Diaspora policy : a missing plank in Australia's multicultural policy portfolio

As a country that relies significantly on immigration, Australia has developed numerous policies and programmes to address the needs of migrant and refugee communities to settle in the country. Many migrant and refugee communities go on to form associations that are involved in diaspora activities. However, as compared to migration, the diaspora policy domain in Australia is less regulated and is characterised by an uncoordinated and ad hoc approach. This chapter considers the reasons for this absence of strategic governance of diasporas, that flows on to funding for diaspora organisations, and highlights the potential areas for quick wins in the future to capitalise on the proven strength and reach of diaspora organisations. It argues that for Australia to have a greater foreign policy impact, diaspora organisations should be recognised as key assets and consulted with on a more systematic basis. In comparing the hands-on approach of the Australian Department of Home Affairs and relatively hands-off direction of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, this chapter shows how a lack of understanding of community activities has created a policy void.