Maria Vamvakinou MP, Federal Member for Calwell, delivered a scathing speech on the Turnbull Government’s proposed changes to Australian citizenship requirements. 

In her speech, she rejected calls that these changes were merely snobbery or elitism by the Government, she instead said they were a form of “blatant racism by a government that stands to do one thing and that is to divide the Australian community”.

Delivered in the House of Representatives Main Chamber on Thursday 10 August, she called the changes a “calculated and harsh hurdle” to citizenship for the new migrants and refugees to Australia.

I wish to congratulate the Assyrian Community for the official consecration of the Bishop for the newly created Diocese of Victoria and New Zealand for the Assyrian Christians - His Grace Mar Benyamin Elya -Assyrian Church of the East.

As the first Greek born woman to be elected to Federal Parliament, my story of migration has been showcased as part of Multicultural Arts Victoria's AFTERWARDS series.

The four-part series explores what it feels like to be a migrant or refugee, having to travel from the only home you’ve ever known to a new life in Australia.

What could your community group do with $20,000?

The Stronger Communities Programme will open soon for a third round of funding grants with expressions of interest open now. 

Up to $150,000 of funding will be available in Calwell for small capital projects which improve community participation and contribute to the vibrancy of our local community.