A Federation of Cultures? Innovative Approaches to Multicultural Accommodation (2012-2017)

As Australia becomes increasingly diverse, we need to find new ways to accommodate minority cultures in a manner that balances minority rights with core Australian values and promotes social cohesion. This project examines how state and federal governments can better protect and support the values, beliefs and cultural practices of different cultural and religious groups, especially in matters concerning family life, community identity and freedom of conscience, within a framework of respect for human rights. The project will pursue these goals by examining developments in other countries and by building on theoretical approaches that offer more scope for innovative solutions to issues posed by Australian's unique form of multiculturalism.