Stirling Griff (SA, Centre Alliance) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Before moving general business notice of motion No. 535, I wish to inform the chamber that Senator Keneally will also sponsor the motion. I, and also on behalf of Senator Keneally, move:

That the Senate—

(a) recognises that more than five million Australians speak a language other than English;

(b) notes, given the complexity of COVID-19, that it is essential for these communities to have access to and a clear understanding of vital health information;

(c) acknowledges that trusted and accurate news in language is of particular importance, with misinformation and opinion around COVID-19 providing further challenges for Australians whose first language is not English;

(d) welcomes the launch of the SBS Multilingual Coronavirus Portal operating as a dedicated online information hub with news and information in 63 languages to further support multicultural Australia during the pandemic; and

(e) praises the invaluable work of SBS across its radio, television and online platforms keeping culturally and linguistically diverse communities in Australia informed with vital COVID-19 related news and information to help protect themselves and their communities in challenging circumstances. (general business notice of motion no.535)

Question agreed to.