Welcoming Multicultural and Multifaith Victoria
Multicultural and Multifaith Victoria (MMV) officially commenced on 1 October 2026, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Victoria's multicultural story. It is an exciting opportunity to strengthen how government listens to, works with and supports multicultural and multifaith communities across our state.
As we take this next step, I have been reflecting on the important role that migrant and refugee communities play in shaping modern Australia and Victoria. I recently attended the book launch of Three Shocks by journalist, economist and demographer George Megalogenis, which explores some of the major social and economic changes that have influenced Australia's modern identity.
One key focus is Australia's status as an English-speaking nation where migrants and our children make up the majority of the population. Here in Victoria, culturally and linguistically diverse communities continue to drive our growth and enrich our communities.
Behind these statistics are the stories of people who have chosen to make Victoria home. People who have helped build our industries, established businesses, strengthened our institutions, shared cultures and traditions, and improved every aspect of community life.
Our diversity is not simply something we celebrate; it is one of Victoria's greatest strengths and a vital part of our future.
The creation of MMV reflects this, ensuring that multiculturalism is not confined to a single government portfolio. It touches every aspect of Victorian life, from education, health and transport to business, industry and economic development. Ensuring multicultural and multifaith communities have a strong voice in shaping that future is at the heart of MMV.
As we embark on this next chapter we would also like to thank our outgoing Commissioners, Dr Judy Tang OAM and Sylvia Coombe, for their dedicated years of service. Their contribution to the Victorian Multicultural Commission, and to multiculturalism in Victoria more broadly, has been invaluable. We wish them every success in the next chapter of their journeys.
This week, we also congratulate The Huddle on reaching the remarkable milestone of supporting 200,000 young people. Through its work to engage, support and empower young Victorians, The Huddle continues to help build more connected and inclusive communities. We look forward to seeing its impact continue to grow.
I am excited about what lies ahead and look forward to working alongside communities across Victoria as we write this next chapter, together.
Warm regards,
Louise Perry, Interim Multicultural Coordinator General
News and events
ROSEBUD | MMV | TOURING | Multicultural Film Festival 2026 heading to Peninsula Cinema in Rosebud | Saturday 17 October 2026
The next screening for the Multicultural Film Festival (MFF) roadshow will be in Rosebud, Mornington Peninsula on 17 October 2026.
The MFF celebrates migrant and refugee stories through a series of short films that share experiences of multiculturalism in Australia.
This event is delivered in partnership with Swinburne University of Technology, SBS and the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council.
VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Multicultural Venues Program | applications close Monday 12 October 2026
Grants of $5,000 are available for multicultural community organisations to support the cost of hiring venues for community meetings and gatherings.
Eligible activities must support Victoria's multicultural communities to come together and share their history and traditions, and build connections and networks within their community.
Join an upcoming online information session to find out more about the application process.
MELBOURNE | MFF | ENGAGING | ‘Obang’ 오방 is an interactive exhibition designed for children ages 0-5
Melbourne Fringe Festival (MMF) is on 29 September-18 October 2026, and there’s plenty to explore, including the free exhibition ‘Obang’ 오방. Based on an original concept by Multicultural Film Festival award-winners Youbi Lee and Taka Takiguchi, the experience is inspired by the traditional Korean concept of Obang, which refers to five primary colours connected with five different spaces at home. This is an immersive and multi-sensory environment that encourages little ones to explore their curiosity, engage with their surroundings, and share in a beautiful cultural experience.
RICHMOND | MYA | GATHERING | Multicultural Youth Awards | Sunday 4 October 2026 | 5-10pm AEDT
The Multicultural Youth Awards recognise young people aged 16 to 25 who are creating meaningful impact across leadership, sport, education, arts and culture, advocacy, entrepreneurship, community service and more.
The Multicultural Youth Awards are a celebration of identity, resilience, excellence and possibility - it is a platform that amplifies youth voices, honours diverse stories, and brings together young people, community organisations and sector leaders.
- Where: Members' Dining Room, MCG, Richmond VIC, Australia
- Cost: Varies
- Bookings: online via Humanitix
VIC | AMVI | CAMPAIGNING | Shocktober 2026 - Helping give every heart a chance
This October, Ambulance Victoria's Shocktober campaign is encouraging Victorians to learn the lifesaving skills needed to respond to cardiac arrest, including how to perform CPR and use an defibrillator. Ambulance Victoria have a range of resources translated into several languages.
VIC | TRVI | GRANTING | half-price and contactless travel | until 1 January 2027
Public transport in Victoria is half price for all passengers.
Transport Victoria (TRVI has also rolled out contactless payment across trams and train stations where myki is accepted, for full fare customers only. Concession card holders should keep using their concession myki to ensure they are charged the correct fare.
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Multicultural and Multifaith Victoria (MMV)
Level 6,121 Exhibition Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
The Multicultural and Multifaith Victoria acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and acknowledges and pays respect to their Elders, past, present and emerging.