Media Releases

VLCC Media Release

20 August 2007

Australia, known for its multicultural and welcoming nature, has seen itself grow with over two hundred different ethnic communities now calling themselves Australian. The Australian-Lebanese community alone has been ranked the 9th largest cultural group, and for this reason, the Victorian Lebanese Community Council Inc. (VLCC) endeavors to ensure that the Australian-Lebanese community continues to be an integral part of Australian society.
The racial hostility displayed during the Cronulla riots of Sydney has highlighted the importance of cultural understanding and tolerance among the people of Australia and the need to promote social cohesion and harmony. Such actions are essential for the strengthening of community relationships to eliminate the potential for discrimination, social isolation and conflict.
The VLCC is a community-based organisation comprising eighteen board members from a diverse range of educational and professional backgrounds. The VLCC is a non-religious organisation united in its goal to address the needs of the Australian-Lebanese and provide a fresh voice to this often underrepresented community.

The aims of the VLCC are as follows:

- To promote greater Lebanese community participation in Australian social, cultural and political life.

- To oppose extremism and community division, and reinforce active work towards strengthening community cohesion.

- To act as a consultative body to government, media and professional organisations and provide input into policies and law reforms affecting the Australian-Lebanese people.

- To enhance Australian society′s understanding of the Australian-Lebanese community and promote better understanding and dialogue.

In its short history the VLCC has attracted financial and community support from various sources and the number of people becoming members is rapidly rising. The VLCC invites all Australians who share in its ethos to join and take part in the variety of activities, events and opportunities that it has to offer.

Expressions of interest
may be directed to:

The Secretary
Victorian Lebanese
Community Council Inc.
PO Box 59 Bentleigh, VIC 3204
Media Contact:
Ms. Cathy Soufan
0421 676 177
csoufan@vlcc.com.au