A MOTION to establish a Multicultural Advisory Committee in Ipswich – introduced during National Reconciliation Week – was initially voted down by Council before being conditionally approved for a six-month trial period.
Councillor Pye Augustine, who brought forward the motion, said the committee was essential to ensure the city’s multicultural communities had a voice in local government.
“Ipswich is home to more than 22,000 residents who speak a language other than English, and we have people from 163 countries of origin,” Cr Augustine said.
“This committee will help foster greater community connections and increase understanding and awareness of the issues faced by our multicultural residents.”
Supported by Mayor Teresa Harding and Councillor Marnie Doyle, Cr Augustine’s motion faced opposition from Councillors Paul Tully, Jacob Madsen, Andrew Antoniolli, David Martin and Jim Madden, who voted against the proposal during the initial vote.
Deputy Mayor Nicole Jonic was absent from the meeting.
Following the defeat, Cr Augustine left the chamber, visibly frustrated.
But shortly after her departure, the dissenting councillors reversed their stance, amending the motion to allow for a six-month trial period – a compromise that was passed in her absence.
“While Council have only approved this committee to be in place for a period of six months, I will work hard to make it a success and ensure it becomes permanent like our other committees,” Cr Augustine said.
The initiative has received strong backing from multicultural leaders statewide.
“Councillor Pye Augustine is a hardworking and proactive advocate who has earned the respect and admiration of the multicultural communities in Ipswich,” said Queensland African Communities Council President Faysel Ahmed Selat.
Cr Augustine said Ipswich must rise to the standard set by other Queensland councils.
“Toowoomba and Brisbane already have multicultural advisory bodies in place. There’s no reason Ipswich shouldn’t be leading in this space too,” she said.
The trial committee is expected to begin work in the next few months.
