Every year, we organize a multiculturalism study tour in Sydney for Japanese local government officers and staff. This year, we had eight representatives from various government organizations participate in the study tour from November 19-24. The purpose of the delegation’s visit was to research multiculturalism, and to view first-hand, services for migrants of different backgrounds in Australia.
Over the study tour, the delegation had the opportunity to visit two NSW government departments: the Community Relations Commission (CRC) and the Department of Education and Communities (DEC International). Both CRC and DEC play are instrumental in the advocacy of a multicultural society. The programs and initiatives that they offer are extremely advanced and the delegates were inspired by their presentations. It was great to see that both organizations are very supportive and proud of the multiculturalism here in Australia.
One of the highlights of the study tour was visiting Croydon Park Public School. The delegates were able to see how multiculturalism policies are incorporated into the education system. Special thanks to Jenni Shipp for providing the delegation with this opportunity.
Also, the delegation was able to visit the State Emergency Operations Centre in Lidcombe, thanks to Mr. Tony Jarrett. Since Japan is prone to natural disasters, this was a very valuable experience for the delegation.
The delegation also visited Hurstville City Council and Fairfield City Council. It was very helpful to hear about some of the issues that the councils have faced in the past, and how they addressed these issues.
In addition to all this, the delegation was fortunate enough to learn in great detail about the various services offered to migrants by the Ethnic Communities Council of NSW (ECC) and the Adult Migrant English Services (AMES).
This year’s study tour was a great success. The delegates will be able to apply the knowledge they gained from this experience to improve life for migrants in Japan. We are very grateful to the organizations and councils who warmly welcomed the delegation. Thank you again for your support.
