Empowering community leaders through the CAMS Migrant Emergency Readiness Program - MERP 2025

Strong communities are built through preparation, knowledge and people who look out for one another. In 2025, Thriving Multicultural Communities (TMC) brought together community leaders and representatives for the CAMS Migrant Emergency Readiness Program (ME

RP) dinner, an important evening focused on building emergency awareness and strengthening community resilience.

Hosted by TMC CAMS Coordinator Jake Coates, the event provided a valuable opportunity for community leaders to connect, learn and gain practical knowledge to support their communities during emergency situations. By equipping local leaders with the right information and resources, MERP helps ensure important messages can reach people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

The evening featured presentations from key emergency and community service organisations, including the City of Gold Coast, Queensland State Emergency Service (SES), Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) and Queensland Health. Presenters shared vital information on preparing for the upcoming storm season, understanding emergency processes and accessing available support services.

For multicultural communities, having trusted community voices who can share accurate and accessible information plays an important role in improving emergency preparedness. The MERP program helps bridge information gaps, strengthen partnerships and ensure communities feel more confident and supported when facing potential emergencies.

TMC would like to acknowledge the incredible work of CAMS Coordinator Jake Coates in hosting and facilitating the event, as well as thank all presenters and participating organisations for sharing their expertise and commitment to community safety.

The Migrant Emergency Readiness Program is a wonderful example of how collaboration between government services, community organisations and local leaders can create stronger, more resilient communities. By working together and sharing knowledge, we can help ensure everyone has the tools and confidence they need to stay safe, informed and prepared.