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Making Canberra Proud......
Hello Friends,
It's time to vote for our local boy Arun Basu and make him Indianlink Idol 2009 !!
The Grand Final performance (top 3) of the Indian Link Idol took place on Sunday with some very good singing performances.
Arun is the only competitor from Canberra among the top 3.
A small fill up on what this round was all about. This round had three themes:
· a song dedicated to mother,
· a semi-classical song
· If you were to sing in a bollywood movie which song would you choose
To listen to some of Arun's songs you can visit www.arunrocks.webs.com
The voting lines are open from this very moment until Saturday 5 PM and the person with the highest votes will take home the glory - so please vote for Arun and make him a winner.
The winner will be declared on Sunday 22nd November at 12pm. Log on to www.indianlink.com.au and click on a button on the top right hand corner called 24x7 live radio.
To vote: Simply type Arun and sms to +61404598289
AND
Send an email with my name (Arun) in the subject field to indianlinkidol@gmail.com
You can send mails from multiple email addresses and mobile numbers so please do so :).
If you can spare 2 minutes then please do it right now - just in case you forget later ;)
Your vote is very precious for Arun and he would really appreciate it.
Please do spread the word around and VOTE FOR ARUN … VOTE FOR ARUN… VOTE FOR ARUN !!!
Please VOTE for ARUN for (IndianLink) Indian Idol !!
SRI VISHNU SHIVA MANDIR
OPEN DAY
Sunday 29 Nov 2009
10.30am to 1.30pm
We invite you and your family to the Mandir Open Day on Sunday, 29 November 2009 between 1030 and 1330 Hrs. Mandir Open day is being organised to help raise awareness of the various activities that Mandir offers to the multicultural community in the ACT and surroundings. The Mandir opened its doors in 1994 and since then various multicultural groups have used the Mandir for different purposes such as holding community prayers, weddings, quiz nights, hosting of visits from overseas artists and events that involve community coming together. Holding of these events has encouraged the Managing Committee to open the doors of the Mandir and invite all communities in Canberra on a day when they can witness the contributions the Mandir offers to the community. This is planned as an annual event and every year the Mandir will organise the Mandir Open Day on the last Sunday in November.
We invite all communities to participate in the Mandir Open day and make a presentation on their community activities to those present and be part of the rich cultural experience that the Mandir is planning to showcase. There will be cultural enthralling presentations by the children, youth of Canberra, presentations by various community groups and food stalls to tease and fulfil the taste buds.
For more information contact Vishnu Shiva Mandir, 82, Mawson Drive, Mawson ACT 2607 Ph: (02) 6286 6404
Email: vishnushivamandir@hotmail.com Web: www.vishnushivamandir.org
The HTCC invites you to a
FOOD FAIR
A variety of Indian vegetarian dishes
at very reasonable prices
including Authentic dosa and sambar
(Vegan meals also available)
81 RATCLIFFE CRESCENT, FLOREY
11.00AM TO 2:00PM
Sat 21 November
All WELCOME
Food fair is a regular feature of HTCC's calendar of
events hosted every 3rd Saturday of the month.
Canberra Singapore Club
Deepavali/ Christmas Celebrations
Vegetarian and Non-vegetarian food
catered by the Jewel of India Restaurant
12pm Sunday 22nd November
Singapore High Commission, Forster Crescent, Yarralumla
Members Adult $20.00 Child (4-10) $ 10.00
Non Members Adult $28.00 Child (4-10) $20.00
RSVP: Margaret Chua Margaret.Chua@canberra.edu.au or
Phone: 6260 6501 (evenings) by Wednesday 15 November
ACT Health Multicultural Aged Care Seminar Series
ACT Health is hosting a series of seminars on Multicultural Aged Care.
Riley Hall, Pilgrim Centre, 69 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra City ACT 2601
Bookings Essential – No charge - Please call Ailsa Turrell 6205-4794 or email ACTHealthCPP@act.gov.au
If you are from a CALD community and would like a similar presentation for your community, with an interpreter, please contact Ailsa Turrell.
TRAUMA AND AGEING
Wednesday 18 November, 2009
9.30am-1230pm
presented by
Glenn Flanagan, Kathy Ragless and James Atem from Companion House.
This seminar will provide information on how to identify symptoms of trauma (including the impact of earlier trauma) in older people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and strategies on how to provide support.
MENTAL HEALTH AND OLDER PEOPLE
Wednesday 25 November, 2009
9.30am-1230pm
Presented by ANDREW COLLIVER (ACT Health Older Persons Mental Health Unit)
FRAILTY, VULNERABILITY AND TRANSCENDENCE IN AGEING
Tuesday 1 December, 2009
9.30am-1230pm
presented by Rev. Prof. Elizabeth MacKinlay AM PhD FRCNA Director Centre for Ageing and Pastoral Studies Professor, School of Theology Charles Sturt University
HAVE YOU VISITED
The Indian High Commission’s Website recently??
