Australian multiculturalism in its forty year life has developed a unique shape and flavour: reaffirmed by state and national governments as a core Australian value, it offers newcomers the opportunity to develop refreshed identities in an open society, while it promises long time residents that the pathway forward together will be creative, rewarding, if at times a bit disturbing. 

 

This Conference goes beyond rhetoric to explore how the everyday multiculturalism of Australia works, and how we address, resolve and grow through issues of cultural and social change.  In an election year, when emotions become heightened and ideas can become sharp and abrasive, when relations between cultural communities within our national community will once more come under the spotlight, we ask, how is Australian multiculturalism faring, and what challenges and opportunities now lie ahead?