The annual IndiaFest in Townsville, once at risk of cancellation due to a funding shortfall, will go ahead this August thanks to a $25,000 pledge from Queensland’s new Premier, David Crisafulli. The City Council had earlier halved its support, slashing its contribution from $50,000 to $25,000—a cut that threw the multicultural celebration into uncertainty. The intervention from the state government now plugs the gap.
Fiona Simpson MP, Queensland’s Minister for Multiculturalism, confirmed the announcement via social media, crediting the move as a win for multicultural Queensland and community cohesion. She also highlighted her meeting with organisers Nick Attam, Binu Jacob and Professor Mohan Jacob during the Community Cabinet visit to Townsville last month.
IndiaFest, one of North Queensland’s best-attended cultural festivals, has grown over the years into a major community event, showcasing food, music, dance, and traditions from across India. Last year’s edition attracted thousands of attendees and dozens of stallholders—not just from the Indian diaspora but the wider Townsville community.
According to Ms Simpson, this year’s event was “under threat of falling over at short notice,” until the Premier’s personal announcement secured its future. “We’re delighted to help build bridges of connection, social cohesion and celebration with our new Queenslanders who work in our hospitals, small businesses, schools and service sector,” she said.
The move carries political weight too. With Queensland heading towards an election, Crisafulli’s Liberal National Party has been eager to highlight its engagement with diverse communities. The photograph accompanying the announcement—featuring the Premier flanked by IndiaFest organisers in saffron, white and green scarves—is doing brisk rounds on WhatsApp and Facebook.
For the local Indian community, the gesture has struck an emotional chord. Organisers called it a “proud moment” and thanked every volunteer and supporter behind the scenes. “The Premier of Queensland himself acknowledged our efforts and announced a generous $25,000 contribution in support of our festival. His words were full of praise for the Indian community in Townsville, recognising the passion and commitment behind this incredible event,” the group wrote in a post.
The decision also highlights a broader issue—the growing dependence of multicultural events on both civic and state-level funding. As cost pressures rise, many festivals across Australia face similar dilemmas: balancing community participation with budget uncertainties. While IndiaFest Townsville has found its lifeline for 2025, others may not be as fortunate.
That makes this intervention more than just a lifebuoy—it’s a message. That when communities build, governments can back them. The result, at least this time, is a festival saved, and a community heard.
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