Social Inclusion Action Group

I migrated from Malaysia more than 10 years ago and am passionate about giving back to the local community. I joined SIAG to support community initiatives and to help build stronger connections across the region. With my multicultural background, I hope to contribute meaningfully to the broader Mildura community by fostering inclusion, understanding, and shared experiences. Outside of my community work, I enjoy exploring food and taking part in cultural activities.

My name is Rita and I am a proud Barkindji and Ngiyampaa woman who is part of the Stolen Generation. Approximately 15 years ago, I sought out to find my family, which lead myself to move to Mildura to connect with them.

I am deeply committed to this community. Since 2019, I have worked both with federal and state government as part of a leadership team focusing on governance and reform initiatives revolving around Aboriginal Health.

I have been actively involved in Aboriginal community work for over 30 years and have also volunteered with various groups and charities.

I am passionate about ensuring good health and wellbeing needs are met through integrity, respect, understanding and compassion and believe I would be a great asset to making a difference in our community.

I am a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother with over 30 years of experience working in the community sector, and I continue to work in this field today.  I value wellbeing and balance, which I nurture through my hobbies of yoga and tai chi. I also enjoy travelling and discovering new places and experiences.

I wanted to be a part of SIAG so I could participate in meaningful change within our local and broader communities. I am passionate about listening to people’s experiences and advocating for those who may feel socially isolated due to physical or mental health challenges, age, ethnicity or sexual orientation. Being part of this group allows me to help ensure all voices are heard and supported.

I’m a mum of three and a nanny to five boys. Born in Uganda, I lived there until I was four and spoke Swahili fluently as a child—something I’d love to relearn. I grew up in Perth and have called the Sunraysia region home for the past 15 years. I’ve worked and volunteered for many years in the mental health space, including as an inaugural member of the Sunraysia Mallee Suicide Prevention Network (initiated by Murray PHN) and as a peer navigator. As someone with lived experience of the local mental health service system, I’m a strong advocate for better access to mental health and community services, supported by my Diploma of Community Services. I volunteer with SMECC when I can, and outside of community work I enjoy volunteering, watching AFL (go the West Coast Eagles), walking, and gardening in my fernery. I value SIAG’s focus on mental health prevention and joined to help strengthen community connection and spirit, advocate for inclusion, and work with others to support community wellbeing.

I am a Construction Engineer from Chile. Since 2023, I have been living in Australia, where I am focused on building a stable and positive future for my family. I am the mother of two kids and truly value spending quality time with them. I am a sociable, positive and motivated person, with a strong commitment to the wellbeing of others. I also enjoy music (particularly rock), love dancing, especially Latin music, and have a keen interest in learning about emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.

I have a genuine interest in social inclusion, engagement, and supporting individuals who may feel isolated or face barriers, especially those related to language and cultural adjustment. As a mother, I strongly value respect, empathy, and the importance of creating safe and inclusive environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. I am currently improving my English to strengthen my ability to communicate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.

I wanted to be a member of the Social Inclusion Action Group to actively contribute to building a more inclusive, connected and supportive society. I am committed to understanding diverse perspectives, sharing my experience as a migrant, and helping ensure that all voices are heard and respected. Through this role, I aim to support meaningful connections and contribute positively to social inclusion within the broader community.

I am a strong and dedicated mum who has spend the past 15 years working in the aged care and disability sector, supporting others. At my core, I am deeply caring and driven to help others live well.

I wanted to join SIAG as I have seen how easily individuals and families can become disconnected from their communities, whether due to disability, cultural barriers, stigma or lack of appropriate support. I have supported people who feel excluded, judged, or misunderstood. I have also experienced the frustration and isolation that comes with trying to navigate programs/systems that do not always reflect the real needs of the community. These experiences have stayed with me. Everyone deserves to feel safe, heard and connected. I’m hopeful this group can help drive that change within our community.

I am a contemporary Aboriginal artist and a proud Kamilaroi/ Goomeroi woman from rich black soil and water holes province around the land of Northern New South Wales.

I have been living in Mildura for 5 years. I have respect for Mildura Aboriginal culture, deeply connected to the Murray River Latji Latji, Nyeri Nyeri, Wergaia, Ngintait and Barkindji peoples as traditional custodians. It honours their enduring connection to the land and waters, paying respects to the Elders past, present, and emerging.

I am a mother of three sons. I am member of the Aboriginal Advisory Committee Mildura Base Public Hospital and also attend Mental Health and Wellbeing Local groups and am involved with school groups.

Outside of my professional duties, I am a coach for Merbein Cobras Basketball. I love being a part of the Mildura Community and I’m very easy to talk to and love sharing my culture and living experiences in life and willing to learn more.

I was born in Mildura and am a community services worker employed in mental health and disability support. I contribute to the Social Inclusion Action Group with an interest in supporting locals to engage in meaningful activities, reduce isolation, and improve social and emotional wellbeing. I have a strong interest in music and singing as a local performing arts business owner, with experience performing at many community events. I also enjoy gardening and photography.

I am a rural resident in the Mallee area, moving from the city after 11 years, and having grown up in south western Victoria.

My crowning achievements are being a part of the CFA, working odd jobs and helping people when asked. I have strong experience in technology and DIY.

I have had some life experience in both rural and urban living, with various job titles and education to show, whilst being a ‘battler’ and suffering from various mental health issues.

I have a strong interest in promoting more initiatives for other battlers and individuals of the community, particularly in seeking help when needed, promoting wellbeing and feeling a part of said communities.

