- Consultation on development of a WA Multicultural Act is now open
- Act to formalise Cook Government commitment to multiculturalism and building a more inclusive Western Australia
- Submissions open until 15 February 2026
Western Australians are encouraged to have their say on the development of a WA Multicultural Act with the release of an online discussion paper.
The discussion paper will help inform the Cook Government's decision as to how a Multicultural Act could be established to support multiculturalism in Western Australia and meet the needs of Western Australians.
If established, a Multicultural Act for Western Australia would enshrine in law the progress and achievements we have already made in advancing multiculturalism, promoting inclusivity, fostering a sense of belonging and shared values, and affirm the contributions of all communities.
An Act could have many benefits, including encouraging greater investment in multicultural initiatives,guide government services to be more inclusive, responsive and culturally competent, and support education programs to build intercultural understanding in the community.
The discussion paper outlines the rationale behind development of a Multicultural Act in WA, and presents key focus areas along with guiding questions to support community responses.
The discussion paper will be supported by consultation with the government, community, not-for-profit and industry sectors throughout Western Australia, to ensure as many people as possible can contribute to the development of a Multicultural Act.
The consultation period opened on Thursday, 20 November 2025 and will close on Sunday, 15 February 2026.
A short online survey is also available, which has been translated into 22 languages, including Vietnamese, Punjabi and Arabic, with interpreting and translating services available on request.
To access the WA Multicultural Act discussion paper, short survey or to find out more, go to the Office of Multicultural Interests' (OMI) website .
As stated by Multicultural Interests Minister Dr Tony Buti:
"From policies including the WA Multicultural Policy Framework, the Ministerial Multicultural Advisory Council and the Community Language Program, the WA Government has made significant contributions in a range of areas towards empowering culturally and linguistically diverse communities to thrive in the State.
"The development of a WA Multicultural Act is an extension of these efforts and would cement the continuation of this work in legislation.
"I'd encourage everyone to go to the OMI website and share your thoughts. Ideas and insights from across the community are invaluable in ensuring new legislation truly reflects the needs of our community."
