I hope you had a restful break and found time to reconnect with loved ones and re-energise for the year ahead.
As we begin 2026, our thoughts are with everyone affected by the recent bushfires across Victoria. We offer our gratitude to the firefighters, ambulance crews, emergency services and volunteers who continue to work tirelessly on the front line to protect lives and communities. Summer is a dangerous season, and fires can be unpredictable. The Victorian Multicultural Commission strongly encourages everyone to know their fire risk and prepare early.
We have, and will continue to share important emergency services messages on our communications channels and thank the community organisations and ethnic media outlets that share these messages.
You can find practical safety tips and fire preparation advice here:
We also want to express our concern and condemnation following the reported racial attack on an Islamic community leader and his wife in in Melbourne's South East. These violent actions have no place in Victoria. Hate, racism and vilification, whether online or in our streets, undermine the very values that make Victoria stronger.
Our thoughts remain with the Jewish community as we continue to support collective healing and reaffirm our shared commitment to a safe, inclusive and respectful Victoria. We acknowledge the National Day of Mourning, announced by the Prime Minister for 22 January 2026, to honour the victims of the Bondi terror attack. Under the theme, ‘Light will Win - a Gathering of Unity and Remembrance’, this National Day will show that together, our compassion and harmony will overcome division and hate.
The VMC stands ready to collaborate with state and federal government partners on all initiatives to address hate speech, prevent radicalisation, and uphold community harmony.
Warm regards,
Vivienne Nguyen AM, Chairperson
News and events
VIC | VMC | ADVISING | Submissions are now open for MFF 2026!
The Victorian Multicultural Commission, in partnership with Swinburne University of Technology and SBS, is calling all filmmakers to share their stories. Whether you're an emerging filmmaker or an experienced creator, we want to hear your story.
- Get inspired for MFF 2026 – watch 2025 Multicultural Film Festival Official Selection on YouTube.
These short films showcase powerful stories of identity, culture and belonging and they may event spark ideas for your own submission.
Anyone is welcome to submit a short film of 10 minutes or less. The premiere event will screen in Melbourne during Refugee Week on 18 June 2026 at ACMI Cinemas. Films in the Official Selection will screen at multiple venues and on SBS On Demand.
Prizes of $2,500 to be won per category! Entries close on 10 March 2026.
VIC | VMC | COMMEMORATING | Cultural Diversity Week 2026
This year’s theme, Culture connects us all, invites all Victorians to celebrate the power of culture in bringing people together. Whether through music, food, art, language or storytelling, cultural exchange fosters understanding, connection and belonging.
Now is the time to start planning how your organisation, workplace or community group will get involved.
Plan an event that reflects your community's story, and share it with others by registering on VMConnect. This could include a cultural performance, food celebration, art exhibition, panel discussion or any gathering that highlights Victoria’s diversity.
VIC | VMC | WELCOMING | Victoria's Treaty is here
For the first time in Australia's history, a Treaty has been negotiated with First Peoples.
The Statewide Treaty Act 2025 has been introduced into the Victorian Parliament. This Act will give effect to this Treaty.
Here in Victoria, the Government has been on the path to Treaty for nearly a decade. A strong foundation has been laid.
For too long, laws and policies have been made about First Peoples – without First Peoples.
Treaty is key to closing the gap so that all Victorians have the same opportunities.
When First Peoples lead the way to design policies and solutions, we get better outcomes.
VIC | GOV | ADVISING | Knowing your fire risk – staying safe
Summer is a dangerous season in Victoria and fires can be unpredictable.
The Victorian Multicultural Commission strongly advises you to know your fire risk to keep you and your loved ones safe. You need to leave well before fire impacts your home and community.
Leaving early is always the safest option.
VIC | GOV | ADVISING | Staying safe during extreme heat
Extreme heat days are becoming more frequent and intense across Victoria. Taking simple steps can help you and your loved ones stay safe.
What you can do:
- Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day
- Keep your home cool with curtains or air conditioning
- Check in on family, friends, and neighbours – especially older people and those with health conditions
- Never leave children, adults or pets in parked vehicles
- Follow health alerts and heat warnings from your local council or the Bureau of Meteorology
- Get more information and tips
VIC | GOV | REMINDING | About Water safety
With warmer weather ahead, water safety is vital for all Victorians.
This summer, we encourage everyone to take simple steps to stay safe around water:
- Supervise young children at all times
- Never swim alone or after consuming alcohol or drugs
- Wear a lifejacket when boating or fishing
- Check local conditions and signage before entering the water
- Swim at patrolled beaches between the red and yellow flags
Resources and safety information are available in multiple languages to support all communities 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.