Georges River Council backs stronger Better Together campaign and grant bids

Georges River Council has unanimously backed a report into strengthening the Better Together anti-racism campaign, its partnerships with multicultural organisations and social-cohesion programs across the local government area.

Moved by Councillor Ben Wang and seconded by Councillor Leon Pun, the resolution asks the general manager to report on three areas: opportunities to revitalise Better Together; existing partnerships, initiatives and collaborative arrangements with organisations in the multicultural sector; and opportunities to develop or join anti-racism and social-cohesion networks and programs that support inclusion and harmony.

Council also resolved to apply for funding under the NSW Government’s Social Cohesion Grants Program, or an equivalent program, whenever an eligible funding round becomes available and fits Council’s strategic objectives. The resolution did not specify a grant amount.

The work will be considered as Council reviews and develops its updated 2026 Social Justice Charter. Councillors resolved that the Multicultural NSW Act 2000 and the NSW Multicultural Principles be considered as part of that process.

The resolution starts a reporting and grant application process. It does not create a new program or allocate a set amount of Council funding.

The item drew public participation. Ash Ambihaipahar made a written submission, while Jun Qi spoke in person in support of the anti-racism and social-cohesion motion.

Councillor Wang disclosed a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest because one speaker supporting the motion was a member of his 2021 Council election team and because he is a member of the Multicultural NSW Regional Community Network. He remained in the meeting.

The general manager is to prepare the requested report. Council will apply for eligible NSW Government funding when relevant rounds open, but no timing was specified for the report, grant applications or any expanded initiatives.