22/06/2026
Multiculturalism Is Not the Enemy
Multicultural Council of Wagga Wagga (MCWW) calls for respect, facts and leadership that brings communities together.
The Multicultural Council of Wagga Wagga (MCWW) has responded to comments made last week at the National Press Club, calling for an end to multiculturalism in Australia, saying the remarks are divisive, damaging and out of step with how communities across the Riverina actually live.
Multiculturalism is neither a threat nor a slogan. It is neighbours helping neighbours, children learning together, families building new lives, workers filling essential roles, volunteers showing up, and communities becoming stronger because everyone has the chance to belong.
“I’ve lived multiculturalism across three continents and six countries, immersing myself, volunteering, paying taxes and building a life wherever I have called home,” said MCWW Board Chair George John. “To link that experience with violence is inaccurate, unfair and disrespectful to millions of people who simply want to contribute and be treated with dignity.”
These comments overlook almost 40 years of migrants, refugees and culturally diverse communities settling, working and contributing across Wagga Wagga and the Riverina.
“We condemn terrorism, violence and extremism without hesitation,” said MCWW Chief Executive Officer Belinda Crain. “But multiculturalism and extremism are not the same conversation. Conflating them is wrong, harmful and dangerous. “Multiculturalism is not the threat. It is the backbone of this community. It is in our schools, workplaces, sporting clubs, farms, hospitals, businesses, neighbourhoods and places of worship. It is how regional Australia works.”
The Board of MCWW said national leaders have a responsibility to choose words that unite rather than divide, because if the rhetoric used is felt in classrooms, workplaces, shops, streets and sporting clubs across the country.
The Board, which is made up of highly skilled members with legal, education, health, community/social work, international and national Governance leadership, mentioned “This is not about left or right,” “It is about choosing facts over fear, respect over scapegoating and community over division. People from many backgrounds do not weaken Australia. They strengthen it.”
MCWW calls on public figures from all political parties to engage with multiculturalism as it is lived in towns like Wagga Wagga, not as a slogan, not as a threat and not as a convenient target. If we are serious about social cohesion, we should listen to the communities that build it every day. MCWW will continue to stand with everyone who believes Australia is stronger when every person has the chance to belong, contribute, and be respected.
