Honouring community, connection and culture at CCCare

On 29 October 2025, CCCare proudly hosted its first Cultural Festival in partnership with the Turkish community. What began as a celebration of shared heritage became something greater — a powerful demonstration of how cultural inclusion strengthens care, community and belonging.

Our inaugural event marked an important milestone in CCCare’s commitment to inclusive, person-centred community support.

Why Cultural Inclusion Matters in Community Care

Australia is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2021 Census), more than 30% of Australians were born overseas, and over 300 languages are spoken nationwide.

In aged care and community services, cultural identity significantly influences:

• Sense of belonging
• Mental wellbeing
• Communication preferences
• Dietary and religious practices
• Trust in support providers

The Australian Government’s Aged Care Diversity Framework recognises culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities as a priority group requiring inclusive and respectful service delivery.

At CCCare, celebrating culture is not symbolic — it is central to how better care is built.

The 29 October 2025 Turkish Community Celebration

Our first Cultural Festival aligned with a meaningful date for the Turkish community and created a welcoming environment for intergenerational participation.

Highlights of the Day

• Traditional Turkish music and dance performances
• Authentic cuisine shared among community members
• Storytelling sessions reflecting migration journeys
• Cultural displays and historical insights
• Community networking and social connection activities

The event brought together seniors, families, carers and volunteers in a shared space of respect and celebration.

For many older attendees, particularly those from migrant backgrounds, reconnecting with familiar language, music and food provided emotional comfort and cultural affirmation.

Strengthening Social Connection for Older Australians

Social isolation remains a growing concern among older Australians. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that loneliness is associated with poorer mental and physical health outcomes in later life.

Community-led cultural events help to:

• Reduce social isolation
• Encourage intergenerational interaction
• Reinforce identity and pride
• Build peer support networks
• Improve emotional wellbeing

For seniors from culturally diverse backgrounds, culturally safe spaces can significantly increase engagement in community services.

Language, Culture and Belonging

Language and cultural expression are deeply connected. Events like the Turkish Community celebration allow older adults to:

• Speak their first language comfortably
• Share traditions with younger generations
• Feel seen and understood
• Participate without cultural barriers

Research in multicultural aged care settings shows that culturally responsive engagement improves trust and service participation (Australian Multicultural Foundation; Department of Health and Aged Care).

This aligns with CCCare’s broader commitment to inclusive communication and person-centred support.

Building Bridges Across Communities

While the 2025 festival centred on the Turkish community, it also welcomed people from diverse backgrounds. Shared meals and performances created opportunities for cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

Diversity in community care is not about separation — it is about connection.

Events like this:

• Strengthen cross-cultural relationships
• Promote respect and understanding
• Encourage inclusive volunteering
• Build stronger local networks

In a care context, this translates to more compassionate, informed support.

A Foundation for Future Cultural Engagement

The success of our first Cultural Festival has set the foundation for ongoing multicultural engagement at CCCare.

Future initiatives may include:

• Additional cultural celebration days
• Language-specific community workshops
• Intercultural storytelling sessions
• Multilingual digital inclusion programs
• Partnerships with other CALD community groups

By embedding diversity into community programming, CCCare reinforces its commitment to equitable and inclusive support.

Aligning With Australian Care Standards

Cultural celebration is not separate from quality care — it is aligned with it.

The Aged Care Quality Standards (Standard 1) require services to respect identity, culture and diversity. Similarly, inclusive engagement supports principles within the NDIS Practice Standards around dignity and choice.

Community events are one practical way to bring these principles to life.

Looking Ahead

Our 29 October 2025 Turkish Community celebration was more than an event — it was a statement.

It demonstrated that:

• Cultural identity strengthens wellbeing
• Inclusion builds trust
• Community creates resilience
• Care is enriched through diversity

At CCCare, we believe celebrating culture strengthens connection — and connection strengthens care.

We look forward to expanding our cultural programs and continuing to build a community where every background is valued.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Why is cultural inclusion important in aged care?

Cultural inclusion supports dignity, identity and wellbeing. Recognising traditions, language and heritage improves trust and engagement in care services, especially for culturally and linguistically diverse seniors.

How do cultural festivals benefit older Australians?

Cultural festivals reduce isolation, strengthen social networks and promote pride in identity. They create safe, welcoming spaces for connection and intergenerational participation.

What is culturally inclusive community care?

Culturally inclusive care respects language, traditions, beliefs and communication preferences. It aligns with Australia’s Aged Care Quality Standards and promotes equitable access to support services.