Call to avoid election 'dog-whistling'

Politicians have been urged to be respectful of multicultural communities as they vie for Australians' votes at the upcoming federal election.

The Federation of Ethnic Communities' Councils of Australia says avoiding "dog-whistling tactics" is especially important in the aftermath of the Christchurch massacre, in which a lone gunman killed 50 people at two mosques.

"In the wake of the Christchurch tragedy, this is one way we can ensure our political system helps make Australia a safer place, rather than a more divisive place for its citizens," FECCA chair Mary Patetsos says.

The group has made the comments while releasing the policies it would like to see major parties pick up before Australians vote on May 18.

Whomever forms the next government must respond to the "growing threat of racism and xenophobia", Ms Patetsos said.

FECCA has called for a national anti-racism strategy and funding earmarked for large and community-based projects promoting social cohesion.

The role of the Race Discrimination Commissioner should also be expanded to include multiculturalism, the group believes.

The federation has further called for the next government to cut the backlog of visa and citizenship applications to be reviewed.