Then why not visit it now: http://www.hcindia-au.org/
You’ll be Surprised… it has a NEW & FRESH Look !!
Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs, Government of India and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)
invites every NRI (Non-Resident Indian) to
PRAVASI BHARITYA DIVAS
7-9 JANUARY 2010
at VIGYAN BHAWAN, NEW DELHI
From the desk of Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs, Mr Vayalar Ravi:
“To encourage high quality public discourse that would contribute to policy making the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs has taken many initiatives to engage with the Overseas Indian community. The annual Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is one such platform that brings together th eminent overseas Indians over a three-day period from 7 th to 9 January evey year.
The eighth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention is being held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. I am happy to note that overseas Indians have emerged as important constituents of their adopted countries and can potentially play a strategically important role in shaping the future course of development in India. You can also serve to build bridges between your present homeland and the land of your ancestors.
To serve your changing expectations, this year the PBD would be holding special sessions on “Property related issues of overseas Indians” and “Nano-technology”. An annual oration by a prominent overseas Indian is being instituted for the first time.
Apart from this, you would have an opportunity to interact with Union Ministers of Indian government, Chief Ministers of states and prominent PIOs from other countries. The PBD provides you a platform to engage, interact and build mutually beneficial networks. Participate and discover areas of common interest. I look forward to meeting you at the forthcoming PBD Convention at New Delhi.”
For more information, Program outline, Registration etc. please visit http://www.pbdindia.org/ or www.moia.gov.ai or contact High Commission of
AIBC GALA DIWALI GALA DINNER on Wed 21 Oct 09
Radio Manpasand congratulate and thank Australia India Business Council (AIBC) for the Diwali Gala Dinner on the night of Wednesday, 21 October, which was a sellout. It was an evening full of good food, fun and excitement, not to mention the beautiful decor which enlightened the spirit of Diwali. Besides fireworks display, the star attraction of the night, Australian cricketer Brad Haddin enjoyed the evening thoroughly, mingling with the audience, snapping many photographs (more with the Indian community) and signing plenty of autographs.
Her Excellency Mrs Sujatha Singh outlined the reasons and the importance of celebrating Diwali in her speech. There was a large contingent of Members of Parliament in attendance celebrating the spirit of Diwali.
AIBC through its auction raised, a mammoth $11,500, which was donated to Brad's nominated charity organization - The ACT Eden Monaro Cancer Group. The Live Auction Items were quickly snapped up by eager bidders. Mr Deepak-Raj Gupta, the president of AIBC, in his welcoming speech thanked the following sponsors for their valuable support:
Gold sponsor: The Cobra Group
Silver Sponsors: Wipro, KPMG, ANZ Bank, Qantas, Invest Australia, High Commission of India, India Tourism, Satyam-Mahindra, CMCAA, UC, Chillis supermarket and Devine Function Centre, as well as Radio Manpasand FM 91.1 and HTCC Florey for promoting the event.
WELL DONE AIBC !!
Déjà vu Canberra
Dance & Yoga Classes
(New to Canberra)
Starting from 5th September 2009 on Saturdays and Sundays
Ralph Wilson Theatre, Gorman House Arts Centre, Batman St Braddon
As in most cultural aspects of India, their dance has diverse folk, contemporary and classical forms. These influences are often allied with regional styles, narrative forms, and the wonderful mythology of Indian legends. While Bollywood has popularised some new styles of Indian dancing, there is a lot more to Indian dance than that.
Now in Canberra you can enjoy the delight of both Classical and Contemporary Indian Dance, not just for people wanting to maintain their Indian traditions, or have their children keep alive their culture, Indian dance is a wonderful pursuit no matter what your cultural background and you will be welcomed with traditional Indian warmth.
The fun and fitness of Dance & Yoga Starting from 5th September 2009, we are running classes on Saturdays & Sundays at the popular Ralph Wilson Theatre, Gorman House Arts Centre, Batman St Braddon ACT 2612
Please send us an email if you would like to register for any of our classes, dance@dejavucanberra.com , or contact by phone on the following numbers: Between 8 am to 8 pm: 0422938668; 8 pm onwards: 0434089517 or visit: www.dejavucanberra.com
Shared Spaces Incorporated presents
Padma Menon’s
Mother: A Tribute through dance and song
Performances: Saturday 31 October at 7.00pm
Sunday 1 November at 7.00pm
Pre-performance forums on both nights at 6.00pm
at the National Gallery of Australia, Parkes
Tickets $22, $18. NGA members/concessions
Bookings: 02 6240 6504 (weekdays) or eventbookings@nga.gov.au
Website: www.sharedspaces.net.au
Presented in association with the National Gallery of Australia
___________________________________________________________________
A curtain-raiser for Mother: a tribute through dance, stories and song
Saturday 24 October 2.00–2.30 pm
Padma Menon and dancers discuss the dances and stories that inspired the performance
Free | Australian National Gallery foyer
ENQUIRIES. 0447643646
FOR CHILDREN - Dancing Stories
A special interactive performance combining dance with storytelling. Suitable for ages 6–11.
