Welcoming Week, an annual campaign dedicated to celebrating inclusive communities, is here once again.

This year, City of Canterbury Bankstown proudly joins the Welcoming Australia network, reinforcing its commitment to providing a genuine embrace to migrants, refugees, asylum-seekers and international visitors.

Mayor Bilal El-Hayek, an advocate for diversity and inclusion, said Council was dedicated to fostering a welcoming atmosphere.

“Many former refugees now call Canterbury-Bankstown home and contribute to our thriving community,” Mayor El-Hayek said.

“We extend a warm welcome to all migrants and refugees no matter where they’re from.”

This year’s Welcoming Week carries the theme Power of Place. In a world where migration often means leaving behind familiar surroundings, the concept of “place” takes on heightened importance.

The Power of Place extends beyond mere symbolism; it’s a guiding principle for this year’s line-up of Welcoming Week events.

R U OK? Day

• When: Monday 11 September, 12.30pm-2.30pm
• Where: Anzac Park, Anzac Square, Campsie

Welcome to Revesby/Bunya Tour

• When: Friday 15 September, 10am-1pm
• Where: Coolumbroo Neighbourhood Centre, 11 Ryan Road, Padstow

All Things Bengali at Lakemba Library

• When: Thursday 28 September, 10am-noon
• Where: Lakemba Library, 62 The Boulevarde, Lakemba

Welcome to Canterbury-Bankstown Picnic

• When: Friday 29 September, 10am-1pm
• Where: Anzac Park, Anzac Square, Campsie

The Welcome to Canterbury-Bankstown Picnic is funded by the NSW Government.