Hastings is located 420 km north of Sydney. The area incorporates both rural and regional inland communities, national parks and coastal towns. Port Macquarie, situated on the coast is the largest town. The region has a population of approximately 75, 000, 11% of whom were born overseas and 3% from a country where English is not the first language (2011 ABS Census).
Current initiatives
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council signed the Refugee Welcome Zone Declaration in 2006 and, while not a high refugee settlement area, the Council has made a concerted effort to reflect their support and recognition of refugees in many of their initiatives.
Beginning with an official launch to celebrate becoming a Refugee Welcome Zone, Council then placed the declaration in three Council reception areas. Council developed and launched a Multicultural Directory of Services designed specifically to assist refugees and new arrivals in accessing information, support and services. Funding has also been given by Council to Harmony Day activities. Council attends the meetings and supports the Mid North Coast Multicultural Network.
