Multicultural Affairs works with community organisations and government and non-government organisations to develop policies and programs that:
- support and strengthen our culturally and linguistically diverse communities
- promote and foster an increased understanding of the opportunities and benefits of multiculturalism, interculturalism and diversity
- promote equity of access to services and opportunities
- support full participation in all aspects of South Australian society and economy.
South Australian Multicultural Act 2021
The South Australian Multicultural Act 2021 (the Act) was assented by Her Excellency, the Honourable Frances Adamson AC on 21 October 2021 and came into operation on 2 December 2021.
It replaced the South Australian Multicultural and Ethnic Affairs Commission Act 1980 (SAMEAC Act) as the state’s sole piece of multicultural legislation.
Developed following the 2019 review of the SAMEAC Act, the new legislation sets a foundation for new multicultural policy directions for South Australia by providing for the development of the South Australian Multicultural Charter.
The Act also establishes the South Australian Multicultural Commission, which is responsible for providing independent advice to government on multiculturalism generally and the operation of the Act. The Multicultural Commission updates and expands upon the functions of the former South Australian Multicultural and Ethnic Affairs Commission to address changing needs and priorities and drive the development of new multicultural policy.
Interpreting and Translating Policy
Interpreters and translators play an important role in facilitating communication with people who speak little or no English. Multicultural Affairs is responsible for the South Australian Interpreting and Translating Policy for Migrant and Non-Verbal (Sign) Languages, which aims to ensure that speakers of languages other than English are not disadvantaged when accessing or receiving South Australian Government services and information.