As I tuned into the NSW Government’s Budget 2020-21 announcement on Tuesday, I couldn’t help but hold a level of anticipation. Amid recent announcements that Australia is facing a recession, I needed to know as I scanned the influx of media announcements – was Western Sydney going to be a ‘winner’ in this year’s budget?

Western Sydney Community Forum welcomes a recent Mayoral Minute adopted by Council as a measure towards reconciliation for communities in Western Sydney. Mayor Dr Michelle Byrne of The Hills Shire Council made a significant motion regarding reconciliation in the region. The Mayoral minute was unanimously endorsed by Council where an invitation will be extended to local Aboriginal Elders to meet with Council, and an Acknowledgement to Country will be included in Citizenship Ceremonies and at major community events.

Held annually, this national day is committed to starting conversations surrounding mental health, acting as a catalyst for community connection and support. This day advocates for not just a onetime check in to ask “RUOK?” but asks of us to collectively support others regularly each day of the year, especially those who may be struggling with the ups and downs of life.

The Generation Community program has had an outstanding effect on young leaders who had partaken in it. Western Sydney Community Forum is serious about service delivery and contributes by organising courses which help leaders of our community facilitate a better understanding of their visions.

Kamusta! Hola! Marhaba! How many languages are spoken in your local government area, organisation or amongst the people you serve? What steps are you taking to connect with them in their native tongue? Who can help you connect? There is one simple answer, translation services! Western Sydney Community Forum (WSCF) offers quality document translations services to all organisations, charities and businesses ranging from small to large enterprises.

The 2019 NSW Government Budget was released, promising more advanced and accessible infrastructure, roads and transport for all. The Budget outlines station upgrades, more train services, additional schools, and the building of a new “Mega TAFE” which provides access to modern facilities and more jobs. It also outlines progressing the new Badgerys Creek airport and significant redevelopment of some Western Sydney hospitals.