Our Purpose, Vision and Principles

Multicultural NSW promotes community harmony and social cohesion in one of the most culturally diverse states in the world. Our purpose, vision and principles ensure we achieve our goals and are stronger together.

Our vision

Our vision is for an inclusive, connected and socially cohesive multicultural NSW, using our cultural diversity as a vehicle to achieve cultural and economic prosperity. At Multicultural NSW we:

  • engage with all sections of society and break down barriers to participation
  • enable equitable access to services and programs
  • enrich social and economic capacity through cultural diversity as an asset of our state.

Our purpose

We are the lead agency to ensure NSW sets an example for the rest of the world as a peaceful, multicultural society. Together with our partners and communities, we work hard to build inclusive, resilient and cohesive communities.

Our 2021-2025 Strategic Plan sets out our purpose across five main priorities:

NSW language services: Promoting the sustainability and standards of an industry-leading service used across government agencies.

Sector capability: Modelling good practice and building capability across sectors to meet the needs of diverse communities through policy, programs and service delivery.

Community resilience: Expanding robust relationships that inspire people to foster social cohesion, stand united against divisive forces and come together in times of need.

Settlement: Supporting longer-term communities and new arrivals to thrive in place.

A shared sense of value: Understanding the value of cultural, religious and linguistic diversity.

These priorities are also reflected in our responsibilities under the Multicultural NSW Act 2000 (the Act).

Our principles

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Our principles

an icon of three individuals in a group to signify a community.

All individuals in NSW:

  • irrespective of their linguistic, religious and ancestral backgrounds, should demonstrate a unified commitment to Australia, its interests and future
  • should recognise the importance of shared values governed by the rule of law within a democratic framework
  • should have the greatest possible opportunity to:
    • contribute to, and participate in, all aspects of public life in which they may legally participate
    • make use of, and participate in, relevant activities and programs provided or administered by the Government of NSW.
Icon of a flag.

All institutions of NSW:

  • should recognise the linguistic and cultural assets in the population of NSW as a valuable resource and promote this resource to maximise the development of the state.
An icon of a handshake in a circle.

All individuals and institutions:

  • should respect and make provision for the culture, language and religion of others within an Australian legal and institutional framework where English is the common language.
Page last updated: 21 February 2025 | 11:05 am