Sunday 1 November 2.00–2.45 pm
Free | James O Fairfax Theatre, National Gallery of Australia
Enquiries: 0447643646
PUBLIC FORUM - Mothers: cross-cultural dialogues
A public forum presented by ANU and Shared Spaces Incorporated with popular authors, researchers, dancers and policy makers exploring the diversity of mothering today.
Monday 2 November 9.30am -1.00pm
Finkel Theatre, The John Curtin School of Medical Research
The Australian National University
Enquiries: 6125 4144 Registration: events@anu.edu.au
H1N1 Influenza ’09 Vaccination Program
ACT Health is participating in the national roll out of pandemic H1N1 influenza vaccine. The vaccine, called Panvax® H1N1, will be available from General Practitioners in the ACT from 30 September 2009. The nationally agreed priority groups for this vaccine include:
o Health care workers;
o Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people;
o Pregnant women;
o Individuals with moderate to severe obesity;
o Children (aged 10 years and over) in special schools;
o Parents and guardians of children aged 0 to 6 months; and
o Those considered vulnerable to severe infection with H1N1 (aged 10 years and over).
The vaccine will be initially offered to those in the nationally agreed priority groups. Flexibility exists, however, for vaccination to be given opportunistically to concerned individuals or family members of vulnerable people.
People in priority groups who are unable to see a GP should ring the Community Health Intake line on 6207 9977 to make an appointment at a clinic.
Panvax® H1N1 is a one dose vaccine for people aged 10 and over. It may take up to two weeks for individuals to develop immunity to H1N1 influenza ’09. Further information regarding vaccination for those aged 9 years and under will be available following the conclusion of clinical trials in children.
Members of priority groups and other concerned individuals should discuss the vaccine with their health care provider. For more information on the Panvax® H1N1 vaccine visit the ACT Health website at www.health.act.gov.au
Dr Charles Guest
Chief Health Officer
30 September 2009
WOULD YOU LIKE TO PUT UP A STALL AT MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL 2010??
APPLY NOW…
The National Multicultural Festival will be held from Friday 5 to Sunday 7 February 2010.
PLEASE NOTE: New information for the 2010 Festival refer to Participation Policy for the 2010 National Multicultural Festival: Charges will now apply. The participation policy will be outlined during an information session for successful applicants in December 2009.
Charging Regime where food or goods (craft etc) being sold, the following charges will apply:
FRIDAY
Community stalls 6X3 - $250
Community stalls 3X3 - $120
Commercial stalls 6X3 - $1,500
Commercial stalls 3X3 - $1,000
SATURDAY
Community stalls 6X3 - $450
Community stalls 3X3 - $230
Commercial stalls 6X3 - $2,500
Commercial stalls 3X3 - $1,800
SUNDAY
Community stalls 6X3 - $250
Community stalls 3X3 - $120
Commercial stalls 6X3 - $1,500
Commercial stalls 3X3 - $1,000
The 2010 Festival will begin with Carnival in the City and a Multicultural Marketplace on Friday evening. Saturday will see the continuation of the highly successful Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets Food and Dance Spectacular, including participation by Diplomatic Missions, and a second evening of Carnival in the City. The event will conclude on Sunday with the Greek Glendi, Contact Canberra and Chinese New Year celebrations. Other events such as exhibitions, film festivals and performances will be held around the Festival.
The new Participation Policy for the 2010 National Multicultural Festival will ensure that all members of Canberra’s multicultural community wishing to showcase their respective cultural traditions have the opportunity to do so as stallholders or as performers, and will also ensure the financial viability of the event.
Guidelines for Community Stall Holders:
1. All stall holders in the 2010 National Multicultural Festival must be incorporated bodies and registered as an organisation under the Associations Act 1991 or under the auspices of an incorporated body.
2. All stall holders selling alcoholic beverages must include food for public consumption or heritage and traditional items at the point of sale.
3. All stall holders will be provided with guidelines and information regarding the sale of alcohol, responsibility as the operator of the stall in accordance with their application and compliance with safety regulations.
