Greater Shepparton Candidate Fern Summer gives a statement on the meaning of multiculturalism and the services required.
Greater Shepparton Council Elections
All candidates were asked to respond to these questions.
- What does multiculturalism mean to Shepparton?
- What specific services should Council provide to support these communities?
Responses in ballot paper order are given herewith without comment.
Fern Summer
What does multiculturalism mean to Shepparton?
Multiculturalism is back bone of Greater Shepparton. Migrants have chosen to settle here for our fertile soil and welcoming manner. They have brought prosperity to the community over generations. This in turn, has given local residents a glimpse of many different cultures that they may never have experienced.
Cultural events combine with tantalising culinary experiences from all corners of the globe. We arguably have the best baclava in regional Victoria.
I’ve met young leaders from culturally diverse backgrounds and am impressed by their community commitment. They will ensure our myriad of cultures will continue to thrive peacefully in our community and celebrate the diversity that Greater Shepparton has to offer.
What specific services should council provide to support these communities?
- It is vitally important to have a good English-speaking background. Basic English can be taught in community settings most accessible to CALD communities, such as libraries or other public spaces.
- Healthcare is a human right that should be available to all. Supercare Nurse Clinics should be better supported and widely advertised in CALD communities. Migrants should not be forced to pay for private health insurance during the early stages of transition.
- Council should lobby the Federal government to review VISA processes. How can the government expect new arrivals to put down roots and commit to Australia, without knowing whether they will face deportation at short notice?
Source: Candidate’s statements supplied to Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District.
