In Estimates Hearings today, the Minister for Multicultural Affairs made it clear she was not across her brief in relation to the biggest election promise to multicultural communities.

During the last election, the Labor-Greens government made a commitment to deliver a purpose-built facility at EPIC for multicultural communities to hold large-scale events.

When questioned by Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs Giulia Jones, the Minister confirmed she had not even met with nor consulted our multicultural communities about the new facility.

“It is widely acknowledged in multicultural circles that the lack of a large facility to hold hundreds of people for events which occur all year round is the most talked about issue,” Mrs Jones said.

“They have been asking for a facility like this for years which is why the Canberra Liberals promised to build a multicultural centre and community centre at the last election.

“The ability for this venue to allow community groups to self-cater is one of the most important aspects of the design process because it will make events affordable and religiously appropriate for multicultural communities.

“It is now clear that the Minister has no idea if self-catering will be possible at the facility. In fact she has not even received a briefing about anything to do with this important facility.

“The Government has already cancelled the National Multicultural Festival due to COVID-19 with no alternate event planned. What are the Ministers priorities to help multicultural communities in Canberra?” Mrs Jones concluded.