Dandenong’s iconic Little India, Victoria’s first and only Indian cultural precinct, is under threat as traders face forced eviction after over three decades of serving the community.
The traders, who have long provided authentic Indian food, textiles, fashion, retail, and groceries, are now appealing for public support to save the precinct.
Hitesh Shah, President of Little India Traders, expressed the gravity of the situation, saying, “The eviction is a devastating blow to our community. After surviving the challenges of COVID, rising interest rates, and the high cost of living, we are now being asked to leave the place we’ve called home for so many years.”
More than 100 families connected to Little India traders risk losing their homes and livelihoods if the eviction proceeds. The traders and their supporters are urging the community to come together to preserve this cultural hub.
“We’re not just talking about businesses; we’re talking about people’s lives. Families depend on these shops for their survival,” Shah emphasised. “We need to stand united to save Little India.”
A rally is planned for Tuesday, 27 August, at the corner of Mason Street and Foster Street at 11 a.m., where the community will voice their concerns. The traders are hoping to send a clear message to the Victorian Government ahead of the state election on 28 November 2026.
Among the pressing questions the traders are raising:
- When will the traders need to vacate and relocate?
- Who will compensate them for business losses during the relocation period?
- Who will cover the costs of relocation?
- If the temporary location leads to a loss of customers or staff difficulties, will the Victorian Government provide compensation?
- Will the Little India traders be able to pay the same rental rates at the new premises as they do currently?
- What will the rent be once the construction of the Little India Precinct is completed?
- Will the Government subsidize 50% of the rent for a couple of years before the full rent comes into effect?
- Will the Victorian Government cover the costs of relocation again in the future?
- Is the Government aware that some traders have taken out business loans and mortgaged their properties to survive after COVID, while the cost of living continues to rise?
“It is incredibly disappointing that, after 18 years of dedication, our traders are now facing such uncertainty due to government neglect,” Shah said.
The community’s support will be crucial in the coming weeks as Little India traders fight to keep their businesses and cultural identity intact. “It is incredibly disappointing that, after 18 years of dedication, our traders are now facing such uncertainty due to government neglect,” Shah said.
The community’s support will be crucial in the coming weeks as Little India traders fight to keep their businesses and cultural identity intact.
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