New Hume language advisory group

Applications open Friday, November 24 (Unsplash).

Hume residents will soon be able to join a new group providing guidance on how council communicates with its diverse community groups and residents.

The Multicultural Communications Advisory Group will work closely with council on how to effectively speak with our many varied community groups and will consider cultural preferences and sensitivities.

The group will be made up of 11 members, one from each of the language community, including; Arabic, Assyrian, Farsi, Greek, Italian, Mandarin, Nepali, Punjabi, Turkish, Urdu and Vietnamese.

Group members will need to speak and read the language fluently, and an annual fee paid to those who participate.

Mayor Joseph Haweil said council has a responsibility to ensure its decisions are made on behalf of the community.

“We have developed the Multicultural Communications Advisory Group to ensure every community voice is heard,” he said.

“We do that with respect and a willingness to listen and adjust to meet the varied needs of Hume.

“I urge anyone who feels their language has been a barrier to accessing vital Council services to join our team and be a voice for your community.”

Council is now seeking expressions of interest from locals to join the group, and applications will open Friday, November 24.

Details: www.hume.vic.gov.au/mcag