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VIC | MMV | UPDATING | Community, News and Information | Wednesday 28 October 2026

[Edited extract from public address]

Building the future, together

Multicultural and Multifaith Victoria (MMV) was a key recommendation of the Victorian Multicultural Review, led by George Lekakis AO and supported by multicultural experts including Hass Dellal AO, Carmel Guerra OAM, Miriam Suss OAM and Mark Duckworth PSM. 

The establishment of MMV on 1 October 2026 marked an important moment for Victoria’s multicultural and multifaith communities, and for the broader sector, at a time when thoughtful leadership and strong partnerships matter deeply. 

MMV means a lot to me, both personally and professionally; that is why I am pleased to share that I have agreed to remain as Interim Multicultural Coordinator-General during the coming months.

I feel privileged to have the opportunity to help establish MMV as the strong, effective and trusted institution it needs to be, while providing continuity, care and, most importantly, a clear foundation for change. 

MMV has so much potential. The issues that matter most to communities extend across every aspect of life – from employment, skills and small business growth to education, housing, settlement support and mental health.

Creating lasting change means working across sectors, building new partnerships and finding common ground with people and organisations that may not traditionally have been part of the conversation.

As a Burmese woman, a migrant and the daughter of a refugee, the opportunity to help build MMV is deeply personal. As someone who has spent more than a decade working in international development and human rights, this opportunity is energising. As a public servant of almost 10 years, I feel strongly about the importance of supporting government to work effectively with diverse communities to improve outcomes for all Victorians.

In the months ahead, I look forward to working with the many brilliant leaders, volunteers and community members across our multicultural and multifaith communities, as well as with businesses, local government and the Victorian Public Sector. By bringing together partners from different sectors and perspectives, we can maximise the opportunity that MMV presents – and strengthen the cohesion that underpins Victoria.

And I look forward to working with you.  
Louise Perry. Interim Multicultural Coordinator General

 

 News and events 

NARRE WARREN | MVV | SCREENING | MFF tour heads to Bunjil Place | Saturday 31 October 2026

The next screening for the Multicultural Film Festival (MFF) roadshow will be at Bunjil Place.  

Two of our amazing film makers, Alex Nesic and Sarah Ghassali, will be on a panel to offer insights into the creative process and the stories behind their films. 

The MFF celebrates migrant and refugee stories through a series of short films that share experiences of multiculturalism in Australia. 
 

SUNSHINE | VMA | DISCOVERING | The first Vietnamese Museum Australia

Discover the stories, journeys and contributions of Vietnamese Australians at the Vietnamese Museum Australia.

The curation of these stories aim to inspire people by sharing the incredible stories of the Vietnamese boat people, who persevered through adversity, seized their opportunities and remained resilient in the most challenging times. 
 

MELBOURNE | NGVA | EXHIBITING | Passage: The Art of Atong Atem | Friday 30 October 2026–Monday 14 June 2027

Through portrait photography, Melbourne-based South Sudanese artist Atong Atem uses her body as a canvas adorned with textiles, paint and symbolic objects. Passage is Atem's first major Australian solo exhibition, presenting new and existing works by a leading contemporary photographer of her generation. 
 

AUST | SWA | ADVISING | October is National Safe Work Month

Safe Work Australia (SWA)'s National Safe Work Month is a national campaign that raises awareness of work health and safety and encourages all workplaces to make health and safety a priority.  

The 2026 theme, 'Safe work is for life', reflects the fundamental purpose of workplace health and safety: protecting people from injury, illness and harm that can affect every aspect of life, both at work and beyond. It recognises that creating safe workplaces is not just about preventing immediate harm, but about supporting people throughout their work lives and into the future. 
 

CAULFIELD | GECC | PERFORMING | La Ofrenda: Day of the Dead Tales | Saturday 14 November 2026 | 4-5pm or 6-7pm AEDT

This Día de Muertos, Son de México brings 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
  • Where: Glen Eira City Council Theatrette, Glen Eira City Council, Caulfield VIC, Australia
  • Cost: From $30
  • Bookings: online via Humanitix
 

MELBOURNE | AMCF | CELEBRATING | 2026 African Music and Cultural Festival | Friday 20–Sunday 22 November 2026 | from 10am

The annual African Music and Cultural Festival (AMCF) brings together more than 40 African communities to showcase the richness and diversity of African cultures through music, dance, food, fashion and cultural performances. 

Born from a vision to celebrate diversity and harmony. What began as a one-day event has grown into a three-day festival at Fed Square, Melbourne, uniting over 40 Victorian African communities in its planning and delivery and drawing over 50,000 people to share music, food, fashion and culture
 

MELBOURNE | CEIN | CELELBRATING | Victoria's Festival of Diwali 2026 | Saturday 31 October 2026 | 11.30am-10pm

The beloved annual Celebrate India (CEIN) Diwali festivities return to Fed Square, for its 21st year.

To celebrate, come and experience the traditional and contemporary cultural feast of India, with live music, classical, folk and Bollywood dance performances, kirtan, yoga, meditation workshops and craft activities for children.
 

VIC | AMVI | HELPING | Give every heart a chance – Shocktober 2026

This October, Ambulance Victoria (AMVI)'s Shocktober campaign is encouraging Victorians to learn the lifesaving skills needed to respond to cardiac arrest, including how to perform CPR and use a defibrillator. Ambulance Victoria have a range of resources translated into several languages for your access below. 
 

VIC | VDWC | WEBINAR | Sign up for free Code of Conduct series | Thursday 26 November 2027 | 10am-10.30am AEDT

The first in a new webinar series on Disability Services Safeguards Code of Conduct open to all disability workers in Victoria.

The Victorian Disability Worker Commission (VDWC) 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. 

VIC | TRVI | OFFERING | 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.

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AUST | CUIN | UPDATING | Culturally Responsive and more | October 2026

[Edited extract from public address]

Culturally responsive practice is grounded in more than 30 years of educational research. 

It recognises that people’s cultural backgrounds influence how they learn and interact, and that responding effectively across cultural differences is a skill we can develop.

