Faith and community leaders came together at Parliament House on Friday, 11 April, to take part in a Peace Forum aimed at building social cohesion across Victoria through interfaith understanding.
The event, hosted by the Victorian Multicultural Commission’s Multifaith Advisory Group (MAG), brought together voices from a range of spiritual and civic traditions, highlighting a shared commitment to cultivating compassion and mutual respect across communities.
Backed by the Monash Centre for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies, the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture, and Calm in the City, the forum focused on the power of inner peace and reflection as a foundation for broader social harmony.
Speakers at the event shared their experiences of navigating tensions and building bridges across faith and cultural divides. Many noted that while global events can spark anxiety or division, local initiatives such as this offer a reminder that solidarity often begins with quiet listening and personal connection.
MAG members reiterated that diversity across religious and spiritual traditions need not be a source of friction, but a resource for resilience. “It starts with understanding – not tolerance, but genuine understanding,” one participant noted. “Only then can trust take root.”
Victoria’s multicultural identity was at the heart of the forum’s message, with leaders pointing to the state’s long history of inclusion, as well as the need to continually renew that commitment in the face of change.
There was wide recognition that community partnerships – including schools, councils, and cultural organisations – all have a role to play in promoting peace. Many attendees left with the sense that while the work is ongoing, the willingness to engage across differences remains strong.
Organisers expressed appreciation for the broad support the forum received and noted that this was part of a continuing series of conversations across the state.
The Peace Forum highlighted a belief shared by many in the room: that fostering a more inclusive Victoria starts not with policy, but with people willing to come together, share space, and listen.
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🙏 Victoria’s Multifaith Advisory Group hosted a Peace Forum at Parliament House, promoting interfaith unity & social cohesion. 🌍 Leaders emphasised understanding & local partnerships to strengthen community bonds. #TheIndianSun @VivNguyenVMChttps://t.co/6rAU3scIlJ
— The Indian Sun (@The_Indian_Sun) April 11, 2025
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