Canterbury-Bankstown is one of the most diverse areas in Australia, with 44.6% of residents born overseas, over 170 cultural backgrounds represented and more than 200 languages spoken.

Our community values diversity and believes everyone has the right to speak their language, practice their faith and express themselves without fear of discrimination or hate. Racism and hate crime have no place here.

If you experience racial discrimination or a hate crime:

• Document the details: Record what happened, including date, time, and location
• Report it: Contact the police or Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000
• Seek support: Notify your workplace or school if it occurred there
• Lodge a complaint: Contact Anti-Discrimination NSW or the Australian Human Rights Commission
• Get legal advice: Free services like Legal Aid or community legal centres can help

If you witness racial discrimination or a hate crime:

• Speak up safely: Support the victim and ensure their safety
• Report it: Record the incident and notify authorities if appropriate
• Help the victim: Help them in contacting the Australian Human Rights Commission (1300 656 419)
• Raise awareness: Share #RacismNotWelcome resources to educate others

Council is offering support to local groups planning Racism Not Welcome (RNW) or International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (IDERD) events in 2025. Support may include help with venues, catering or guest speaker fees.