The Future is Expensive—Our Youth Deserve to Be Ready

Australian Indian Times
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The Future is Expensive—Our Youth Deserve to Be Ready

The Future is Expensive—Our Youth Deserve to Be Ready

What if young people learned to budget before algebra? To read a payslip before signing their first contract? To save, invest and make informed decisions before facing rising living costs on their own?

These questions inspired Project Piggybank—a global, youth-led initiative showing that money conversations shouldn’t wait until adulthood.

Founded by Brisbane high school student Gauri Varma, the project has a clear mission: make financial education accessible, engaging and understandable for every young person, regardless of background.

As inflation rises, housing becomes less affordable and financial stress grows, understanding money is no longer optional—it’s essential. Yet many students leave school able to solve equations but unable to budget, understand taxes or build savings habits. Project Piggybank aims to change that.

Unlike traditional programs, it is run by young people, for young people. Its workshops, resources and social media content break down complex ideas into practical, relatable conversations.

Run by youth, for youth, Project Piggybank believes “We don’t just want young people to understand money—we want them to feel confident talking about it,” says Gauri. “It shouldn’t depend on your postcode, your parents’ income or whether your school teaches it.”

What makes Project Piggybank different is its approach. Rather than speaking at young people, it speaks with them. Its workshops and resources are designed in a language today’s generation understands—making conversations around money less intimidating and more empowering. Whether it is understanding the difference between needs and wants, building healthy financial habits or learning the fundamentals of saving and investing, the initiative meets young people where they are.

Project Piggybank’s impact is already measurable. The initiative has built a community of more than 1,000 young people online and has delivered workshops reaching students across Australia, India, the United States, the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia.

Its sessions have engaged about 100 participants in a single international workshop and have provided financial literacy education to underprivileged and disengaged youth through community organisations like Wesley Mission and Career employment Australia. Beyond attendance numbers, its impact can be seen in the conversations it creates—young people asking questions about budgeting, savings, careers and financial wellbeing that they may never have felt confident enough to ask before.

Today’s generation is growing up in an economic landscape unlike any before. Inflation continues to increase the cost of everyday essentials, housing prices are rising, and financial pressures are beginning earlier in life. The young people of today will inherit a future that demands greater financial confidence than ever before.

Financial stress is a leading cause of anxiety among young people. Rising costs, student debt and job uncertainty affect not just finances, but mental wellbeing. Money worries follow students into classrooms, workplaces and homes.

Life is becoming more expensive. Today’s young people face challenges previous generations did not experience at the same scale, from housing affordability to competitive job markets.

While it won’t solve every economic issue, financial education equips young people to navigate them.

What began as a single student’s idea has evolved into a global movement with a powerful message: financial literacy can transform lives.

This is about far more than money—it’s about building confidence, expanding opportunities and equipping young people with the tools they need to shape their own futures. When uncertainty is replaced with knowledge, new possibilities emerge. With initiatives like Project Piggybank leading the way, the next generation won’t just be prepared—they’ll be empowered to move forward with clarity, resilience and hope.

Because this isn’t just about dollars and cents—it’s about opportunity, independence and giving the next generation the tools to thrive.
Check Out Their Instagram
@proj_piggybank

Five Tips for Giving Money to Family

Australian Indian Times
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Five Tips for Giving Money to Family

Five Tips for Giving Money to Family

Many think giving money to their children or family are advantages – It’s not. In fact, they are a massive burden that can lead to anger and regret.

This is because over the next 20 years some AU$3.4 trillion will get passed down from one generation to another. The young keep telling me that life is hard and that they have no chance of buying a house.

That, in many cases is crap. But at the same time there may be some truth in it.

To those that tell me they will not buy a home I usually tell them that they won’t have to. Most will be given the family home and yes in many cases the family home will have to be shared with other siblings, but I would give my left and my right arm to be in their position when I was their age. But it is not ideal – our children want to have a home now.

Now that may mean the young have to wait until the reaper has come and taken their parents away but inheriting a debt free home in your 40’s or 50’s is not a bad thing. Most people today aged 40 to 50 would love a debt free home. I was speaking to a doctor aged 71 the other day and he still has a debt on his home of $710K.

But there is no doubt – whatever we do not use (or give away while we are alive) we will leave it behind for others in our family to enjoy. And my experience is that this wonderful, beautiful gesture may become the pathway to hell.

And that is because if it is not done correctly the chances are your hard-earned cash and investments are going to get blown away.

Over the last 18 months or so I have been having a lot of discussions about how money should be passed about. I have been involved in many estate plans, and many do not realise how big their estate will be. Recently I had clients who thought they were worth less than $600,000 and thought an estate plan was not necessary for their ‘meagre’ wealth. By the time I finished with calculations which included life insurance and super we were sitting with an estate value of more than $4m.

Here is what I do know. If you have worked hard for your dough you are going to be pretty pissed off if it is not used wisely. These are hours spent running a business or working overtime to pay your mortgage. You did not buy the Ferrari or do the 30-day cruise, but I can bet your bottom dollar your kids probably will because they can afford it. With your money. And when you find out you are going to be properly cross about that.

