DIMA Annual Report 1996-97

Secretary's Review - settlement and multicultural affairs

The rationale for post-arrival services was reviewed and new priorities were proposed for consideration by the Council of Commonwealth, State and Territory Ministers of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs.

Consistent with government-wide commitments to greater effectiveness and accountability, the Department assisted the Minister in a rigorous review of the services provided through the two community programs, Grant-in-Aid (GIA) and Migrant Access Project Scheme (MAPS).

This review focused on the extent to which the programs met priority needs.

While it found little duplication, it did identify scope for more effective targeting and greater flexibility in delivery strategies.

In this context, the Department also pursued negotiations to secure service agreements and tighter accountability requirements within the network of Migrant Resource Centres (MRC) for which the Portfolio provides core funds.

New Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) service-delivery arrangements were beginning to be implemented in stages over a two-year period.

Beginning in 1997-98 with Victoria and Western Australia and in 1998-99 in other States and Territories, the Department is introducing open competitive tendering for AMEP delivery.

This timing will ensure sound planning for a smooth transition, minimal disruption to clients and adequate consultation with stakeholders.

The Department engaged an expanded range of Portfolio stakeholders in pursuing access and equity and related policies that accommodate Australia's rich cultural and linguistic diversity.

Notable progress was made towards Commonwealth, State and Territory governments endorsing a National Charter of Public Service for a Culturally Diverse Society.

In addition, funding was renegotiated for the Federation of Ethnic Communities' Councils of Australia Inc. (FECCA), in recognition of its role in advocating community needs.

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