In recent weeks, we have witnessed both tragedy and strength across our state. These moments remind us of the importance of compassion, unity and our shared commitment to a safer, more inclusive Victoria.
We pause to honour the two Victorian police officers, who lost their lives last week. On behalf of the Victorian Multicultural Commission and our communities, I extend our deepest condolences to their families, colleagues and loved ones. We stand in solidarity with Victoria Police and honour the service and sacrifice of those who protect our communities. We also encourage you to show your support through a donation to the Victoria Police Legacy Remembrance Fund, with all proceeds going directly to affected families. Click to contribute.
At the same time, the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) reaffirms its commitment to a diverse and socially cohesive Victoria. Nazis or Neo-Nazis must have no place whatsoever in any aspect of civic life or public debate. We denounce their involvement in the so-called ‘March for Australia’ rallies over the weekend.
These rallies sought to blame and marginalise multicultural communities for broader social and economic challenges. This is distressing and does not reflect the values that define our state. The VMC condemns any attempt to divide communities and remains steadfast in our work to promote cohesion and call out scapegoating in all its forms.
In times like these, staying connected and united is vital. It is by standing together that we build strength, foster resilience and protect the harmony that underpins Victoria. I spoke about this on ABC Radio, during the week. Listen, here.
That spirit of unity and celebration was on full display at the 2025 Premier’s Multicultural Gala Dinner, which welcomed over 1,200 guests from across the state. The Gala was a visible reminder of the enormous contribution multicultural communities make every day – in our hospitals, classrooms, places of worship, small businesses, research institutions and neighbourhoods. From doctors and artists to elders, youth leaders and entrepreneurs, the richness of our state was proudly on show.
We thank the Victorian Government, the Premier, and the Minister for Multicultural Affairs for their continued support. We are also grateful to our sponsors: our Gold Partner, SBS; and our Silver Partners, LanguageLoop, Stonemart, the Victorian Electoral Commission, and Foot Solutions. Their commitment is valued and valuable.
Finally, I would like to take a moment to thank and farewell our outgoing VMC Commissioners, whose terms conclude in September 2025: Deputy Chairperson Bwe Thay; Youth Commissioner Krushnadevsinh (Kano) Ravalji; Community Representative Commissioner Gabrielle Marchetti; and Commissioners Bill Papastergiadis OAM, Jennifer Huppert OAM, Dr Mohamed Mohideen OAM JP, Nyangak (Lizzy) Kuoth, Silvia Renda, and Tarang Chawla. I am deeply grateful for their expertise, guidance and dedication. Together, they have strengthened the reach of the VMC, deepened our community connections, and left a lasting legacy for multicultural Victoria. Read more.
Thank you, also, for your commitment to a strong, diverse and cohesive Victoria.
Warm Regards,
Vivienne Nguyen AM, Chairperson
News and Events
VIC | CELEBRATING | Victorian Seniors Festival
Connect, create and celebrate with the Victorian Seniors Festival this October. The festival presents a range of diverse events that celebrate multicultural older Victorians. Join in free and low-cost events close to home and across the state. Victorian Seniors Card holders can access 8 days of free public transport from 5 to 12 October 2025.
- For more information and translated resources visit Seniors Online.
AUST | FECCA | TRAINING | Community or faith leader supporting multicultural communities?
Federation of Ethnic Communities' Councils of Australia (FECCA) is offering free online training to help you safely support those affected by family, domestic and sexual violence (FDSV), while strengthening leadership and fostering positive change in the community.
What you’ll learn:
- Recognise signs of FDSV
- Respond with compassion, respect, and safety
- Connect people with specialist support services
- Lead open, supportive conversations
Start the e-learning today by clicking here or contact fdsv.tecs@ssi.org.au for more information.
AUST | GOV | HELPING | Your community stay safe online
The Department of Home Affairs has launched the latest phase of its Act Now. Stay Secure. cyber security awareness campaign, empowering all Australians to take control of their cyber safety and protect themselves online.
To support multicultural communities, resources have been produced in 32 languages, in addition to English.
Resources include:
- A detailed fact sheet that can be shared digitally or printed as an educational tool
- Printable posters for display around your centre
- Social media tiles to share with your followers.
Cyber security affects the lives of everyone. As a trusted community leader, you play a vital role in helping community members protect themselves, their families and the broader community online.
We encourage you to explore the campaign website, particularly the translated resources page and share the resources with your community.
VIC | VicSRC | GATHERING | Twenty years of student-led change: Join VicSRC Congress 2025
Each year, VicSRC runs Congress, Victoria’s largest student-led event, bringing secondary students together to explore ideas and tackle issues in the education system.
Congress advances VicSRC’s vision of a student-focused, student-led education system. Partnering with organisations like VMC and Third Culture Australia helps shape the future of education while positioning you as a champion of student voice—alongside key government stakeholders, media, and, most importantly, students.
In 2025, VIcSRC celebrate 20 years of Congress with a statewide tour, visiting East Gippsland, Geelong, Swan Hill, and Wangaratta, alongside traditional metropolitan Melbourne events in 2025 and 2026.
This is a unique chance to make a local impact, connect with Victoria’s students, and support their voices.
For multiple student sponsorships, in-kind sponsorships or to discuss any questions, flexible packages or multi-year sponsorship agreements, please contact Congress sponsorships lead Jake Fehily, on 0458 601 658 or at jake@vicsrc.org.au.
THANKING | Sponsors for Premier’s Multicultural Gala Dinner
The Premier’s Multicultural Gala Dinner is an important gathering where stories come alive, voices resonate and everyone feels truly seen.
We celebrate the diverse communities who work together to build a better Victoria.
A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful sponsors for supporting the Premier’s Multicultural Gala Dinner 2025.
SBS50, Foot Solutions, Language Loop, Stonemart and Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC).
Your contribution helps bring this vibrant celebration of culture, community and connection to life.
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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.