Whether you work in education, business, healthcare or the community, greater cultural responsiveness expands our understanding, strengthens our relationships and creates safer and more vibrant settings for everyone.

This month, we also mourn the loss of two people who made significant contributions to Cultural Infusion and the broader community: Dr Colin Benjamin and Matt Fagan.

We invite you to discover our new Culturally Responsive Teaching courses and explore the other ways Cultural Infusion can support you in building greater cultural capability in your own workplace or community.

In This Issue

     1. Education & Experiences 

    TRAINING | How We Respond Matters: Professional Development for Culturally Responsive Teaching

    What if the behaviour you’re seeing in the classroom isn’t the full story?
    The Culturally Responsive Teaching Professional Development program aims to give educators practical ideas and skills for today's superdiverse classrooms. Grounded in Cultural Infusion’s unique, multidimensional approach to cultural identity and designed for application across diverse international education systems, this six-course program for primary and secondary educators draws on decades of experience and the latest pedagogical research.

    The first two courses are available now through Cultural Infusion's Learning Hub, with OpenLearning Marketplace access coming soon.

    Each course takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete and is flexible and self-paced.

    In these courses we explore what it might mean and how we can skilfully approach it if:
    • A student is reluctant to speak in front of the class.
    • A student refuses to follow a school rule.
    • A teacher interprets quietness as disengagement.
    • Parents rarely respond to school emails.
    • A student is struggling to fit in.
    • A student's cultural knowledge isn't recognised in classroom learning.
    • A family rarely engages with the school community.
    And much more!

    Each of the six courses offers educators:
    • practical classroom scenarios
    • Cultural Infusion’s original practical conceptual frameworks
    • concise conceptual insights, including the latest pedagogical frameworks
    • reflection activities
    • strategies you can apply immediately
    • motivational videos featuring Cultural Infusion voices
    • a certificate on completion
    Access to courses available NOW through Cultural Infusion’s Learning Hub and available soon through OpenLearning!

    Culturally Responsive Teaching Program pricing
    • Course 1: A$29
    • Courses 2-6: A$49 each
    • Complete six-course program: A$199
    Already booking a Cultural Infusion program? All program bookings include complimentary 3 months' access to the full six-course program via the Cultural Infusion Learning Hub.
     

    TOURING | Sumardi's Australian Tour Begins with a Cultural Homecoming

    Dalang Sumardi's Australian tour has begun with warmly received performances and workshops on Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, marking the start of a cultural journey across multiple Australian states.

    The Cocos visit holds particular significance, reconnecting the community with Wayang Kulit, a tradition once woven into island life but not performed by a local dalang for more than 75 years. How fitting that the ABC wrote a piece about this very significant tour on 17 October, a date marked by UNESCO as International Day of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

    This is Sumardi’s 13th Australian tour with Cultural Infusion across 21 years, accompanied this year by Demetrius Mousaferiadis. We are grateful to Sumardi for 21 years of friendship, dedication and extraordinary cultural generosity. Thanks also to the communities of the Cocos and Christmas Islands.

     2. Cultural Infusion Foundation Internships & Fellowships Program 

    PARTNERING | MASCA Victoria Next Gen 2026 – Saturday 24 October 2026, Melbourne

    Cultural Infusion Foundation Australia is pleased to partner with the Malaysian Student Council of Australia (MASCA) Victoria for NextGen 2026, an initiative connecting university students and recent graduates with employers and industry professionals.

    Through this collaboration, Cultural Infusion’s Internship & Fellowship Programme will be promoted in the event’s networking space, introducing students and graduates to opportunities for practical experience, professional development and career growth.

     3. The Atlas Platform 

    ATLAS Survey Builder

    Cultural Infusion Atlas’s survey library contains Atlas Core, PCI and AIRI surveys, and a modern take on engagement and pulse surveys, with questions staff actually want to answer.

    Many survey companies can boast modern technological advancements in display and deployment of survey questions and the visualisation of answers, but they’re using the same old 1990s questions. The true innovation is in the questions, the answers, and how these can relate back to desired outcomes. Cultural Infusion spoke with more than 100 HR Leaders globally and the overwhelming messages were:
    “Engagement surveys aren’t very engaging.”
    “The scores don’t mean much to anyone.”
    “The staff aren’t being asked questions they want to be asked.”
    “The leaders aren’t getting answers to their most pressing questions.”
    “Trust in HR systems is low.”
    “Data security / protection of identity awareness is super high”
    “AI reporting is dull.”
    “They’d rather a ‘culture’ score than any other score; one that captures behaviours, values and real-world experiences.”
     Newer, modern, progressive and meaningful sets of questions address all these issues.

     4. Key Events 

    MELBOURNE | AISA CyberCon | 15 October 2026 

    As AI takes over entry-level work, the skills that matter most when hiring are not technical but critical thinking and interpersonal skills, according to Cultural Infusion’s CTO Rezza Moieni, who gave two talks at Australia’s premier cyber security conference, AISA CyberCon 2026, in Melbourne on 15 October.
     

    STREAMING | Are You Data Literate?

    Data can mask or reveal important information. Data integrity is therefore crucial, but how many of us are data literate enough to know if we can trust our data?

    Cultural Infusion’s great friend and data expert Roman Ružbacký is teaming up with Rezza Moieni for an in-person interactive half day workshop on diversity, equity and inclusion data.
     

    LONDON | Big Data LDN panel

    Kasia Hayward represented Cultural Infusion at Big Data LDN 2026 on the panel Data for Good: Building a Better Future with Data, AI and Human Judgement, exploring how organisations can pair data and AI with human insight.
     

    NEW YORK | AI 2030 Summit

    When AI can think, coordinate and act: what will the world look like in 2030? Cultural Infusion’s VP of Innovation and Impact Ben Christensen facilitated a session exploring this question at the AI 2030 Summit in New York.
     

    MELBOURNE | Melbourne Build Expo | Wednesday 25-Thursday 26 November 2026 | 9.30am-5.30pm

    Will you be joining Peter Mousaferiadis at this industry event, which is open to the public for free? He will be taking the stage to share some thoughts on inclusion and culture in an industry that affects everyone and has taken great strides forward in recent years.

