The Allan Labor Government has opened up applications for the 2024-25 Multicultural Media Grants, offering up to $25,000 to support multicultural media organisations across Victoria. These grants aim to help media outlets that reflect the diverse voices of Victoria’s communities, offering vital information and capturing local stories.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt highlighted the importance of multicultural media in keeping communities informed and connected. The grants will assist organisations with costs related to production, equipment upgrades, and volunteer training, allowing them to broaden their reach and improve their services.
Previous recipients of the grants have seen tangible benefits. Africa Media Australia, based in Wyndham, used their funding to train contributors in digital storytelling, helping them grow their audience in Melbourne’s western suburbs. Similarly, Dunya Turkish Newspaper in Hume upgraded their equipment to improve content quality for the Turkish-speaking community. In Mildura, Sunraysia Community Radio Association expanded its volunteer base, enabling more members from multicultural backgrounds to host their own shows.
Since 2014, more than $4.4 million has been invested by the Labor Government to support over 100 multicultural media outlets. The program continues to be a lifeline for community-driven news, ensuring that Victoria’s many cultures remain represented and heard.
Applications for the grants opened on 11 October 2024 and will close on 8 November 2024. More information can be found on the Victorian Government website.
Minister Ingrid Stitt emphasised, “This investment helps our multicultural media organisations to continue their role in amplifying the voices, stories, and experiences of our vibrant state.”
The grants serve as a recognition of the vital role multicultural media plays in community cohesion and cultural representation, ensuring that diverse communities continue to have access to the news and information they need.
For more information and to apply, visit vic.gov.au/multicultural-
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
