I hope this message finds you well. As we're near the end of the year, I’d like to highlight several upcoming activities that reflect our commitment to fostering a stronger, more inclusive Victoria.
This month, our evidence-based approach to advocacy has been in the spotlight. On 18 November, we’ll be releasing key findings from our collaborative research with Deakin University’s Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation. This research looks at a number of key issues on possible systemic shifts to mainstream funding, types of funding models to support diverse population’s needs and the meaning and value of Multicultural Capacity. Register to attend Launch event.
Join us for our End of Year Reflections event on the year that was and hear from the Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt and receive the latest update on the 2024 Mapping Social Cohesion Report from Anthea Hancock, CEO of the Scanlon Research Foundation Institute. Social Cohesion, community harmony, unity in diversity or community togetherness, whichever term we use to describe our way of life here where we all come from all walks of life with all kinds of experiences, we need to find ways to coexistence. I hope this event will provide reflections on some of the achievements and the work needed to maintain and strengthen unity in our communities. If you have not registered yet, please do so.
In addition, we’re thrilled to celebrate the upcoming Multicultural Awards for Excellence in December. This year’s awards honour the individuals and organisations driving positive change across our state. Stay tuned to learn more about this year’s inspiring winners!
The Sikh communities came together last week to attend an event hosted by the Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt to celebrate the legacy of Guru Nanak, and to witness the renaming the Berwick Springs Wetland Reserve to Guru Nanak Dev Ji Lake. This effort involved significant collaboration efforts between the Aboriginal Land Council, the different government departments and the local council to honour the contributions made by the Sikh communities in living the values of Guru Nanak through their volunteerism, compassion and service.
Finally, I take this opportunity to pause and reflect on the occasion of the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, to reflect and to honour the lives lost and lives forever changed by war. This solemn day reminds us of the work required to achieve and maintain peace, and to honour the foundations that support peace – values like community harmony, unity and democratic principles. Let us renew our commitment to these principles, even and especially in the face of current conflicts and uncertainties. View Remembrance Day speech of Governor of Victoria, Professor Glyn Davis AC.
Thank you for your continued support as we work together to build a stronger, more inclusive Victoria.
Warm regards,
Viv Nguyen, Chairperson
News and Events
VMC | GATHERING | End of Year Event | Monday 25 November 2024 | 6-8.30pm AEDT
The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) is delighted to invite you to the end-of-year event, where we will celebrate the incredible work of our multicultural and multifaith communities during 2024.
This special gathering will be an opportunity to reflect on our collective achievements over the year, honour the contributions that have strengthened our community, and engage in meaningful conversations about our shared vision for the future.
This event has limited capacity, and spots will fill up quickly! Ensure your attendance by registering as soon as possible—it's first come, first served. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
For more information, please contact us at engagement@vmc.vic.gov.au
- Where: Springvale City Hall, 18 Grace Park Avenue Springvale, VIC 3171
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: Please register by 17 Nov 2024. Online via Eventbrite
FLEMINGTON | YAP | GATHERING | Connecting the Dots 2024 | Monday 20 November 2024 | 5.30-8pm
Young Australian People invites you to Connecting the Dots 2024, an event designed to help young people connect with career opportunities and develop skills for their future.
Event Highlights:
- Interactive VR experiences, branding workshops and entrepreneurial challenges.
- Resume reviews, professional headshots and career guidance.
- Networking with employers, educators and peers.
Spread the Word:
Please share this invitation with your networks to help make this event a success for young people.
For questions or queries:
Email: yap@youngaustralianpeople.org
- Where: Djerring Flemington Hub, 25 Mount Alexander Road, Flemington
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: Online through Googledocs. website or Facebook.
Enviro Fest 2024 | Saturday 30 November 2024 | 12noon-4pm
The City of Whittlesea is hosting EnviroFest 2024, a free event focused on nature, sustainability and environmental education.
Event Highlights:
- Interactive Activities – Test your skills on the ninja course, engage in nature-based activities, and explore science experiments.