Here I what you should do if you want to give your money away.

It’s about you, not them
Parents usually will do anything to help their kids out. Often at the expense of damaging themselves because if you overdo it (give more than you should) and need it back all kinds of excuses come out, and you never get to see your own dough. And I do not care how you try to convince me that your kids are good and decent. When it comes to money there are no guarantees because even if your kids are the best in the world if they divorce, go bankrupt or worse die, it will be almost impossible to get it back. Trust me this is depressing and sad stuff.

And so many of my earlier discussions are about how much you need to keep for yourself if you want to give money during your lifetime.

In other words, worry about yourself not your kids. Kids feel they have an automatic right to your money. They don’t. It’s your money. The only person who has a right to it is you.

Once you make a gift, there is no guarantee of getting it back if you need it. You might trust your children to look after you, but their death, divorce or bankruptcy would take the funds that you gave them out of their hands. All rather gloomy stuff.

Have the Discussion
Whether it’s a discussion about your Estate plan (Wills) of gifts/ loan during your lifetime have the discussion. Talk to your family, especially your kids.

The last thing they need are surprises. If you want to give more or less to one child/ family member, explain to them the reasons. They may not be happy about it but at least they expect it and they can ask questions whilst you are still alive.

My experience is that when they find out they have received less and it is unexpected, they try looking for answers and usually none are available because you are no longer around to explain. This then creates anger and everyone ends up in court hating each other. Which leads me to ……..

…..Try to be Equal

I have found that if you do treat children unequally it causes the largest and most bitter disputes between them.

Many think that means all kids get the same. It does not. What it means is that the distribution is seen as being correct or fair.

I was recently involved in an estate plan when one child living overseas was not to receive a significant cash payment which her 3 other siblings would receive. This was based on advice I had given because the child living overseas had received significant financial help whilst my client was alive whereas the other 3 children had not.

This was clearly put in the will, and the 4 children were all told about it. All 4 agreed that it was fair. In this case the chances of dispute significantly fall but without the explanation or discussion? Who knows where it would have ended up.

Loan or gift?
If you provide funds to your children during your lifetime, is it a loan or a gift? I personally always favour loans because a loan is repayable. A gift never is. But it can cause issues in themselves.

A loan means that in the event of divorce, death and sometimes bankruptcy of your child these funds can be repaid to you should you wish.

The problem? It needs to be documented and for reasons that evade me, parents don’t like getting their children to sign things. Emotion take president over logic.

But if you do go down the emotion route, don’t complain when you lose it.

If you do decide a loan is the way to go it could be interest free and repayable on demand, but I would always include a small repayment – it could be as low as $100 a year and make sure it is received/ paid.

Why? Well because a loan repayable on demand lapses after 6 years if no demand or repayment is made which converts it to …… a gift. And if there is a repayment no-one can argue it was not a loan.

This can be particularly useful if you have a married child and you have provided financial assistance to them to say pay a deposit on a home. If they later divorce and you have no documentation the chances, are you will have give approximately 50% to your child’s ex, and I have never met an ex in law that is happy with that.

Problems? Well banks don’t like parents giving loans for a deposit on a home – they want it as a gift. And if you yourself get into financial difficulty then suddenly creditors could ask for the money back from your child. It’s not ideal.

Never Rush into Giving Gifts/ Loans or an Estate Plan
Why?
Because the biggest screwups I have come across is because there was a rush to do something.

Time allows you to think about what is right. If you have a family discretionary trust or a company this complicates matters. Add in superannuation, life cover etc and suddenly there a lot to think about. And then there are tax bills. Whatever you do the last thing you want is to allow the ATO to get their grubby hands on your money.

Many of my clients have multiple trusts and multiple companies. The more complex your structures and investment vehicles the more time you need to think.

Use Trusts
My preference when undertaking estate plans is to put the estate in trust at death. This can provide protection from divorce, bankruptcy and ensures maximum tax advantages. If drafted properly it can also ensure your bloodline benefits from the capital.

The latest budget has put a spanner in the works (because the Australian Government thinks that if you think about passing your wealth to your kids you are evil) but trusts are still a great way to protect your assets. Your aim is to protect your wealth, not necessarily to save taxes.

It will also stop a 19-year-old kid from buying a Ferrari or the 30-day cruise and ensure the capital is protected and invested for your child’s future. They can buy the Farrari when they are more responsible.

If you want to give a gift during your lifetime with the expectation that they invest it rather than buy a Ferrari, then family trusts are a good way to control funds but new tax rules have put a spanner in the works so take advice.

When it comes to giving your money away remember a few things. Its is your money and only you have the right to it and decide who gets what. And whenever you do give it away make sure it is protected and cannot be abused. But unless you talk about it and plan it that won’t happen.

