase in the reported experience of discrimination because of skin colour, ethnic origin or religion”. 

Over the Foundation’s seven Mapping Social Cohesion surveys since 2007, respondents have also indicated a reduced sense of belonging.

These findings are concerning and indicate the importance of promoting social cohesion and affording economic opportunity to all Australians.

Labor wants to ensure all Australians, regardless of background, have a stake in the future of our nation.

We know multiculturalism has enhanced Australia’s economic prosperity and improved our social cohesion, but more needs to be done to support our increasingly culturally diverse community and to harness this diversity to build stronger communities and a stronger economy. 

A more co-ordinated approach to multiculturalism will ensure all Australians can contribute to the economic and social success of our nation.

TUESDAY, 25 AUGUST 2015