Good Neighbour Council

The Good Neighbour Council was an Australian Commonwealth Government program launched in 1950 to win public acceptance of mass immigration to Australia of post-Second World War refugees and settlers by promoting rapid assimilation.

State Good Neighbour Councils (GNCs) were formed to activate, encourage and co-ordinate the efforts of local church and community organisations in this role.

The Council itself became a focal point for the training of volunteers and for information and direct assistance to migrants, holding seminars on the recognition of qualifications and welfare entitlements.

The Council held art exhibitions and other events to celebrate ethnic origins and talents and prepared publications for settlers and volunteers.

[1] As the concept of multiculturalism replaced those of assimilation and integration, ethnic groups sought direct funding and on the recommendations of the Galbally report[5] the Councils were abolished in 1978,[1] though branches still continue in some states [4] such as the Good Neighbour Council Launceston Inc.[6]