City of Salisbury’s inclusivity and diversity recognised

The City of Salisbury’s proud and extensive history of inclusion and diversity was recognised at the Local Government Professionals Australia, SA’s 21^st Annual Leadership Excellence Awards on Friday 27 May.

Council’s Community Health and Wellbeing Team was announced as the winner of the Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion category for its Cohesive Salisbury Projects.

The City of Salisbury is home to many amazing cultures, and this diversity has resulted in the City being the first and only Intercultural City in South Australia.

By listening to its diverse population, Council identified that while many cultural groups were thriving in their own right, there was a desire for greater opportunities to learn from and connect with other multicultural groups.

These findings formed the basis of the City of Salisbury’s various inclusion and diversity projects and helped build strong and valuable relationships with community leaders throughout the process.

The City of Salisbury’s, Harmony Week, held in March each year, has quickly become a popular event to bring cultures together, with the annual celebration inviting all different cultures to rejoice in their rich culture allowing groups to dance, perform and celebrate one another’s cultures.

Interestingly, over 35 per cent of residents living in the City of Salisbury are born outside of Australia, and this has allowed countless people to share many wonderful stories and experiences within the community.

Further reinforcing Council’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, it is important to note that one in five residents live with a disability.

Council consistently goes above and beyond in its disability inclusion and planning – beyond the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). We are building a city that is inclusive for all.

City of Salisbury Mayor Gillian Aldridge OAM said being recognised at last week’s gala awards dinner was such a rewarding and enriching result for Council.