Hello Zindagi, a multicultural platform that began as a radio show, marked its second anniversary with music, dance and storytelling for about 138 guests at a hall in Melbourne's east. Founder Ruchi Sharma said the group aims to reach more people and build a more connected community. The evening also supported a fundraising effort for flood relief in Nepal. Federal MP Mary Doyle and Victorian MP Lee Tarlamis praised the organisers and spoke about keeping cultural traditions alive across generations.
The Sea Heritage Foundation, which manages the MV Cape Don, has been shortlisted for the 2026 DCN Australian Shipping & Maritime Industry Awards' Diversity and Inclusion Award. The organisation's work with the historic vessel has fostered maritime education, supported Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, veterans, and university research. The Foundation urges governments and industry partners to collaborate on preserving the ship, highlighting its educational and historical significance. The recognition comes amid ongoing discussions about the vessel's future following its seizure by the NSW Government due to environmental concerns.
New Zealand First leader Winston Peters has described diversity as weakness and disunity, setting him apart from other party leaders. A 2023 McKinsey report found companies that promote diversity have better financial returns, and other studies have linked diversity to innovation. The author cites New Zealand examples in sport and government, and notes that the country's population is becoming more diverse. Evidence suggests diversity can aid social cohesion, though poor management of it could lead to disunity.
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Less than 0.7 per cent of women on the executive leadership teams of ASX 300 companies identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, according to the latest Chief Executive Women Senior Executive Census. For the first time, the census tracked likely cultural origins, using Indigenous-led research from the UTS Centre for Indigenous People and Work. Professor Nareen Young said Blak women are all but absent from corporate leadership, despite Indigenous people making up nearly four per cent of the population.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged Australians not to take multicultural harmony for granted. Speaking to community leaders at the FECCA2026 National Conference in Canberra, he said cultural and religious diversity remains one of the country's strengths. He said maintaining social cohesion requires continued effort. FECCA chief executive Prerana Mehta said the three-day gathering, held at Parliament House and Old Parliament House, would recognise migrant contributions. Mehta said debates about migration numbers, housing and cost of living should not diminish the value of multiculturalism.
La Trobe University researcher Dr Lakshmi Wijeyewickrema has received the Guiding Star Mentorship Award at the 2026 Women of Colour in STEM awards. The award recognises her work supporting the growth and personal development of her mentees. The awards are organised by STEM Sisters and celebrate women of colour working across science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Dr Wijeyewickrema was one of five La Trobe University nominees recognised across different categories.
Filmmaker and cultural advocate Yogi Devgan has been named a joint recipient of the 2025 Arts and Culture Award. He has helped bring the stories of diverse communities to Australian screens. Earlier this year, he was appointed one of six members of the South Australian Film Corporation's new Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Group. Nominations are now open for the 2026 Governor's Multicultural Awards, which recognise contributions to multiculturalism in South Australia, including artists and cultural leaders.
A resident has criticised Byron Shire Council for questioning Councillor Jack Dods' ability to serve as deputy mayor due to his new parental responsibilities. The writer, Pam Brook, argues the decision undermines new parents and reduces political diversity in council leadership. Brook highlights that the council now has Greens councillors in both mayoral and deputy mayoral positions, removing the previous balance of an independent deputy mayor alongside a Greens mayor.
Lacrosse Victoria is organising the 2026 Lacrosse Together Cup, a social round-robin event promoting diversity and inclusion. Held at PJ Lynch Reserve in Altona North on 18 October, the event will feature 22 teams across four divisions, with over 60% of participants aged 25 or under. Supported by Proud2Play, the cup aims to celebrate LGBTQIA+ members and welcome new players. Activities include face painting, a free lacrosse session, outdoor games, music, and food. Lacrosse Victoria and Proud2Play hope to expand the event's impact in 2026.
