“Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD)” is a term widely used across research, policy and healthcare settings, but is it still the most meaningful way to describe diverse communities and experiences? This seminar will explore the evolving conversation around “CALD”, including its limitations and emerging perspectives on identity and inclusion. It will also consider whether moving beyond broad umbrella labels toward identifying the specific social, cultural, linguistic, structural and systemic factors that shape people’s interactions with the health system may offer a more meaningful and practical approach to equity and inclusion.
Dr Ikram Abdi will discuss how broad labels such as “CALD” can mask varied lived experiences, health needs and structural inequities within communities. Ms Farhana Laffernis will share perspectives on the tensions in language used to describe cultural and racial diversity, and challenges in shifting EDI language and practice. Professor Ilan Katz will explore the advantages and limitations of “CALD” and alternative terminology, and the importance of language within policy and practice.
Organised by the Kirby Institute EDI Committee, this seminar aims to create space for thoughtful discussion around language, representation and inclusion within research and practice.
This is an in-person event that will also be livestreamed. There will be no recording.
Speakers
| Dr Ikram Abdi Dr Ikram Abdi is a social scientist specialising in public health. She uses mixed methods to examine the social context of health behaviours to inform the design of interventions and programs in Australia and internationally. Her research primarily explores the barriers and enablers to immunisation and other health behaviours amongst refugee and migrant communities, alongside broader work in health communication and global health equity. Dr Abdi holds a PhD from the University of New South Wales and a Master of Public Health from the University of Sydney. Presentation: Rethinking the label “CALD” | |
 | ||
| Ms Farhana Laffernis Farhana Laffernis is a research manager at Diversity Council Australia (DCA). A former diversity practitioner turned researcher, she is passionate about translating research into practical, evidence‑based workplace solutions. Her recent work at DCA includes landmark reports on social class, race, gender, and intersectionality. Farhana is a Churchill Fellow and a current PhD candidate at the UTS Business School. Presentation: Challenges and opportunities in shifting EDI language and practice | |
| ||
| Professor Ilan Katz Professor Ilan Katz joined the Social Policy Research Centre in 2005. His research interests include evaluation of complex interventions, ageing, child protection, youth justice, disability, place based initiatives, comparative human service systems, digital governance, migration, race and ethnicity. He has led over 150 research projects and has a particular focus on translating research into policy and practice. Presentation: The challenge of describing minority communities in Australia: CALD and its alternatives |
While the session was not recorded, we have included some resources below (Sli.do poll results, speakers resources and recommended reading).
Rethinking "CALD" seminar resources
Opinions expressed by individuals at this event are solely of those of the individual/s and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the Kirby Institute or UNSW.
