It is with a sense of hope and optimism that I wish you all a Happy New Year! The year has begun with a ceasefire in the Middle East.
We know, collectively, how fraught and fragile this peace may be; we hope it lasts. Like many people of a refugee background, I have seen and felt the positive power of hope – the light it represents in bleak and trying circumstances. I wish you that light in 2025.
Back here at the VMC home front, I’m delighted to highlight Cultural Diversity Week (CDW), taking place 17–23 March 2025. Coinciding with the UN Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and Harmony Day (21 March), this year’s theme, “Embrace the Journey, Shape Our Future,” encourages us to reflect on our cultural stories, celebrate evolving identities and inspire action towards a brighter, more inclusive future.
CDW is a celebration of Victoria’s vibrant multicultural identity, fostering intercultural understanding through regional events, activations and community participation. These activities strengthen the bonds that unite us and remind us of the shared stories that make our state so unique. Join us in celebrating and shaping our vibrant multicultural future.
As we embrace the opportunities to celebrate our multicultural identity, it’s equally important to acknowledge those who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe. With summer in full swing, I want to recognise the incredible work of our emergency services, police and all those in uniform. Their presence at community events and during emergencies exemplifies their unwavering commitment to our wellbeing. This dedication is mirrored in initiatives by community organisations, such as the Officer Gurdwara and Cardinia Leisure Centre water safety sessions, and AWAFN & UPAVA Water Safety Day which play a crucial role in educating and safeguarding our communities.
With the school year fast approaching, I encourage eligible families to take advantage of the school bonus, providing support for back-to-school costs. To students who achieved outstanding ATAR results—congratulations! Your achievements reflect your hard work, and we wish you success as you embark on new opportunities.
Thank you for your continued dedication promoting social cohesion in Victoria. I look forward to seeing many of you at upcoming events and celebrating the incredible diversity that defines our state. Together, we can celebrate our shared stories, support one another and create a future of which we can all be proud.
Warm regards,
Viv Nguyen, Chairperson
News and Events
VIC | VMC | Cultural Diversity Week 2025 | Monday 17-Sunday 23 March 2025
Victoria’s largest multicultural celebration is back! Our state will come together for Cultural Diversity Week and celebrate the power, influence and stories of Victoria’s rich multicultural communities.
The theme for 2025 is “Embrace The Journey, Shape Our Future”. The theme highlights the unique and shared cultural journeys that define our diverse communities, encouraging us to honour our own cultural stories and those of others, fostering understanding, belonging, and connection.
Whether it’s as an individual, community group, business, or government agency, we encourage you to host a Cultural Diversity Week event or activity.
You can also join the statewide conversation by using the hashtags #CulturalDiversityWeek, #CDW2025, #EmbraceTheJourney, #ShapeOurFuture.
VIC | GOV | APPOINTING | Triple Zero Victoria Board Appointments | applications close 11.59pm 9 February 2025
The Department of Justice and Community Safety is inviting applications for the following positions on the Triple Zero Victoria Board:
- Chairperson
- Deputy Chairperson
- Board Members
Appointment Details:
These are important leadership roles supporting the vital operations of Triple Zero Victoria. Terms and remuneration details are available via the website below.
Key Information:
Recruitment will consider both merit and diversity to ensure the board reflects Victoria’s diverse community.
VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Local Anti-Racism Initiatives grants program | applications close midday Thursday 6 February 2025
The Victorian Government has launched the Local Anti-Racism Initiatives grants program 2024-26.
The program offers First Peoples, multicultural and multifaith community organisations grants of up to $150,000 to deliver anti-racism programs and activities.
While eliminating racism is everyone’s responsibility, these communities have the expertise, lived experience and specialised knowledge to effectively design and deliver local community-driven responses to racism.
CARDINIA | CALI | ENGAGING | Safely with Water Program
Cardinia Leisure presents the Safely Engaging with Water Program at Cardinia Life, offering subsidised swimming lessons for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. This program provides essential water safety education in a supportive environment.
Program Highlights:
- 10-week course with 30-minute weekly classes
- Small group sessions led by qualified teachers
- Lessons in water safety and survival techniques
- Separate male and female sessions
- Includes unlimited pool access and a dry safety session
With over 80% of multicultural adults unable to swim, this initiative addresses drowning risks and promotes swimming as a lifelong skill, enhancing safety, fitness and family bonding. Since its launch in July 2024, the program has been in high demand with Round 2 currently underway.
- For more information, contact Cardinia Life at (03) 5945 2888 or learn more
ALL | VMC | CALLING | Filmmakers to Multicultural Film Festival 2025 | submissions close on 10 March 2025
The Multicultural Film Festival 2025 will screen in Melbourne during Refugee Week from 15-21 June 2025. Anyone is welcome to submit a short film from 5 – 12 minutes.
The following awards will be distributed on the night:
Victorian Entrants:
- Best Victorian Short Fiction Film
- Best Victorian Short Non-Fiction Film
- People’s Choice Award for Best Victorian Short Film (audience-voted at the premiere screening)
National Entrants:
- Best National Short Film (all genres)
International Entrants:
- Best International Short Film (all genres)
Special Award:
Chairperson's Refugee Stories Award (highlighting refugee or asylum seeker experiences, open to national and international entrants)
Submit your short film to win prizes and screen at multiple venues in partnership with the Victorian Multicultural Commission!
VIC | VICSWIM | OFFERING | Affordable Swimming Lessons for Kids
The Australian Government has launched the VICSWIM Summer Kidz Program, offering affordable swimming lessons to help children develop essential water safety skills.
Program Details:
- Five 30-minute lessons for kids aged 4 to 12 for just $35 per child (or free with Get Active Kids vouchers)
- Available at 170+ swimming centres, including 130 in regional Victoria
- Specialised lessons for children with disabilities and multicultural families, with extra spots at locations such as Werribee, Dandenong, and Broadmeadows
This program aims to provide foundational swimming skills and safety knowledge, making water activities safer and more accessible for children across Victoria.
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.