Building Bridges Through Conversation

Australian Indian Times
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Building Bridges Through Conversation

Building Bridges Through Conversation

The Human Thread
with Sabrina Iqbal Khan
Exploring humanity, storytelling, and the social issues impacting our communities.

OUR communities are wonderfully diverse. Within the broader Indian diaspora alone, we find people whose heritage spans India, Fiji, South Africa, Malaysia, Singapore, East Africa, the Caribbean and beyond. We speak different languages, practise different traditions and carry unique family histories. Yet despite these differences, there is far more that unites us than divides us.

Cross-cultural dialogue begins with something remarkably simple: listening. Not listening to respond, persuade or debate, but listening to understand. When we become genuinely curious about another person’s story, we begin to replace assumptions with understanding and stereotypes with respect.

In today’s increasingly connected world, it is easy to live alongside one another without truly knowing one another. Communities can become separated by language, religion, regional identities or generations, even while sharing common values of family, service and resilience. Meaningful dialogue helps bridge those divides by creating opportunities for people to learn from one another rather than about one another.

Throughout my own work in human rights, film-making and dialogue, I have seen the remarkable ability of conversation to transform relationships. Often, the greatest breakthroughs do not come from winning an argument but from creating a space where people feel heard, respected and valued. Genuine dialogue does not require us to agree on everything. It simply asks us to recognise the humanity in one another.

Our younger generations also have an important role to play. Many are growing up with multiple cultural identities, balancing family traditions with contemporary Australian life. They are uniquely positioned to become bridge-builders between generations and across cultures. By encouraging respectful conversations within our homes, schools, workplaces and community organisations, we strengthen not only our relationships but the future of our communities.

Cross-cultural dialogue is not about erasing our differences. Rather, it is about learning to appreciate them while recognising our shared humanity. Every conversation held with respect becomes an investment in stronger communities, greater understanding and lasting social harmony.

The strongest communities are not those without problems, but those willing to face them together.

ABOUT THE WRITER:

Sabrina Iqbal Khan is an international award-winning filmmaker, producer and actress, a barrister to the High Court of Fiji and admitted to the Supreme Court of Victoria, 2007. She is a recipient of a Fijian Medal of Honour for community service, domestic violence awareness and poverty alleviation, and the winner of the 2025 New South Wales Human Rights Medal. Her first film, Seema, received recognition in the United States of America, where a national day was declared in honour of the film.

Sabrina has also published in the field of cross-cultural dialogue, including developing a dialogue theory recognised by the American Center for Dialogue. With heritage connected to North West India, Bengal, Afghanistan and the wider Girmit diaspora experience, she writes on humanity, human rights, storytelling, and the social justice issues impacting our communities.

Federal Budget Reshapes Australia’s Property Market: What It Means for Homebuyers, Renters & Investors

Australian Indian Times
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Federal Budget Reshapes Australia’s Property Market: What It Means for Homebuyers, Renters & Investors

Federal Budget Reshapes Australia’s Property Market: What It Means for Homebuyers, Renters & Investors

The recent Federal Budget delivered what industry experts are calling the most significant shake-up to property-related tax policy in a generation. Rather than a quick-fix cash splash, the focus is a structural, long-term overhaul aimed at tackling housing affordability and changing where investment money flows.

1. The Big Policy Changes

The government’s package hinges on two major tax reforms set to take effect on 1 July 2027:

• Negative Gearing Restricted: For established residential properties bought after Budget night, investors will no longer be able to offset rental losses directly against their wage income. Instead, those losses will be “quarantined” to be offset only against future rental income or capital gains. Crucially, new builds are exempt—investors can still negatively gear new properties to encourage more construction.

• Capital Gains Tax (CGT) Overhaul: The blanket 50% CGT discount for individuals and trusts is being replaced. Under the new rules, taxable capital gains will adjust for inflation (cost base indexation), but will face a minimum 30% tax rate on the real profit.

• Grandfathering: If you already own an investment property, your current negative gearing and CGT arrangements are locked in, meaning you won’t be hit retrospectively.

2. How This Affects Everyday Australians
The immediate and medium-term impacts vary depending on where you sit in the market:

First-Home Buyers

• The Upside: The ultimate goal of these changes is to level the playing field. By removing tax advantages on existing properties, the government expects to reduce fierce investor competition for established apartments, townhouses, and entry-level homes. Treasury modelling suggests this could help an extra 75,000 Australians buy a home over the next decade.

• The Reality: Don’t expect prices to plummet overnight. Major banks like CBA and Westpac note that the impact will be gradual, forecasting that house price growth will simply moderate stalling relatively flat through 2026 and eventually tracking a few percentage points lower than it otherwise would have.

Renter Households

• Rental Market Pressures: This is the biggest area of concern for everyday renters. Because “mum and dad” investors provide the vast majority of rental housing in Australia, a drop-off in investor confidence could initially tighten rental supply.

• Yields and Cost: Major bank economists predict a gradual firming of average rental yields as the market “equalises” the tax changes, which likely means a combination of lower property prices and slightly firmer rent inflation in the transition period.

