Cultural and Linguistic - Diversity Mentoring Program (DMP)

The Cultural and Linguistic - Diversity Mentoring Program (DMP) is funded by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing and offers a structured mentoring program for aged care providers to develop and implement Cultural and Linguistic Diversity (CALD) Action Plans.

Aligned with the Aged Care Act 2024, Statement of Rights and the Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards, the DMP supports managers, leaders and boards strengthen organisational systems, policies and practices to improve quality of care by responding to cultural diversity and providing cultural safety.

The mentoring program is a free service delivered by members of the Partners in Culturally Appropriate Care (PICAC) Alliance in Victoria and WA. A mentor (senior advisor/consultant) works with providers in a structured program. The DMP develops capacity, capability, and systems that support the needs of CALD older people, in a rights-based aged care system. There are currently two intakes per year - with invitations now open for the next cohort of providers to commence 1st July 2026.

The DMP recognises the need for organisational flexibility and gives providers the opportunity to engage with the program over a six to twelve-month period. Participation requires organisational commitment to improving the quality of care for CALD clients.

The program is mapped to the Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards. The mentor and provider work together to identify needs and support the creation of culturally inclusive actions. The program uses a mentoring approach and structured modules if required, geared towards strengthening policies, procedures and systems, organisation wide.

DMP participation outcomes: 

• Reflection upon and evaluation of current culturally safe and inclusive practice and goal setting to better respond to cultural diversity and promote cultural safety.
• Providers become more aware of and confident in the use of resources and tools that facilitate enhanced culturally responsive practice.
• Aligned with the Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards, providers develop a Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Action Plan that supports their continuous improvement in care for older people from CALD backgrounds.

Upon program completion, the organisation earns a certificate of recognition and commitment to improving their culturally inclusive care. In addition, participants gain membership to a Community of Practice demonstrating organisational commitment to continuous quality improvement as industry leaders in culturally inclusive practice.

Mentoring Program Expression of Interest

For further information contact:

Rosemary Fenech (She/Her)

Senior Diversity and Inclusion Advisor

P: +61 3 8803 9445

E: info@culturaldiversity.com.au