Connecting with communities across Victoria
I begin this newsletter by acknowledging the tragic loss of life in Melbourne on Friday night. Our thoughts are with the Feng Jianming's family, friends and loved ones, and with all those affected by this deeply saddening event.
In times like this, it is important for us to come together in compassion, support one another, and reaffirm our commitment to building a safe, inclusive and connected community for all Victorians.
That same commitment to inclusion, participation and community connection was reflected across a number of recent events and celebrations throughout Victoria. I had the pleasure of speaking at an Australia and New Zealand School of Government panel on Women's Leadership in the Indo-Pacific. The discussion explored how gender, culture and lived experience shape leadership journeys, and the importance of creating pathways for women from diverse backgrounds to lead and thrive.
I was also honoured to join Geelong's Greek community in celebrating its 70th anniversary. For seven decades, the community has played an important role in shaping the cultural fabric of regional Victoria. The celebration brought together community members across generations, reflecting on a proud history while looking ahead to the future.
Across Victoria, many communities have recently celebrated Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Diwali is a time for reflection, renewal and hope. To everyone celebrating, I wish you a Happy Diwali.
Ahead of the State Election on 28 November, the Victorian Government has entered the Caretaker period, and will be following established conventions that ensure impartiality during the election. This means there will be no new government policy announcements or major funding commitments until after the election.
For communities, it is largely business as usual. Government services, programs and community engagement activities continue, and Multicultural and Multifaith Victoria remains committed to supporting Victoria's multicultural and multifaith communities. We will continue to listen, connect and work alongside communities across the state.
Louise Perry, Interim Multicultural Coordinator General
News and events
MELB | SCREENING | MFF 2026 Tour – The last stop | Wednesday 18 November 2026 | 6-8pm
The final free public screening for the Multicultural Film Festival (MFF) Tour will be in Fed Square, Melbourne.
The MFF celebrates migrant and refugee stories through a series of short films that share experiences of multiculturalism in Australia.
MELB | LOAS | GATHERING | Lounge Asia - an intercultural social | Wednesday 11 November 2026 | 6-9pm AEST
Looking to meet new people and build connections across cultures?
Lounge Asia (LOAS) brings together people from diverse backgrounds fortnightly for relaxed, welcoming social gatherings. Where friendship and cultural exchange take centre stage. The community was created to help people connect, share experiences and foster understanding across cultures in a friendly and inclusive environment.
GLEN EIRA | GECC | PERFORMING | La Ofrenda: Day of the Dead Tales | Saturday 14 November 2026
Bringing five ancestral Mexican legends to the stage in La Ofrenda: Day of the Dead Tales – a bilingual celebration of folkloric dance, live theatre, and storytelling exploring the world of the living and the world of the dead. One night only at the Glen Eira City Council Theatrette.
MELB | AMCF | GATHERING | African Music and Cultural Festival | Friday 20–Sunday 22 November 2026
The annual African Music and Cultural Festival (AMCF) will take place in Fed Square from Friday 20 to Sunday 22 November 2026, bringing together more than 40 African communities to showcase the richness and diversity of African cultures through music, dance, food, fashion and cultural performances.
VIC | GOV | CALLING | Applicants for Victorian Public Board roles
Public boards make better decisions when they draw on a diversity of perspectives, experiences and expertise, reflecting the vibrant multicultural and multifaith communities that make up Victoria.
MELB | REVI | WALKING | Against Family Violence | Friday 20 November 2026
Every year, thousands of Victorians come together in the heart of Melbourne, in solidarity with victim survivors to make our shared commitment to a future free from violence visible. Joining the Walk is one way to demonstrate your organisation's leadership and commitment in creating safe and equal communities, workplaces, schools and environments free from violence. Respect Victoria (REVI).
VIC | VDWC | WEBINAR | Free Code of Conduct | Thursday 26 November 2026 | 10am-10.30am AEDT
The Victorian Disability Worker Commission (VDWC) is running a new webinar series on Disability Services Safeguards Code of Conduct. This series is open to all disability workers in Victoria.
The first webinar will be on Acting with respect for individual rights to freedom of expression, self-determination, and decision-making in accordance with applicable laws and conventions.
MELB | MAH | PERFORMING | Melbourne Art House's two new shows
Together are two works highlighting the power of storytelling to explore identity, belonging, resilience and the human experience.
The Dark Matter of Usulal by Margaret Harvey, is a powerful reflection of identity, family and connection across generations. The Working Class Clown is a one person theatrical production created, written and performed by Samoan-Australian artist Tommy Misa.
AUST | GOV | ALERTING | Community – Australian Citizenship Scam
The Department of Home Affairs is aware of a scam targeting people seeking assistance with Australian citizenship. Community members are encouraged to be cautious of people offering citizenship services through social media or claiming they can guarantee Australian citizenship.
VIC | TRVI | ADVISING | New ways to tap and go for concession cardholders
Transport Victoria (TRVI) has rolled out contactless payments for concession holders, making public transport easier and more accessible in Victoria. If you travel on a concession fare, you can now tap and go with your bank card, phone or smartwatch. Always carry our proof of concession and tap on every time you travel.
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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.