General News
7 April, 2025
'No' to racism in Horsham
Horsham residents are being asked to think about how they will act to counter racism when it occurs.
Barengi Gadjin Land Council, Goolum Goolum and community groups have reported continued examples of racist behaviour in the Wimmera.
The Wimmera also has an increasingly diverse population, many migrants now calling the Horsham area home.
"But some newly arrived Australians need help to feel fully integrated and welcomed into community life and our local Aboriginal community has experienced racism," Horsham Rural City mayor Cr Ian Ross said.
"We should be doing all we can to totally stamp out racism in our community.
“We want to be welcoming to our many cultural groups and faith groups."
Cr Ross said every citizen had an obligation to stand up against racism.
“All of us, whenever we encounter racist behaviour and attitudes, have an obligation to call it out and condemn it," he said.
“There is absolutely no place for that sort of behaviour here.
“Our municipality must be a welcoming place for everyone – calling out racism will help make it so."
Cr Ross said anyone who either experienced or witnessed racism and who wanted to make a complaint, or anyone who just want to know more about how their rights were protected, could contact the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission.
Call 1300 292 153 (or 1300 152 494 if an interpreter is required) or email complaints@veohrc.vic.gov.au, or use the online community report tool to remain anonymous.