Standing against racism with the Southeast Anti-Racism Support Network

14 February 2025

SMRC is proud to be one of four lead agencies in the Southeast Anti-Racism Support Network, working alongside local organisations to provide a safe space for community members to report and discuss experiences of racism. This initiative is coordinated by Victoria University associate professor Mario Peucker and is part of a broader effort to address racism across Victoria, with two other area networks also in operation.

How the Southeast Anti-Racism Network supports community reporting

The Southeast Anti-Racism Support Network aims to create a supportive environment where people can safely share their experiences of racism and access appropriate support. SMRC’s role in this initiative reinforces its commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful community for all migrants and refugees, ensuring they have a safe space to share their experiences.

The network’s logo, developed by a student from Barton Primary School in Cranbourne West, symbolises a safe space for individuals to raise concerns about racism. When community members see the logo at SMRC and other Support Networks, they can feel confident that they will be heard, supported, and guided towards helpful resources.

Supporting individuals through intake and assessment

SMRC’s intake and assessment staff have been trained to listen to individuals who report racist incidents. They provide appropriate referrals and offer the option to complete a simple report. This process ensures that those affected by racism receive the support they need while also contributing to data collection that informs local advocacy efforts.

Using data to drive change

The reporting process, developed in partnership with the Antiracism Victoria network and Victoria University, aims to collect valuable local data on racist incidents. This data will be reviewed every six to twelve months and used to inform discussions with key stakeholders such as local councils, police, and shopping centre management, helping drive anti-racism advocacy and policy improvements. By highlighting trends and concerns, the network seeks to drive meaningful change and create safer, more inclusive communities.

Learn more

For more details on how the Southeast Anti-Racism Network is tackling racism and providing safe reporting spaces and how you can get involved, visit Antiracism Victoria.

SMRC remains committed to standing against racism and supporting individuals in speaking up and accessing the help they need. If you or someone you know has experienced racism and would like to report it, visit SMRC or contact our team today.