News & Media
Cyber Safety Community Program
On June 2nd, Youth Central in Broadmeadows hosted a Cybersecurity Awareness seminar, a youth-led project spearheaded by Leano Pheto and funded by the Hume Council as part of the Empowering Communities initiative. The seminar aimed to educate young people aged 18-24 on essential strategies for protecting themselves and their identities in the digital realm.
Participants had the opportunity to hear from a guest speaker with over a decade of experience in the cybersecurity field, who provided valuable insights into online safety and the importance of safeguarding personal information.
In addition to the informative talk, the event featured stalls from several organizations, including Spectrum, Brotherhood of St. Laurence (BSL), and the Australian Federal Police. These organizations offered guidance, resources, and support to the youth participants, further enhancing the seminar’s impact. The event was a significant step towards empowering young individuals to navigate the online space safely and responsibly.
Forced Marriage & Human Exploitation
- Information Session
On Monday, August 5th, we hosted an impactful information session on human exploitation and forced marriage, specifically designed for community workers. The session featured representatives from the Australian Federal Police, who provided valuable insights and raised awareness about these critical issues.
The workshop focused on the complexities of human exploitation and the various forms it can take, including forced marriage. Participants engaged in discussions about legal frameworks, signs of exploitation, and the resources available for those affected. The expert speakers from the Australian Federal Police shared their knowledge on effective prevention strategies, empowering attendees to take proactive steps in their communities.
Attendees were encouraged to ask questions and share their own experiences, fostering a collaborative environment for learning and support. This exchange of ideas and perspectives among community workers strengthened the network dedicated to addressing human exploitation and advocating for those at risk.
Overall, this information session proved to be an essential step in equipping community workers with the tools and knowledge necessary to combat these pressing social issues and provide informed assistance to individuals in need. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Australian Federal Police for their expertise and to all participants for their commitment to making a meaningful difference in our community.
AMCC & VIC Police for welcome session
The recent workshop conducted by Victoria Police for newly arrived people to Australia focused on providing essential information to help them navigate interactions with law enforcement and understand their rights and responsibilities. The police officers began by explaining the importance of emergency numbers like 000 (not 100 or 911), which should be dialed in case of emergencies, such as violence or other urgent situations requiring immediate assistance. The workshop covered the steps involved in seeking help if someone is a victim of violence, emphasizing the importance of reporting incidents to ensure their safety and access to support services. Participants were also educated on the proper procedures and legal obligations when they are pulled over by the police, including what documents to provide and how to interact respectfully with officers. In addition to these topics, the police provided guidance on a range of other basic rules and regulations that are crucial for new residents to understand, helping them adapt to the legal framework in Australia. The session was highly informative and aimed at empowering newly arrived individuals with the knowledge needed to ensure their safety and compliance with the law.
A Workshop on Debt Management
Our guest speaker, Joe Birtles from the Northern Community Legal Center, brought invaluable insights to the table.Throughout the workshop, attendees gained comprehensive knowledge on various aspects of debt management, different types of debt, effective strategies for managing debt, and the crucial legal support available for those navigating debt-related challenges.
Furthermore, the workshop went beyond financial matters to address the intersection of debt with sensitive issues such as family and domestic violence. It provided a holistic perspective, offering guidance on navigating these complex intersections with empathy and understanding. Overall, it was an enlightening session that empowered participants with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate their financial journeys with confidence.
Session on “Are you safe at home?” and Mother’s Day celebration
On May 10th, a session titled “Are You Safe at Home” was organized, with a presentation by Kholoud Ahmed, the director of the Australian Multicultural Community Center. With a focus on promoting safety within the household, the objectives of the campaign were provided along with practical insights into maintaining a secure living environment. The session was enriched by the active participation of attendees, who shared their own experiences and perspectives on home safety.
Following this insightful discussion, the atmosphere shifted to one of warmth and celebration as Mother’s Day was honored with a delightful morning tea. Participants joyfully exchanged their plans for the special day and reflected on the significance of celebrating motherhood. Overall, the session proved to be highly engaging and interactive, offering a blend of informative discourse and heartfelt celebration, leaving participants with a sense of empowerment and connection.
Employment Regulations Workshop
On May 2nd, we hosted an engaging workshop for community members on employment regulations in Australia. Our esteemed guest speaker, Baharah Irannejad from the Brotherhood of St. Laurence, led the session with expertise and insight. The workshop focused into crucial topics including comprehending pay rates, Tax File Numbers, Australian Business Numbers, Superannuation, and leave entitlements. Additionally, valuable strategies for job searching were shared to empower our community members further.
The workshop also provided a platform for participants to share their own experiences and insights. Many individuals shared stories of their journey into the Australian workforce, offering valuable perspectives and lessons learned along the way. This interactive exchange fostered a sense of community and solidarity among attendees, creating a supportive environment for learning and growth.
Celebrating Diversity: Harmony Day Event at Hume Global Learning Center
On the 22nd of March, 2024, a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity was organized at
the Hume Global Learning Center in Craigieburn, hosted by the Australian Multicultural
Organization, in collaboration with the Hume City Council, Brotherhood of St. Laurence,
and Spectrum Organization. The event aimed to honour and rejoice in the myriad of
cultures and traditions by welcoming participants from a wide array of cultural
backgrounds, including the Nepali, Indian, African, and Eritrean communities. Through a
diverse range of activities, participants had the opportunity to immerse themselves in
the cultures, traditions, languages, and customs of various ethnic groups.
The event commenced with insightful speeches from esteemed guests, including Helen
Patsikatheodorou, a respected former Mayor of Hume City, and Rasha Abbas, CEO of
In Touch, who shared their perspectives on the importance of fostering inclusivity and
understanding in society. Kholoud Ahmed from the Australian Multicultural Community
Center, Mazin Kalakyan from Brotherhood of St. Laurence, and Resham Ishag from
Spectrum Organization delivered inspiring messages, emphasizing the significance of
unity amidst diversity.
Highlighting the artistic talents within the community, the team from Sridevi Arts School
captivated the audience with a mesmerizing dance performance, showcasing the
beauty and grace of various cultural expressions.
Throughout the event, attendees were immersed in enlightening videos capturing the
essence of Harmony Day, the cultural significance of Ramadan, and the lively heritage
of Nepal. During the event, there were stalls with things like cultural and traditional
items from African, Nepali, and Ramadan cultures. People from all backgrounds could
learn and enjoy these things. At the end of the day, everyone gathered to together for
Iftar, which helped everyone feel friendly and connected, fostering a sense unity and
goodwill among all present.
The Harmony Day event at Hume Global Learning Center served as a reminder of the
strength that lies in embracing diversity. It was a celebration of unity, acceptance, and
the shared humanity that binds us all together, enriching the fabric of our community.
Through events like these, we continue to build bridges of understanding and respect,
creating a brighter and more inclusive future for generations to come.
Mayor of Hume City (Cr. Naim Kurt) Visit
We extend our sincerest gratitude to Mayor Cr. Naim Kurt for gracing our office with his presence in February. His visit not only honoured us but also underscored the unwavering dedication to our community. His continuous support and guidance from the council have been crucial in shaping our initiatives and fostering collaboration for the betterment of Hume City. We deeply appreciate his time and insights shared during his visit.
Interview with SBS Radio
Director of the Australian MultiCultural Community Center (AMCC), Kholoud Ahmed, was interviewed in radio interview with SBS Radio on January, 2024. The interview, conducted by Arab broadcast radio, delved into the current programs and projects leading by the AUSCC. This opportunity allowed for an engaging discussion on the center’s initiatives and their impact within the community.
Click the link to listen to the interview: SBS Radio Interview
