The state of Victoria is home to people from over 200 different countries who speak 260 languages and follow 135 different faiths.
But at least a fifth of Victorians say that racism and race-based discrimination are a part of their daily life, while either commuting on public transport or in schools; many say they have been a victim of implicit bias, the kind that is rampant in the rental market.
“Victoria is one of the most multicultural places in the world – almost half of all Victorians were born overseas or have a parent that was. Racism has no place here,” says Robin Scott, the Minister for Multicultural Affairs. 
Amid concerns that the community has reached a breaking point, the Victorian government will hold public consultation sessions across Melbourne and regional areas as part of the ongoing anti-racism action plan of the Andrews Labour Government.
Victoria is home to people from over 200 different countries Source: Supplied
“Our action plan is about ensuring that all Victorians feel like– and know – that they belong in our society,” says Mr Scott.
The public consultation sessions will be conducted with an aim to reduce barriers to reporting experiences of racism and racial discrimination and encourage feedback-particularly from within the multicultural communities.
“I encourage all Victorians to have their say, speak from their experiences and help us strengthen our fight against racial discrimination,” adds Mr Scott.
The consultation sessions, from tomorrow (17th August) until 4th September, will be held in Coburg, Kensington, St Albans, Broadmeadows and Dandenong, as well as in regional centres such as Ararat, Bendigo, Morwell and Shepparton.
The Labour Government says it is also working closely with businesses and community representatives to strengthen social cohesion and re-frame the debate around multiculturalism.
