History

The Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast Inc. (formerly the Ethnic Communities Council Gold Coast) was formed in 1983 in response to the human services needs of the growing migrant population in this area. The ECC became incorporated as a non-Government community organisation in 1986. Particular emphasis for the Multicultural Communities Council services is placed on those who experience difficulty because of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse backgrounds. With the growth in the number of people from diverse cultural backgrounds migrating to the Gold Coast Region new needs tend to arise. The Multicultural Communities Council endeavours to respond appropriately to those needs through the development of specific programs, services and networks. The Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast is administered by a voluntary Management Committee elected each year at an Annual General Meeting. New members are always welcome so that our important work can continue. The Council now employs a number of workers in various programs with funding assistance received from several Federal and State Government Departments.

The principal role of the Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast includes:

• Advocacy on behalf of Multicultural Communities.


• Referrals and networking with relevant community services and organisations.


• The provision of Information Services and printed information in a variety of languages.


• Assistance with completing forms for various Departments/Service Providers.


• Referrals to counselling and family support during personal and family crisis.


• Publication of quarterly newsletter.


• Volunteer Training.


• Bilingual Staff and Volunteers

Multicultural Seniors Program
Supporting culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) seniors with social issues, physical and mental wellness, and isolation.
Community Aged Care Program
To provide individual ongoing Care Plans to CALD elderly people in their homes. ACAT assessment required.
Multicultural Innovative Dementia Service Pilot
A holistic individual approach to meet the needs of people from a CALD background with dementia in high level of care.
Multicultural in Home Care Program
Support and assistance for the frail aged and younger people with disabilities and their carers.
Multicultural Aged/Disability Day Respite Centre (MARC):
Provides Day Respite for carers of the frail aged and younger disabled by providing breaks away from the pressures experienced as a result of daily routines.
Multicultural Community Development Program
Promotes multiculturalism by increasing awareness and acceptance of the benefits of cultural and linguistic diversity in Queensland.