Leader of the Opposition Barry O'Farrell and Shadow Minister for Citizenship Anthony Roberts today announced a pro-active approach to engaging and consulting with the culturally diverse communities of NSW.

At a meeting between Mr O'Farrell, Mr Roberts and some thirty representatives of the multicultural media, the NSW Liberal/Nationals committed to creating a Cultural Diversity and Citizenship Forum.

"The Cultural Diversity and Citizenship Forum will advise the NSW Liberal/Nationals on policy matters that relate to the needs of the culturally diverse communities of NSW. I believe it is vitally important for representatives of our culturally diverse communities to have a significant input into our strategic directions for the future of NSW.

"This includes development of a vision for one of the world's most diverse but inclusive society.

"Within a generation, the cultural diversity of NSW has become extraordinarily rich and it has strongly enhanced our overall society - culturally, socially, and economically.

"It is not only our duty but an opportunity to ensure that we continue to promote the benefits of cultural diversity.

"For me, multiculturalism is not a concept. It's a way of life and a very successful way of life, especially when coupled with our general community's strong inclusiveness," Mr O'Farrell said.

Mr Roberts said he was very pleased that the Forum was being created.

"Too often, the NSW Labor Government has given lip service to the importance of culturally diverse communities, but it has not done enough to genuinely involve and include community representatives in policy making," Mr Roberts said.

"As Shadow Minister for Citizenship, I intend to turn that around and make sure the voice of culturally diverse communities is not only heard but taken seriously.

"It is my view and those of my Liberal/Nationals colleagues that respect and inclusiveness will be our watch words.

"The Cultural Diversity and Citizenship Forum will be formed this year and will involve a broad range of stakeholders from culturally diverse communities and public policy experts committed to stronger outcomes in cultural diversity," Mr Roberts said.