“Mum and Dad” Investors

• A Shift in Strategy: Everyday investors looking to build wealth through an established property will face tougher cash-flow dynamics without immediate tax deductions against their salaries.

• The “Lock-In” Effect: Because existing properties are grandfathered, current landlords have a massive incentive to hold onto their portfolios rather than sell. If they sell and try to buy another established property later, they lose their old tax perks.

The Construction & Building Sector

• Infrastructure Boost: To ensure supply keeps up, the Budget included a $2 billion Local Infrastructure Fund to fast-track “last-mile” infrastructure (roads, services, connections) needed to get land ready for building.

• Push to New Builds: With tax incentives specifically preserved for new constructions, investor activity is expected to swing heavily toward buying off-the-plan, new builds, and supporting build-to-rent projects.

Summary Takeaway: The housing market is transitioning from an investor-led boom into a more selective, regulated phase. While first-home buyers may face slightly less competition from investors for existing houses over the next few years, renters will want to keep a close eye on availability and local pricing as the market adjusts to the new tax environment.

Holiday to long term rental

Australian Indian Times
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Holiday to long term rental

Holiday to long term rental

Sandy Deo
REMAX Landmark
0400920238
07 3189 6355
2/3 Cuban Street Underwood
[email protected]

While some locations may experience consistent demand for short-term and holiday accommodation, not all markets maintain year-round demand. As Australians continue to face cost-of-living pressures, holidaying may simply not be as accessible as in previous years. This can pose challenges for property owners including longer vacancy periods than anticipated.

For property owners currently achieving strong returns through short-term accommodation, there may come a time to reassess whether this remains the most effective long-term strategy. Landlords should consider the advantages and disadvantages of both holiday leasing and private rental models.

For those seeking greater consistency in occupancy and income, transitioning to private rental may be an option worth exploring. While short-term and holiday accommodation can generate strong seasonal returns, fluctuations in demand may result in income being less predictable than steady returns associated with long-term rentals.

Long-term tenants are generally more likely to identify and report maintenance issues, helping ensure the property remains in good condition. As such, the property’s condition and ongoing upkeep are especially important. Before transitioning away from holiday accommodation to a long-term rental, landlords should ensure any repairs or maintenance issues are addressed.

If changing the property’s primary use, it is essential to review insurance coverage to ensure it remains appropriate. Landlords should also seek advice from their accountant or financial adviser to understand any tax implications and how the change may affect their personal circumstances.

With vacancy rates remaining low across many markets, demand for long-term rentals continues to be strong and may provide greater year-round stability. Transitioning from self-management or short-term accommodation management to a specialised property management team can help ensure a smooth changeover and support the property’s long-term success.

Credit: REMAX Australia

 

Beyond the Numbers: From Demographic Scale to Civic Courage in Multicultural Australia

Australian Indian Times
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Beyond the Numbers: From Demographic Scale to Civic Courage in Multicultural Australia

Beyond the Numbers: From Demographic Scale to Civic Courage in Multicultural Australia

Before we began the interview, Dionne and I spent time simply talking. As with every conversation we’ve shared, there was an undeniable sense of substance, purpose and synergy. We spoke about business, faith, slowing down, family, and the desire to create something that genuinely leaves the world better than we found it.

Dionne Payn is the Founder of Women 4 Homes, host of the Financially Empowered Women podcast and CEO of High Impact Property Investments. Yet beyond the titles is a woman driven by a deep belief that financial empowerment can change lives.

What struck me most wasn’t simply her passion for property. It was her heart for people. Her mission extends far beyond bricks and mortar. It’s about restoring dignity, creating opportunity and ensuring more women have the knowledge, confidence and community to build a secure future.

As our conversation unfolded, it became clear that Women 4 Homes isn’t simply about investing in affordable housing. It’s about creating a community where women realise they don’t have to do life alone.
It’s about hope.

Here’s what Dionne shared.

Every movement begins with a story. Can you take us back to the moment you realised Women 4 Homes needed to exist? What did you witness that made this mission impossible to ignore, and why has it become so deeply personal to you?

It all began at a marketing and branding retreat. Throughout the weekend I kept pulling cards that said things like, “What you resist, persists.” At the same time, women were approaching me saying, “We love what you’re doing. How can we get involved?”

At the time, I was raising capital for property developers with minimum investments of $50,000. I knew many of these women simply didn’t have that kind of money, so I found myself thinking, “Wouldn’t it be wonderful if everyday women could invest in affordable housing too?”

On the final day, during a tea ceremony, everything became clear. I looked up and saw the clouds parting to reveal a beautiful blue sky. In that moment, I realised the blue sky represented my mind, while the clouds were my doubts drifting away. That’s when Women 4 Homes dropped into my heart.

Around the same time, I couldn’t ignore another reality. I knew women sleeping in cars. I’d worked alongside charities supporting women experiencing housing insecurity, and after the Northern Rivers foods I saw thousands of women searching for safe housing.

