CALD Network and Multicultural Communities

In March 2023 Council launched the CALD network to:

• Strengthen Council’s communication and relationships with local CALD communities; and
• Promote a safe, welcoming, and inclusive community in Frankston City.  

The CALD Network is made up of community members and organisational representatives who are passionate to showcase, celebrate, engage, share and learn together; improving relationships across Frankston City to create a sense of belonging for all. 

The CALD Network meet at least 3 times a year to:

• Network with each other and support each other’s community activities.
• Share news, training, education, grants, and work updates from our community groups and contacts.
• Get involved in Council engagement, partnering with relevant Council departments to amplify the CALD voice and identity in Frankston City.

Networking events for Multicultural and CALD residents and community organisations

The Multicultural Meet and Greet was created by the CALD Network with the understanding that magic happens when community minded people get together. It is a community networking event whose purpose is to:

• Increase connection between multicultural people living and working in Frankston City.
•  Connect multicultural people to Council services, local support services, business and community grants, training and volunteering opportunities and more!
• Provide an informal opportunity for people to get together, make friends and connections.

Upcoming Event: Multicultural Meet and Greet ft. Refugee Stories for Change– 19 June 2025

Welcome to our exciting event where we celebrate diversity, unity and recognise Refugee Week 2025! Listen to Refugee Ambassador Lizzy talk about her refugee experience followed by Q&A, networking, and light refreshments.

Connect with local people and community organisations during our Multicultural Meet and Greet. Share stories, make new friends, and expand your network. Don't miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate together!

Why Attend?
✔ Meet and connect with multicultural residents and community organisations
✔ Discover Council services, local support, training, grants, and volunteering opportunities
✔ Build friendships and networks in a warm, informal setting

Whether you're new to the area or a long-time local, this is your chance to make meaningful connections and feel part of something bigger.

Feel free to bring a friend or colleague—everyone is welcome!

Please RSVP via Eventbrite: 

 RSVP Here

We look forward to welcoming you.

If you want to find out more and get involved fill in the Expression of interest (EOI) form below or email CommunityStrengthening@frankston.vic.gov.au or call 1300 322 322.

• Click here to view form.

Following European settlement, Frankston City has been predominantly Anglo-Australian, although there are several well established, as well as emerging culturally diverse communities throughout the area.

Frankston City celebrates Cultural Diversity Week and Harmony Week which coincide in March every year.

• Cultural Diversity Week is the Victorian Multicultural Commission’s annual celebration program to celebrate the power, influence, and stories of Victoria’s rich multicultural communities.
• Harmony Week is the Australian Government’s annual celebration of Australia’s cultural diversity and the benefits it brings to the Australian community.
• We also acknowledge the United Nations’s International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination which takes place on 21 March every year.
• Cultural Diversity / Harmony Week 2025: Check out what’s happening this year!
  • Cultural Diversity Day | Frankston City Libraries
  • Celebrate Cultural Diversity Week With Us! | Frankston City Libraries

Guidance for communicating with Multicultural / CALD communities. 

Helpful links:

Victorian Multicultural Commission | multiculturalcommission.vic.gov.au

Home - Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria

MAV – Multicultural Arts Victoria

Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission | Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission

All Genders | All Ages | All Cultures | Diversity Australia

Department of Families Fairness and Housing Victoria | Better practice guide for multicultural communications

What is CALD? A Comprehensive Guide to CALD Communities

Search ‘What’s on’ and promote your own community event

What's on - Frankston City Council

Report racism, sexual harassment or any discrimination to the Victorian Human Rights and Equal opportunities Commission.

• The Victorian Human Rights and Equal Opportunities Commission has developed a community reporting tool. You can use this tool to report racism, sexual harassment or discrimination of any kind, or if you have any human rights issues or concerns. 
•  Making a report is not the same as lodging a complaint. Reports made by the community reporting tool are sent securely and confidentially to the Commission. When you make a report, you can ask the Commission to contact you if you want more information about your rights or how you can make a complaint.
• Visit the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission website to find out more.
• Or you can call the Commission for confidential advice on 1300 292 153.