Although Multiculturalism as a concept that informs public policy is not new, it continues to be highly contested. One of the major issues associated with the concept of multiculturalism is that it often misunderstood. World events, particularly the threat of terrorism has contributed to heighten criticisms on multiculturalism.

The Charter of Multiculturalism was approved as Government policy in November 2004. The Charter defines multiculturalism as a policy that enables all Western Australians, irrespective of differences based on culture, religion, history and any other characteristic to have the opportunity to participate equally in the political, social and economic life of this society.

Until the adoption of the Charter, the policy of multiculturalism was underpinned by recognition of cultural pluralism or diversity. The Charter’s authors the Premier’s Anti-racism Steering Committee, found that cultural pluralism was too narrow, particularly to accommodate the needs of second generation Australians of culturally diverse backgrounds.

This presentation will discuss the underlying principles of the Charter, the reasons for their adoption, and the ways in which the Charter’s intent can be realised by public sector agencies in service delivery and recruitment.