NB: We welcome any comments you may have relating to the new participation policy. Please submit to Multiculturalfestival@act.gov.au or GPO Box 158 CANBERRA ACT 2601
For Application forms please contact DHCSMulticulturalfestival@act.gov.au. PLEASE NOTE THE CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: Friday 6 November 2009. Please ensure you complete the form appropriate to you. For example, community groups should complete “COMMUNITY STALL” forms for each day they wish to participate.
FLORIADE 2009 - MIND, BODY AND SOUL
Sat 12 Sep - Sun 11 Oct 2009
Commonwealth Park, Canberra
Cost: Free
Get rejuvenated at Floriade this year! See over a million bulbs and annuals bloom to depict the Mind, Body and Soul theme. Unwind among magnificent garden beds. See the queen of soul, Marcia Hines. Ride the giant new ferris wheel for spectacular views of the festival and the nation’s capital. Visit the Lotus Lounge Day Spa for natural therapies. See professionally created waterwise gardens. Learn from informative demonstrations and workshops. Shop at the Floriade markets and enjoy the daily entertainment. There is plenty to do in Canberra during Floriade, so make a holiday of it! Book your accommodation today.
For more information: www.floriadeaustralia.com/
Indian Grocery Business FOR SALE !!
An excellent opportunity to purchase a thriving Indian Grocery store
near Woden, in a major street location with excellent commercial clientele.
This is a well-established family business.
The premises are brightly lit and fitted out with modern equipment.
This store has been well patronised for the past 18 years, with strong customer focus
that boasts a reputation for friendly service. There is more development - housing, office
and commercial - happening in the Woden area that will augur well for business growth.
This business will definitely suit a family who have recently migrated and
looking for a job and/or business opportunities to settle here in Canberra.
Be quick to grab this opportunity in a growth suburb only
minutes to the Woden/Tuggeranong/City centre.
For more information please call 0411 055242.
OPEN FRIDAYS FOR STUDENTS @ Indian High Commission
From 11am till 5pm every Friday
The doors of the High Commission of India, the Consulates and the Honorary Consuls are always open to visitors, especially to the Indian community. In order that all Indian students know that there is an open door for them to come and discuss their problems, the High Commission, the Consulates and the Honorary Consuls have designated every Friday, from 11 am till 5 pm, an Open Day for students, when any Indian student can walk in, without prior appointment, to meet the High Commissioner, Consuls General, the designated Student Welfare Officers and Honorary Consuls and discuss their problems and grievances.
Thanks and regards,
V.K.Sharma
Deputy High Commissioner
High Commission of India
Canberra
Tel: + 61 2 62731106
Fax: + 61 2 62734917
Press Release
Indian High Commissioner Mrs Sujatha Singh’s
Message to Indian students and the larger Indian community
on Radio : 10 June 2009 : 12 noon
Friends,
I want to tell you that the well-being and safety of Indian students in Australia is of the utmost priority for Government of India, especially since the tragic events of 23rd May.
As you will be aware, the matter has been taken up at the highest level. Our Prime Minister has spoken to Prime Minister Kevin Rudd; our External Affairs Minister S.M.Krishna has spoken to FM Stephen Smith. They have stressed on the need to provide adequate security to our students. The Australian Government has assured us of its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Indian students studying in Australia.
I and the Consuls General in Sydney and Melbourne have also been in constant touch with Australian authorities – Ministers, both at the Federal and State level, the police authorities and the Australian Foreign Office and impressed upon them that the safety and security of our students needs to be assured.
For the past several days, we have been in touch with the authorities on a daily basis on this issue. They are as concerned about the situation as we are and are doing what they can and what needs to be done to reassure our students.
I know that you are concerned that the attacks seem to be still continuing. We share your concern and are all working to ensure that these attacks stop.
A clear message has been conveyed that urgent action is needed to ensure that attacks against our students studying in Australia stop and that strong measures are put into place to prevent these attacks from taking place.
I have visited Melbourne from 28-30 May and accompanied by CG Melbourne, I talked to the authorities, including Premier Brumby and Police Commissioner Simon Overland and also met our students in Footscray. More recently I visited Sydney on 8 June, where I went to Harris Park and met members of the Indian community, accompanied by the Consul General, Sydney. We are following events very closely.
I have received reports of the incident which took place at Harris Park on 8th June, 2009 evening and the demonstrations by members of the Indian community since then.
I would urge all the members of the Indian community to remain calm and refrain from taking the law in their hands.
It is important to work closely with the Australian authorities and especially the police, to ensure that the attacks are stopped.
Please do not do anything that makes the situation worse.
Do not take matters into your own hands.
Work within the framework of the law.
Any incident of attack/harassment should be promptly brought to the notice of police for taking appropriate action in the matter.
You should also bring any incident of attack or harrassment to the attention of the High Commission of India or the Consulates. Our contact details are on the web.