    • Where: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) - 1 Convention Centre Pl, South Wharf, VIC 3006
    • Cost: Free To Attend
    • Bookings: Register online

     5. Voices of Cultural Infusion 

    ARTICLE | Cultural Data Infrastructure: The Missing Layer in AI’s Infrastructure Era

    Peter Mousaferiadis on building cultural data infrastructure into AI design, ahead of Tech Week Singapore. 

    RADIO | The Problem with Collective Guilt

    Peter Mousaferiadis on 3AW’s Drive program with Jacqui Felgate, 16 October. 

    BOOK | The Cultural Age

    We celebrate the latest book by our longtime friend D. Paul Schafer, endorsed by Peter Mousaferiadis. 

    INTERN POST | Am I Misreading My Students’ Behaviour?

    Intern Libby Pachul on reading the classroom through a cultural lens. 

    PODCAST | How Can We control AI?

    Ben Christensen on cultural intelligence and AI, in the AI and Faith podcast. 
     

    IN MEMORIAM | Dr Colin Benjamin and Matthew Fagan

    This month Cultural Infusion and its Foundation mourn the passing of two people who made profound contributions to our organisation and the broader culture.

    Dr Colin Benjamin
    A deeply valued Chair of the Cultural Infusion Foundation Board of Directors for nearly 15 years, Dr Benjamin had a long and varied career in public service and the not-for-profit sector, contributing to community organisations and initiatives including the Life. Be in it. campaign, which he supported from its inception in 1975.

    Peter Mousaferiadis refers to him as ‘a brilliant mind, a dear friend and a fierce agent of change.’ In Peter’s words:
    "In 2012, at the last of our nine Australia Day concerts I produced at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, we paid tribute to the television jingles and campaigns that generations of Australians had grown up watching, hearing and singing along to. And who should make a cameo appearance in the final moments? Colin himself, dressed in Norm's unmistakable outfit. It was a wonderful moment, made all the more memorable by seeing the man behind the campaign become the character himself.

    But Colin’s contribution extended far beyond the campaigns that made him famous. Over some four decades, he developed ColourGrid, a remarkable framework exploring how human beings think, make decisions, respond to change and interact with one another. Built around 16 colour coded thinking patterns, his work found applications in leadership, recruitment, organisational culture, career development and behavioural change. He was endlessly curious about the human condition and never stopped searching for ways to better understand it. To say that rubbed off on me is an understatement.

    What I will miss most, however, are our conversations. His ability to challenge my thinking, to see possibilities where others saw obstacles, and to remind me, sometimes rather bluntly, that there was always another way of looking at things. Colin was not interested in telling people what they wanted to hear. He was interested in making them think. And I was fortunate to be on the receiving end of that wisdom for twenty years."
    Cultural Infusion extends sincere condolences to Dr Benjamin’s family, friends and colleagues and remembers his significant contribution with respect and gratitude.
     
    Matthew Fagan
    It is with equal sadness that Cultural Infusion acknowledges the passing of Matthew Fagan, a supremely talented guitarist, composer, musical director and a cherished friend and collaborator of Cultural Infusion.
    Peter Mousaferiadis first met Matt when he was a young student at the Victorian College of the Arts. It was the beginning of a creative relationship that would span decades, bringing together a shared love of music, cultural expression and the extraordinary possibilities that emerge when musical traditions meet.
    Over the years, Matt and Peter worked closely together on much-loved Fairfield Amphitheatre Concerts and countless major productions, including the Parliament of World Religions. Matt served as musical director for four of the nine Australia Day Concerts produced under Peter's artistic direction, helping bring together musicians and performers from diverse cultural traditions in celebrations of Australia's rich cultural tapestry.

    Matt's Celtic Suite for Orchestra, his first orchestral composition, was first conducted by Peter with the Orana Chamber Orchestra and performed at Government House in Melbourne. It was a beautiful expression of Matt's ability to move effortlessly between musical worlds, weaving tradition, innovation and his own distinctive musical voice into something entirely his own.

    Matt was a musician of extraordinary versatility. Equally at home with classical, flamenco, Celtic, jazz and contemporary music, his virtuosity on the guitar was matched by an insatiable curiosity and openness to the musical traditions of the world.

    His remarkable career took him to more than 120 countries, performing alongside some of the world's most celebrated artists, including Billy Connolly, Natalie Cole, Shirley Bassey, Michael Crawford and the Buena Vista Social Club. Beyond the international stages and accolades was a musician who understood that music is much more than performance. It is a language through which people could connect, communicate and find common ground. Billy Connolly described Matt as the best touring artist he's ever travelled with.

    Matt embodied one of Cultural Infusion’s core beliefs: that culture is not something static to be preserved behind glass, but is living, evolving and enriched through exchange.

    His passing is a profound loss to Australia's musical community and to all those whose lives were touched by his artistry.

    For Peter and the many musicians and colleagues who worked alongside him, Matt leaves behind a body of music and memories of remarkable collaborations, friendships forged through creativity and the joy of making music together.

    We extend our heartfelt condolences to Matt's partner Kellie, his family, friends and the countless musicians and audiences whose lives he enriched.

    Peter writes:
    "The final notes may have sounded, but the music, the memories and the connections Matt created will continue to resonate for generations.

    Vale, Matt. Thank you for the music, the friendship and the extraordinary journey."

     6. Calendar Spotlight 

    Bunka no Hi (Culture Day) | 3 November 2026

    First established in 1648, Culture Day, or Bunka no Hi (文化の日), is a national holiday in Japan dedicated to celebrating culture, the arts, and academic achievement. It’s a perfect opportunity for schools and communities to explore Japanese traditions, creativity and cultural expression.

    Japanese Cultural Workshops We Offer
    Bring the spirit of Culture Day to life with immersive, curriculum-aligned programs:
    Bring authentic Japanese cultural experiences to your school or community on or around 3 November.

    Thanks for reading! Be more culturally responsive, be well, and see you next month!


