Across Victoria, countless individuals and organisations are quietly leading, creating change and uplifting others in our multicultural communities.
The Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence (MAEs) are our opportunity to recognise and celebrate their incredible contributions. Now in their 24th year, the MAEs are proudly coordinated by the Victorian Multicultural Commission to formally honour those who foster cross-cultural understanding and support people from migrant, refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds to fully participate in all aspects of life.
We were deeply saddened by the recent act of vandalism at the Shree Swaminarayan Hindu Temple in Boronia, a place of profound spiritual and cultural significance. We strongly condemn this appalling act. We extend our heartfelt sympathy and unwavering support to the congregation and wider Hindu community.
As part of our deep commitment in ensuring we hear from and amplify the important role of diverse communities, our commissioners have been busy going over and beyond to recognise the important work they diverse communities do to promote harmony and cohesion.
Last week, we hosted a roundtable for Latin American, Spanish, and Portuguese-speaking communities, led by Commissioner Silvia Renda. Twenty community leaders came together to strengthen dialogue, collaboration and connection. We hope the connection, ideas and energy from this forum continue to guide us in our efforts to an inclusive society that recognise, celebrate and elevate these vibrant communities.
Earlier this week, we held our Multicultural Business Forum in partnership with the City of Melbourne and proudly sponsored by the Bank of Sydney. Led by Commissioner Bill Papastergiadis OAM, the forum showcased the vital contributions of multicultural businesses to Victoria’s economy and social fabric. With insights from leaders in business and government, and a panel of outstanding entrepreneurs, the event reinforced how multicultural businesses drive local growth, innovation and community harmony.
I also had the privilege of speaking recently at the Allyship Conference 2025, hosted by VETASSESS and Bendigo Kangan Institute. I shared reflections on the migration journey and on the importance of recognising the skills and experiences of migrants and refugees. Too often, their skills and experiences are underutilised and many face long term under employment. This type of conference demonstrates collaboration, allyship and commitment of the governments at all levels to ensure our systems continue to improve and fit for purpose.
Together, through recognition, dialogue and action, we continue to honour the strength of our diversity and the shared values that unite us.
Warm regards,
Vivienne Nguyen AM, Chairperson
News and Events
VIC | VMC | CALLING | Nominees for Multicultural Awards for Excellence | nominations close Wednesday 27 August 2025
Nominations for the Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence are now OPEN!
There are a total of 14 award categories up for grabs, and you can nominate anyone you think deserves recognition for their outstanding contributions to multiculturalism.
Don't miss this opportunity to honour outstanding individuals and organisations.
SHEPPARTON | VMC | SCREENING | Multicultural Film Festival | Friday 15 August 2025 | arrive 5.15pm for 5.30-8pm
The Victorian Multicultural Commission is proud to present MFF on Tour — bringing powerful, diverse storytelling to regional and metropolitan communities across Victoria.
Next stop: Shepparton!
Join us for a special screening of the 2025 Multicultural Film Festival’s Official Selection films — including You Are My Tomorrow, Outpicker, Gabriel, Housekeepers, Still, Companion, and The Way to Freedom.
Featuring a welcome from VMC Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen and a post-screening panel discussion with filmmakers and local students with light refreshments provided.
- Where: The University of Melbourne, Department of Rural Health, 49 Graham Street, Shepparton, VIC 3630
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: essential, online via Eventbrite
VIC | VMC | WEBINAR | First Nations Communities Information Session | Wednesday 20 August 2025 | 6.30-7.30pm
The Victorian Multicultural Commission invites you to an online information session to raise awareness about the First Peoples of Victoria.
Facilitated by Commissioner Dr Mohamed Mohideen OAM JP, the session will feature a special presentation and Q&A with Uncle Andrew Gardiner, a proud Wurundjeri Elder and member of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria.
- Where: Online via Microsoft Teams
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: Register and learn more online via Humanitix
VIC | GOV | CALLING | Members for Multicultural Health Advisory Committee | applications close 25 August 2025
Expressions of interest are now open for the refreshed Multicultural Health Advisory Committee (formerly the CALD Health Advisory Group).
This Committee provides a platform for multicultural communities and health sector representatives to advise the Victorian Government on key health priorities and challenges.
A new Deputy Chair role is also available as part of this recruitment.
MELB | ETHNOLINK | GATHERING | Summit 2025 | Wednesday 27 August 2025 | arrive 8.15am for 8.30am-4.30pm AEST
The Ethnolink Summit returns this August – a full-day event for professionals working in communications, engagement, and marketing across government, local councils and the not-for-profit sector.
The program features insights from over 12 speakers, including representatives from Homes Victoria and the Victorian Electoral Commission. Attendees will explore practical case studies, hear from experts in multicultural engagement, and access tools for effective 2025/26 campaign planning.
The Summit will open with an address by Victorian Multicultural Commission Chairperson Bwe Thay.
- Where: Zinc, Federation Square, Melbourne
- Cost: $249-$349
- Learn more
- Bookings: online via Eventbrite
AUST | GOV | ENCOURAGING | Eating for your health – at every stage of life
Our bodies need different kinds of food as we grow older – and understanding these changes can help us stay healthy for longer.
Children and teenagers need lots of energy and good nutrition to support healthy growth.
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, women need extra nutrients for their health and their baby’s development.
In older age, we might need fewer kilojoules but more important nutrients like calcium for bone strength.
Small changes – like eating more vegetables and fruits, drinking more water, and cutting back on takeaway or fried food – can make a big difference to your health.
Healthy eating means finding a balance that works for your body.
VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Community Food Relief Program | applications close 4pm Tuesday 19 August 2025
The Victorian Government has launched Round Two of the Community Food Relief Program to support increased demand for food relief across the state.
Grants of $15,000 to $100,000 are available to neighbourhood houses, community organisations and volunteer-led groups to strengthen and expand local food relief initiatives. Partnership projects are encouraged.
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.