The more I understood the impact of the gender pay gap, caring responsibilities, divorce and lower superannuation balances, the more I realised this wasn’t about poor decisions. Many women simply hadn’t been shown how the system worked.

That’s when I knew education had to become just as important as investment.
You’ve met and supported many women through this journey. Is there one story that has stayed with you, where you witnessed someone’s life change and thought, “This is exactly why we have to keep going”?

There are so many, but one woman immediately comes to mind.
She was in her 50s and had rented her entire life. She told me, “I never thought I’d buy anything. I just want to be part of this. I want to be on the property ladder.”
When I explained how we could make that possible, she became emotional. For the first time she realised she could have her name on the title of a home. She’d never believed that would be possible.

Another moment that stays with me happened at one of our retreats. A woman arrived feeling guarded and uncertain. Over the course of the weekend, it was like watching a flower slowly unfold. She left with confidence, connection and a community around her.
That’s what reminds me this movement has never just been about property.

Women 4 Homes feels like more than a housing initiative. It feels like a movement where women are investing in women. How intentional are you about creating not just homes, but a community built on dignity, connection and belonging?
It has always been intentional.

Women 4 Homes isn’t simply about investing in affordable housing. It’s about creating a community where women realise they don’t have to do life alone.
When we’re isolated, it’s easy to believe we’re powerless. But when women come together with a shared purpose, something extraordinary happens. We share ideas, ask questions others hadn’t considered and build confidence together.

At the same time, I launched the Financially Empowered Women podcast because I realised I couldn’t be the expert in everything. I wanted to bring together some of Australia’s leading voices so women could hear from people who genuinely understood finance, investing and wealth creation.

Today, the podcast sits alongside Women 4 Homes as a resource to educate, inspire and empower.

Our vision is simple but ambitious: to inspire one million women to invest $5,000 into affordable housing by 2030 while becoming financially empowered along the way.
That sense of belonging is just as important as the homes themselves.

Older women are one of the fastest-growing groups at risk of homelessness in Australia. Why do you believe this issue hasn’t received the attention it deserves, and what conversation do you hope Women 4 Homes will start across the country?

When people think of homelessness, they often picture someone sleeping on the street.
What they don’t see are professional women sleeping in cars, living in tents or couch surfing while still going to work every day. They’re doing everything they can to hold their lives together, which makes their homelessness almost invisible.

I also think we’ve forgotten how much wisdom older women carry. In many cultures, older women were honoured as the elders of the community. Today, too many are simply trying to survive.

If we can provide safety, security and dignity, they can once again share their wisdom and contribute to society. That’s the conversation I’d love Australia to start having.
Imagine it’s the day the first six women walk through the front door of their new home. What do you think that moment will feel like, not only for them, but for you?
I hope they walk into something beautiful, affordable and dignified.

Too often affordable housing is functional, but it doesn’t feel like home. I want these women to walk through the front door knowing they are worthy of beauty, comfort and security.

For me, it will simply be a reminder that this movement was always built from love.
Finally, is there a quote, philosophy or piece of advice that you live by, and how has it shaped both your life and your mission with Women 4 Homes?
One quote has stayed with me for years:

“Don’t fight the existing system. Build a new one that makes the old one obsolete.” — Buckminster Fuller
That’s exactly what Women 4 Homes is about.

We’re not spending our energy fighting what’s broken. We’re building something better, where women can become financially empowered, invest with purpose and create lasting change together.

Article by Roshika. Chand

Faith in Action: Cultural Precincts and Parliamentarians Partner on Community Safety and Civic Engagement

Australian Indian Times
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Faith in Action: Cultural Precincts and Parliamentarians Partner on Community Safety and Civic Engagement

Faith in Action: Cultural Precincts and Parliamentarians Partner on Community Safety and Civic Engagement

In a powerful demonstration of grassroots civic participation, major spiritual and cultural centres across Victoria and Queensland are stepping forward as vital hubs for policy dialogue and community wellbeing. Organizations such as BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha and prominent local Gurudwaras have recently hosted state parliamentary representatives to address pressing social challenges, including regional community safety, targeted water safety initiatives, and active multicultural engagement.

These collaborative engagements mark a deliberate shift in how multicultural organizations interact with state governance and moving beyond ceremonial gatherings to foster actionable policy partnerships.

Targeted Initiatives: Water Safety and Public Education

A central focus of these consultations has been water safety where a critical issue as demographic data reveals that newly arrived migrants and international students face disproportionately higher risks of accidental drowning in Australian waterways and coastal regions.
During roundtable discussions at major temples and gurdwaras, state MPs alongside representatives from peak bodies like Royal Life Saving Australia met with community elders and youth advocates to address the gap.

Key outcomes from these discussions include:

• Multilingual Safety Campaigns: Development of culturally tailored water safety literature and digital campaigns in Hindi, Punjabi, and Gujarati for distribution at temple festivals and community sports days.

• Community-Led Swimming Pathways: Partnerships between local aquatic centres and cultural trusts to provide subsidized learn-to-swim and beach safety awareness programs specifically designed for migrant families.