    MORE:

    Cultural Infusion (CUIN)
    Address: Level 1, 1/105 Rupert St, Collingwood VIC 3066

    Cultural Infusion has its offices based on the ancestral land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We acknowledge and pay respect to the past, present and future traditional custodians and elders and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia.

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    VIC | MMV | UPDATING | Community, News and Information | Thursday 15 October 2026

    [Edited extract from public address]

    It has been a busy first fortnight for Multicultural and Multifaith Victoria (MMV), and we thank communities across Victoria for the warm welcome as we begin this new chapter.

    MMV was established on 1 October 2026 to strengthen engagement with multicultural and multifaith communities and promote participation, inclusion and social cohesion in Victoria. 

    Across Victoria, communities have been celebrating Diwali, the Festival of Lights. It has been a joy to join these celebrations and acknowledge the values at the core of this Festival: hope, new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil. 

    Last night we honoured the winners of the Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence, held at Government House. I was joined by the Premier, Minister for Multicultural Affairs and the Attorney General alongside our incredible recipients and their guests. The evening celebrated the outstanding contributions of individuals and organisations, who help build a more connected and inclusive Victoria. 

    Congratulations to all Award Winners and Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll Inductees. Your commitment, leadership and service makes a lasting difference to our communities and this recognition is deserved. 

    As MMV progresses, we look forward to listening, learning and working alongside communities across Victoria. Together, we can build on Victoria's strengths, and create an even greater sense of belonging, participation and opportunity for all who call Victoria home. 

    Louise Perry, Interim Multicultural Coordinator General

     

     News and events 

    VIC | MMV | RECOGNISING | Multicultural Honour Roll Inductees and Award Winners

    The 2026 Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence have shone a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of individuals and organisations across Victoria.

    Award recipients were recognised across 13 categories, ranging from Prevention of Family Violence and Mental Health to Arts, Business and Employment, and Media. Twenty-three Victorians were also inducted into the Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll, celebrating their exceptional service and impact across the state's diverse communities.

    ROSEBUD | MMV | SCREENING | MFF tour heads to Peninsula Cinema in Rosebud | Saturday 17 October 2026 | 4-5.30pm

    The next screening for the Multicultural Film Festival (MFF) roadshow will be in Rosebud, Mornington Peninsula. 

    The MFF celebrates migrant and refugee stories through a series of short films that share experiences of multiculturalism in Australia. 
     

    VIC | GOV | ANNOUNCING | Multicultural Festivals and Events recipients

    More Victorians will be able to celebrate the many cultures that make up our state, as 112 organisations will receive funding to support free, accessible and inclusive celebrations through the Multicultural Festivals and Events program.

    The recipients represent the diverse cultural landscape of Victoria, with more than 27 different ethnicities and 50 faith groups represented in this latest round of grants.
     

    AUST | GOV | MARKING | October being National Safe Work Month

    National Safe Work Month is a national campaign that raises awareness of work health and safety and encourages all workplaces to make health and safety a priority.  

    The 2026 theme, 'Safe work is for life', reflects the fundamental purpose of workplace health and safety: protecting people from injury, illness and harm that can affect every aspect of life, both at work and beyond. It recognises that creating safe workplaces is not just about preventing immediate harm, but about supporting people throughout their work lives and into the future. 
     

    AUST | SBS | HEARING | Your say: SBS's Language Services Review

    The  SBS Language Services Review considers how language services are delivered, helping ensure SBS continues to meet the changing needs of our diverse multicultural and multilingual communities. 

    SBS is seeking community input on the draft selection criteria, which will be used alongside the 2026 Census data to determine the languages to be serviced for the next five years. This will help inform the way these services are delivered including radio, podcasting, digital TV, and other digital platforms. 
     

    MELB | FEIN | GATHERING | Festival Indonesia | Saturday 24 October 2026

    The outdoor Festival Indonesia (FEIN) on Saturday 24 October is Melbourne's largest celebration of Indonesian heritage. 

    The Festival will bring together traditional and contemporary Indonesian arts, live music and dance performances, batik and craft workshops, and dozens of food stalls showcasing regional Indonesian cuisine. 
     

    MELB | FESQ | GATHERING | For Ocker in Fed Square

    See Australia's leading First Nations-led contemporary circus company bring a new acrobatic performance to life in Fed Square during the Melbourne Fringe Festival.

    Ocker is a moving circus performance that travels through Fed Square on a railway track built in real time. As the performers make their way through crowds, laneways, and tram lines, they follow an exciting chase for something just beyond their grasp.

    VIC | AMVI | HELPING | Give every heart a chance this Shocktober 2026

    This October, Ambulance Victoria (AMVI) and Shocktober campaign is encouraging Victorians to learn the lifesaving skills needed to respond to cardiac arrest, including how to perform CPR and use a defibrillator.

    Ambulance Victoria have a range of resources translated into several languages for your access below. 
     

    VIC | TRVI | GRANTING | Half-price and contactless travel

    Public transport in Victoria is half price for all passengers until 1 January 2027.

    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.


    MORE:

    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.

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    WORLD | PWR | WEBINAR | Interfaith Resistance to Authoritarianism: Visions and Values of Solidarity | 1-2pm USA Central Thursday 29 October 2026 | 5-6am AEST Friday 30 October 2026

    [Edited extract from public address]

    Focusing on faith resources and motivations for resistance and solidarity from a variety of religious perspectives.

    A second follow-up webinar will focus on faith-based actions to build solidarity in resistance to authoritarianism.

    Panelists:
    In dialogue with the Parliament of the World’s Religions’ document on interfaith responsibility, panelists will discuss faith-based efforts to defend human rights and to combat authoritarian efforts that seek to divide populations and assert power through the abuse of minority populations.

    MORE:

    Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR)
    Address: 70 East Lake St., Suite 230 Chicago, IL 60601 USA
    Tel: (312) 629-2990

    The Parliament of the World's Religions (PWR) acknowledges it is situated on the traditional homelands of the Bodéwadmik (Potawatomi), Hoocąk (Winnebago/Ho’Chunk), Jiwere (Otoe), Nutachi (Missouria), and Baxoje (Iowas); Kiash Matchitiwuk (Menominee); Meshkwahkîha (Meskwaki); Asâkîwaki (Sauk); Myaamiaki (Miami), Waayaahtanwaki (Wea), and Peeyankihšiaki (Piankashaw); Kiikaapoi (Kickapoo); Inoka (Illini Confederacy); Anishinaabeg (Ojibwe), and Odawak (Odawa).

