The multicultural, faith and community organisations listed at the end of this submission, represent a great diversity of the Victorian community. We thank the Australian Government and the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights for the opportunity to provide our views and express our concerns regarding changes to the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth) and the Australian Human Rights Commission Act 1986 (Cth).

On Christmas Day, 25 December 2016, Sunshine Salvos hosted around 70 guests from the greater Brimbank municipality to enjoy Christmas lunch. Along with their attendance, senior leaders from faith communities, along with BMIN (Brimbank Maribyrnong Interfaith Network) committee members volunteered to serve the meal.
Faith communities represented were the Quang Minh Buddhist Temple, The Salvation Army Sunshine, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Deer Park, Sikh Interfaith Council of Victoria & Islamic community members. Brimbank City Council were also represented by Mayor John Hedditch, along with Cr. Virginia Tachos. This event was an awesome afternoon of community spirit, harmony, unity, love and great Christmas food!
Abbot of the Quang Minh Buddhist Temple in Braybrook said that “Christmas creates festive atmosphere but not everyone has the opportunity to feast together with their families. We don’t want anyone to miss out”
 
Lieutenant Colin Reynolds, Corps Officer at Sunshine Corps said that “many religious leaders talk about faith, peace and harmony during the Christmas season…well this year we are putting those words into action!”
 
For photo opportunities and interview contact Lieut. Colin Reynolds, Salvation Army Sunshine Corps 0412 930 285 or email colin.reynolds@aus.salvationarmy.org or Thich Phuoc Tan, Abbott at Quang Minh Buddhist Temple on 0414 464 194 or phuoctan@gmail.com.