This study explores the perspectives and priority needs of multicultural community leaders in Queensland, Australia, who play a vital role in supporting their communities by facilitating access to services, information, and resources. Using a community-based participatory research approach, the study engaged 18 leaders from 17 diverse communities through focus groups and feedback sessions. The findings identified five key areas of need: communication and collaboration, training, resourcing, relationships with formal organisations, and support with acculturation and intergenerational conflict. Mental health and wellbeing emerged as the most urgent concern, underpinning many other challenges such as youth disengagement and family violence.
Leaders expressed a desire for centralised information hubs, culturally appropriate training, equitable funding, and stronger partnerships with formal agencies. They also highlighted the importance of cultural understanding in policy-making and service delivery. Barriers such as lack of credibility, burnout, and limited access to interpreters and liaison officers were also noted. The report calls for inclusive, community-led research and policy development to better support these leaders and, by extension, the communities they serve.
