Radio Brisvaani
Brisbane, June 24 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ) has called for reforms to improve support for multicultural organisations, raising concerns over charity funding eligibility and rising insurance costs during a roundtable with federal representatives.
The discussion, hosted by Thriving Multicultural Communities, brought together multicultural organisations with Federal MPs Andrew Leigh and Rowan Holzberger to discuss challenges affecting the sector.
ECCQ said the meeting provided an opportunity for community organisations to present research findings and highlight issues affecting their long-term sustainability.
Among the key concerns raised was that many multicultural organisations are unable to obtain Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status because the current definition of “culture” does not include ethnic cultures. According to ECCQ, this limits their ability to attract tax-deductible donations and secure long-term funding.
The organisation also highlighted the growing cost of public liability insurance, saying it has become a significant barrier for community groups organising festivals, cultural events and other activities that bring people together.
ECCQ said multicultural organisations continue to make significant contributions despite limited resources and stressed the importance of ongoing dialogue with policymakers to strengthen the sector.
The council said further work on the Sustainability of Multicultural Organisations in Queensland project would continue as discussions with decision-makers progress.