- Wildlife & Nature Experiences – Enjoy a live butterfly display, a wildlife show by Animals of Oz, and hands-on craft activities with Eco Explorers.
- Sustainability Awareness – Visit environmental awareness stalls and learn about ways to protect the environment.
- For more information: please contact City of Whittlesea Sustainability.Planning@whittlesea.vic.gov.au
- Where: Painted Hills community centre and surrounds, Eminence Boulevard, Doreen
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: online via Humanitix
VIC | VIFM | SEEKING | Board Director for the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine | applications close 11.59pm Monday 25 November 2024
The Department of Justice and Community Safety is supporting the recruitment of a Board Director for the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM).
Key Details:
- Position: Board Director, Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine
- Role length: Sessional, 3 years
- Meetings: Monthly, Not specified
The Victorian Government is committed to ensuring that government boards reflect the rich diversity of the Victorian community. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the governance of an important institution.
MELB | VMC | RAISING | Awareness, Support and Funds for Project Us x VMC food drive | Friday 13-Saturday 14 December 2024 | 8am-5pm
The Project Us Foundation, in partnership with the VMC, is organising a food drive to provide fresh and nutritious food to those in need. This effort aims to alleviate hunger, enhance community well-being, and demonstrate how we can come together to support one another.
Project Us Foundation is an Australian charity dedicated to providing fresh, culturally appropriate food to low-income and vulnerable communities.
Beyond food relief, the foundation focuses on empowering individuals through skill-building and community engagement, fostering long-term impact.
- For more information and to participate please email engagement@vmc.vic.gov.au
- Find out more
VIC | GOV | ADVISING | Stay safe online: Cyber security awareness month
Focus of the Week: Automatic Software Updates
One of the easiest and most effective ways to secure your devices is by enabling automatic software updates.
Why are automatic updates important?
- They fix vulnerabilities in your software and apps that could be exploited by hackers.
- They ensure you always have the latest security features and protections.
- You won’t need to worry about manually checking for updates – your device does it for you.
How to protect yourself with automatic updates:
- Turn on auto-updates for your operating system, apps, and software to make sure you’re always up to date.
- This will help guard against cyber threats and ensure that your devices stay secure.
October is Cyber Security Awareness Month, and the VMC is encouraging everyone to review their passwords.
AUST | GOV | WEBINAR | Information session on Australia’s skilled visa options | Thursday 21 November 2024 | 3pm-4pm AEDT
The Victorian Government’s Skilled Migration Program and the Commonwealth Government’s Department of Home Affairs are hosting an information session on Australia’s skilled visa options.
In this session, attendees will discover:
- Skilled Visa Options available for skilled workers
- Victoria’s Skilled Visa Nomination Program 2024-25, including:
- Eligible industry sectors and occupations
- The application process
- Key updates from the Commonwealth Government on:
- Migration strategy announcements
- Migrant worker reforms
- My VEVO App
- Useful resources for skilled migrants
- Where: Online
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: Please register by Wednesday 20 November 2024 online via Microsoft Virtual Events
VIC | CALD2LEAD | GRANTING | Leadership Program Scholarships | applications close Sunday 24 November 2024 | 11.59pm AEDT
CALD2LEAD, in partnership with the Institute of Community Directors Australia (ICDA), is offering scholarships for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) women to undertake one of two leadership courses:
Diploma of Governance (12 months, online)
Certified Community Director Course (7 units, self-paced, online)
What’s on offer:
80% scholarship discount + Access to course materials, expert tutors, CALD2LEAD mentoring, and peer networks
Who should apply:
Women from CALD communities across Victoria with a passion for community leadership.
Requirements:
- Contribute a reduced fee of $990 (Diploma) or $200 (Certified Course)
- Commit to course study, complete surveys, and support CALD2LEAD’s fundraising efforts
For more information:
- Contact by email: cald2lead@outlook.com or Tel: 0435 040 727
- Learn more and apply
MORE:
The VMC acknowledges the Traditional Owners of country throughout Victoria and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.