Julia Banks (Chisholm, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Chisholm is one of Australia's most culturally diverse electorates, where over 100 languages are spoken, and different community groups celebrate cultural events and enjoy together their different migrant heritages. In Chisholm, there is a significant Asian community. The Asian community, through the history of Australia, have made significant contributions in the business and the community world—all of which go to make Australia the most successful multicultural nation on earth.

Recently I've had the privilege of attending a number of events with Chisholm's Asian communities. I was honoured to represent Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull at the 2017 Melbourne Chinese Moon Festival, which draws thousands of people to Box Hill and is celebrated as a vibrant and warm event. I also attended the 20th anniversary of the Taiwanese School of Melbourne, where the young language students danced to traditional songs and celebrated their cultural heritage with their parents and grandparents. Congratulations to the school on such a significant milestone. The welcome dinner for Chinese star Yang Liping and the Under Siege review cast was magnificent and was hosted by the Australian Yunnan Society and the Australian Swan Wine Group.

I also attended a reception in celebration of the 106th year of the Republic of China, or Taiwan, superbly hosted by Ms Elaine Chen, Director General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Melbourne. My sincere congratulations to community leaders who ensure that the important cultural celebrations and traditions are passed down through generations of Asian Australians. I'm so proud to represent such a wonderful community in Chisholm.