Multicultural community at TAFE NSW

We embrace and celebrate cultural diversity and the richness it brings. We want everyone to feel safe to express who they are and speak their own language.

Your unique voice matters. No matter your background, you are valued and treated with respect.

At TAFE NSW, there’s a multicultural coordinator in every community group or region. They advocate for multicultural students and communities to participate in education, training, programs and activities at TAFE NSW. Our multicultural coordinators are here to support you and make your journey of getting used to a new country or culture as smooth as possible.

Multicultural coordinators can assist with:

• finding the right learning support, including with language, literacy, digital and course assessments

• enrolment support including visa eligibility

• overseas skills and qualifications recognition processes

• identifying suitable training or upskilling pathways if required

• understanding enrolment and learning systems

• working with you to design tailored education programs to help you succeed.

There are 9 multicultural coordinators across the state, with one or 2 coordinators in every region. Call 131 601 and ask to speak to a multicultural coordinator in your community.

Every year TAFE NSW organises activities for events including Refugee Week, International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and Harmony Week. These activities include morning teas, meditation sessions, multilingual mural creation and poster competitions.

Refugee Week

Refugee Week is a global festival held in the same week as Refugee Day on 20 June. It’s the world’s biggest festival celebrating the strength and creativity of people seeking asylum and safety. Every year, TAFE NSW holds events and activities on campuses state-wide to celebrate.

Students and staff work as a group to reflect on how we can handle tough times together.

Hello Doctor

Hello Doctor events, supported by TAFE NSW, help migrants and refugees connect with health services by providing workshops, free health checks and screenings. The events provide a culturally safe space to help students feel more comfortable with accessing healthcare in Australia.

Law Expos

Law Expos help people from multicultural communities learn about their legal rights and responsibilities.

Multi-faith quiet rooms

On campus, we have prayer, reflection and meditation rooms for all staff and students to pray or reflect all year round. This includes during religious festivals. These rooms are also a cultural space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Everyone is welcome in our multi-faith quiet rooms.

racismNOTwelcome signs

These red signs are on most campuses across TAFE NSW. They send a clear message to everyone on campus that any form of racial discrimination or bullying will not be tolerated at TAFE NSW.

Skilled Migrant Employment Program (SMEP)

SMEP gives overseas‑qualified professionals skills for work or further study in Australia. We’ll help you get overseas skills and qualifications recognised.

We’ll also assist you to get ready to work in Australia and connect with the right industries. Learn how to search and apply for jobs and write your resume. To find out more, email onlinecampus.multicultural@tafensw.edu.au

Employment Pathways for Migrant Women

Employment Pathways for Migrant Women is a 6‑week course that supports migrant women to move into study, training or work. It provides information about study options, work opportunities, job-seeking skills, different industries and workplace rights.

Job Readiness for the Construction Industry

This TAFE NSW course is offered to all students entering the construction industry. You’ll learn about workplace communication, safety rules, tool names and how to use personal protective equipment (PPE). The course also includes practical training in bricklaying and landscape construction.

At TAFE NSW, there is no room for racism, discrimination, bullying or any behaviour that makes you feel unsafe. Our number one priority is that all members of our community feel safe.

If you experience racist behaviour, here are some things you can do to stay safe and get support:

Talk to a trusted teacher, multicultural coordinator or counsellor.

Call 131 601.

Lodge a complaint in the student portal so we can support you better. Your feedback helps us make TAFE NSW safer and more inclusive for you and everyone.