The City of Swan’s commitment to embracing and empowering its multicultural community has earned it the Local Government Award at the WA Multicultural Awards 2024.
Presented by the Office of Multicultural Interests on Thursday, March 14, the WA Multicultural Awards recognised the outstanding contributions of individuals and organisations to multiculturalism in the State.
The awards also marked the official launch of WA Harmony Week, which runs from March 15-21.
In 2021, 33.6 per cent of residents in Swan were born overseas and 23.2 per cent spoke a language other than English at home.
The City strives to create an inclusive community that is welcoming to everyone, regardless of age, race, religion, ability, sexuality, gender identity or cultural background.
This vision was formalised with the adoption of the City’s Access and Inclusion Plan in 2023, a five-year plan which outlines a series of goals to guide the City’s thinking, planning and actions.
The plan aims to give better access and support to community members who may feel isolated, marginalised, excluded or vulnerable.
It takes a whole-of-community approach that nurtures cultural unity and reflects the incredible diversity of the people who call Swan home.
The development of the Access and Inclusion Plan was one of many initiatives that earned the City the Local Government Award for 2024.
Altone Comes Alive, which will be held at Altone Park Oval on Saturday, March 15, 2024, is an annual celebration of multiculturalism which attracts thousands of people each year.
The Women’s Aquatic Program at Swan Active Beechboro gives women a safe and culturally appropriate space to focus on their health and swimming.
The City has delivered a range of other events, programs and services with a multicultural focus, such as interfaith bus tours, language classes, staff intercultural awareness training, community grants, and civic and citizenship workshops.
Tanya Richardson, City of Swan Mayor, said receiving the Local Government Award was an honour for staff and Council Members.
“It’s something that means a lot to all of us, given the effort that has gone into making Swan a place that celebrates its diversity,” Mayor Richardson said.
“We can all see that those efforts are making a difference in our community but to be recognised at a State level is really encouraging.
“We are so lucky to have so much diversity in our community that enriches us all, and I can’t wait to share this news with our community today at Altone Comes Alive, our annual Harmony Week celebration.”
Dr Tony Buti, WA Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister, said the awards shone a spotlight on Western Australians who were passionate about fostering multiculturalism.
"Working across a number of sectors, professions and disciplines, the 2024 WA Multicultural Awards winners are dedicated to making our society more inclusive and harmonious,” Dr Buti said.
"The awards pay tribute to the pioneers of multiculturalism in WA, salute our current leaders, and recognise the emerging voices that will shape our multicultural landscape.”