The Victorian Immigrant and Refugee Women's Coalition (VIRWC) and the University of Melbourne are hosting an interactive workshop on identity and culture for media organisations and international students. VIRWC is the peak body advocating on behalf of  female international students. The workshop being held on 21 October aims to create a platform to encourage more open dialogue between the media and international students.

AMES offers the Skilled Professional Migrants Program (SPMP) to recently arrived migrants who are seeking work in their profession. The SPMP helps qualified skilled migrants to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to overcome the difficulties that can prevent them from finding a suitable job.  This accredited program combines a 3½ week intensive workshop style pre-employment course with vocational counselling, one on one feedback, guest speakers from the corporate sector and mentoring. Topics include the Australian job market and workplace culture, writing Australian style resumes and cover letters, applying for jobs and interview skills. Over 70% of the skilled professionals who attended the SPMP found suitable employment which uses their overseas qualifications and experience. Plus more than 55% started working within three months of completing the course. To be eligible for the SPMP, you must register and attend an information session. For details of the upcoming information session on Thursday 20 October call (03) 9926 4666.

We would love to hear what you have planned. You can submit your events and details of any new resources with a multicultural focus via the form on our website. These get added to our online Community Noticeboard and Events Calendar. Selected listings will be included in the VMC Update each fortnight. Click on the link below to find out what's going on around Victoria.

The Communication Resource Centre at Scope has developed a series of Easy English publications for the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC). The resources include two fact sheets with information on discrimination and how to complain about discrimination.

The inaugural Melbourne Muslim Festival weaves together the many threads of culture, songs and dreams that are unfolding in the Australian Muslim story. Let the festival take you on an enticing evening of sumptuous sights and sounds that promises to be a feast for the senses and the soul. Featuring the talents of local Australian Muslim musicians, storytellers, poets, comedians and performers in a uniquely Melbourne event. Sunday 16 October at Melbourne Town Hall.  Book your free tickets. 

The Multicultural Centre for Women's Health (MCWH) has released three new publications aimed at improving the health of immigrant and refugee women. On Her Way relates to preventing violence against women; On Your Own aims to help female international students improve their sexual and reproductive health; and Coming out, coming home or inviting people in? aims to help bicultural and bilingual community workers to support same-sex attracted women from immigrant and refugee communities.