The government recognises there are demonstrated cultural and economic benefits in attracting more migrants to Tasmania, and it has a plan to help foster a rich and culturally diverse community in the State.
The decision to transform the old Moonah Arts Centre into a vibrant multicultural hub is a win for Tasmania’s newly arrived migrants, many of whom settle in Hobart’s northern suburbs.
The recommendation is a key part of the Glenorchy Multicultural Community Spaces Plan that was made possible with a $100,000 State Election commitment in 2014.
As a Member for Denison, I am fully aware there is currently no dedicated facility where multicultural groups can integrate, interact socially, and hold community and sporting activities.
The plan will also assist our culturally diverse communities in the northern suburbs explore options for places of worship. Currently, Tasmania is the only state in Australia without a Hindu Temple, despite a growing Bhutanese and Indian community.
I congratulate the project steering committee that included representatives from the Department of Premier and Cabinet, Department of Social Services, Red Cross, the Migrant Resource Centre, CatholicCare, the Multicultural Council of Tasmania and Glenorchy City Council.
I look forward to continuing to work with stakeholders in the near future to ensure this newly identified space at the former Moonah Arts Centre becomes a successful and important hub for migrants that also enriches the wider Denison community.
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