CITY of Swan’s commitment to embracing and empowering its multicultural community has earned it the Local Government Award at the WA Multicultural Awards 2024.

In 2021, 33.6 per cent of residents in Swan were born overseas and 23.2 per cent spoke a language other than English at home.

Last year, the city’s mulicultural vision was formalised with the adoption of their five-year access and inclusion plan which aims to give better access and support to community members who may feel isolated, marginalised, excluded or vulnerable.

It takes a whole-of-community approach that nurtures cultural unity and reflects the incredible diversity of the people who call Swan home.

The development of the plan was one of many initiatives that earned the city the award.

Altone Comes Alive, which was held at Altone Park Oval on Saturday, March 16 is an annual celebration of multiculturalism which attracted thousands of people.

The Women’s Aquatic Program at Swan Active Beechboro gives women a safe and culturally appropriate space to focus on their health and swimming.

The city has delivered a range of other events, programs and services with a multicultural focus, such as interfaith bus tours, language classes, staff intercultural awareness training, community grants, and civic and citizenship workshops.

City of Swan Mayor Tanya Richardson said receiving the award was an honour for staff and councillors.

“It’s something that means a lot to all of us, given the effort that has gone into making Swan a place that celebrates its diversity,” Mayor Richardson said.

“We can all see that those efforts are making a difference in our community but to be recognised at a state level is really encouraging.

Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Dr Tony Buti said the awards shone a spotlight on Western Australians who were passionate about fostering multiculturalism.