NAOMI LEVIN

A RECENT study has shown that Australians do not think multiculturalism has encouraged extremism or terrorism at home.

In fact, the study revealed that some Australians believe strong multicultural policies have helped avoid social tensions between ethnic groups, such as those found in some European countries.

The study, titled Perception of Multiculturalism and Security in Victoria, was recently completed by Monash University. It involved 120 people from metropolitan and regional Victoria.

Participants indicated that while they felt Australia was more of a target for terrorism now than it was 10 years ago, this was because of foreign policy decisions, such as Australia’s participation in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as the growth of global terrorism, rather than migration.

Laurie Ferguson, the Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, said the study’s findings would be used by the Australian Multicultural Advisory Council and the federal Government to develop new cultural diversity policies.

“The vast majority of participants believe that multiculturalism enhances Australia economically, socially and culturally,” Ferguson said.

Another issue raised in the study was the belief that Muslim and Sudanese communities were not properly integrating with other Australians. Some were concerned that these communities did not respect local customs and laws, and others were upset at the way women in these communities are treated.

However, those respondents who had met Muslim or Sudanese Australians defended them and highlighted the positive contributions these communities have made.

In terms of interfaith relations, the study’s respondents expressed optimism, particularly once new arrivals have settled in.

The study, conducted through the Global Terrorism Research Centre, recommended the Government maintain a strong commitment to multiculturalism because many respondents considered social harmony to be a key strength in this country.

Other recommendations included that government and police work more closely with Muslim and Sudanese people to emphasise their positive contributions in the wider community; that government provide more English language assistance to new arrivals; and that leadership and media-skills training programs be provided to ethnic community leaders.

“Overall, the report reminds us of the need to stay vigilant to protect our democratic approach to diversity,” Ferguson said. “It is essential that we continue programs to bring opportunity to all Australians and support their active participation in community life. We must stand united and reject all forms of racial or religious vilification.”