The Monash Migration and Inclusion Centre (MMIC) takes an interdisciplinary, evidence based approach to understanding migration and social, economic and cultural inclusion.

A large scale study of Melbourne neighbourhoods, funded by the Victorian Government, examined the neighbourhood and individual drivers of harmful sentiments, attitudes and actions towards minorities across 140 neighbourhoods in Greater Melbourne. Findings reveal that nearly a quarter of the respondents reported low warmth and 1 in 6 people reported anger towards Muslim, African and Middle Eastern people. However, an individual’s own sense of community belonging was a strong protective factor against holding socially exclusive sentiments and attitudes.

The report strongly points to the significance of place-based solutions to promote social cohesion in Australia and the need for careful urban planning to develop and maintain a welcoming social and physical infrastructure.