Welcome and support for new residents to Australia

The Multicultural Development Unit (MDU) supports newly arrived and existing South West Victorian residents from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. We create an environment that embraces diverse cultures via a community service system which responds in a culturally appropriate way.

The MDU eBulletin

The MDU has its own eBulletin to keep clients, stakeholders and interested parties informed about any local multicultural news and activities. View the latest eBulletin HERE or subscribe by emailing: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  

No Interest Loan Scheme - to assist migrants, refugees and some community members on low incomes with approved travel costs associated with reuniting and permanently relocating their family in Australia. CLICK HERE for more information.

Casework - we work intensively with individual clients over a relatively short time to develop a tailored response to their needs, such as linking them to a range of mainstream services.

Capacity Building - we support people's settlement, establishment and participation in the wider Australian community, including assisting them to develop their capacity to organise, plan and advocate for their own needs

Service planning, development and integration - we develop planning and service delivery networks that encourage the delivery of culturally appropriate services by mainstream and other settlement service providers, including playing an advocacy role.

Community Education - we hold information sessions, depending on the needs of the local CALD communities.

Volunteer Program - we have a small dedicated group of volunteers who assist with a range of tasks, often including providing support, networking, child minding, access to transport, fundraising, submission writing, information sessions, free legal advice and other activities as required.

The Family Friends Program - we match local families with refugees (individuals or families) to form friendship groups that provide support, mentoring, cross-cultural sharing and integration opportunities. We also promote connection to the local community and widen networks and opportunities by hosting outings and holding workshops.

MDU Resource Library - we allow access to a collection of education reference books and CD-ROMS for school students aged 6-18. We also have DVDs, cultural stories and books on various topics of interest. All materials are available for loan. 

Let's Drive - we assist with learning to drive in a new country by providing volunteers who offer advice and, when available, practical practice.    

Fundraising / Funding Submissions - we offer a wide and creative range of support to new residents to Australia, so we are always working towards ways to fund and improve our service. Anyone wanting to help us by either volunteering or donating to this program, please contact the Multicultural Development Unit.

Professional Development - we provide cultural awareness training to workers and organisations, specific to the needs of their client groups.

Families

Children

Separation

Tenancy

Disabilities

Legal issues

All staff and volunteers involved in our programs are trained and undergo extensive security testing for their suitability for working with children.

The Multicultural Development Unit is proudly supported by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship through the Settlement Grants Program.  

We would also like to acknowledge our hard working volunteers  for their invaluable assistance, as well as many supporters and donors who help us to run our activities.