Motions

Multicultural Communities Council of South Australia

Adjourned debate on motion of Hon. J.S. Lee:

That this council—

1. Congratulates the Multicultural Communities Council of South Australia (MCCSA) for reaching the significant milestone of its 50^th anniversary in 2025;

2. Recognises MCCSA has been supporting migrant communities and people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds since it was established in 1995 and that its foundations were laid in 1975;

3. Acknowledges that MCCSA is the peak organisation representing more than 120 multicultural organisations and delivers a wide range of programs to increase the capacity of its member organisations and advocate for the needs and aspirations of CALD organisations, communities and individuals;

4. Thanks the MCCSA Patron, the Hon. Hieu Van Le AC; Chairperson, Miriam Cocking; Chief Executive Officer, Helena Kyriazopoulos OAM; executive team members; board members; staff; and supporters for their dedication and contributions to serving and empowering the diverse multicultural community in South Australia; and

5. Commends MCCSA for its significant contributions toward enhancing multiculturalism and interculturalism in our state and for supporting all people from CALD backgrounds to realise their potential as active contributors to the economic, political, social and cultural life of South Australia.

(Continued from 19 February 2025.)

The Hon. S.L. GAME (16:53): I rise to support the honourable member's motion congratulating the Multicultural Communities Council of South Australia (MCCSA) for reaching its 50-year anniversary this year. Just this month, our office attended the Multicultural Communities Council of SA's Men's Mental Health Community Connection Project celebration. This event brought together community leaders, advocates and supporters to reflect on the journey and impact of the project in fostering mental health awareness, connection and resilience.

The event was a reminder of the importance of open conversations and community-led solutions in tackling men's mental health challenges. A key aspect of the evening was the premiere of a 20-minute documentary showcasing the journey of the project and the real-life stories of those involved. It reinforced what we already know: that when men have the right support and space to talk about their health, real changes happen.

As a strong advocate for men's mental health I have fought to secure funding and awareness for key initiatives, including $100,000 for men who are at risk of poor mental health in our community, for which men from a multicultural background are at increased risk. I sincerely congratulate the MCCSA on this special milestone and look forward to continuing to work with them in the future.

Debate adjourned on motion of Hon. I.K. Hunter.