Last week, the Victorian Government announced a major reform package in response to the Rebuilding Trust: For a Multicultural Victoria report, led by former ECCV Chairperson George Lekakis AO.
This independent review marks an important milestone for multicultural policy and governance in Victoria.
At the heart of the Government’s response is the creation of Multicultural Victoria, a new statutory body bringing together the Victorian Multicultural Commission and the Office of Multicultural Affairs. The Government has also committed to a whole-of-government multicultural strategy - something ECCV has long called for - and a new Capacity Building Fund to support grassroots organisations.
This is a significant step forward. Multiculturalism in Victoria has always been built from the ground up through the dedication of local leaders and community organisations. While government reforms alone cannot solve every challenge, they matter deeply, especially at a time when anti-immigrant rhetoric and division are growing louder.
At ECCV, we remain committed to ensuring community voices are heard, respected, and central to decision-making. We recently hosted the Speaking Up, Together: Forum for New and Emerging Communities, bringing grassroots leaders together to address urgent social issues. ECCV also appeared before a Parliamentary Committee to emphasise the importance of trust and long-term engagement in consultations.
As we look to the future, we also pause to stand with those in pain. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the two young boys whose lives were tragically taken in a violent incident, and to the entire South Sudanese community. Our thoughts and support are with you during this deeply painful time.
Now more than ever, our communities need strong, independent voices, voices that are heard, valued, and respected in shaping the future of a truly inclusive and multicultural Victoria.
Abiola Akinbiyi, Chairperson
News & Advocacy
REPORTING | Speaking Up, Together: New and Emerging Communities Forum
This month, ECCV brought new and emerging communities together at Coburg Town Hall for our Speaking Up, Together forum. We focused on the pressing issues of employment, youth, and mental health. It was an opportunity to come together for constructive conversations and community-led solutions.
"It meant a lot to hold such a gathering in light of the recent hateful rallies in our cities" – ECCV CEO Farah Farouque.
ECCV intends to hold more gatherings all over the state over the next 12 months. We will listen deeply and amplify voices of our diverse communities as we advocate and collectively find solutions for the complex challenges we face. That is our promise to multicultural Victoria.
ADDRESSING | Legislative Council Environment and Planning Committee
ECCV CEO Farah Farouque, Senior Policy Advisor James Houghton, and Ageing Well Lead Hayat Doughan were invited to present at a public hearing of the Legislative Council Environment and Planning Committee.
They highlighted that building trust with diverse communities is key to effective consultations, and stressed the importance of including face-to-face engagement alongside digital platforms to ensure no voices are left out.
PARTNERING | Dementia Prevention in Multicultural Communities
ECCV is proud to partner with La Trobe University and MindCare Collective on a national digital health program raising awareness of dementia risk in multicultural communities. This month, ECCV ran a weekend workshop with Pasifika Community members, who reviewed resources and provided feedback on cultural relevance, clarity and feasibility.
“The research’s goal is to help multicultural communities access information and resources to improve their lives. But it is also about how we engage. The consultation was best practice, valuing participants’ time, knowledge and lived experience, and making it easy to contribute meaningfully,” – ECCV Ageing Well Leader Hayat Doughan
Statements
ECCV Condemns Anti-Immigration Rallies
ECCV strongly condemned the recent “March for Australia” rallies, which spread harmful anti-immigration rhetoric. We reaffirmed that multiculturalism is central to Victoria’s identity and success, and that our communities are stronger when united.
Response to the Victorian Multicultural Review
The Victorian Government has confirmed reforms following the Multicultural Review, including the creation of Multicultural Victoria, a new statutory body. ECCV welcomes these changes and will continue to advocate for strong, community-led policy that reflects our diverse communities.
Opportunities & Resources
Victorian Seniors Festival 2025
October is Victorian Seniors Festival, celebrating older Victorians with free and low-cost activities across music, film, community events and more. ECCV is proud to support the Festival and encourages our members and communities to get involved.
MORE:
Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV)
Address: Suite 101, 398 Sydney Road, Coburg Vic 3058
Tel: (03) 9354 9555
ECCV acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Victoria, and pays respect to their Elders past and present.
