Fortnight by fortnight, the work of building a more inclusive Victoria moves forward — sometimes in sweeping policy, sometimes in smaller, carefully considered gestures.
This edition touches on both.
The Victorian Budget 2026/27 brings welcome news for multicultural and multi-faith communities — read further information. Many of you would know amongst the many areas the VMC has been advocating for, supporting our seniors is one that is close to my heart, and to that of many. I am pleased to see it continuing.
The release of the State Disability Plan and the Victorian Autism Plan marks a significant step in building inclusive, coordinated support for all Victorians, including multicultural communities. Both plans were shaped by extensive engagement with people with disability, Autistic people, families and carers. Your feedback is invited to help shape future support. On a related note, I encourage you all to complete the Victorian Multicultural Health Survey, open until 31 May and available in 14 languages. Inclusion is not a single policy — it is a thread that runs through everything we do.
The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion Interim Report was released this week, examining the threat environment, law enforcement responses, and the systemic changes required to better protect communities. Its findings are sobering. Social inclusion must be actively tended, and the safety of every community depends on that sustained attention.
ANZAC Day on 25 April offered a moment of national reflection, reflecting on the story of service in this country has long been shaped by people of many cultural and faith backgrounds, people from First Nations. These moments of reflections help us think about and take action on the future we want to be. The weeks that follow bring their own occasions: the Hung Vuong Festival, Vesak, Tongan White Sunday, Cinco de Mayo. Each marks a moment of reflection, renewal or celebration, and I extend my best wishes to all those marking these meaningful occasions across Victoria.
We look ahead now to Mother's Day on 11 May. Across Victoria's multicultural communities, mothers carry and shape the continuity of culture itself — language, memory and identity moving through daily life, across generations and across borders. This is not only something passed on, but something lived and renewed in families every day, and it reaches well beyond them into the wider fabric of our society. As a mother myself, it is a contribution I hold close. To every mother, my warmest wishes.
Vivienne Nguyen AM, Chairperson
News and events
VIC | GOV | HEARING | Your say: State Disability Plan and Victorian Autism Plan | submissions open
The Victorian Government has opened consultation on the next State Disability Plan and Victorian Autism Plan.
The consultation invites feedback from people with disability, Autistic people, families, carers, advocates, organisations and local government on priorities for the next plans, including what is working well and what could be improved.
The new four-year plans will be released in mid-2027 and will align with broader national disability reforms.
There are several ways to participate, including in-person and online forums, surveys, and written or recorded submissions.
VIC | CDS | RETURNING | Win a Million! Cents Competition | competition runs 4 May-14 June 2026
The Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) Vic Win a Million! Cents competition has returned, providing an opportunity for Victorians to participate in the CDS while supporting positive community outcomes.
By returning 50 or more eligible containers at a CDS Vic refund point, participants will go into the draw to win one of five $10,000 cash prizes (equivalent to one million cents). In addition, one winner will have the opportunity to direct a $10,000 donation to a registered CDS Vic donation partner, supporting community organisations and local groups across Victoria.
AUST | APOC | CALLING | Participants for Multicultural Executive Accelerator | applications now open
The Multicultural Executive Accelerator (MEC) is a 9-month, mentor-matched cohort for professionals ready to step into leadership and accelerate their careers.
Applications are now open for a new cohort of the Multicultural Executive Accelerator, a curated leadership program designed to support multicultural professionals to build visibility, confidence and influence in their careers.
The Australian Professionals of Multicultural Communities (APOC) program will select 15 participants to ensure a personalised, high-impact experience with tailored mentoring and support.
Applicants will also receive a Career Clarity resource and the full program brochure upon submission.
VIC | FRV | SEEKING | Applicants for Fire Rescue Victoria 2026 firefighting | applications close 17 May 2026
Applications for the Fire Rescue Victoria 2026 firefighter intake are now open.
The Your Next Step campaign highlights firefighting as a purposeful, community-focused career built on service, teamwork and lifelong learning – and encourages people to consider how their existing skills and values may align with the role.
Information sessions are also available, including dedicated sessions for women and regional communities.
VIC | VEOHRC | ADVISING | Victoria now has stronger anti-hate laws
From today, 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.
- To learn more, watch the short explainer video outlining the reforms.
For information and support, contact the enquiry service at 1300 292 153 or email Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC).
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.
AUST | ABS | PROVIDING | 2026 Census Information session and local job opportunities
The next Australian Bureau of Statistics Census will take place on Tuesday 11 August 2026.
The ABS has released an information session video (36 mins) outlining preparations for the Census and how communities can support participation.
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
These awards recognise older Victorians who make outstanding contributions to their communities, including through promoting multiculturalism, inclusion and community connection.
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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: on Victorian Multicultural Health | survey closes 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.