    PWR recognizes the region we now call Chicago remains home to a diversity of Indigenous peoples today and this land upon which we walk, live, and play continues to be Indigenous land.

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    VIC | MMV | UPDATING | Community, News and Information | Friday 2 October 2026

    [Edited extract from public address]

    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. 
     

    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.

    MORE:

    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.

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    MELB | CUIN | WEBINAR | Cultural Infusion Intern Professional & Career Development Session | Tuesday 29 September | 11am-12noon AEST

    [Edited extract from public address]

    Join Cultural Infusion for an interactive online event designed for university students, recent graduates, interns, and aspiring professionals looking to strengthen their career readiness and professional presence.

    Whether you are preparing for internships, graduate opportunities, or your first professional role, this session will provide practical insights and guidance to help you stand out in today’s competitive job market.

    What you'll learn:
    • How to leverage your academic, volunteer, and internship experiences for future opportunities
    • Building a strong personal brand and professional presence
    • Enhancing your resume and LinkedIn profile
    • Presenting your skills and achievements confidently to employers
    • Creating a clear career action plan for your professional journey
    The session will be delivered by Rezza Moieni, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Cultural Infusion, who will share his career journey, industry experience, and valuable insights on navigating the transition from university into the professional world.

    Whether you're exploring career pathways, looking for internship opportunities, or preparing to enter the workforce, this session will provide practical strategies, industry insights, and actionable advice to help you build confidence, strengthen your professional presence, and take the next step in your career journey.
    • Where: Online event is via Teams. Access email will be delivered the day before the event.
    • Cost: Free
    • Bookings: online via Humanitix


    MORE:

    Cultural Infusion (CUIN)
    Address: Level 1, 1/105 Rupert St, Collingwood VIC 3066

    Cultural Infusion has its offices based on the ancestral land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We acknowledge and pay respect to the past, present and future traditional custodians and elders and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia.

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    AUST | CUIN | UPDATING | Making Connections and more | September 2026

    [Edited extract from public address]

    Meaningful connections begin with our willingness to understand perspectives and experiences beyond our own. These connections shape how we engage with the world around us.

    From intercultural learning to cultural experiences that bring communities together, technological innovations that support the full, rich extent of human cultural diversity and critical thinking around artificial intelligence (AI) governance and creativity, discover how Cultural Infusion is helping connect communities through experiences and learning while contributing to conversations about identity, inclusion and representation. Finally, our CEO and Founder Peter Mousaferiadis reflects on the recent devastating floods in Nepal.

    Here, we hope you find inspiration to create more meaningful connections in your classroom, workplace and beyond.

    In This Issue
    1. Education & Experiences – For teachers & schools
    2. Intern With Us – Internships & careers
    3. The Atlas Platform – Cultural data & tools
    4. Key Events – Where to find us
    5. Voices of Cultural Infusion – Research & perspectives
    6. Calendar Spotlight – Dashain, 11–21 October

     1. Education & Experiences 

    Recipes for Harmony

    They say the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, and food is one of the most wonderful ways to bring people together and celebrate culture. Invite students to share dishes that reflect their cultural backgrounds through a multicultural food day, creating opportunities to discover the traditions and stories behind the food.

    Cultural Infusion’s Recipes for Harmony is an interactive, multimedia resource filled with stories, sounds and flavours from around the world – there are recipies to cultural dishes, audio clips of personal stories and greetings, short videos, fun cultural facts, background information and more. And it's now free on our website!

    Building Intercultural Capability in Victorian Schools

    The Intercultural Citizenship Ambassador Program (ICAP)* continues to build momentum across Victoria, on track to reach 600 student participants by year’s end.
    “We believe the program provided a meaningful and enriching learning experience that will continue to benefit students well beyond the classroom.” – Epping Secondary College, 2026
    Thanks to Victorian Government funding, it’s currently FREE for secondary students at Victorian government schools. With 2026 fully booked, we’re now welcoming expressions of interest for 2027 and 2028.

    * Victorian Government Funded. Available in Victoria only.
     

    Discover the Cultural Story of Your School Community with Atlas

    Atlas for Schools provides a secure and ethical way for schools to explore their cultural profile through anonymised data collection. By completing a simple survey, schools receive a tailored report highlighting insights into areas such as languages, heritage, countries of birth, belief systems and more, along with resources to support meaningful classroom conversations.

    Trusted by organisations and communities across more than 40 countries, Atlas helps schools move beyond assumptions and better understand the students they serve. We are offering Atlas free of charge to a limited number of schools.
     

    Discover New Cultural Experiences

    Two new additions to our Education & Experiences offering in Victoria — a First Nations led experience for workplaces, and a new interactive cultural program for the classroom.

    For Workplaces: Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Launch Experience
    Led by an experienced First Nations presenter, this tailored experience brings teams together through cultural activities, storytelling and facilitated discussion, connecting employees with the purpose of their RAP.

    For Schools: Afro-Colombian Rhythms & Culture
    This program introduces students to the music and cultural heritage of Colombia’s Afro-Caribbean coast, with hands-on percussion, traditional instruments and rhythms including cumbia and puya.
     

    Learning Hub

    Cultural Infusion's Learning Hub gives educators access to intercultural resources, lesson plans, interactive learning experiences and professional development.
     

    Looking ahead to 2027

    Our team is already working with schools and early learning services on their 2027 cultural calendars, with bookings and enquiries underway for significant cultural dates throughout the year.


