Multicultural policy framework implementation
Brief ministerial statement
Dr Tony Buti (Armadale—Minister for Multicultural Interests) (12:05 pm): I am honoured to present to the house the Western Australian Multicultural Policy Framework Implementation Report 2025. This report highlights the significant progress made by the WA public sector in the 2023–24 financial year. It also reaffirms our commitment to ensuring that all Western Australians can participate equitably in civic, social, economic and cultural life.
Since the framework's launch in 2020, the WA public sector, supported by the Office of Multicultural Interests, has actively responded to the framework through the implementation of multicultural plans. In 2023–24, 64 WA government agencies committed to 1,784 actions to embed the multicultural policy framework. There are many positive outcomes in this year's report. We have seen a 70% increase in completed actions compared with the first year of implementation.
Agencies have deepened engagement with culturally and linguistically diverse communities to shape inclusive, culturally responsive policies, programs and services. They have also adopted mandatory training in unconscious bias, ethical decision-making, and cultural competency. Improved efforts to review and collect data has resulted in better identification and responses to the needs of CALD communities. Representation of people from CALD backgrounds on decision-making boards and committees has also grown significantly, with 53% per cent of agencies reporting membership that better reflects WA's diversity.
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services delivered initiatives to ensure that our CALD communities have equitable access to disaster preparedness through active engagement in bushfire safety sessions and translated materials. These outcomes show how the WAMPF supports systemic change across government. It promotes a unified approach to identifying gaps, understanding community needs, and allocating resources for continuous improvement. This year's report identifies five key drivers of this change: policy reform, data and evaluation, inclusive leadership and advocacy, public awareness and engagement, and cultural shift. I encourage all WA public sector agencies to consider these drivers in future implementation so that they can create changes that are lasting and meaningful.
However, despite these achievements, racism and discrimination remain ongoing challenges faced by our multicultural communities. Our strength lies in our diversity. By valuing the skills, knowledge, and experiences of all people—including those from CALD backgrounds—we move closer to a truly inclusive and harmonious society. I commend the WA public sector for its achievements and urge continued, determined action as we strive for a truly inclusive future.
I now table the Western Australian Multicultural Policy Framework Implementation Report 2025.
(See paper 310.)
