CALD outreach initiative
Gary MAAS (Narre Warren South) (19:07): (164) The adjournment matter I wish to raise is for the attention of the Minister for Early Childhood and Pre-Prep and concerns the CALD outreach initiative. The action that I seek is that the minister provide more information on how the Andrews Labor government’s CALD outreach initiative is supporting children and families in my electorate of Narre Warren South. Many people in my electorate are from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and require assistance to access early childhood services. The CALD outreach initiative will support the City of Casey to run engagement activities and employ outreach workers that will help children and families to attend kinder, connect with early childhood supports and transition to primary school. The initiative is a recommendation of the parliamentary inquiry into early childhood engagement of CALD communities to reduce barriers to early childhood services, including playgrounds and libraries, and to assist families with enrolments and information sessions.
This is the sort of thing that Labor governments do and indeed the Andrews Labor government does. While those on the other side of politics will continue to demonise and intimidate when it comes to immigration, the Andrews Labor government will continue to deliver support, care and help to our multicultural communities in our welcoming state. It is important that every child, no matter their background, gets the very best start in life. I would appreciate it if the minister could provide further information on how the CALD outreach initiative will benefit children and families in my electorate, and I look forward to sharing that response with my community.