Frankston City Council has been formally recognised as an Established Welcoming City, following a successful national accreditation assessment by Welcoming Cities – joining more than 250 municipalities now recognised worldwide.
The accreditation acknowledges Council’s commitment to fostering a community where people feel safe, respected and able to participate fully in civic, social and economic life – regardless of their background, culture or faith.
It’s an achievement more than two years in the making, with Council having joined the Welcoming Cities network in October 2023.
Welcoming Cities’ independent assessment found the Council demonstrates strong leadership in inclusion and social cohesion, with welcoming practices embedded across policies, services and community programs. Council achieved an overall score of 4.4 out of 5, placing Frankston City firmly at the Established level of accreditation.
Mayor, Sue Baker said the recognition reflects the values of Frankston City’s diverse and growing community.
“Frankston City is home to people from many cultures, backgrounds and life experiences, and this accreditation recognises the work being done to ensure everyone feels a genuine sense of belonging,” Mayor Baker said.
“This is about making sure our services, spaces and decision-making reflect the people who live here, and that our community continues to grow stronger through inclusion.”
The assessment highlighted Council’s strengths in reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, inclusive community engagement, and initiatives that promote social connection and participation. It also recognised Council’s efforts to address discrimination, promote respectful communities and support access to services for people new to Frankston City.
In addition to being a Welcoming City, Council is also Refugee Welcome Zone, with a commitment in spirit to welcoming refugees into the community, upholding human rights, demonstrating compassion and enhancing cultural and religious diversity in the community.
“This outcome confirms that our approach to inclusion is not symbolic, it is embedded in how we plan, engage and deliver services,” said Mayor Baker.
“Importantly, the assessment also identifies opportunities for us to keep improving, ensuring our practices evolve alongside our community.”
As part of the assessment, Welcoming Cities encouraged Frankston City Council to consider applying for Advanced Welcoming City status in the future, reflecting the strong foundations already in place.
The Welcoming Cities accreditation program supports councils across Australia to benchmark progress, share learning and strengthen welcoming and inclusion practices at a local level.
It brings Frankston City Council into line with 25 other Councils within Victoria and 105 nationwide.
