Over the past weeks, we've seen multiculturalism take centre stage at the FIFA World Cup.
Spain may have lifted the trophy, but the Socceroos gave Australians plenty to be proud of. The Australian national team represents at least 15 cultural and ethnic backgrounds, including three players who were either born in or spent part of their childhood in, refugee camps in Africa before building new lives in Australia, and another who arrived as a refugee from Europe as a child.
Their story mirrors our nation, where almost one in three Australians are born overseas, and just over half of the population was either born overseas or has at least one parent born overseas.
At a time when migration is once again the subject of public debate and misinformation, the World Cup is a timely reminder that diversity is a strength to be celebrated, not feared.
Here at Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV), we've continued working with multicultural communities across Victoria as we prepare for the State Election later this year. Read on for the latest updates from across our work.
News & Updates
IDENTIFYING | Community priorities
Each year ECCV conducts an annual members' survey to identify community priorities. In the last three months we have also spoken to more than 350 culturally diverse Victorians as part of community consultations across the state. This included community forums and roundtables held in Ballarat, Bendigo, Coburg, Craigieburn and Dandenong. This builds on work last year in Melbourne's west.
Participants highlighted racism and discrimination, mental health and wellbeing, cost-of-living pressures, access to services, and support for multicultural seniors as key concerns.
These priorities have helped inform ECCV's State Election Platform which will be released in the weeks ahead.
MARKING | Nelson Mandela Day
18 July marked Nelson Mandela International Day, a chance to reflect on the legacy and enduring values of the late South African leader and his lifelong pursuit of justice and equality.
ECCV CEO Farah Farouque was honoured to receive an Ubuntu Award for community service at an event and lecture hosted by the RMIT University Centre for African Engagement and the Nelson Mandela Day Australia committee. Farah was recognised alongside Rabecca Mphande, Dr Bruce Wong and Peter Uzande.
LISTENING | To multicultural communities on disability
Over the past few weeks, ECCV has been listening to multicultural communities to help shape the next State Disability Plan and Victorian Autism Plan.
Participants highlighted the need for better access to housing, more inclusive education, greater awareness of disability supports, culturally safe services, and stronger action to address racism, discrimination and social exclusion.
Consultations were organised in partnership with community leaders and key stakeholders, including Action on Disability within Ethnic Communities (ADEC), City of Hume, East African Women's Foundation, Migrant Resource Centre North West and Victorian Arabic Social Service.
"We need safe spaces where people with disability and carers can meet, socialise and feel culturally understood. Places where we belong, can share information and feel safe to talk." – Disability Consultation Participant
SHARING | 2026 Census: Information and Resources
The 2026 Census is on Tuesday 11 August. It is particularly important for multicultural communities to be accurately counted, including all visa holders and international students.
Census data helps governments, community groups and businesses plan services for people, families and communities. Your answers are private and protected by law and are not shared with other government agencies.
You can complete the Census online, on paper or with help from the Census team. In-language support is also available, with translated information and resources in 26 languages.
Opportunities & Resources
WYNDHAM | GOV | GRANTING | Wyndham City Community Strengthening
Wyndham City Council has a range of grants for activities in the area, including those undertaken by community organisations. Applications for large grants of up to $40,000 for community strengthening will close on 31 July 2026.
MELBOURNE | GOV | HEARING | Your say: shaping a new anti-racism project
The City of Melbourne and Victoria University are seeking input from people with lived experience of racism to help inform a new place-based anti-racism project.
- For more details contact kara.barnett@melbourne.vic.gov.au
AUST | GOV | ADVISING | AusAlert national test – Resources for multicultural communities
The Australian Government will test AusAlert, its new national emergency warning system at 2pm on Monday 27 July 2026.
Compatible mobile phones, tablets and smart watches will vibrate and play a loud siren-like sound for around 10 seconds, with a message clearly stating that it is a test. You do not need to take any action.
Resources are available to help communities prepare, including information for older people, people with disability and multicultural communities.
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Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria (ECCV)
Address: Suite 101, 398 Sydney Road, Coburg Vic 3058
Tel: (03) 9354 9555
ECCV acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Victoria, and pays respect to their Elders past and present.
