The Cairns Regional Jobs Committee (RJC), proudly supported and funded by the Queensland Government, will launch the Cultural Awareness Handbook on September 18. This practical, locally informed guide to help employers build more inclusive, culturally aware workplaces across the Cairns region.
Developed in consultation with Cairns businesses, community leaders, migrants and those from a refugee background, the handbook provides insights and tools for employers looking to confidently hire, onboard and support culturally diverse employees.
“Workforce diversity is not just good policy; it’s our region’s future,” said Anita Veivers, Executive Director of Centacare FNQ.
The handbook draws on lived experience and highlights strategies for overcoming communication barriers, recognising cultural differences, understanding workplace expectations, and creating welcoming environments for all employees, but particularly those from migrant, refugee or non-English speaking backgrounds.
With more than 21% of Cairns’ population born overseas and over 72 languages spoken in the region, the Cultural Awareness Handbook comes at a critical time. It supports businesses to tap into an underutilised talent pool and strengthen community cohesion through inclusive employment.
“This is not about changing Australian workplace practices, but rather expanding our cultural competence to better support and retain a diverse workforce and attract more customers,” said Janelle Yarwood, Project Manager for the Cairns Regional Jobs Committee and Cairns Chamber of Commerce.
Key features of the handbook include:
- Tips for cross-cultural communication and managing language barriers
- Guidance on cultural differences in eye contact, humour, time management and hierarchy
- Practical onboarding advice and interview tips
- Insights from local employers already seeing the benefits of diversity
The Cultural Awareness Handbook is available for download on the Cairns Regional Jobs Committee website www.cairnsrjc.com.au. Hard copies are also available from the Cairns Chamber of Commerce.