• Inland Waterway Awareness: Dedicated outreach educating families on the unseen hazards of inland rivers and unpatrolled regional swimming spots ahead of peak holiday seasons.

Strengthening Civic Links and Precinct Safety

Beyond water safety, meetings between faith leaders and lawmakers focused on broader community safety and youth mentorship programs. Parliamentarians acknowledged the role played by spiritual centres as frontline support networks providing food relief, counselling, and social connection.

Representatives commended the Indian diaspora’s proactive approach to community policing dialogues, youth leadership forums, and anti-discrimination advocacy. In turn, temple and gurudwara leaders emphasized the need for continued state investment in precinct security infrastructure, emergency management integration, and mental health support services tailored to culturally diverse populations.

A Model for Shared Governance

Speaking on the significance of these visits, visiting state members highlighted that engaging directly within faith precincts allows government policy to reflect real, on-the-ground needs.

“Our places of worship are far more than spiritual centres—they are the heartbeats of our neighbourhoods,” shared one attending representative. “When we partner directly with community trusts and volunteer networks, we build safer, more resilient, and deeply connected communities.”

As Victoria and Queensland continue to grow in cultural diversity, these ongoing engagements demonstrate the tangible impact of faith-based institutions stepping up into civic leadership roles. By turning sacred spaces into places of practical action, the diaspora continues to strengthen the broader social fabric of Australia.

Beyond the Numbers: From Demographic Scale to Civic Courage in Multicultural Australia

Australian Indian Times
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Beyond the Numbers: From Demographic Scale to Civic Courage in Multicultural Australia

Beyond the Numbers: From Demographic Scale to Civic Courage in Multicultural Australia

By Jitendra Deo
Chief Executive Officer
JD Group Australia

Australia’s demographic storytelling reached a historical inflection point when official Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data confirmed that people born in India have surpassed those born in England as the nation’s largest overseas-born population. Approaching one million resident individuals, the Indian diaspora is no longer a peripheral success story, we are now a cornerstone of Australia’s contemporary socio-economic identity.

Yet, as community advocates, our primary task is not merely to celebrate statistical growth or high-profile diplomatic summits. It is to ask: How do we translate our unprecedented demographic presence into meaningful civic leadership, social protection, and systemic belonging?

1. Dismantling the “Model Minority” Trap Amid National Debates

For decades, the Indian community in Australia has been celebrated through a narrow lens: high rates of higher education, strong workforce participation, entrepreneurial ambition, and law-abiding integration. While these achievements are real, this “model minority” framing creates a dangerous blind spot when political pressures mount.

Amid national anxieties over housing affordability, cost-of-living stresses, and infrastructure bottlenecks, public rhetoric around immigration has visibly hardened. As community advocates and bodies like the Australian Human Rights Commission have pointed out, complex policy bottlenecks are too frequently simplified into anti-migrant commentary.

When multi-million-dollar government grants for multicultural cultural precincts or local community initiatives spark online backlash, or when public discourse casually frames skilled migrants as “burdens” on public assets rather than the very professionals building and staffing them, we see the limits of relying solely on economic metrics.

2. Moving from Economic Contribution to Policy Representation

To protect our community’s well-being and safeguard Australia’s social cohesion, Indian Australians must move beyond being viewed merely as economic contributors.

1. Active Civic Engagement: We need qualified diaspora members contesting local council seats, serving on statutory boards, engaging in public policy think-tanks, and entering parliamentary corridors.

2. Coalition Building: Our advocacy must extend outward. Building solid “bridging capital” with First Nations communities, long-standing Anglo-Celtic groups, and other multicultural organizations ensures that we fight discrimination collectively rather than in isolation.

3. Addressing Internal Diversity: Our diaspora is vibrant, layered, and multi-faceted. Effective advocacy requires acknowledging internal diversity across language, faith, age, arrival pathways, and gender, so that international students, regional workers, and new arrivals receive the same structural support as established professionals.

4. Practical Steps for Community Action
Advocacy is not an academic exercise; it demands practical steps at the suburban and institutional level:

• Demystifying Policy for the Grassroots: Community organizations, gurdwaras, temples, and cultural associations must dedicate resources to civic literacy by helping members understand how local planning, school boards, and state consultative committees operate.

• Proactive Public Media Presence: Rather than reacting only when vilification occurs, our business and community leaders must consistently present factual data on how diaspora-led enterprises, healthcare workers, and construction talent actively resolve Australian infrastructure bottlenecks. Our media is taking the path towards this important element.

• Supporting Youth Mentorship: We must actively mentor young Indian Australians to pursue careers in journalism, civil law, public administration, and social advocacy, equipping them with the tools to shape national narratives.

A Shared Future Built on Courage

Australia’s strength lies in its democratic capacity to adapt, evolve, and embrace change. As the largest overseas-born cohort in Australia today, the Indian diaspora has a profound stake in ensuring that Australia remains a fair, inclusive, and cohesive nation.

