Western Australia has long been celebrated for its diverse and vibrant community, and now, as the nominations for the 2025 Western Australian Multicultural Awards open, there is a golden opportunity to acknowledge those who have worked tirelessly to promote and support the state’s multicultural fabric. The awards, a key initiative from the Office of Multicultural Interests (OMI), aim to recognise individuals and organisations that have made outstanding contributions to the state’s culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) communities. These awards honour the unsung heroes behind Western Australia’s multiculturalism—those individuals and groups who play pivotal roles in fostering inclusivity, championing cultural diversity, and driving positive change within the community.
The Western Australian Multicultural Awards 2025 will feature 12 awards across 10 categories, allowing for broad recognition of those who have made an impact in various sectors. The public is encouraged to submit nominations for individuals and organisations that have gone above and beyond to support multiculturalism and enrich the lives of people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Past winners have been an impressive group of people who have shown remarkable dedication to their communities. From Olympian Peter Bol, to three-time Greg Norman medallist Minjee Lee, and renowned theatre-maker Jay Emmanuel, previous recipients of the awards have demonstrated how integral multiculturalism is to the vibrancy of Western Australia. These individuals have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also embodied the spirit of inclusivity and cultural celebration that these awards aim to recognise.
As the 2025 nomination process opens, Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister, Dr Tony Buti, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming recognition of multicultural advocates. He remarked on how crucial the awards are in highlighting those who work behind the scenes, tirelessly championing cultural diversity and strengthening communities. “I am thrilled to announce the opening of nominations for the Western Australian Multicultural Awards 2025,” said Minister Buti. “The awards celebrate the organisers, innovators, and role models that are the backbone of multiculturalism in Western Australia.”
He further emphasised the importance of community involvement, urging people from all corners of the state to nominate those who have made a lasting difference. “I urge everyone in Western Australia to consider the people they have seen supporting or promoting multiculturalism in Western Australia and nominate the individuals and organisations making an impact in our State,” he added.
In recognising the critical role that cultural diversity plays in shaping the social and economic landscape of the region, Minister Buti also highlighted the Cook Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening culturally diverse communities. “The Cook Government recognises cultural diversity as a cornerstone of our society, and the Western Australian Multicultural Awards give us the opportunity to honour those people whose work strengthens culturally diverse communities in our State.”
The 2025 awards provide an exciting platform for individuals and organisations who may not have received the recognition they deserve for their invaluable contributions. Nominees could come from all corners of the state—from grassroots community groups to large, influential organisations, each working to bridge gaps and enhance the quality of life for those within the CaLD communities. The open nature of the awards ensures that no one is overlooked, whether they have been involved in arts, sports, education, health, or business—each of these sectors plays an important role in Western Australia’s multicultural framework.
The importance of multiculturalism in Western Australia cannot be overstated. The state’s cultural diversity enriches not just its social fabric but also its economy and public life. As migration continues to shape the demographics of the region, Western Australia has become home to individuals from all corners of the globe, each bringing with them unique traditions, languages, and customs that contribute to the state’s cultural mosaic. By celebrating these contributions through the Multicultural Awards, the state acknowledges and nurtures the diversity that makes Western Australia an exciting and welcoming place to live.
The call for nominations also aligns with broader societal movements focused on greater inclusion and respect for diversity. The awards serve as a reminder of the shared values that unite people from all walks of life, regardless of their cultural background. They underscore the importance of creating spaces where every community feels seen, heard, and valued—a core tenet of multiculturalism in action.
As the 2025 awards approach, the nomination process invites individuals to take part in a state-wide effort to recognise the change-makers who continuously contribute to Western Australia’s multicultural vision. Whether it’s an inspiring community leader who goes out of their way to support newcomers, an organisation that actively promotes cultural awareness, or an individual who embodies the spirit of inclusivity, this is an opportunity to give them the public recognition they deserve.
The deadline for nominations is 11.59pm on Sunday, 19 January 2025, giving everyone ample time to nominate those who have made a significant impact on multiculturalism in Western Australia. Information on how to submit nominations can be found on the OMI website, where individuals and organisations can also find details about the various award categories.
The upcoming Western Australian Multicultural Awards represent a vital occasion to reflect on and celebrate the multicultural community that has helped shape the state into what it is today. As we look to the future, these awards continue to be an essential part of the conversation about diversity and inclusivity. The more nominations we receive, the more we collectively contribute to acknowledging the immense value that every cultural community brings to Western Australia.
So, whether you are a member of the CaLD community, a supporter of multiculturalism, or simply someone who has seen firsthand the impact of an individual or organisation in your life, don’t miss the opportunity to nominate them for the 2025 awards. By recognising the efforts of these tireless advocates for cultural diversity, we can continue to build a stronger, more vibrant Western Australia for future generations.
As the state prepares to honour its multicultural champions, the 2025 Western Australian Multicultural Awards will undoubtedly serve as a significant moment of reflection, recognition, and celebration of the incredible contributions that have shaped and continue to shape the fabric of Western Australia’s society.