In August, Jamal met with a group of about 20 leaders from Melbourne’s rich and diverse multicultural community at a roundtable to discuss the recommendations of the Australian Government’s ‘Towards fairness: A multicultural Australia for all’ report.
The report contains 29 recommendations that the Australian Government should consider if it is serious about Australia’s continued progress toward a truly multicultural and democratic nation. Jamal took five (Recommendations 4, 7, 9, 16, and 25) to the group that he strongly feels local governments share the responsibility of achieving.
Based on discussion with and input from the group, Team Hakim has committed to four commitments to enriching Melbourne’s broad cultural community.
- Form a coalition across government and the private sector to combat divisive rhetoric used against multicultural communities. We're tired of seeing multicultural communities used for political gain and then cast aside. This newly formed coalition will focus on tangible strategies to change the dialogue.
- Establish a multicultural advisory body and multicultural lead reporting to City of Melbourne Council. This measure will ensure that the council receives direct, intersectional advice informed by lived experience.
- Set up a youth advisory body direct to council to ensure that young people are part of the governing process. Young people are the future, and too often, decision-makers overlook their perspectives – especially if they come from a multicultural community. We want to give young people a seat at the table.
- Commit $200,000 over four years to a seed funding program for young people and youth-led community groups, offering up to $5,000 per grant and mentorship opportunities. We want the City of Melbourne to empower young leaders, especially those without access to opportunities.
On top of this, Team Hakim has also pledged $10 million to celebrate Diwali, Eid, and Hannukkah.