A new report from Refugee Council of Australia, in collaboration with Amnesty International blames the Australian government for cuts in health services and continued threats to the safety of the undocumented immigrants on Manus island in Papua New Guinea. The report, Until When: The Forgotten Men of Manus Island tells the story of the men who have been sent by Australia to Manus Island and what has happened to them after they were forcibly removed from the ‘regional processing centre’ on Manus one year ago. 

Following recent votes in the Senate and House of Representatives, Australia has a Modern Slavery Act, which will take effect on 1 January. This is great news for the many members of Parliament, government departments, NGOs and business that have collaborated and advocated for a number of years. Even more important is the hope that enacting this Bill will assist in eliminating slavery in supply chains and restore dignity to many who are currently enslaved. Congratulations to ACRATH and all who have had a part in bringing the bill to this stage.

Aboriginal Catholic Ministry Victoria invites you to join staff and friends for its Christmas Celebration Mass in the chapel, 434 St Georges Rd, Thornbury, on Sunday 9 December, at 11am. This will be followed by a shared meal. Also, if you're looking for gift ideas, don't forget ACMV's 2018-2019 Gift Catalogue, which contains a number of beautiful items that feature Aboriginal symbols, which are a powerful sign of reconciliation, forgiveness, love, hope and peace.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel parish in Sunbury recently hosted a workshop entitled, Domestic and Family Violence: What is it? What supports are available? led by Nicole Rotaru rsm. On the evening of 28 November, parish priest, Fr Kevin McIntosh, welcomed 24 participants who attended from the parish community, surrounding townships and local organisations.