💡 Culturally Informed Practises (CALD Communities)

Language and Communication 

If you are already part of a Culturally and Linguistically diverse (CALD) community then you will understand how your community works. If you aren’t from a CALD community, then like a First People’s community, there are some things you need to understand before connecting with CALD communities, sporting clubs and schools.  

For people from multicultural communities’ sport can be so much more than just a game. Sport is an opportunity to socialise, make friends, learn English and is great for health and well-being.  

CALD communities are those that are made up of diverse languages, ethnic backgrounds, nationalities, traditions, societal structures and religions. They might include people who are international students, Asylum Seekers, Refugees or Migrants. 

Not all communities will speak English as their first language; the use of interpreters will support the accessibility of the Sport4All program. The Sport4All resources have already been translated into several languages that may relate to your LGA but having a translator at your meetings, events and activities will …. Ask your community contact if a translator is needed, however note that this is not something we can fund or provide. 

Your LGA may have existing relationships with the diverse communities that make up your local area. Your LGA might also have people that specifically work with CALD community engagement so be sure to ask your LGA contact who would be best to speak to before reaching out to CALD communities.  

Your LGA might also have demographic data on the diverse communities that make up your local area so you can be more specific about who to talk to within the community e.g., community leaders, specific religious groups, multicultural foundations, ethnic community councils, multicultural youth services and multicultural disability services. 

Being respectful of peoples cultural and religious beliefs supports the inclusion of diverse communities. Some examples of culturally inclusive sporting practices include:  

• Religious holidays may clash with training or competition. Clubs can build a culture that is flexible and can support the participation of sport outside normal business hours, after sundown, not on Sunday etc. 

• Having vegan, vegetarian and pork-free options in the club canteen and at social events or understanding when fasting may occur. 

• Holding social events in alcohol free spaces 

• Being flexible with uniforms so that cultural dress can be worn