What do we mean by 'diversity'?

When the City of Greater Dandenong speaks of 'diversity', it means that people who live, work, and visit the city, have different cultural, religious and language backgrounds and that people naturally differ in age, disability, gender, race, colour, marital and parental status, sexual preference, physical characteristics and political beliefs.

A diverse community

With approximately 56% of residents born overseas from over 150 different birthplaces and 51% from non-English speaking backgrounds, council recognises that this broad mix of nationalities enriches the diversity of the community.

This diversity is evident in the range of places of worship, the nature of employment opportunities, shopping experiences and housing styles.  This combination of influences makes Greater Dandenong a vibrant and exciting place to live and work.

Working for diversity

Understanding the strength of diversity is challenging, rewarding and ongoing.  For council to meet the needs of its residents and rate payers and provide good customer service, all council staff have a role to play.

Offering culturally appropriate family services, arranging interpreters for consultations, providing information in languages other than English, ensuring a diversity of food choices through Meals on Wheels and support groups are examples of this work in action.

The Interfaith Network
	The Interfaith Network is a group of diverse cultural and religious faiths, working in partnership with the City of Greater Dandenong council to promote peace and harmony within the municipality. The Network also runs tours to the places of worship of the local faith and spiritual communities on the the second Wednesday of the month, from April to December. Read more
Links Greater Dandenong: a refugee welcome zone Key diversity trends Useful diversity websites Top 10 languages spoken Major birthplaces of residents Language assistance Summary of cultural diversity trends