Western Sydney is one of the most culturally diverse regions in Australia, with almost half of residents from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and Arabic as one of the most widely spoken languages. Yet until recently, climate change conversations rarely reached Arabic-speaking households in a way that felt accessible or relevant.

That’s where the Tabiea Climate Action Campaign comes in. (Tabiea means “nature” in Arabic.) Launched in July 2024 by the Nature Conservation Council of NSW (NCC), together with Arab Council Australia (ACA), the campaign set out to build awareness of climate change, inspire action, and empower Arabic-speaking communities in Western Sydney to lead the charge for a more sustainable future.

Building momentum

In just one year, the campaign has sparked over 700 conversations across the community. This has included ten community forums and events, a Picnic for Nature, and more than 450 climate change surveys to better understand community priorities. Over 60 pledges for climate action have been collected, and a growing team of 13 volunteers – alongside ACA staff – have stepped up to help.

The campaign has reached well beyond the events themselves, with features on SBS Arabic Radio and promotion through Arabic-language networks, spreading climate messages to even more homes.

Growing new leaders

One of the highlights of the past year has been the Tabiea Leadership Training program, launched in July 2025. Seven new Tabiea Ambassadors graduated from the program, ready to take up leadership roles and continue championing climate action across Arabic-speaking communities in Western Sydney.

Recognition and representation

The campaign is already gaining recognition, from presentations at the Inner West Climate Action Week to a nomination for a ZEST Award. Tabiea has also taken climate concerns directly to local MPs and federal representatives, ensuring Arabic-speaking communities are heard at every level of decision-making.

Why it matters

Through working in Arabic language and in culturally meaningful ways, Tabiea is helping build a bigger and stronger climate movement. As cost-of-living pressures, housing issues and humanitarian crises abroad dominate daily concerns, the campaign has shown that climate action still resonates, when it’s delivered by trusted voices within the community.

For more information about the Tabiea campaign, visit tabiea.org.au.

Tabiea is proud to have partnered/supported:

Images (top to bottom): Tabiea Leadership Training, Tabiea Picnic for Nature, Tabiea in the Park.