It was Mgr
Philip Calleja who in April 1977 founded The Friends of Australia Association
whose Patron has always been the Australian High Commissioner. The main aim of
the FOAA is the promotion of friendship and good relations between the citizens
of Malta and those of Australia by
means of cultural, educational and social activities. The President, Chev Tony C Cutajar, has been
at the helm since the very beginning when he helped to draw up the constitution
of the Association The Committee members regularly offer
free administrative services and advice to returned migrants and relatives of
migrants especially with problems relating to dual citizenship, Maltese and
Australian pensions, taxation, etc.
In the past
the Association took an active part in calling on the Australian and Maltese
governments for the re-establishment of the post of High Commissioner for Malta when this
was abolished. It also made its voice heard especially concerning double
taxation, dual citizenship and payment for visas. Talks and discussions were
held on Australian pensions and Social Security benefits and surveys and
questionnaires were organised. The FOAA also spoke on behalf of the children of
returned migrants who found difficulties to enter the Junior Lyceum due to
exams in the Maltese language.
Every year
the Association participates actively in the celebration of Australia Day and
Anzac Day and organises all sorts of activities for its 350 or so members.
There were occasions when, in conjunction with the Emigrants’ Commission at Castille Place, the
FOAA welcomed to our country such eminent persons as Governor General Bill
Hayden, the Archbishop of Sydney Cardinal George Pell, the Bishop of Melbourne
Mgr Joseph Grech and various Ministers of the Australian government.
This year
and next the Association is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its
foundation. Various activities are being organised for its members, their
families and friends. These include the usual Gozo tours, visits to the
Limestone Heritage, the Marsovin cellars and Dr Adrian’s Garden Centre, a
Captain Morgan cruise of the harbours as well as the popular luncheons and
dinner dances. Maltese visitors from Australia are always welcome to
attend our functions as well as anybody who would like to become a member.
THE FRIENDS OF AUSTRALIA
ASSOCIATION c/o Dar l-Emigrant, Misraħ Kastilja, Valletta. Tel: 21222644, 21240255, 21232545. Fax:
21240022.
Secretary
General: Mr. Virgil Bugeja Tel: 21376100.
PHOTOS
The head table during the 20th
Anniversary Dinner.
During his visit to Australia in 1982, Tony is here being
presented with the shield of FairfieldCity in recognition for
his work in aid of the Maltese/Australians’ welfare.
HE John Howard, Prime Minister
of Australia, during his visit to Malta in 2005.