Our message to broader Australia must be clear: we are not guests passing through, nor are we simple economic units to be instrumentally measured during boom times and scapegoated during downturns. We are parents, neighbours, taxpayers, caregivers, and builders of Australia’s future.

By stepping into public life with courage, clarity, and unity, we ensure that our legacy in Australia is defined not just by how many we are, but by the strength of the society we help build.

Hepatitis B and working in healthcare in Australia

Australian Indian Times
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Hepatitis B and working in healthcare in Australia

Hepatitis B and working in healthcare in Australia

We are often asked, can people work in healthcare as healthcare workers (HCWs) if they are living with hepatitis B in Australia? Healthcare workers include registered health practitioners (doctors, nurse etc), allied health professionals (physiotherapists, dietitians etc) and support staff – including personal care assistants, Aged Care workers, NDIS workers etc. The answer is yes but there are some special requirements that need to be in place and are the responsibility of the health care worker and the employer. The Australian Centre for Disease Control has the Communicable Diseases Network (CDNA) National Guidelines including the ‘Australian National Guideline for the Management of healthcare workers living with blood borne viruses and healthcare workers who perform exposure prone procedures at risk of exposure to blood borne viruses’ which provides clear information on this topic.

The main recommendations include:

• Testing for blood borne viruses (including hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV) is encouraged for all HCWs to protect theirs and the health of and safety of their patients

• For those performing exposure prone procedures (EPPs) the recommendation is testing (at a minimum) once every 3 years.

• Access to confidential testing, support, treatment and counselling is the right of all HCWs.

• Vaccination against hepatitis B should be undertaken by all HCWs including student HCWs before they start their studies, clinical placements or employment and be tested for immunity following vaccination. Alternatively, have a demonstrated immunity on recent blood tests from a past infection.

What are your responsibilities if you are living with hepatitis B?

• You must have ongoing appropriate medical care, adhering to the recommended frequency of monitoring (usually 6 monthly).

• You must have your viral load checked at requested timeframes and it should not be above 200 IU/mL

• Always maintain appropriate infection control measures per the ‘Australian Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare’ www.safetyandquality.gov.au

• All HCWs if required, should know their responsibility to report their BBV status under local legislation and/or policies.

What if you are performing exposure prone procedures (EPPs)?

• An EPP is defined as a procedure where the HCW may have an increased risk of injury – where their blood may infect a patient’s blood. These include where the person’s hands/fingertips are not always visible (even when wearing gloves), and can encounter sharp bone, teeth, instruments, needle tips etc.

• Your viral load must remain below 200 IU/mL, and you undertake 6 monthly testing to monitor your viral load if on treatment. If not on treatment testing is required every 3 months as a minimum.

• If you have a potential exposure to a patient/another worker, you may be required to provide your records of health monitoring to a designated person in the workplace for further assessment and public health action if required.

What is not considered an EPP?

• Insertion of intravenous access, giving injections, inserting catheters, stitching wounds etc, internal exams that do not involve sharp instruments or tissue, or general care of patients/clients.

What should you expect from your employer if you are living with hepatitis B?

• Your health condition (just like any other) remains private and confidential.

• You are protected under the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 (Qld) (Queensland Human Rights Commission) including the ‘Anti-Discrimination Law in Queensland’ if you feel you have been discriminated against you can report to them for support and advice.

• Your employer has a duty of care to all employees regardless of hepatitis B status to protect the rights of HCWs to provide equal opportunity to both clients and staff.

Further information is available at:

Anti-discrimination law in Queensland | QHRC | Queensland Human Rights Commission www.qhrc.qld.gov.au

B Positive: Hepatitis B Guide for Primary Care | ASHM Health www.ashm.org.au
National Guidelines the Management of Healthcare Workers Living with Blood Borne Viruses and Healthcare Workers who Perform Exposure Prone Procedures at Risk of Exposure to

Blood Borne Viruses www.cdc.gov.au
Guideline Australian Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare (2019) www.safetyandquality.gov.au

August Reflections: Independence, Mental Health & Community Spirit

Australian Indian Times
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August Reflections: Independence, Mental Health & Community Spirit

August Reflections: Independence, Mental Health & Community Spirit

by Xavier Hernandez
Happy Indian Independence Day to one and all.

August is a very special time for many. However, history also reminds us that it is a time to reflect on the many lives that were lost in the lead-up to India’s independence. This month, I really enjoyed reading about the history that makes this day so significant. In particular I found this website fascinating: Indian Independence – The National Archives ( www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/education/resources/indian-independence/).

I have grown up feeling loved and accepted as part of the local Queensland Indian community. That is why I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has welcomed my family and me into your events, forums, and homes. Thank you also for continually welcoming the wider Australian community to experience the traditions, culture, and everything that makes the Indian diaspora so special.

There are some fantastic events coming up this month, so make sure you read through to the end. In my previous column, I shared part three of my interview with Cr Nathan St Ledger, Councillor for Division 4 at the City of Logan. Thank you to everyone who has told me they look forward each month to reading the next instalment of the interview. Your kind words are greatly appreciated. I hope you enjoy part four below.

