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Ethnic affairs priorities statement

 

The Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW recognises the importance of building harmonious communities.

Participation of people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds is an integral part of our approach to our work in maintaining a healthy environment, cared for and enjoyed by the whole community and sustained for future generations. 

The Ethnic Affairs Priorities Statement (EAPS) outlines the Department’s key strategies and actions to assist in achieving the Government's policies in ethnic affairs and the principles of cultural diversity. The Department is working to prepare a new Multicultural Policies and Services Plan that will replace the EAPS and guide further achievements over coming years. 

The current EAPS is based on four key objectives:

Leadership - The Department promotes and contributes to a cohesive and harmonious multicultural society through its strategic and program planning.  The Department’s Annual Report details important activities and the key actions for the future.

Community harmony - The Department fosters a climate of mutual respect and seeks to increase the involvement of people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities in volunteering, recreational and cultural activities in parks and gardens.  The Department also works with local councils to assist with community and environmental planning, recognising and promoting the economic, linguistic and cultural assets in the population of NSW. Multi-lingual education materials are provided, and the Department assists environmental educators to develop projects in partnership with ethnic communities.

Access and Equity - The Department works towards ensuring that all people have equal opportunity to use and participate in activities and services. We aim to consult with the culturally and linguistically diverse communities during the development and delivery of key policies and programs.

Economic and cultural opportunities, including tourism and employment - The Department recognises the richness of cultural diversity within NSW, and among its own staff, and the value this diversity provides in the future of NSW.  The Department will ensure that community expertise in cultural heritage is appropriately used, and that cultural and linguistic diversity is addressed where appropriate in tourism and visitor programs.

Download the Department’s Ethnic Affairs Priorities Statement 2006-2010 (pdf 39 kb).

Botanic Gardens Trust

Cultural diversity and the Botanic Gardens Trust - a commitment from the Botanic Gardens Trust to the principles of cultural diversity. The Trust is taking action to value cultural diversity through its roles in education, communication and tourism.