MACMA - meeting highlight 5 March 2026

The Minister’s Advisory Council on Multicultural Affairs (MACMA) met on 5 March 2026 in Darwin.

MACMA was joined by the Hon Jinson Charls MLA, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, to discuss key matters affecting multicultural communities in the NT.

The minister acknowledged community unity following the Bondi attack. Members were advised of the Australian Government Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion, with further information on submissions and hearings to follow.

The minister emphasised alignment of MACMA advice with the government’s key priorities and shared the NT Lifestyle Strategy 2025–2028.

Updates were provided on the Alice Springs Multicultural Centre. There were also discussions regarding:

• a potential multicultural facility in Katherine
• current grants including Multicultural Grants Program – Celebrate Round 1
• upcoming events including the Darwin Waterfront Harmony Soirée and Alice Springs Big Day Out in Harmony on 30 May 2026.

Condolences were extended to the Greek and Kalymnian communities on the passing of Mr John Halikos, recognising his contribution to community life in the Territory.

Members discussed the availability and sustainability of multicultural facilities in Darwin, noting the importance of shared use of existing facilities and broader needs such as storage and rehearsal spaces.

MACMA continues to progress work across several priority areas, including:

• Violence in multicultural settings:
  • domestic, family and sexual violence
  • economic abuse
  • conceptual frameworks to support victim‑centred approaches.
• Social cohesion.

The minister advised that relevant recommendations will be shared with portfolio ministers as appropriate.

Members also discussed:

• attraction and retention of migrants
• culturally‑safe workplaces
• emerging forms of coercive control
• the role of shared values in strengthening social cohesion across the Territory.