Greeks in Australia

Abstract

This volume aims to analytically explore aspects of the settlement of Greeks in Australia where they form a significant community, paroikia. The knowledge developed through these papers will enable us to understand and re-evaluate the past, as well as further reflect critically on our future prospects in this country. It helps us to understand not only the Greek history and culture, but also that of Australia because of the cultural exchange between the two communities and the formation of an ethnically diverse society. The interest Australia has is reflected in its policies such as the policy of multiculturalism. The latter was introduced in an effort to socially and culturally accommodate the different ethnic groups that exist in this country. Furthermore, the knowledge of the past and present will help us understand our strengths and weaknesses in maintaining our ethnic identity and interacting with the wider Australian community. As we move from the first to the second, third and succeeding generations we must redefine our erhnicity and develop new strategies for its continuity.
There are a number of papers included in this volume which have approached the subject Greeks in Australia from different perspectives such as: the history and settlement of Greeks in Australia; issues of identity; education; literature; politics. All perspectives are interrelated and interwoven. They have to do with the presence of this diasporic group in Australia, its attempts for integration into the wider Australian community and at the same time its struggle to maintain its ethnic and cultural identity and survive into the new millennium.