Culturally & Linguistically Diverse (CALD) People

is home to culturally and linguistically diverse states in Australia. Close to half of all Victorians were born overseas or have at least one parent born overseas. About a quarter of Victorians speak a language other than English at home.

Despite increasing cultural and linguistic diversity in Victoria and in Australia, it is widely recognised that people of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds experience barriers such as limited or lack of English language skills, and institutional barriers that can prevent people of CALD backgrounds participating in the social and cultural activities that shape the society we live in. Not all people of CALD backgrounds face barriers when it comes to participating in the arts, but some people of CALD backgrounds do experience barriers that affect their ability to fully participate.

Greater Bendigo is becoming increasingly culturally diverse. The percentage of Greater Bendigo residents born overseas has risen to 7 per cent in 2019, with 2 per cent of households speaking a language other than English at home. The Karen community is one of the biggest, with a contribution of 2,500 strong community members. Other culturally and linguistically diverse community groups include Malayali, Afghan, South Sudanese and Chinese.

Australian law forbids racial and other forms of discrimination and protects freedom of religion. However, many culturally and linguistically diverse people living in Australia experience racism and discrimination on a regular basis. Bendigo is no exception.

Arena is committed to addressing the impacts of systemic racism and ensuring that we as a company are committed to equity in our programs and our workforce.