Victoria’s diversity gives us countless opportunities to practise kindness and compassion, as we honour the many cultural and religious milestones celebrated each year across our state.
Having recently welcomed the Lunar New Year and the arrival of the Fire Horse, we now turn to the holy month of Ramadan – a time marked by reflection, generosity and community. I extend my warmest wishes to everyone observing Ramadan. Ramadan Mubarak to all who are fasting and gathering with family and community during this special time.
As we approach Cultural Diversity Week (CDW), I am excited to highlight some of the inspiring initiatives taking place across Victoria. Some of the strongest and most successful settlement stories come from regional Victoria. Communities in Geelong, Bendigo, Nhill and the Grampians, for example, continue to demonstrate that regional Victoria excels in fostering inclusion and multicultural harmony.
A great example is the Grampians Multicultural Hub, which is hosting the Grampians Harmony Festival 2026 as part of CDW. Taking place on 21 March in Stawell, this free community event will bring people together through food, dance, cultural exchange, art and community engagement. Events like this are a powerful reminder that connection grows when we create spaces to gather, share and celebrate one another.
Thank you in advance to many community organisations marking International Women’s Day 2026 under the theme “Balance The Scales”. The work you do is so important, and I look forward to joining many of you in coming days.
Thank you, as always, for your commitment to building a stronger, fairer and more connected Victoria.
Warm regards,
Vivienne Nguyen AM, Chairperson
News and events
VIC | VMC | INVITING | Enthusiasts to Join the CDW 2026 digital competition
From 21 to 29 March, we invite you to bring this year’s theme Culture connects us all to life by creating a short video that showcases how you’re learning, celebrating or connecting with another culture.
Your video could feature cooking a cultural dish, learning a new word or phrase, participating in a tradition, or sharing a personal reflection. Be creative and authentic.
There are prizes to be won.
Videos should be 30 to 90 seconds long, filmed vertically, and shared on your social media from 10 March 2026. Don’t forget to tag @multiculturevic and use #CDW2026.
For full details and inspiration, visit the VMC website to join the diversity conversation.
- To learn more or register your public event on VMConnect
AUST | MFF | CALLING | Submissions for Multicultural Film Festival | Entries close 10 March 2026
Final call for all filmmakers to share their stories! The Multicultural Film Festival (MFF) invites people from all backgrounds, including emerging creators, established filmmakers and young creatives, to submit short films under 10 minutes that reflect the richness of multiculturalism.
Prizes of $2,500 to be won per category!
The premiere event will screen in Melbourne during Refugee Week on Thursday 18 June 2026 at ACMI Cinemas. Films in the Official Selection will screen at multiple venues and on SBS On Demand.
VIC | GOV | OFFERING | Apprentice employee assistance program
Did you know Apprentices in Victoria can access free counselling and support? Get help with work, finances or relationships.
You can get free and confidential support through the Apprentice Employee Assistance Program.
You don’t need a doctor’s referral. Make an appointment today.
VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Chinese Community Hall Hire (CCHH) program | applications close 30 March 2026
The CCHH program will make it easier for Chinese community organisations to bring members together.
This funding will provide grant payments towards venue hire for community gatherings, events, meeting activities and cultural celebrations.
AUST | UNWA | GATHERING | International Woman's Day 2026 | Wednesday 4 March 2026
UN Women Australia (UNWA) has announced Balance the Scales as the theme for International Women’s Day 2026, focusing on fair, inclusive and accessible justice for every woman and girl.
The theme highlights that barriers to justice remain deeply entrenched, including for survivors of violence and for women who face additional systemic barriers, such as First Nations women and women affected by climate driven displacement and disadvantage.
UN Women Australia will host its International Women’s Day events in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney and online. These events support UN Women Australia’s fundraising and advocacy work to advance gender equality.
GRAMPIANS | GHF | GATHERING | Grampians Harmony Festival 2026 | Saturday 21 March 2026 | 12noon-4pm
Join the Grampians Harmony Festival (GHF) 2026 in celebrating Cultural Diversity Week, a free community event celebrating culture, connection and community spirit.
Enjoy a vibrant afternoon of food, dance, cultural exchange, artwork and family-friendly activities that showcase the rich diversity of the region.
- Where: Stawell Entertainment Centre
- For more information