     2. Intern With Us 

    WEBINAR | Career Readiness, Personal Branding & Life Beyond the Internship – Professional & Career Development Session | Tuesday 29 September | 11am-12noon AEST

    Practical guidance for university students, recent graduates and interns on building a strong personal brand, improving resumes and LinkedIn profiles, and preparing for career opportunities. Led by Rezza Moieni, Chief Technology Officer at Cultural Infusion.
    • Where: Online event is via Teams. Access email will be delivered the day before the event.
    • Cost: Free
    • Bookings: online via Humanitix
     

    For Interns & Fellows: LinkedIn Professional Development Initiative

    A new initiative to help interns and fellows showcase their internship experiences online. Participants share a short reflection, which our team transforms into a professionally designed LinkedIn feature highlighting their learning, skills and achievements.
     
     
    Membership: Become a Member of Cultural Infusion
    Interns are invited to join a global network of organisations, cultural leaders, experts and changemakers, with access to research initiatives, learning resources, industry insights and tools. Interns who register receive a two-year membership upgrade.

     3. The Atlas Platform 

    Every Map Is a Choice

    There is no neutral map. This is why we built Atlas with 27 maps instead of just one.

    A projection decides what looks big, what looks central and what looks peripheral. The old default made Africa look about the size of Greenland when in fact it is 14 times larger — a distortion that has quietly shaped how generations picture the world.

    Giving users a choice of projections is part of a broader principle behind Atlas: cultural data should be presented in ways that make its assumptions visible rather than hiding them behind a single default. It is the same thinking that drives our white paper research into how organisations measure culture.

    Atlas offers 27 different map projections

     4. Key Events 

    MELBOURNE | Australian Professionals of Multicultural Communities (APMC) Gala Awards

    Australia has an extraordinary amount of talent, far too much of it left on the table. Our CEO spoke at the APMC Gala Awards, exploring the necessity to rigorously define and measure cultural diversity so we can develop meaningful strategies around this underutilised and key asset.


     5. Voices of Cultural Infusion 

    SPOTLIGHTING | Employee Amira Fares, Programs Specialist & Social Media Lead

    Amira is a key part of our Education & Experiences team; she helps deliver cultural programs to schools, early learning centres, libraries and communities across Australia. Alongside this, she supports clients and coordinates programs and presenters, including the 2026 Sumardi Tour.

    Beginning as an intern as a part of her master’s degree, Amira returned to Cultural Infusion after completing her studies. Originally from Malaysia, Amira’s multicultural background has piqued her interest in cultural understanding and seeing the world from different perspectives. This and her keen interest in planning and running programs also made her a natural fit for Cultural Infusion.

    What Amira enjoys most about her job is meeting presenters from different cultural backgrounds and learning from their knowledge and experiences. She particularly enjoyed working on a new project, Meet our Presenters, which gave her the opportunity to hear directly from presenters about their cultures and passions.
     
    Amira also thoroughly enjoys reading, games, television and music from around the world. For her, it is important to remain engaged with stories from other cultures to learn, challenge our assumptions and appreciate broader perspectives beyond our own.
     

    ASKING | What If Our Future Had a Compass?

    Can culture provide the bearings societies need when technological capability is advancing faster than institutional judgement? The Age of Culture (TAOC) Project’s major report features timely ideas from Cultural Infusion CEO Peter Mousaferiadis among many other international experts in culture.
     

    AI Governance and Creativity

    Want the juice on AI, including the spate of recent lab leaks, AI creativity and its impact on art, and the most ethical way to deploy AI? Tap in to Cultural Infusion’s Innovation and Impact VP Ben Christensen’s discussion with Gilad Berenstein from AI and Faith and Dr Marcus Schwarting.

    Atlas Story: How Do We Measure Cultural Diversity?

    In 2016, Cultural Infusion CTO Rezza Moieni asked our CEO the question that led to the creation of Atlas: ‘How do we measure cultural diversity?’

    From The Blog

    How does the contemporary teacher meet the increasingly diverse needs of students in today’s classroom? Interning with us from Cardiff University, Libby Pachul wrote about this in her post ‘Am I Misreading My Students’ Behaviour?’

    A Note From Our CEO: Thinking of Nepal

    Like many, my thoughts are with Nepal and the Nepalese people in the aftermath of the most recent devastating floods, with everyone with connections and loved ones in Nepal who have been caught up in the disaster, and with all those working to support one another.

    I know Kathmandu as a place of celebration and connection from arriving there two years ago, unintentionally in the midst of Holi. Nepal’s spiritual traditions, including those of the holy men, the Sadhus, whose presence is a distinctive part of the country’s cultural landscape, have been passed down through countless generations along with local knowledge. I was lucky to meet such people on my trip.

    With such devastation, local traditions are under increasing pressure. These traditions are part of humanity’s cultural heritage, infinitely precious, and also hold the keys to resilience and recovery.

    Peter Mousaferiadis, CEO & Founder


     6. Calendar Spotlight 

    Key dates across the world worth knowing about, and marking on your own calendar.

    Dashain | 11 To 21 October 2026

    Nepal is home to many diverse groups, each with its own traditions, including more than 120 distinct language groups. Among the country’s many festivals, Dashain is one of the most widely celebrated.

    For many Nepalese people, Dashain is a time of reunion. Families come together, share food, exchange blessings and celebrate traditions passed down through generations.

    This year, as Dashain approaches, our thoughts are with those affected by the recent floods and with families who are grieving.

    Cultural Infusion invites you to experience some of Nepal’s traditions, music and cultural heritage through two of our programs:

    Thanks for reading! Keep connecting, be well, and see you next month!


    MORE:

    Cultural Infusion (CUIN)
    Address: Level 1, 1/105 Rupert St, Collingwood VIC 3066

    Cultural Infusion has its offices based on the ancestral land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We acknowledge and pay respect to the past, present and future traditional custodians and elders and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia.

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    VIC | VMC | TOURING | MFF tour heads to Peninsula Cinema in Rosebud | Saturday 17 October 2026

    [Edited extract from public address]

    The Multicultural Film (MFF) celebrates migrant and refugee stories through a series of short films that share experiences of multiculturalism in Australia.

    The next screening for the Multicultural Film Festival roadshow will be in Rosebud, Mornington Peninsula.  

    This event is delivered in partnership with Swinburne University of Technology, SBS and the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council.


