The Italian Cultural Centre in Canberra, Australia, is a vibrant and thriving hub for the celebration of Italian heritage and culture, located at 80 Franklin Street in the suburb of Forrest. Officially opened in 2006, the Centre was established in response to the needs of the Italian community in Canberra, which numbers over 10,000 people, including first and second-generation Italians. The Italian community in Canberra has a rich history, dating back to the post-World War II period when many Italian migrants settled in the city.
Over the years, the community has made significant contributions to the cultural, social, and economic life of Canberra, and has become an integral part of the city’s fabric. As a former Canberra mayor said, “The Italian community has brought so much to Canberra, and we are proud to have them as part of our city”. In the 1990s, the Italian community felt the need for a dedicated space to carry out cultural and artistic activities and approached the Commonwealth of Australia for support. In response, land was donated by the Commonwealth in 1995 and the Italian Cultural Centre was officially opened on June 2nd, 2006.
The Italian Cultural Centre is managed by the not-for-profit association CIAO (Council of Italo-Australian Organisations Inc.), and is a central hub for the celebration of Italian culture and heritage in Canberra. The Centre hosts a wide range of cultural events, including language classes, music and dance performances, cooking classes, film screenings, and more. It also serves as a venue for business and trade events, helping to strengthen the economic ties between Italy and Australia.
The Italian Cultural Centre is also home to the operations of the Società Dante Alighieri of Canberra, founded with the aim of promoting the Italian language and culture as well as preserving and promoting the heritage of the Italian people in the Capital Territory. Comites ACT, a government body which helps Italians maintain connections with their homeland, and support political participation of Italians abroad is also based at the Italian Cultural Centre.
Additionally, the Centre serves as a gathering place for associations and representatives of the various Italian communities in Australia every 5 years, where they meet to elect a member for the Consiglio Generale degli Italiani all’Estero (CGIE). Established by the Italian government in 1989, it is responsible for promoting the interests of Italians living outside of Italy, including safeguarding their rights and ensuring they have access to Italian social and cultural services.
The Italian Cultural Centre in Canberra plays a vital role in the lives of the Italian community in the city and is an important part of the city’s cultural landscape. As renowned Italian-Australian chef, Giovanni Pilu, has said, “The Italian Cultural Centre is a true gem in Canberra and is a testament to the rich heritage and culture of the Italian community in the city.”
With its rich history, commitment to preserving and promoting Italian culture, and its central role in the lives of the Italian community, the Centre is sure to continue to thrive and play a key role in the years to come.
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