Our EAM has given some very useful advice to our students here – “I would like to urge the Indian students to be patient and show restraint. They have gone there (Australia) for higher studies. They should concentrate on that rather than retaliate.”
Please rest assured that the High Commission and the Consulates in Sydney and Melbourne remain in close and constant touch with all the concerned Australian authorities on these incidents and that we are all doing our best to do whatever we can to ensure the safety and security of our students in Australia.
Mrs Sujatha singh
Indian High Commissioner
For GUIDELINES FOR INDIAN STUDENTS WISHING TO STUDY IN AUSTRALIA
please visit Indian High Commission’s website: http://www.hcindia-au.org/GFIS.html
Blood Donations Urgently Needed All Day This Month
The Australian Red Cross Blood Service urgently needs blood
donations this month. Our stock levels are falling due to
Winter colds and flu and increased hospital demand.
No matter what your blood type, we need you now!
Please call 13 14 95 if you can help us
save lives during July and August.
THANK YOU!!
HINDI Speaking VOLUNTEERS Needed URGENTLY !!
Migrant and Refugee Settlement Services (MARSS) urgently needs volunteers to assist with translating and interpreting services. Some of the recently arrived migrants from India speak Hindi and need assistance as they have a limited understanding of English.
If you are willing to spare a few hours to help these migrants MARSS would love to hear from you. Please contact MARSS by e-mail comwork@tpg.com.au or ring 6248 8577.
Australia India Business Council (AIBC) AGM 2009
AIBC Canberra Chapter held its AGM on 13 May 2009. After the President’s report, the Management Committee elected Mr. Deepak–Raj Gupta as the President for FY 2009/2010. Mr. Gupta thanked the outgoing President Mr. Warwick Ryan for all his efforts and achievement for AIBC Canberra Chapter and the Management Committee for their support. Mr. Gupta held the similar position in 2007/08.
The AIBC was set up in 1986 following recognition of the enormous trade potential between the two countries by the Prime Ministers of the day, Bob Hawke of Australia and Rajiv Gandhi of India.
Premier/Chief Minister-led trade delegations from each state and increasing numbers of bilateral delegations and business groups demonstrate stronger and deeper commercial ties between the two countries. AIBC is playing key role in managing links between the two business communities.
For more information please visit: www.aibc.org.au or email: E: act@aibc.org.au contact Deepak-Raj Gupta on 0403 456 660
AIBC: Building stronger business links between Australia and India for the benefit of members
Know India Programme (KIP)
The Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs has been organising the “Know India Programme” (KIP) for the younger generation of the Indian Diaspora. The programme provides a forum for students and young professionals of Indian origin to familiarize themselves with India and interact with Government functionaries, business persons, academics, etc., as well as among themselves. A brief note on the programme is attached, including support to be offered by the Government of India to selected participants. The next 3 Know India Programmes are being organised as follows:
|
|
Period |
Partner States |
Last date for receipt of nominations in the High Commission |
|
13th KIP |
Dec. 2009 – Jan. 2010 |
Kerala, Haryana |
10 September 2009 |
|
14th KIP |
March 2010 |
Rajasthan, Goa |
10 December 2009 |
2. Interested persons in the age group of 18-26 years may send their applications ( Click Here for the Form ) along with their two passport size photographs, bio-data, achievements in any particular field, and interest in India, to the Mission by the due dates mentioned above. It may also be indicated if the persons applying for the programme have visited India earlier.
3. For any clarification, the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs may be contacted at the following e-mail – usds2@moia.nic.in
For Guidelines on Know-India Programme Please Click Here
With regards,
V.K. Sharma
Deputy High Commissioner
High Commission of India
3-5 Moonah Place, Yarralumla ACT 2600
Tel.: +61-2-62731106; Fax: +61-2-62734917
LIVE SMART: MULTILINGUAL LIVING SKILLS WEBSITE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
Live Smart is a new multilingual living skills website for young people and their workers. The website provides living skills info in 6 languages (Arabic, Amharic, Dinka, Swahili, Karen and English) and features an interactive ‘make your own budget’ tool. The website is a resource you can use in your work with young people as they learn about housing, managing mobile phone bills, getting legal advice and staying happy and healthy. Look out for recorded interviews with young people – they’ll be added to the site by the end of June.
For more info, visit Live Smart at: http://www.livesmart.net.au/
Message from Department of Immigration and Citizenship
Changes to the Citizenship Test
Why is the citizenship test changing?
A review of the Australian citizenship test was undertaken to help the government examine the content and operation of the citizenship test to make sure that it is achieving its purpose of providing an effective pathway for residents to become Australian citizens.
See: www.citizenshiptestreview.gov.au
Also, SEE ATTACHMENT here for questions and answers regarding changes to the citizenship test.
