Councils urged to embrace migrants

MOHAN Mattala, 34, knows how important a city’s acceptance of migrants can be.

The physiotherapist arrived in Melbourne from India to study in 2008 before moving to Glenorchy in 2013.

He felt apprehensive before he arrived in Glenorchy, where he now operates his physiotherapy business.

“I was apprehensive because people told me Glenorchy was a not a good place to live but I’ve found it fantastic,” said the father of one. “When I lived in Melbourne I didn’t know my neighbours but now I do.”

Mr Mattala’s story of being accepted by his community is at the heart of the Welcoming Cities program, which is growing a national network of local governments recognised for fostering a sense of belonging and economic participation for all.

Welcoming Cities Tasmania is a partnership of the Multicultural Council Tasmania and the Local Government Association of Tasmania and provides a chance for councils to tap into new ideas and information and identify the benefits of migrants, rather than keep losing people to the mainland.

Glenorchy City Council is one of 18 councils nationally that share ideas in this network.

“We really reap the benefits of being a multicultural community,” Glenorchy Mayor Kristie Johnston said.

Welcoming Cities Australia national manager Aleem Ali will host a forum for councils and other groups on how to attract and retain migrants.

“The purpose is to show how to plan more effectively for migration and settlement,” he said. “There’s a strong focus on employment and economic development and recognising the economic benefits that settling people can bring to communities.”

The forum will be held today from 11am to 2pm at the Multicultural Hub in Moonah.