Cultural Diversity Week runs from 21–29 March 2026 and this year’s theme is ‘Culture connects us all’.
Multiculturalism is a core part of our identity, character and way of life. Building on over 60,000 years of First Nations culture, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities are integral to Australia's vibrant society.
Multicultural Deaf communities comprise individuals who navigate the intersection of Deaf culture – characterised by one or more sign languages and shared visual experiences – and diverse ethnic, linguistic or cultural backgrounds.
Deaf migrants may arrive in Australia with very diverse language backgrounds. They may be faced with a multitude of linguistic and social challenges impacting their communication, education, the labour market and integration into society.
Specialised organisations, like Deaf Victoria and Deaf Australia, provide advocacy and support for Deaf individuals from CALD backgrounds, who often balance their cultural heritage with Deaf identity, forming a unique bicultural or multicultural experience.
In Australia, Deaf culture within these groups is shared through Auslan, storytelling, art and humour, often highlighting shared experiences of being Deaf.
While sign language is a primary connector, these communities embrace various communication styles, including signs, gestures and cultural nuances from their countries of origin.
Find out more about Cultural Diversity Week, here
