Celebrating cultural connections: How ADEC’s multicultural and diverse team supports our clients
With over 42 years of experience in Victoria, our multicultural and diverse team brings language skills, cultural knowledge, and compassion to everything we do, helping clients feel connected and supported. Our multicultural, diverse team is dedicated to providing exceptional aged care, disability support, NDIS plan management, care coordination, NDIS reviews, social support groups, community wellbeing programs and advocacy services so that all of our clients can achieve their optimum potential regardless of culture, ability, or age with care that reflects our community’s diversity.
How ADEC’s multicultural, diverse team strengthens our communities in Victoria
For us, care goes beyond services. It’s about connection, respect, and understanding. With over 42 years of experience supporting multicultural communities in Victoria, we’ve seen first-hand how a diverse team can make a real difference in the lives of our clients. Our staff, who come from a wide range of cultural backgrounds and speak up to 33 languages, are central to this approach. They help us provide aged care, disability support, NDIS plan management, care coordination, NDIS appeals, social support groups, community wellbeing programs and advocacy services that truly meet the needs of the people we support.
Breaking down barriers through language and culture
When people access our services, they often face challenges that go beyond their immediate care needs. Language and cultural differences can create uncertainty, discomfort, or even prevent someone from seeking the support they need. That’s why our multicultural, diverse team is so important.
Being able to communicate in a client’s first language is more than just convenience, it’s about trust and respect. It means being able to explain care options clearly, understand concerns deeply, and build relationships that are personal and supportive. We’ve seen this time and again in our work. For example, our support worker Songul and our aged care client Meryem have formed a close friendship through their shared Turkish background. On Meryem’s birthday, Songul made a traditional Revani cake, bringing a taste of home and reflecting the value of cultural understanding in care.
Our case manager, Mary Nwanko also supports Greek-speaking clients, helping them feel understood and confident in their care plans. These connections matter, they allow our clients to feel comfortable, respected, and in control of their care.
Inclusive services for diverse communities
Language is just one part of what makes care inclusive. We’ve designed our services to be as accessible as possible for people from all backgrounds. Our website is available in multiple languages, so clients and families can find information easily. We also offer free interpreting services to ensure nothing is lost in translation when it comes to important care discussions. Our marketing materials are also developed with cultural diversity in mind, allowing us to reach more people in Victoria’s many communities. It’s about making sure that everyone knows they can access care that respects who they are.
Care that respects cultural needs
Our team works hard to ensure care plans are not only effective but also culturally respectful. This might mean adjusting support around religious practices, providing meals that align with dietary traditions, or simply understanding how different cultures view care and independence. Respecting these details helps our clients feel valued and comfortable in their homes and communities.
Ongoing commitment to cultural competence
To keep improving, our staff take part in regular cultural competency training. This helps them stay aware of cultural nuances and adapt their care accordingly. We also engage directly with multicultural communities through events and workshops to learn more about their needs and how we can serve them better. Feedback is important to us, and we provide forms and surveys in a range of languages so all voices are heard. We want everyone who uses our services to feel they have a say in how care is delivered.
Bringing people together
Beyond individual care, we create spaces for people to connect. Our social groups celebrate cultural diversity and help participants form new friendships. From cultural celebrations like Lunar New Year and Eid to everyday activities, we foster a sense of belonging that helps people feel part of something bigger.
Our vision for one fair and inclusive Victoria
We are all working effortlessly to advocate for and support one fair and inclusive community, in which all people can achieve their optimum potential, regardless of culture, ability, or age. Our multicultural, diverse team, with their language skills and cultural understanding, brings that mission to life every day. By connecting with people on a personal level, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive community where everyone has the chance to thrive.
Our team is always available for ongoing support, ensuring that participants have the tools and resources they need to access the services that best meet their cultural and personal needs.
If you or a loved one are looking for aged care, disability support, NDIS plan management, social support groups, NDIS appeals, community wellbeing programs or advocacy services that value your cultural background and empowers you to take control of your care, ADEC is here to help. Call us on 03 9480 7000 or email info@adec.org.au for more information.