Development of WA Multicultural Act

The WA Government is considering enacting a Multicultural Act to support multiculturalism in Western Australia.
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Translating and interpreting support

Interpretor symbolIf you would like to share your feedback in a different language through an interpreter or need any translated material in relation to the Act’s development, please contact OMI on 6552 1607, and we will arrange relevant support. 

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.  

Please email multiculturalact@omi.wa.gov.au or call 6552 1607 if you have further questions in relation to the consultation.  

Project status: open for consultation 

Consultation open Thursday 20 November 2025 to Sunday 15 February 2026 

The WA Multicultural Act consultation period is now open and will close on Sunday 15 February 2026.  

During this period, 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 WA Government’s decision as to how a Multicultural Act could be established to support multiculturalism in Western Australia. 

Public feedback will form an integral part of this initial process, ensuring that a WA Multicultural Act meets the needs of all Western Australians. 

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. 

It is supported by a Research and Findings report, which details the initial research performed by the Office of Multicultural Interests regarding Multicultural Acts in other states, territories and countries. 

You can submit your response by 15 February 2026 to this discussion paper through two options:  

  1. Share your feedback through this online survey
  2. Send your submission via email to multiculturalact@omi.wa.gov.au

Key stages

August to November 2025 - now completed

Undertake cross jurisdictional research and review

End of November 2025

Public consultation opens

November 2025 to February 2026

Consultation through forums, focus groups, meetings and surveys

15 February 2026

End of consultation and submissions

April 2026

Summary of consultation report shared

May to June 2026

Regulatory proposal development and Cabinet Submission

 

Other ways to have your say 

You can also provide feedback about a Multicultural Act for Western Australia by completing a short survey, which has also been translated into 22 languages. 

Information about the proposed WA Multicultural Act

What is an Act?

An Act is a law that has been officially passed by Parliament. It starts as a proposal called a Bill, and after going through discussions, votes, and receiving final approval, it becomes an Act.

Why is a Multicultural Act important?

A  Multicultural Act  is important because it provides  a legal and policy framework  that supports and celebrates cultural diversity, ensuring that all people — regardless of their background — can participate fully and equitably in society. Subject to consultations and community feedback, a Multicultural Act in WA could:

  • confirm Western Australia's long-term commitment to cultural, linguistic, and religious diversity by making it into law
  • help create a more united, inclusive and harmonious society, that celebrates diverse cultures
  • increase the sense of belonging of people from diverse backgrounds  
  • support education programs on multiculturalism to build intercultural understanding in the community
  • guide WA Government services (like health, justice, education) to be more inclusive, responsive and culturally competent
  • encourage greater investment in multicultural initiatives, to help communities thrive in areas such as employment, arts, sport and business 
  • improve data collection to better address the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse communities
  • strengthen anti-racism measures, including actions to combat antisemitism and Islamophobia, to ensure a safer and fairer WA for all
  • align WA with other Australian states and territories that have similar legislation. 

For more information

This website will be updated with further information as it becomes available. 

If you have any questions regarding the development of a WA Multicultural Act, please email multiculturalact@omi.wa.gov.au 

Read the media statement
Page reviewed 21 November 2025