This message is written with great sorrow for around the world there is way too much conflict and pain, which not surprisingly given our diversity, reverberates intensely within our communities here.
I condemn the abhorrent attack by HAMAS on Israeli civilians, many of whom have connections to Victoria’s Jewish community.
My thoughts and prayers go to Victoria’s Jewish community, particularly to those whose families, relatives and or friends who have been caught up in this attack and the ensuing conflict.
My thoughts and prayers go to Victoria’s Palestinian community many of whom have families, relatives and or friends who are caught up in the ensuing conflict.
I don’t profess to understand the deeply rooted tensions in this part of the world, but I deeply care about the pains these overseas events have on our wellbeing and our social cohesion.
A core foundation of our multicultural society in which we take so much pride, cohesion and harmony, is being tested during this trying time.
I accept that in this time of pain, grief, fear and angst that it is difficult to come together. However, I hope that when the time comes, that we can all find it within us, to come together to continue the important work of nurturing the multicultural and multifaith fabric of our society, where we can live together in peace and harmony regardless of background, culture or belief.
I also want to restate that everyone should feel safe and secure in Victoria and that there is no tolerance for vilification, antisemitism, Islamophobia or any other form of racism or discrimination.
Over the weekend we also had the result of the Referendum on the Voice to Parliament. I respect the silence that First Nations people have asked for and hope that we all give each other some time to reflect and to come together to recognise and value First Nations people and work towards true reconciliation.
And finally, a big thanks to many of you who have responded to the survey questionnaire led by the Social Research Centre on the impact of the VMC over the past 40 years. The report is currently being compiled, and will be shared with you towards the end of this calendar year.
Viv Nguyen, Chairperson
News and Events
VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural Storytime program | applications close 5pm 17 November 2023
As part of the More Support for Mums, Dads and Babies initiative, the Victorian Government has dedicated $6 million in grants over a 4-year period to deliver the Multicultural Storytime Grant Program across Victoria.
Online Information Session | 19 October 2023 | 4pm
Email MCH Unit to register to attend the session.
CELEBRATING | LGBTIQA+ multicultural fair day | Saturday 25 November 2023 | 3-8 PM
Come along for a day of celebration and community at the LGBTIQA+ Multicultural Fair! There will be food, activities, a DJ, prizes, multicultural arts, street art, and much more.
- Where: North West Uniting Church, 187 High St, Northcote VIC 3070
- Cost: This event is free and open to all with good will.
- Bookings: No bookings required. Come and celebrate diversity and inclusion with us!
SCREENING | Multicultural film festival at Bunjil Place | Saturday 18 November 2023 | 6.30–9.30pm
In partnership with City of Casey (CASEY)'s Bunjil Place, VMC are proud to give away 10 double passes to the Multicultural Film Festival Screening.
To get your hands on one of the passes, simply email your full name and postcode and the first 10 lucky customers will receive a complimentary double pass.
- Where: Bunjil Place, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren Victoria 3805
- Cost: $7 per person. Tickets includes a complimentary beverage.
- Bookings: Book your tickets today
VIC | GOV | CALLING | Fundraisers to register for Victoria container deposit scheme
Victoria is launching a new recycling initiative that provides charities and community groups with new ways to fundraise.
From 1 November 2023, for every eligible drink container returned, Victorians will receive a 10 cent refund which they can choose to donate to community groups.
The Donation Partner Registry is now open. Organisations must register to fundraise and then activate their registration with their local Zone Operator.
VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Diverse communities grant program | applications close 3pm on 1 November 2023.
The Victorian Government is delivering a grants program for community-led and community-specific organisations from diverse communities to support the mental health and wellbeing of multicultural and multifaith communities, LGBTIQ+ communities and people with disabilities.