Across Australia, communities are coming together to celebrate Harmony Week, an initiative promoting inclusivity and diversity. Notably, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) has organized several activities to highlight the importance of cultural awareness and community cohesion.
This week, from March 17 to March 23, 2025, Harmony Week festivities include various events aimed at fostering a sense of belonging among Australians. The QPS celebrated Harmony Week with activities held in various locations across Queensland, including a notable gathering at Police Headquarters in Brisbane on March 18.
The QPS Multicultural Affairs Unit partnered with Police Liaison Officers and Cross-Cultural Police Officers to host a morning tea, showcasing the rich tapestry of cultures represented within the ranks of the police force. Acting Commissioner of Police, Shane Chelepy APM, participated in the celebrations and emphasized the significance of diversity within the police service, saying, “Our vision for the QPS is an inclusive, diverse and culturally responsive service where people of all cultures, languages and faiths feel safe, included and empowered.”
Chelepy further underscored that the QPS is proud to employ officers from all walks of life, stating that this diversity “makes QPS stronger and more effective in serving Queensland.” This sentiment is echoed in the QPS Multicultural Action Plan 2024-27, which aims to enhance the cultural capability of the service. The action plan outlines 14 activities across three main focus areas: delivering culturally responsive services, driving diversity and inclusion, and promoting social cohesion.
One of the key commitments highlighted in the action plan is QPS's endeavor to combat racism actively and to enhance the confidence of individuals from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds to report incidents of hate crimes. The need for effective communication is also being addressed with plans for the implementation of time-sensitive translation services for emergency situations.
Meanwhile, in Wangaratta, the North East Multicultural Association (NEMA) is set to host a Harmony Day event at Batchelors Green Park on March 22, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This event aims to enrich the community's understanding of and appreciation for diverse cultures, celebrating togetherness in a joyful atmosphere.
Georges River Council is also participating in Harmony Week, underscoring the theme, “Everyone belongs.” This event aligns with the council's Social Justice Charter, which promotes participation, equity, respect, and empowerment. With approximately 46 percent of its population born overseas, the Georges River community emphasizes inclusivity, highlighting the value of all voices regardless of background.
A variety of activities will be conducted throughout Harmony Week in Georges River, including the Echoes in Clay: Storytelling and Belonging session at the Hurstville Museum & Gallery, where participants will create clay artworks that encourage personal reflections and community storytelling. Additionally, a free StoryShare Session featuring Chinese-Australian creatives will be held at the Hurstville Library.
Harmony Week events not only celebrate diversity but also aim to consolidate social connections within the community. These efforts are a step towards greater inclusivity within Australian society, as local groups and institutions work collectively to achieve a harmonious environment.
Across the nation, more than 1,000 people participated in the 2025 Harmony Festival at Stow Gardens on March 18, featuring live performances and a wide array of delicious food options. This vibrant celebration encapsulated the essence of Harmony Week, bringing together individuals from multifarious backgrounds and paving the way for a stronger, united community.
The Queensland Police Service and other local organizations are determined to continue promoting the principles of Harmony Week, fostering understanding and collaboration among diverse groups and creating a brighter future for all Australians.
