Australia's Multicultural Framework Review: Is Interculturalism the Future for a Bonded Australia?

In response to Australia's Multicultural Framework Review, join me as I look into the heart of Australia's Multicultural Framework Review, and passionately explore the need for a revitalised approach to our nation's diverse and colourful cultural tapestry.

The latest census data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reflects a very culturally diverse Australian population with 320 different ancestries and 429 languages spoken (including 183 indigenous languages).

Yet, multicultural Australia remains an outlier in mainstream Australian society. Despite its good intentions for social cohesion and inclusivity, multiculturalism creates a sense of segregation of sorts.

So what's the future state to continue advancing a more socially cohesive and inclusive Australia?

Enter interculturalism.

Should the Multicultural Framework consider interculturalism?

Interculturalism and multiculturalism share similarities; both aim to create a more cohesive and inclusive society. However, they also have key differences that set them apart.

The two different approaches can be likened to growing a beautiful garden.

Imagine multiculturalism as a garden where flowers of various species are planted in distinct plots, each retaining their individual colours, shapes, and characteristics. In this garden, the beauty is in the rich tapestry of unique flowers, each celebrated and respected for its individual qualities. These flowers represent different cultures, coexisting side by side but with limited interaction and exchange.

Interculturalism, on the other hand, is like a garden where the flowers are carefully cultivated to intertwine and interact, creating a rich and harmonious blend. In this garden, flowers of different species coexist and share nutrients, cross-pollinate, and intertwine their roots to create an interwoven and interconnected garden.

This represents the essence of interculturalism: the constant dialogue, exchange, and mutual enrichment that occurs when diverse cultures come together while still maintaining their distinct identities. In this garden, the beauty emerges not only from the diversity of the flowers but also from the complex and vibrant tapestry that is formed when they are woven together.

What are the benefits of interculturalism?

The current state, multiculturalism, is a concept that recognises, embraces and celebrates Australia's cultural diversity. It is characterised by the coexistence of multiple cultures within one society, where individuals maintain their cultural identities and practices.

Multiculturalism has been an essential part of Australian history since the 1970s. It's played a crucial role in advancing Australia's multicultural society and promoting the idea that cultural differences should be recognised and valued and that diversity is to be celebrated.

Interculturalism is a relatively newer concept emphasising interaction and dialogue between different cultures.

Interculturalism goes beyond the mere recognition of cultural diversity. It encourages individuals to engage with one another and learn from each other's cultures. Interculturalism is characterised by a shared experience and mutual respect between cultures that share one common culture, in this case, the Australian culture.