    MORE:

    Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)
    Address: Level 6, 121 Exhibition Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

    VMC acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country and pay our respect to them, their culture and their Elders past and present.

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    CoPP | PPLS | TUTORING | Free at the Emerald Hill Library | Weekly, Thursday evenings during school terms | 6-7.30pm

    [Edited extract from public address]

    The Emerald Hill Library runs free tutoring sessions for primary school children from grade 3 to grade 6. 

    The sessions run from 6 pm to 7.30 pm on Thursday evenings during school terms. Volunteer tutors provide one-on-one assistance with different aspects of schoolwork, including Math's, English, Science and school projects around topics such as history, geography, social issues etc.  

    We currently have a number of vacant places for students who would like to attend these tutoring sessions on Thursday evenings. 

    If you would like your child to enjoy the benefits of extra one-on-one tutoring, please contact Peter Conlon on 9209 6611 or email.


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    Port Phillip Library Service (PPLS)
    City of Port Phillip
    Address: 99a Carlisle Street, St Kilda, VIC 3182 Australia
    Telephone: 03 9209 6655

    City of Port Phillip Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the people of the Kulin Nations. ​We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present. We acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.

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    MELBOURNE | AELA | GATHERING | Many Faiths, One Planet – Together, Caring for our Common Home | Saturday 3 October 2026 | 8.30am-5pm

    [Edited extract from public address]

    Join us for a 1-Day Conference celebrating how the living world brings us together in faith, and in care.

    The Earth is crying out to us. We read reports of species becoming extinct and ecosystems under attack. It is easy to lose hope when confronted by the Biodiversity crisis before us. And none of us can face the challenges alone.

    In October, people from diverse faith groups, cultures and ecological sciences will meet in Melbourne to hear the cry of the Earth. We will listen, learn, reflect and grow in ecological consciousness together. 

    We come together because Australia's unique biodiversity matters. Together we will discover ways people of faith and the sciences collaborate to protect species and ecosystems before they disappear.


     Conference Speakers 

    Sherry Balcombe-Maloney | Finding Our Place On Country

    Many people have not had the opportunity to hear what First Nations people mean when they talk about Country. As a First Nations descendant, Sherry will open us up to a greater sense of what connecting to Country means — what it REALLY means in time, place, spirituality and relationship, especially for those of us who are disconnected from the natural world. 

    Sherry is an Olkola / Mularidji woman from Far North Queensland. Born in Narrm, she has an extensive experience in Social Justice with a faith-based approach, and has enjoyed numerous roles within the community including Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency, visiting First Nations youth in detention, Aboriginal Catholic Ministry for 20 years. She is a currently State Representative for NATSICC, board member of Jesuit Social Services, Aboriginal Visitor to Aboriginal community at Thomas Embling Hospital, cross cultural Educator, Story Teller with Djirra (Abororiginal women’s support service), and Aboriginal Heritage Walk tour guide at the Royal Botanical Gardens. Sherry also contributed to the book, "An Urgent Call: Laudato Si' and Indigenous Wisdom in Oceania", recently published by the Vatican.
     

    Prof Sarah Bekessy | Locating Ourselves In The Ecosystem

    Humans have the tendency to see Nature as a resource, and not something we are a part of. Australia is one of the most mega-biodiverse places on Earth and yet we have the highest rate of biodiversity loss in the developed world. Sarah will give a brief overview of what is causing this loss of our unique biodiversity and present some ways we can all care for it in the urban environment — together! 

    Sarah leads the ICON Science research group which uses interdisciplinary approaches to solve complex biodiversity conservation problems. She is particularly interested in understanding the role of human behaviour in conservation, in designing cities to encourage ‘every day nature’ experiences and in defining and measuring ‘nature positive’ development. Sarah is a Lead Councillor with The Biodiversity Council, which she helped to establish "to be a trusted, expert voice communicating accurate information on all aspects of biodiversity to the Australian people, to ensure biodiversity and Country prosper." She is Honorary Professor at RMIT University, and 2020 Winner of the City of Melbourne Design Challenge.


    Dr Michelle Maloney | Growing New Ways Of Being

    'Tinkering with the edges' is not enough, because the current systems have led us to this crisis point. We have become disconnected from the natural world. Michelle will speak on what Thomas Berry called the task of this century: "to carry out the transition from a period of human devastation of the Earth to a period when humans would be present to the planet in a mutually beneficial manner.” How can we understand our ecosystems and bioregions, and grow in our ecological consciousness for the care of our common home?

    Michelle manages the strategic direction and governance of the Australian Earth Laws Alliance (AELA), designs and manages AELA programs and events, and coordinates the work of staff, volunteers and collaborative networks. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (political science and history) and Bachelor of Laws (Hons) from the Australian National University, and an PhD in environmental regulation, from the Griffith Law Futures Centre. Michelle is also the Co-Founder and Director of Future Dreaming Australia; Adjunct Fellow, Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), and a member of the Advisory Council, Global Alliance for the Rights of Nature. She lives near Brisbane, Australia with her family and Ziggy the Wonderdog.


    Andrew Skeoch | Deep Listening To Nature

    In the attention economy, those with the loudest voice wins. How has the Earth been speaking to us? Can we learn to better listen to even the small voices? Andrew Skeoch will open our hearts and minds to deep listening in the natural world using some of the sounds he has recorded here and around the world, and share with us what he has learned about human behaviour from many years of listening and observing the more than human life.  

    Andrew is an educator, author, naturalist, environmental thinker, and one of Australia's best-known nature sound recordists. Over the last thirty years, he has documented the sounds of wild environments around the planet, and through his label, Listening Earth, published over one hundred recordings featuring habitats from most continents, attracting Spotify streaming figures in the many tens of thousands a week. His recordings are featured in the audio installation at Sydney Wildlife World, feature films, including Peter Gabriel's soundtrack to Phillip Noyce's 'Rabbit Proof Fence', and Disney's 2016 remake of 'The Jungle Book'. Andrew is a TEDx speaker and President of the Australian Wildlife Sound Recording Group.
     
    Early Bird Pricing extended till August 10th, BOOK NOW!
    Please register for the conference as soon as possible.

    Space is limited.
      
