The Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA) has strongly criticised Senator Pauline Hanson’s call for a “monocultural” Australia, arguing that the proposal ignores the country’s history and the role migration has played in shaping modern Australian society.
The response follows Ms Hanson’s address to the National Press Club, where she described multiculturalism as a failed policy and called for a return to what she characterised as a more unified national culture.
FECCA said the idea of a monocultural Australia was based on a misunderstanding of the nation’s past.
The organisation pointed to the presence of First Nations peoples for tens of thousands of years, as well as successive waves of migration, as evidence that Australia has never been culturally uniform.
“We reject this completely,” FECCA Chair Peter Doukas OAM said.
“There has never, at any stage in Australia’s history, been a monocultural society. From the First Nations peoples who have cared for this continent for tens of thousands of years, to successive waves of migration that have shaped modern Australia, our nation has always been characterised by cultural diversity.”
Mr Doukas said multiculturalism had helped build a prosperous and cohesive society and remained a defining feature of contemporary Australia.
He noted that Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds contribute across the economy and community life, including in healthcare, education, business and volunteer organisations.
“Even our national anthem reminds us about those who come across the seas,” he said.
“Our multiculturalism is one of this nation’s enduring achievements. It has helped build a society that is more prosperous, innovative and cohesive.”
Ms Hanson’s comments have reignited debate about multiculturalism and national identity, issues that have featured prominently in Australian politics over several decades.
Supporters of multiculturalism argue that cultural diversity strengthens social cohesion and economic growth while allowing people to maintain aspects of their cultural heritage within a shared national framework. Critics have at times questioned whether multicultural policies encourage social division or weaken national unity.
FECCA rejected suggestions that multiculturalism is incompatible with a strong Australian identity, saying the two are closely linked.
“For five decades, FECCA and its members have advocated for an Australia where every person, regardless of cultural background, faith or place of birth, is treated with respect and dignity, and has the opportunity to participate fully in society,” Mr Doukas said.
“That vision is not separate from a strong and proud national identity. It is fundamental to it.”
The organisation also argued that calls for a monocultural Australia echoed ideas associated with the former White Australia Policy, which restricted non-European migration until it was progressively dismantled in the decades following the Second World War.
FECCA said it would work with its state and territory members to advocate for multiculturalism and challenge what it described as divisive narratives.
The debate comes as questions around migration, social cohesion and national identity continue to feature in public discussion, with Australia’s population becoming increasingly diverse through both migration and demographic change.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