More information is available on the citizenship website: www.citizenship.gov.au
Message from Department of Immigration and Citizenship
Changes to the Migration Program
The Australian Government will revise the migration program for the second half of 2008-09 so that skilled migrants who have a confirmed job, or have skills in critical need will be given priority for a permanent visa to come to Australia. The changes, effective from 1 January, will ensure that the Skilled Migration program is driven by the requirements of industry and targets skills in critical need across a number of sectors.
More information can be found at: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au/media/media-releases/2008/ce08123.htm
Tax Bonus Payment
If your 2007-08 taxable income was $100 000 or less and you paid tax, you could be eligible to receive a tax bonus payment of up to $900.
Payments start from 6 April 2009 and are tax free.
http://ato.gov.au/corporate/content.asp?doc=/content/00178930.htm
Education Tax Refund
If you’re eligible for the Education Tax Refund you could get 50 per cent back on a range of primary and secondary school education expenses.
This site will help you determine if you are eligible, what you can claim, how much you can claim and how you can claim.
http://www.educationtaxrefund.gov.au/home/
Economic Stimulus Plan
This website provides extensive information on the Australian
Government’s Economic Stimulus Plan.
http://www.economicstimulusplan.gov.au/
Centrelink ‘Supporting Multicultural Australians’
Centrelink has released a new brochure called ‘Supporting Multicultural Australians’. This brochure, translated into 35 languages, is designed to provide an easy-to-read overview of Centrelink’s payments and services.
More information is available at: http://www.centrelink.gov.au/internet/internet.nsf/multifilestores/mcah1806_0810
Buying on the Internet
Australia has strict laws which control the import and export of goods including purchases made over the Internet. Many items available on the Internet are prohibited or restricted under customs legislation. Check with customs before buying.
More information can be found at: http://www.customs.gov.au/webdata/resources/files/FS_BuyingOnTheInternet070503.pdf
Grocery Choice
Grocery Choice is an Australian Government initiative. It helps consumers find the cheapest supermarket chain in their area without having to compare hundreds of prices.
More information is available at: http://www.grocerychoice.gov.au/
Culture and Heritage - government community grants
This website helps you find funding available under a variety of grant programs for individuals, businesses and communities to help you develop solutions to local and national problems, fund ideas and initiatives or provide assistance in times of hardship.
Government community grants site: http://www.grantslink.gov.au
Australian Government information
A portal for Australian Government services: http://www.Australia.gov.au
Community information and services
Information and services for Australians: http://www.community.gov.au
Kind Regards,
Sarah Rose
Community Liaison Officer, Multicultural Affairs Section
Community Engagement and Multicultural Affairs Branch, ACT and Regions Office
Department of Immigration and Citizenship
Ph: (02) 6195 6186 ; Fax: (02) 6248 0479 ; Email: sarah.rose@immi.gov.au
2009 Tax time is here
Free Tax Help now available for low income earners
Do you earn under $40,000 a year and have simple tax affairs? If so you may be eligible for the Tax Office’s free Tax Help service. Tax Help is a free and confidential service provided to low income earners by a network of Tax Office-trained community volunteers.
Commissioner Michael D’Ascenzo said Tax Help volunteers can assist people with straightforward tax matters or those preparing a tax return for the first time. “They can help with claims for education tax refund, a refund of imputation (formerly called franking) credits and baby bonus applications,” Mr D’Ascenzo said. “Our volunteers have helped more than 650,000 people over the past 20 years, including people from non-English speaking and Indigenous backgrounds, those with disabilities and young people lodging a tax return for the first time.”
Tim Radford, a retired maths teacher and high school principal, has volunteered for six years. “I help people with their tax returns, including making claims and deductions.” Mr Radford said.
“I look forward to meeting my regular clients, as well as the new ones. It gives me the opportunity to help people in the community.”
The Tax Help service will be provided by approximately 1,300 volunteers operating out of 850 community centres throughout Australia.
You are eligible for Tax Help if you are:
- a single person and your taxable income is $40,000 or less
- married or de facto and your taxable income is $40,000 or less, plus $2,500 for each child
- a single parent and your taxable income is $40,000 or less, plus $2,500 for each child.
Tax Help is available by appointment at convenient community-based locations in most areas until the end of October. Commissioner Michael D’Ascenzo also said he wanted to take this opportunity to thank Tax Help volunteers. “These volunteers are doing a wonderful job helping those in the community most in need of help in relation to their tax returns,” Mr D’Ascenzo said.
If you are not sure where your nearest Tax Help centre is or you want to know if you’re eligible, call the Tax Office on 13 28 61.
Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities Conference
Saturday 17 October 2009 - "Working Together to Make a Safer Community".
