Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship Nicholas Kotsiras today launched the Rights and Responsibilities Seminar Program for local residents including newly arrived migrants at the Capital Theatre in Bendigo.

Mr Kotsiras said the Victorian Government had committed $800,000 over four years to seminars providing information to newly arrived migrants and refugees on their rights and responsibilities as citizens or permanent residents.

“An awareness of our rights and responsibilities ensures we are able to participate, engage and contribute in a positive way to our community,” Mr Kotsiras said.

“The seminars explore the principles of democracy, our legal system, our multiculturalism and the nature of citizenship, as well as the importance of volunteering.

“They also provide new migrants and refugees with an overview of local, state and federal governments.

“The program has been is tailored to each region’s particular needs and over 180 sessions will be rolled out across metropolitan and regional areas,” Mr Kotsiras said.

The Rights and Responsibilities Seminar Program also provides information on safe driving, tenancy, financial management, the police, rights and responsibilities of young people and family relationships.

“We want to help all Victorians understand our laws and institutions and access the information they require in order to be an integral part of the Victorian community,” Mr Kotsiras said.

The Rights and Responsibilities Seminar Program will be administered by the newly established Settlement Coordination Unit within the Office of Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship, in collaboration with other state government departments and agencies.