How we’re working towards being more welcoming

A stronger, more inclusive future is taking shape, with the region now recognised as a Premium Member of the national Welcoming Cities network.

This milestone builds on years of work by Sunshine Coast Council to create a community where everyone feels they belong, no matter their background, language or journey to the region.

What is Welcoming Cities?

Welcoming Cities is a national initiative of Welcoming Australia, supported by the Scanlon Foundation.

With 94 member councils representing more than half of Australia’s population, the network helps communities plan for greater social, cultural and economic inclusion.

It also expands the ways in which the Sunshine Coast welcomes and supports international guests, investors and skilled migrants to the region.

Strong Community Portfolio Councillor Taylor Bunnag said the move reflected the region’s values and its vision for the future.

“We’re proud to be part of a national network that celebrates diversity and inclusion,” Cr Bunnag said.

“With 21 per cent of residents born overseas and more than 150 nationalities represented, it’s vital we continue to build a community where everyone feels welcome.”

Council has already embedded Welcoming Cities principles into its work, from refreshing the Sunshine Coast Community Strategy and 5-year action plan to hosting multicultural job seeker events and expanding staff training.

The Welcoming Workplaces pilot program will also support local employers to build inclusive and competitive workplaces.

With population growth and the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the horizon, being a Welcoming City helps position the region as a destination for international visitors, skilled migrants and investors.

How you can get involved

To celebrate the region’s vibrant cultural diversity and foster community connection, Sunshine Coast Council and the Nambour Community Centre invite residents to the Welcoming Week Multicultural Picnic at Cotton Tree Park on Sunday, September 21 from 11am to 2pm. 

This free, family-friendly event is a chance for locals to come together, share stories and experience the richness of our multicultural community.

Attendees can enjoy a variety of fun activities, connect with people from different backgrounds, and take part in a celebration of food, culture, and tradition.

Bring your picnic rug, your friends and family, and, if you’d like, a dish to share. Whether you’re new to the region or a long-time local, everyone is welcome.

Visit Council’s Multicultural Welcome Hub to find information to help new migrants settle into life on the Sunshine Coast, find support, meet people and explore the community.