The conference is being hosted by the ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA) and is supported by the Department of Disability Housing and Community Services and the Australian Federal Police. The aim of the conference is to improve communication between the ACT Emergency Services and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities by:
• Recognising, supporting and celebrating cultural diversity within the ACT
• Identifying the information needs and knowledge gaps between CALD communities and emergency services
• Communicating the emergency management principals of Preparedness, Prevention, Response and Recovery (PPRR)
• Increasing awareness of the roles and responsibilities of emergency services and highlighting contact information
• Showcasing achievements to date with the CALD program
The conference will bring together CALD communities and emergency service officers with organisations who have a role to play in emergency management. The conference will focus on increasing risk awareness and resilience which will in turn lead to increased mutual respect, understanding and acceptance between the participants.
An invitation is extended to all members of the ACT community, emergency service officers and volunteers, members of organisations who have a role to play in emergency management and organisations that promote and support cultural diversity. Further information including a registration form can be obtained by phoning Elena Sione on 6205 9781 or email elena.sione@act.gov.au or liaison@act.gov.au . In the meantime, please mark this very important event in your calendars and we look forward to seeing you there.
Elena Sione
CaLD Liaison Officer
A.C.T. Emergency Services Agency
Dept of Justice and Community Safety
(02) 6205 9781 telephone elena.sione@act.gov.au
ARE YOU READY FOR DIGITAL TV??
Between 2010 and 2013 analog free-to-air TV signals are being switched off and replaced with digital-only signals. How will this affect you? Find out here.
To keep receiving free-to-air TV after the digital switchover in your area you will need a television that is capable of receiving digital signals (if you don’t have one already).
There are two options for you:
Option 1 - Get a digital set top box to convert your existing analog TV
Option 2 - Upgrade to a television with an in-built digital tuner
What this means is you do not have to get a new TV if you do not want to. But, if you have an analog TV, you will need to get a set top box.
For more information visit: http://www.digitalready.gov.au/ or email: switchover@dbcde.gov.au or Call our information line: 1800 20 10 13
freeview
more for free
freeview will give viewers
more moments,
more channels,
for free
freeview is
free-to-view
no monthly fees or
ongoing costs
what is freeview?
Australia is switching to digital television.
freeview is the brand name for the collection of
digital tv channels from Australia’s free-to-view networks.
It isn’t any one channel or service – rather it is a suite of channels.
For more information visit: www.freeview.com.au
Home Energy Action Kits available from ACT Libraries
If you are interested in reducing energy costs and taking action against climate change, the Home Energy Action Kit can help you. The Kit can be borrowed from ACT Libraries and will enable you to perform an energy audit of your home and develop your own Home Energy Action Plan.
The Kit contains equipment, instructions and worksheets that will assist you to find practical ways to save energy around your home and to reduce your energy bills.
After using the Kit, if you would like more assistance, call the Home Energy Advice Team on 6260 6165 to discuss the option of having a professional ACT Energy wise audit.
Message from Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National)
Interpreting Services Available at Pharmacies
Did you know that free telephone interpreting services are available at pharmacies? The service is provided through the Department of Immigration and Citizenship's Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National).
TIS National provides telephone interpreting services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and has interpreters speaking more than 160 languages and dialects.
More information about the service is available at: http://www.immi.gov.au/living-in-australia/help-with-english/help_with_translating/
If your pharmacy is not registered for this service, please ask them to call 131 450. It will only take a few minutes for the pharmacy to get registered.
The registration form for pharmacies is also available at: http://www.immi.gov.au/living-in-australia/help-with-english/help_with_translating/_pdf/pharmacy-application.pdf
Doctor's priority line: General practitioners and specialists in private practice also have access to free interpreting through TIS National on 131 450
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India - Canberra Centre
That person who is awake in those that sleep…
We are proud to inform that our annual membership and enrolment for the Chapter has started in July 2009.
Annual Benefits include:
1. Approx 20 CPD Hours - recognized by CPA, Australia and ICAI (India)
2. Benefit of mutual membership with CPA Australia and ICAA on successful completion of required units
3. Networking for improving Technical knowledge, Better awareness of Job market benefits
4. Free professional email with domain of yourname@icai.org.au.
5. Assistance from other members to help while you are on work.
6. Speaking/Presentation opportunities at Chapter CPD meetings.
7. Better acceptance of ICAI membership in market place.
8. Concessional charge for annual events.
9. Topics on Taxation, Australian Shares & Derivatives, Carbon Trading, Payroll & Other State taxes, Financial Planning, Financing and invest & saving opportunities discussed and presented regularly by professionals
Website: www.icai.org.au
For further details please contact: Basu Banka: 0408504467
Immigration Bridge in Canberra
A magnificent pedestrian bridge is to be built across Lake Burley Griffin in the nation’s capital to commemorate the contributions of the more than 10 million migrants who have permanently settled here in Australia since 1788.
