from Barbara Perry MP Office

Minister Assisting on Citizenship Barbara Perry today said the work of the Australian Chinese Charity Foundation was changing lives and helping to build a strong and harmonious community.

Speaking at the Foundation's annual dinner at the Marigold Restaurant in Sydney, Ms Perry paid tribute to the patrons, trustees, members and friends of the group.

"The Australian Chinese Charity Foundation is working to change lives," Ms Perry said.

"Through their fundraising efforts they've been able to support some of Australia¡¦s best-known and most important causes.

"By working together to support those in need, they're helping to build a strong and harmonious community.

"The importance of their work should never be understated ¡V they are changing lives."

Recipients of the Foundation's funding on the night included the Sydney Adventist Hospital, Alan Duff Charitable Foundation for Books in Homes and the Spastic Centre of New South Wales.

Additional funds raised at the dinner will go towards Lifeline NSW and Parkinsons NSW.

"The Foundation has been there in times of emergency and times of great need," Ms Perry said.

"This is what Australian multiculturalism is all about - working together regardless of our backgrounds to support our community.

"Nothing breaks down barriers like rolling your sleeves up and serving your community.

"This is why we've been able to build the most successful multicultural nation on earth."