For over 25 years, Migrant Information Day (MID) has been bringing together local communities and service providers in the St George area to celebrate cultural diversity. It aims to support newly arrived migrants and refugees as they settle into their new lives.
This year’s event, held at Rockdale Town Hall on October 2, welcomed over 350 attendees, who enjoyed the opportunity to connect with 37 service providers across various sectors, including housing, health, education, employment and government services. The goal was simple: to provide a one-stop shop where new arrivals could access information and support to help assist them as they navigate their new lives in Australia. Bilingual staff were available throughout the day, providing translation assistance and ensuring that language barriers didn’t stand in the way of access to critical support.
The Hon. Mark Robert Buttigieg, Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism, highlighted the importance of Migrant Information Day. He noted that the event played an important role in connecting local service providers in the St George area, stating, ‘These organisations are doing such important work supporting migrants’.
The 2024 organisation committee for MID consisted of representatives from Advance Diversity Services (ADS), Bayside Council, Headspace, The Benevolent Society and NSW Health. The collaboration between these stakeholders reflects a shared commitment to supporting the diverse needs of the Bayside and Georges River communities. A growing number of residents in these LGAs were born overseas and nearly half the local population speak a language other than English at home. MID plays an increasingly significant role, helping people integrate into their new community. The event is especially important for fostering inclusion and celebrating cultural diversity. A representative from Sydney Multicultural Community Services, a local organisation and stall holder at the event, stated, ‘We greatly appreciate the committee for organising MID for the community. Thank you all for your hard work.’
The day was not only about education and making connections. Cultural performances by the South Sydney Chinese Senior Troupe and the Kalymnian Dance Troupe which showcased the rich cultural heritage of the community, whilst Henna art and the Bike n’ Blend juice stall added a vibrant and interactive element to the event.
Dietician and nutritionist, Mikayla Stenfanos, led a healthy food demonstration in line with 2024 Multicultural Health Week’s focus on celebrating culture through food. The OzHarvest food truck also provided a delicious feast for all attendees.
The day’s success was also marked by strong community and government support. It commenced with a heartfelt Acknowledgement of Country by Aunty Barbara Simms, a poignant moment that bridged Australia’s rich history with its bright, multicultural future. Contributions and support from sponsors, such as South Eastern Sydney Local Health District (SESLHD), The Benevolent Society, Return and Earn and Georges River and Bayside Councils, played a key role in the success of the event whilst special guests, including the Hon. Mark Buttigieg and Matt Thistlethwaite MP, joined the celebrations. Their presence underscored the commitment of local leaders to supporting diverse communities, with Matt Thistlewaite, Federal Assistant Minister for Immigration, highlighting the importance of ensuring new arrivals have access to all services within the community and stressing that MID was a ‘chance to welcome our newest locals to our community’.
Through initiatives like Migrant Information Day, ADS continues to foster an inclusive community where people feel empowered and can thrive. With positive feedback received from attendees and participants, ADS is already looking ahead to next year, continuing its mission of supporting and connecting new arrivals to the community and the resources they need.
Thanks to the St George & Sutherland Shire Leader for their article promoting the importance of Migrant Information Day 2024.