The building of the Immigration Bridge will serve as a focus for a national quest to gather stories of migration for publication in a Migration Book which will be on display on the Bridge, as well as published online.
In a milestone campaign for the gathering of Australian history, we will engrave the names of over 200,000 of those 10 million on the sculpted stainless steel of the Bridge handrail.
The building of the Immigration Bridge across Lake Burley Griffin in the Nation's Capital is a NATIONAL COMMUNITY PROJECT. For future generations, the surfaces of this iconic Australian Bridge will be engraved with the names, dates and stories of migrants who have come here over the last 200 or so years - our ancestors – ourselves.
What better CHRISTMAS GIFT than to reserve a place for your wife or husband, parents, grandparents or ancestors on the HISTORY HANDRAIL. It is a gift that will last for future generations - a gift that can be organised online - just follow the prompts! Need a hand? - call 1300 300 046.
Timetable: The complex design will be finalised in 2009, the History Handrail Subscription should be filled during 2008, and construction is anticipated to take place to take place 2010-2011, ready for an opening in 2012 - in time for the Centenary of Canberra in 2013.
"The Immigration Bridge is an inspired concept, designed to represent and honour Australia's history of immigration since white settlement. Our culture is rich with the stories of people from all over the globe who have chosen to live in Australia. This will be an important monument to those stories. It will create a place where people can gather to experience and reflect upon the makings of our diverse nation." - Hon. Julia Gillard, Deputy Prime Minister.
For more information click on www.immigrationbridge.com.au
MEASURE UP
Why Measure Up?
1 in 2 Australian adults is overweight. And, irrespective of your height or build, if your waistline is getting bigger it could mean you are at increased risk of chronic diseases like some cancers, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
In 2005, 7.4 million Australian adults or 1 in 2 was overweight or obese, and, irrespective of your height or build, if your waistline is getting bigger it could mean you are at increased risk of developing a chronic disease such as some cancers, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
Being overweight causes excess fat around your waist to coat your organs. Even a small deposit of this fat increases the risk that you will have serious health problems.
For more information why and how you should measure up please visit: www.australia.gov.au/MeasureUp
Need assistance in becoming an Australian Citizen?
Help is now available through the Citizenship Support Grants Program (CSGP).
Advice on how to apply for citizenship
Tutorial sessions
A practice test
Referrals to other services
www.citizenship.org.au or info@citizenship.org.au
Vanessa Giles
Citizenship Coordinator, Citizenship Support Grants Program (CSGP)
SE NSW & ACT Region, QMLC
(02) 6257 2144; vanessa@citizenship.org.au
Message from High Commission of
New Visa Fees
The Government of
categories except Tourist Visa with effect from July 01, 2008.
For the revised visa fees schedule please CLICK HERE .
For more information contact Manoj
High Commission of
Scholarship Programme for Indian Diaspora Children (SPDC)-2008
The Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs is offering a Scholarship Programme for Diaspora Children (SPDC)-2008. Details of the programme is available on the website of Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (www.moia.gov. in) and that of Ed.CIL (www.edcil.co. in).
With regards,
Vinod
Canberra
Tel: +61-2-62731106; Fax: +61-2-62733328
The Canberra branch of Chinmaya Mission, Sydney have been conducting classes for teenagers (age 11 thru 15), young adults (age 18 thru 25) and senior adults (21 onwards) in Hindu values, festivals and symbolism and sacred texts since March 2007. All classes are run in a fun atmosphere where discussion is encouraged and attempt is made to apply Hindu religion to our lives and the world around us.
For more information, please contact Chandra Rangnath on 62917900/ 0424-466-335 OR Prasanth Ramkumar on 0422-770-541 OR Brahmachari Gopal Chaitanya of Chinmaya Mission Sydney on (02) 8850-7400/ 0416-482-149
Countdown to 2013 Centenary Celebrations
CANBERRA 100 (1913 - 2013)
It’s now less than four years until Canberra’s biggest birthday party yet, celebrating 100 years since Lady Denman officially named our city “Canberra”. Planning is well under way to make 2013 a year to remember for all Australians.
On 12 March 2013 Canberra will celebrate 100 years since its naming as the National Capital of Australia. Planning is underway for a year of memorable celebrations to mark this special anniversary not only for Canberrans but for all Australians.
The Centenary of Canberra will create lasting legacies in many forms, to take our city confidently into the next century. At the centre of the centenary program will be the community, local and national. You are encouraged as Canberrans and Australians to celebrate the Centenary of Canberra in your own way. It could be with your family, your school, your community or within...
For more information on the Centenary of Canberra visit: www.canberra100.com.au
