Our history, mission, and role
Hunter Multicultural Communities has supported multicultural communities across the Hunter since 1977
We are a member-based organisation and the multicultural peak body for the region. We connect communities, build local evidence, and advocate for fairer systems.
Our history
HMC was established by and for migrant communities building new lives in Newcastle and the Hunter
Our early work supported many post-war European migrants who came to the region through steelmaking, manufacturing, and other industries. Many early migrant families in the Hunter also passed through or were connected to places such as Greta Migrant Camp, which remains an important part of the region’s migration history.
Over time, the Hunter became home to growing multicultural communities from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and many other parts of the world. This includes skilled migrants, international students, families, older people, humanitarian entrants, and refugees seeking safety, opportunity, and belonging.
Since 1977, HMC has remained a trusted community hub, meeting place, and regional voice for multicultural communities
Our role as the Hunter’s multicultural peak body
HMC is more than a service provider
As the multicultural peak body for the Hunter, we work with community organisations, government, service providers, researchers, and regional partners to ensure multicultural communities are recognised, represented, and included in decisions that affect them
We are directly accountable to the multicultural communities we represent, support, and serve, recognised in Multicultural NSW Peak Partnership Program
Our mission
HMC exists to advance multicultural communities across the Hunter.
We do this by supporting community voice, strengthening local organisations, delivering culturally responsive services, generating local evidence, and advocating for inclusive systems, participation, and community life.
Organised around three connected functions
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