Join the VLGA and partners Welcoming Cities and the Scanlon Foundation to launch two new and exciting projects, which aim to support the participation of young and culturally diverse people in local government.

Hear from us about why the projects were launched and the change we hope to see - as well as from some of the diverse councillors themselves about their experiences on council and in community.

The panel will be moderated by Viv Nguyen AM (Chairperson, Victorian Multicultural Commission) and includes:

• Cr Otha Thon Akoch - Warrnambool City Council
• Cr Joseph Haweil - Hume City Council
• Mayor Jasmine Nguyen - Brimbank City Council
• Cr Seema Abdullah - Greater Shepparton City Council

REPRESENT: A handbook for culturally diverse Victorians considering running for local government

14 Victorian councillors from culturally diverse backgrounds have contributed to an outstanding resource of case studies, sitting down with the VLGA and Welcoming Cities team to capture their experiences as councillors and leaders. This resource provides practical information for community members on how to run for local government, and what to expect, as well as highlighting the experiences of the candidates (now councillors) who have gone before them.

Stepping Forward Incubator Program

Thanks to funding from the Scanlon Foundation, the VLGA is pleased to launch the 'Stepping Forward: Council Influence Incubator', which will build the capacity of young, culturally diverse people in the City of Casey and the City of Whittlesea to understand the business of local government and influence council decision-making in their area. Participants will be support to undertake a project for change, while topics include: community research and engagement, messaging and communication, building networks of influence, and how ideas and initiatives are recommended and implemented.

This is a free event.

Please note: this is an alcohol-free event. All food provided is halal, with vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options.