It is a special time this month, marked by Passover, Good Friday, Easter and the upcoming Orthodox Easter, alongside many New Year celebrations observed across cultures in our community.
These moments hold deep meaning for many and offer an opportunity to pause, reflect and reconnect with what matters most. I hope everyone has had the chance to rest, recharge and spend time with loved ones during this period.
We have also recently wrapped up Cultural Diversity Week, which saw communities across Victoria come together to celebrate culture, connection and shared experiences. It was inspiring to see the many events, stories and moments of connection that continue to strengthen our multicultural community.
I also want to highlight that the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion is now accepting submissions from members of the public and institutions. This is an important opportunity to share experiences and contribute to shaping a more inclusive and cohesive society. Submissions will remain open until at least the end of May 2026.
In this context, I also draw your attention to the Victorian Antisemitism Report 2025, published by the Jewish Community Council of Victoria and the Community Security Group. The report highlights a concerning increase in reported antisemitic incidents across Victoria, including trends, locations and the broader impacts on community safety and social cohesion. This is deeply disappointing and a reminder of the work still required to ensure all communities feel safe, respected and included. I had the opportunity to attend the launch of the report in March, alongside community leaders and stakeholders, reinforcing the importance of continued dialogue and collective action.
Warm regards,
Vivienne Nguyen AM, Chairperson
News and events
AUST | GOV | CONVENING | Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion
The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion is inviting submissions from members of the public and institutions.
Submissions can be made online and will help inform the Commission’s work in addressing antisemitism and strengthening social cohesion across Australia.
The Commission will accept submissions until at least the end of May 2026.
VIC | JCCV | PUBLISHING | Victorian Antisemitism Report 2025 now available
The Victorian Antisemitism Report 2025, published by the Jewish Community Council of Victoria (JCCV) and the Community Security Group (CSG), is now available.
The report provides an overview of reported antisemitic incidents across Victoria in 2025, including trends, locations and the broader impacts on community safety and social cohesion.
It aims to contribute to a shared understanding of experiences within the community and support informed responses across government, institutions and the wider community.
VIC | VMC | ANNOUNCING | Cultural Diversity Week 2026 - Competition winners
We're pleased to announce the winners of our Cultural Diversity Week 2026 student competition, events and digital campaign:
- Student competition won by Zara whose artwork showed that people from different cultures, backgrounds and experiences make our community stronger when they support each other.
- Best digital campaign by an organisation awarded to CALD2LEAD, for their powerful online conversation on leadership, culture and lived experience.
- Best digital campaign by an individual awarded to Gurinder Kaur for her photo collage marking the celebrations with the Whittlesea Interfaith Network.
- Best event by an organisation awarded to the City of Ballarat for their Harmony in the Bridge community event, with music, dance, and activities for families.
- Best event listed by an individual awarded to Samantha Potter who designed a Cultural Diversity Drama Day for disabled children and youth with Extended Families.
Thank you to everyone who spread the word about Cultural Diversity Week 2026. We look forward to reconnecting with you next year.
VIC | GOV | OFFERING | Free public transport in April
Public transport is free across Victoria until Thursday 30 April.
This includes Melbourne trains, trams and buses, and regional trains, coaches and buses (including intertown and regional town bus services).
Passengers don't need a valid ticket or myki to travel for free.
If customers do tap on, they will not be charged.
VIC | GOV | SAVING | On refuelling with Servo Saver
Looking to save on fuel? The Servo Saver feature in the Service Victoria app helps you find the cheapest fuel near you before you fill up.
Servo Saver is the only fuel price tool that service stations are required by law to update, giving you accurate and up to date pricing every time.
Download the Service Victoria app, tap on Servo Saver, and use it regularly to find the best price. You can also report any incorrect prices directly through the app.
VIC | PTV | GETTING | To major events across Melbourne
There are now more ways to travel to major events across Melbourne, with improved connections making journeys easier, faster and more accessible.
Passengers can travel across the network with simple interchanges between train, tram and walking options, helping you choose the route that works best for you.
The new Metro Tunnel connects key train lines across the city, improving reliability and reducing travel times. New stations are fully accessible, with lifts at every entrance and features designed to support all passengers.
Whether you are travelling from the southeast, inner city or northwest, public transport offers convenient options to get you to your destination.
VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say: Victorian Multicultural Health Survey | submissions open until Sunday 31 May 2026
Victoria’s cultural diversity is one of our greatest strengths. The Victorian Government is seeking input from multicultural communities to help improve health outcomes and ensure services are fair, inclusive and culturally responsive.
Share your views on the health issues that matter to you, your experiences with healthcare, and how services can better support language needs, cultural inclusion and address racism and discrimination.
The survey takes around 15 to 20 minutes to complete, is anonymous, and is available in English and 14 languages. You can also complete it on behalf of someone you support.