Outside of the day to say, I spend my time on content creation (Twitch and TikTok) and enjoying video games and digital media.

I am a community-focused religious leader, and I hold a Bachelor and Master’s Degree in Theology. During my time in Türkiye, I provided spiritual care and counselling in hospitals, prisons, youth care institutions, and university student groups, supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Since 2022, I have been serving as an Imam at Mildura Mosque in Australia, where I work closely with multicultural communities, contributing to social cohesion, inclusion, and community wellbeing.

I have been particularly active in supporting migrants, families and young people, helping to strengthen their sense of belonging and connection within society. In addition to my religious duties, I am committed to promoting intercultural understanding and mutual respect.

Through my involvement in the Social Inclusion Action Group, I aim to build bridges between people of different faiths and cultures, strengthen mutual understanding and trust, and support the creation of inclusive spaces where especially disadvantaged individuals feel heard and valued. I seek to collaborate with local authorities to better understand community needs and contribute to sustainable, community-focused solutions.

I have always been passionate about language, books, reading and anything creative! I have travelled around the world before becoming a mum to two highly curious and caring children. I believe in my children, and I’m inspired by dreams, creativity, giving and receiving, laughter, volunteering, open communication and stimulating conversations. I’m also passionate about health and wellbeing, organic living, deep breathing, nature, and energy.

I live in Mildura with my husband and 4 beautiful boys. I love to travel and love holidays. I have chronic illness called Fibromyalgia. I wanted to be part of this group because I feel it’s important to provide inclusivity in our community and I’d like to help in that process.

Yaama. My name is Glenn Johnson and I am a Wonkamura/Kamilaroi man who is currently employed in local mental health services in the lived experience sector. I was really excited at the opportunity to be a part of the SIAG because I am passionate about making services accessible for all people that are seeking support and connections in the community, by making Mildura a socially inclusive local government area.

l am a husband, as well as a father of 4 beautiful children and kinship carer for 4 of my nieces and nephews. After recently making the move to Mildura with a large family, it has opened up my perspective and I'm hoping it will help in the journey of a socially inclusive town.

Who can apply to be a member of our local Social Inclusion Action Group?
Members must live, work or study in the Mildura Rural City Council area.

To support independent community decision-making, members cannot be:

• a Member of Parliament, Councillor, or employee of an elected representative
• an employee of Mildura Rural City Council

Membership should reflect the diversity of our community, and people from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences and age groups are encouraged to express interest.

How are new members recruited?
Membership vacancies are advertised as they arise. Expressions of interest are assessed to help ensure the group reflects the diversity of the Mildura community and includes a range of perspectives and lived experiences.

How can I find out when a vacancy becomes available?
Expressions of interest are advertised through Council's website and communication channels when vacancies arise. If you would like to be notified of future opportunities, please contact the Social Inclusion Facilitator.

Is there a minimum age to join?
Yes. Members must be aged 16 years and over. We welcome people of different ages and life experiences. Young people who are interested in becoming involved will be supported to participate in a way that is appropriate and meaningful.

What is the time commitment for members?
The group generally meets once a month for approximately two hours. Members may also spend some time preparing for meetings, participating in training, or contributing to other activities throughout the year.

How long can I stay in the group?
Membership will be reviewed after 2 years. You can reapply or step down at that time.

How many people are in the group?
The Social Inclusion Action Group includes up to 15 community members.

Can I represent a business or organisation?
Members participate as individuals rather than representatives of a business, organisation or service. Community organisations and other stakeholders may be invited to attend meetings or provide information when relevant.

Do I need to attend every meeting?
Regular attendance is important to support informed decision-making and continuity. If you are unable to attend a meeting, please let the Social Inclusion Facilitator know in advance.

Can I attend meetings online?
Yes. Online participation through Microsoft Teams is available to support flexible and accessible involvement.

Are meetings accessible?
Yes. We are committed to supporting all members to participate fully. Meeting venues, documents and participation options are planned with accessibility in mind. If you require specific adjustments or supports, we encourage you to discuss these with the Social Inclusion Facilitator.

Can I bring a carer or support person to meetings?
Yes. Members are welcome to bring a support person or carer if this assists their participation.

Will I be paid to attend meetings?
Yes. Community members are remunerated for their participation. Current remuneration rates and arrangements will be provided during recruitment and onboarding.

What happens at the meetings?
Members discuss community needs, review local opportunities and consider ways to strengthen participation, inclusion and connection across the region. The group also makes decisions about funding community-led initiatives through the Local Social Inclusion Investment Fund. Meetings are support by Mildura Rural City Council staff to help guide discussions and ensure everyone feels confident to contribute.

What support is available to members?
Members receive onboarding, ongoing support from Council staff, learning opportunities and access to resources that help them participate confidently in group discussions and decision-making.

Do I need any specific skills or experience to join?
No. We value lived experience, local knowledge and diverse perspectives. You do not need formal qualifications or professional experience to contribute meaningfully to the group.

How is SIAG funded?
The SIAG is funded by the Victorian Government as part of Victoria's mental health and wellbeing reform. Funding supports local coordination, member participation and investment in community-led initiatives that strengthen inclusion, participation and connection.

Will I need a Police Check or Working with Children’s Check?
Yes, membership positions require these checks. Any requirements will be discussed with successful applicants during the recruitment process, and Council can provide guidance about obtaining the necessary checks.