This fortnight has been marked by momentum – visible within government, across communities, and in the steady work of listening and connection at the heart of what we do.
Following the appointment of a new Cabinet, our portfolio Minister, Ingrid Stitt MP, now holds the title Minister for Multicultural and Multifaith Victoria. The Multicultural and Multifaith Victoria portfolio has been renamed to formally recognise the significant contributions of both cultural diversity and faith to our state. Multicultural and faith community organisations each play an important role in fostering a shared sense of belonging. We look forward to continuing our close partnership with the Minister.
Progress is continuing on the reforms arising from Victoria's Multicultural Review. The Government is developing Victoria’s first whole-of-government multicultural strategy to embed multicultural considerations across policy and decision-making. This sits alongside plans to establish Multicultural Victoria as a new statutory body with an expanded leadership role across engagement, policy and programs. Consultations informing this work have taken place across the state, including through our Regional Advisory Councils, Multicultural Advisory Group and Multicultural Youth Network, alongside our broader ongoing engagement across Victoria.
Recently, many families and communities also had the opportunity to reconnect during the school holidays before the new term commenced. As communities return to their routines, we will soon mark ANZAC day on 25 April - a time of national reflection and remembrance. In the lead-up to this day, the Victorian Government has continued its longstanding support for 51 community ANZAC luncheons held across the state, providing spaces for communities to gather in remembrance. Among those we honour are the many Victorians from multicultural and multifaith backgrounds who have served this country - their contributions part of our shared history and our shared future, reminding us all to pause and reflect on the significance of this day.
Beyond these moments of reflection and engagement, there is also an opportunity for communities to directly contribute to shaping an important system that affects us all. The Victorian Multicultural Health Survey is now open and closes on 31 May. Available in 14 languages, it provides an important opportunity for multicultural communities to share their experiences of the health system and contribute ideas for a more accessible and culturally safe system. I encourage you to take part and complete the survey.
Warm regards,
Vivienne Nguyen AM, Chairperson
News and events
SHARING | Victorian Multicultural Festival 2026 highlights
The Victorian Multicultural Festival returned to Grazeland as part of Cultural Diversity Week, bringing a vibrant celebration of culture, food and community to life.
Delivered by the Victorian Multicultural Commission in partnership with Grazeland and the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, the festival welcomed communities from across Victoria to experience the richness of our diversity.
From lion dancing and Polynesian drumming to global music, authentic cuisine and roving performers, the weekend was filled with energy, connection and celebration.
This highlights reel captures the colour and movement that made the festival so memorable.
Thank you to our sponsors, exhibitors and everyone who joined us in celebrating multicultural Victoria.
- Watch Now (2 mins)
VIC | VEOHRC | ADVISING | Victoria now has stronger anti-hate laws
From Wednesday 22 April 2026, updates to the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 extend protections for more people across Victoria who experience hate speech and hateful behaviour because of parts of their identity.
Stronger laws are vital to prevent the serious harm hate causes to health, wellbeing, dignity and a sense of belonging.
- Learn more,
- Watch the short explainer video (4 mins)
For information and support, contact the enquiry service at 1300 292 153 or email enquiries@veohrc.vic.gov.au
You can also make a complaint or report of vilification, or seek professional support through the services directory at Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission.
VIC | VDWC | Providing disability supports and services in a safe and competent manner, with care and skill | Tuesday 28 April 2026 | 10-11am
The Victorian Disability Worker Commission (VDWC) invites disability workers to attend a free online webinar on the Disability Services Safeguards Code of Conduct.
Other Topics in Series:
- 26 May 2026 - Element 5: Promptly take steps to raise and act on concerns about matters that may impact the quality and safety of supports and services provided to people with disability
- 23 June 2026 - Element 6: Take all reasonable steps to prevent and respond to all forms of violence against, and exploitation, neglect and abuse of, people with disability.
Learn how the Code applies to everyday practice and the legal responsibilities of disability workers when providing safe, quality services to people with disability, regardless of funding arrangements.
- Where: Online. Viewing links will be provided prior to the start of each webinar in the series
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: online via Humanitix
VIC | GOV | ANNOUNCING | Free public transport continues this May
Good news - free public transport has been extended across Victoria until Sunday 31 May!
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.
AUST | ABS | HIRING | Field Officers for 2026 Census: Information session and local job opportunities
The next Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Census will take place on Tuesday 11 August 2026.
The ABS has released a short information session video outlining preparations for the Census and how communities can support participation.
- Watch Information Session Video (37 mins)
The ABS is also recruiting more than 30,000 people across Australia to support the 2026 Census. These roles include flexible, paid positions that help ensure everyone in the community is counted.
VIC | GOV | CALLING | Nominees for 2026 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards | nominations close 19 May 2026
Nominations for the Victorian Senior of the Year Awards are now open!
These awards recognise older Victorians who make outstanding contributions to their communities, including through promoting multiculturalism, inclusion and community connection.
Program information will be available in 16 languages when nominations open. Learn more or submit a nomination via Seniors Online Victoria.
VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say: Victorian Multicultural Health Survey | submissions close 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.