Part Four
Interview with Cr. St Ledger
Interviewer: Xavier Hernandez

Xavier:

The online profile shows a strong reliance on frontline industries such as construction, retail, healthcare, and social services. How do work patterns and job security affect mental health outcomes in the community?

Cr. St Ledger:

One statistic that really stands out is that if you’re a construction worker, you’re six times more likely to die by suicide than you are from a workplace accident. That’s a very alarming figure.

This is one of the main reasons why, as a charity, we place a strong focus on the construction and trade industries, as they are among the highest-risk sectors. However, I believe every organisation—not just those in construction or the trades—needs to have a genuine commitment to supporting mental health. That statistic alone should ring alarm bells for all workplaces and encourage them to make employee wellbeing a priority.

Xavier:

You often speak about turning challenges into purpose. What are some obstacles you have faced personally that continue to motivate you to help others?

Cr. St Ledger:

As I mentioned earlier, I’ve had my own battles with depression and anxiety. Knowing that there is light at the end of the tunnel is a message I want others to hear. There is always help available.

It’s important to remember that little things matter. Small steps and small improvements, when repeated consistently each day, can make a significant difference. You don’t go to bed feeling perfectly fine and wake up with depression or anxiety overnight—it develops over time. In the same way, the journey toward feeling better also takes time. It’s those daily, positive steps that keep me motivated and remind me why supporting others is so important.

Xavier:

Mental health support doesn’t always look the same for everyone. How do you ensure that your advocacy reaches young people from a variety of diverse cultural and social backgrounds?

Cr. St Ledger:

You’re exactly right—there is no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health. Whether it’s through medical professionals or simply having conversations like we do during our advocacy work, it all comes down to building relationships.

My advice is to always be yourself. If you’re genuine, honest, and authentic, people will connect with you. Not everyone will relate to the same person, and that’s okay, because different people connect in different ways.

We’re fortunate as a charity to have ambassadors from many different cultures and walks of life, and every single one of them has their own story. There’s real power in sharing those lived experiences. You don’t have to be the right person for everyone, because there will always be someone whose story resonates with another person. Being respectful, honest, and true to yourself is the key to making a meaningful impact.

End of Interview

I look forward to sharing more from my conversations with Cr Nathan St Ledger in future editions as we continue raising awareness about mental health and highlight the people making a positive difference in our communities.

One event I am particularly looking forward to is the iconic India Day Fair 2026, proudly presented by GOPIO Queensland. The event will be held on Saturday, 15 August, at Roma Street Parkland and promises a fantastic celebration of India’s Independence Day through culture, food, music, dance, entertainment, and community spirit. I was delighted to attend the official poster launch, and this year I will be volunteering at the GOPIO Queensland stall throughout the day. If you are attending, please come over and say hello.

Another wonderful community celebration, the India Independence Day Picnic, is being hosted by AIMQ Inc. on Saturday, 22 August 2026, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at Tygum Park, Waterford West. It promises to be another fantastic opportunity for families and friends to come together and celebrate our rich culture and heritage.

Celebrating our community is something I truly value. That is why it was such an honour to welcome the Consul General and Consul of El Salvador to the Blue Fin Fishing Club. I was also honoured that JD Deo and his wife, Sandy Deo, were able to join me and so many others on this special occasion. It is wonderful to see so many leaders come together to discuss helping our community.

Many years ago, Vikas Sinha, former President of GOPIO Brisbane, shared words that have always stayed with me: “It’s love that makes you family, not blood. Just like an adopted child, you love them equally.” His words continue to inspire me, alongside the wisdom of many other great community leaders and philosophers.

If you would like to hear Vikas speak, he will be presenting at the upcoming Property Market and Federal Budget Update at the Matu Community Hub Centre, 6:00 pm, 35 Tamarin Street, Marsden.

And of course, finally, some local for readers who enjoy my coverage of local affairs, the Australian Government has not indicated that an extension to the fuel excise is on the cards, despite the crucial Strait of Hormuz remaining blocked. Channel 7 reported today (27 July 2026) that the Fuel Excise is set to end, with petrol prices expected to rise.

Aussie drivers need to start thinking about budgeting more as there may be a steep increase at the bowser as the fuel excise comes to an end next week. It will be important to see what the Federal Government does to support residents who are already struggling with the rising cost of living and higher household bills during the colder months.

The excise, which reduced petrol prices by 16 cents per litre, is due to lapse, potentially increasing fuel prices to around $2.00 per litre. If you or someone you know is doing it tough, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local community groups or churches. Most importantly, take a moment to check in on your neighbours to see if they need a helping hand. A simple act of kindness can make a world of difference.

I will continue to keep readers updated as the situation develops.
As always, if you have any topics, you would like me to write about please don’t hesitate to contact the team at Australian Indian Times or reach out to me when I’m out and about in the community.

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