Harmony Week starts its celebrations on Monday, March 15 through to Sunday. Harmony Day, the international day for the elimination of racial discrimination, is on Sunday, March 21.

This period is a time to celebrate Australian multiculturalism, and the successful integration of migrants into our community. Everyone belongs.

Harmony Week is all about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging, regardless of cultural or linguistic background.

Our cultural diversity

Australia is one of the most successful multicultural countries in the world. Our cultural diversity is a great strength and is what makes Australia such an attractive place to live.

An integrated multicultural Australia is an integral part of our national identity. All people who migrate to Australia bring with them some of their own cultural and religious traditions, as well as taking on many new traditions.

Collectively, these traditions have enriched our nation.

Embracing diversity

• more than 70 Indigenous languages are spoken in Australia
• nearly half (49%) of Australians were born overseas or have at least one parent who was
• apart from English, the most common languages spoken in Australia are Mandarin, Arabic, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Italian, Greek, Tagalog/Filipino, Hindi, Spanish and Punjabi
• we identify with over 300 ancestries
• since 1945, more than 7.5 million people have migrated to Australia
• 85% of Australians agree multiculturalism has been good for Australia

Apartment living the preferred choice

Apartment living has become the preferred option for many, with 15% of all Australians now living in apartments. Migrants, downsizers, first home buyers, families, singles and professionals now all call strata home.

The only commonality of those living in strata is actually that they all live in strata.

The need for tolerance, respect and inclusion for all residents, so everyone can enjoy the sense of belonging, is vital to live in a happy, thriving community.

We choose community living so we can enjoy the numerous benefits it offers. Every day we should be encouraging the message of Harmony Week. Inclusion, respect and belonging for everyone to live in harmony together. And together we can do this.