From a Brisbane backyard to one of Queensland’s most respected multicultural agencies. Multicultural Australia has been shaping a better future for all Queenslanders for 25 years.
“We did it in a backyard, with a clothes’ line in the background. And we did it without any possessions. We didn’t have any money, we didn’t have a place and we didn’t have any workers. And isn’t that reflective of a lot of our clientele! Many come here without anything except a dream to begin again.”
Gail Hyslop – Multicultural Australia founding member
In 1997 a group of concerned Queenslanders met in an unassuming Brisbane backyard, in the shadow of an Australian icon, the hill hoist, to discuss the future of Queensland’s multicultural sector after the defunding of the Brisbane Migrant Resource Centre.
Dreaming together of a Queensland where everyone felt welcome and included, they committed to start a new organisation to support new Queenslanders. In 1998, the Multicultural Development Association became incorporated to deliver essential migrant services, advocate for multiculturalism and build a strong future for all Queenslanders.
One small name change later, Multicultural Australia provides welcome and support to more than 5000 newly arrived Queenslanders every year, including refugees, migrants, international students and people seeking asylum.
Our commitment to our original vision is as strong as ever. We are dedicated to building a welcoming Queensland where all new Queenslanders have the opportunity to fully contribute to and participate in a multicultural society.
Read our 2023-25 Strategic Plan