    Families welcome. Please contact us if you have any special needs.

    We aim to create a safe and inclusive space for people from all cultural backgrounds, and beliefs.

    Post-Conference Dinner Tickets will be available here closer to the conference, please keep an eye out for details
     
    Hosted by The Australian Earth Laws Alliance (AELA) and the Faith Ecology Network (FEN)
      
    Early Bird Tickets until Monday 10 August 2026
      • Waged: $120
      • Concession/Unwaged/Students: $80
      • Children under 18 attend free. 
    Prices From Tuesday 11 August 2026
      • Waged: $140
      • Concession/Unwaged/Students: $95
      • Children under 18 attend free. 
    • Bookings: online via Trybooking

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    Australian Earth Laws Alliance (AELA)

    The Australian Earth Laws Alliance acknowledges that the sovereignty of the First Nations People of the continent now known as Australia was never ceded by treaty nor in any other way. AELA acknowledges and respects First Nations Peoples’ laws and ecologically sustainable custodianship of Australia over tens of thousands of years through land and sea management practices that continue today.
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    VIC | VMC | UPDATING | Community, News and Information | Wednesday 9 September 2026

    [Edited extract from public address]

    From Community Voices to Collective Action

    I am excited to begin this update by sharing an important milestone for Victoria's multicultural and multifaith communities. The Multicultural Victoria Amendment (Multicultural and Multifaith Victoria) Bill 2026 has now passed parliament. 

    From 1 October 2026, the Victorian Multicultural Commission and Multicultural Affairs will merge to form a new independent entity, Multicultural and Multifaith Victoria. This marks a significant step forward in how the Victorian Government engages with multicultural and multifaith Victorians, recognising the invaluable social, cultural and economic contributions that communities make to our state every day. 
    As we look ahead to this new chapter, I have been reminded over recent weeks of the strength, resilience and diversity that continue to define communities across Victoria. 

    On Monday 31 August, the Victorian Multicultural Commission joined Victoria’s Nepali community at a candlelight vigil, standing together in support and solidarity following the devastating floods in Nepal. The floods have brought immense loss and suffering to many families and communities. Our thoughts remain with those who have lost loved ones, and with everyone continuing to recover from this tragedy.

    This sense of connection was also present at the South Sudanese Women's Conference, where I joined women leaders, advocates and community members from Victoria. The conference highlighted the power of unity and collaboration, demonstrating how shared experiences can inspire collective action. When our communities feel empowered, we can create inclusive, culturally responsive solutions that are grounded in lived experience.

    The VMC partnered recently with Blacksand Pictures to consult with members of Victoria’s African Australian community on media representation and storytelling. This work completes the recent release of Tastes of Africa (EP1, 16 mins), a new three-part online documentary series celebrating Melbourne’s African communities. I encourage you to view the series and learn more about the rich contribution our African communities make to Victoria.

    Storytelling sits at the heart of the Multicultural Film Festival, an annual celebration of diversity through film. The festival kicks off on Friday 18 September at St Arnaud Community Cinema at 4.30pm. I hope to see you there. 

    Finally, the Multicultural Business Skills Fund Grant Program has opened! This Program will support business associations to educate, inform and upskill multicultural small business owners and their staff, enable business and operational improvements, and build connections across Victoria’s multicultural businesses. Applications are due by Monday 28 September 2026 and I encourage eligible organisations to consider applying.

    I look forward to meeting and engaging with many more of you, hearing your stories and learning about the work occurring across Victoria’s communities.

    Warm regards,
    Louise Perry, Chairperson

     

     News and events 

    STREAMING | Highlights from the Premier's Multicultural Gala Dinner

    This year's theme at the Premier's Multicultural Gala Dinner, Stories of Us, celebrated the people, cultures and experiences that enrich Victoria's multicultural community.

    The event captured the spirit and the stories that continue to shape multicultural and multifaith communities in Victoria. Watch the video, share it with your networks and we hope to see you there next year. 

    Thank you to our community partners, sponsors and attendees for your support and we look forward to working together in the future! 

    TOURING | Multicultural Film Festival to St Arnaud Community Cinema 

    Tickets for the Multicultural Film Festival Tour screening in St Arnaud, situated in the Northern Grampians Shire, are on sale now!

    The Multicultural Film (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 Northern Grampians Shire Council. 
     

    VIC | GOV | GRANTING | Skills Fund Grant Program

    Grants of $5,000 are available for business associations to help multicultural small business owners and their workers build their business skills. The funding can be used to deliver projects that provide business advice, training and mentorship. 

    Eligible activities include training, short courses, and facilitated business learning, such as in-person workshops and online webinars, information sharing including in-language resource development and business mentoring.

    The Multicultural Business Skills Fund is an initiative under the Victorian Government's Supporting our multicultural Traders and Precincts commitment. 

    WATCHING | The Tastes of Africa

    Tastes of Africa, a new three-part YouTube series hosted by journalist and filmmaker Santilla Chingaipe, explores the food, culture and stories of Melbourne's African-Australian community. The show is created and produced by Kauthar Abdulalim of Blacksand Pictures, written and directed by Rendah Haj and edited by Kalu Oji. Kauthar, Rendah and Santilla's perspectives have been central to shaping the creative approach and tone of the series.

    While the series explores food, it captures the migration, memory, belonging and the survival stories behind these dishes. African food in Australia is evolving alongside new generations and communities, and this engaging documentary series showcases this. It is free to watch on YouTube.

    VIC | GOV | REMINDING | Half price and contactless travel

    Public transport in Victoria is half price for all passengers until 1 January 2027.

    Transport Victoria 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.
     

    UPCOMING | Leadership Exchange event

    CALD2LEAD is a not for profit that support CALD women in their leadership and board journeys. 

    CALD2LEAD are hosting an event on Friday 18 September at 5.30pm on Leading with Confidence: Finding your Voice. The event will bring together CALD community members for an interactive evening of leadership, connection and inspiration. 
     

    MORE:

    Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)
    Address: Level 6, 121 Exhibition Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

    VMC acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country and pay our respect to them, their culture and their Elders past and present.

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