Sylvia Coombe, our Multicultural Advisory Panel member, knows that clear communication can save lives and change communities. With years of experience working alongside migrant communities in Victoria, she champions the power of language to build trust, open doors, and protect vulnerable groups. Through her work with the Fijian Community Association Victoria Inc. and the Migrant Workers Centre, Sylvia has seen firsthand how inclusive communication makes a real difference. In this conversation she shares practical strategies, lessons learned, and her passion for creating safer, more connected communities for all. 

Questions: 

1. How do you navigate language barriers when working with migrant communities?  

Navigating language barriers when working with migrant communities is manageable  with the following strategies: 

• Simple and Clear Communication: Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. 

• Visual Aids: Incorporate visual elements like pictures, diagrams, and infographics. 

• Translators and Interpreters: Engage professional/ trusted translators or interpreters who are fluent in the community’s language. 

• Culturally Safe Spaces: Create environments where individuals feel respected and valued such as church halls, community halls etc. 

• Repetition: Repeat key information to reinforce understanding.

2. What role does clear communication play in ensuring public safety?  

Clear communication is crucial in ensuring public safety for several reasons: 

• No Misunderstanding: When information is communicated clearly, it minimizes the risk of misunderstandings. This is vital in emergency situations where every second counts and instructions need to be followed precisely. 

• Message is Delivered Correctly: Ensuring that the message is delivered correctly means that the intended information reaches the audience as planned. This helps in preventing misinformation and ensures that people can take appropriate actions based on accurate information. 

• Timely Response: Clear communication ensures that information is disseminated quickly and efficiently, allowing for timely responses to emergencies. This can significantly reduce the impact of disasters and save lives. 

•  Coordination Among Agencies: Effective communication is crucial for coordination among various public safety agencies. It ensures that all parties are on the same page, which is essential for a unified and effective response. 

• Public Trust: When authorities communicate clearly and transparently, it builds public trust. People are more likely to follow instructions and cooperate during emergencies if they trust the information they are receiving. 

• Preparedness and Education: Clear communication helps in educating the public about safety protocols and preparedness measures. This proactive approach can mitigate risks and enhance community resilience.

3. Can you share a moment when language skills helped defuse a tense situation or build trust?  

When PALM workers first started arriving from Fiji to work in the abbatoirs in Melbourne 3 years ago, our organisation (Fijian Community Association Victoria Inc) together with Migrant Workers Centre, facilitated information sessions in language to workers to help many of them understand their basic work rights and also to help assimilate into the Australian community such as road safety rules, catching public transport, Australian slang  etc. Also Fijian culture discourages people speaking up out of respect , so workers at these sessions are encouraged (as they are now in Australia) to voice their concerns to the supervisors at workplaces if there are any issues or even work improvements. 

4. How do you ensure that non-native speakers understand their rights and resources available to them?  

Ensuring that non-native speakers understand their rights and the resources available to them is crucial for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment with the following strategies: 

•  In-Person Meetings with Trusted Translators: Meeting with non-native speakers in person, accompanied by trusted translators, helps ensure that information is accurately conveyed. Conduct these meetings in culturally safe spaces where individuals feel comfortable and respected. 

•  Opportunities for Feedback: Providing opportunities for non-native speakers to give feedback is essential. This not only helps in clarifying any misunderstandings but also empowers them to voice their concerns and needs. 

 Multiple Modes of Communication: Utilize various communication channels such as radio, in-person meetings, written materials, and television broadcasts. This ensures that the information reaches a wider audience and caters to different preferences and accessibility needs.

5. In your experience, how does language impact access to justice and protection for migrant workers?  

Language plays a critical role in ensuring access to justice and protection for migrant workers noting the following points: 

•  Importance of Clear Communication: Clearly written language, supplemented with verbal and translated communication, is essential. This ensures that migrant workers fully understand their rights and the resources available to them. 

• Awareness of Work Rights: Many migrant workers are often unaware of their work rights, making them vulnerable to unfair working conditions. Effective communication helps bridge this knowledge gap, empowering them to advocate for themselves. 

• Timely Information: Providing timely information is crucial. Often, by the time migrant workers become aware of their rights, it is too late to address issues such as workcover situations or unfair dismissal. Proactive communication can prevent these situations from escalating. 

6. What advice would you give to someone who wants to use language more inclusively in public service? 

Using language inclusively in public service is essential for effective communication and community engagement by ensuring that the language is: 

• Clear and Concise: Ensure your language is straightforward and to the point. Avoid jargon and complex terms that might confuse your audience. 

• Visual Aids: Incorporate visual elements such as infographics, diagrams, and videos. Visuals can help convey complex information more effectively and are accessible to a broader audience. 

• Timely Communication: Provide information promptly to ensure it is relevant and actionable. Timely updates can prevent misunderstandings and ensure that the community is well-informed. 

• Culturally Appropriate: Be mindful of cultural nuances and sensitivities. Use language and examples that are respectful and relevant to the cultural context of your audience. 

• Trusted Translators: Work with professional translators who are trusted within the community. This ensures that translations are accurate and culturally appropriate. 

• Know Your Audience: Understand the demographics, language preferences, and needs of your audience. Tailor your communication strategies to meet these needs effectively. 

•  Inclusive Communication Strategy: Develop a communication strategy that includes multicultural and inclusive consultation and engagement. This ensures that diverse perspectives are considered and addressed. 

•  Community Leaders: Collaborate with community leaders to determine the best timing and methods for delivering your messages. Their insights can help you reach the community more effectively.