Communities’ Council on Ethnic Issues

Who we are: The Communities’ Council on Ethnic Issues (CCOEI) is situated in the Eastern Metropolitan Region of Melbourne Victoria Australia. The organisation commenced operation due to the needs of increased numbers of migrants and refugees arriving in the region in the 1980s. Executive Members of the CCOEI are valued volunteers, who willingly give their time and energy to manage the organisation. The work of the CCOEI is achieved through liaising and partnering with local service providers, government, and non-government organisations in the region to achieve our aims and objectives. We do not provide direct services to individuals. Purposes The CCOEI is a not-for-profit, non-political and non-religious organisation. It adheres to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and represents the multicultural interests of diverse people. The purposes of the association are to: Influence public policy through advocacy Encourage cooperation, social inclusion and harmony amongst all communities Work with government and non-government organizations to identify and bridge gaps, in service delivery, to improve access and participation Establish and maintain networks between key stakeholders which facilitate communication, consultation and links between them. To carry out other activities which are consistent with the purposes as set out above. Local Government regions covered: Boroondara, Knox, Manningham, Maroondah, Monash, Whitehorse, Yarra Ranges The Migrant Settlement Committee (MSC) is auspiced by the CCOEI. The main purpose of the MSC is to advance and promote harmony, social inclusion and full participation in Australian life for all migrants and refugees. The MSC is the Standing Committee of the CCOEI. Membership includes representatives from organisations such as: Department of Immigration and Citizenship; Centrelink; Local Government; Adult Migrant English Program providers; Migrant Information Centre; Community agencies etc.