The Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence are back for their 24th year, with nominations now open to recognise those shaping a more inclusive state through leadership, compassion, and everyday service. Whether through mentoring youth, creating cultural platforms, or quietly breaking barriers, individuals and organisations across Victoria are being invited to step into the spotlight.
Announced by Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt on Monday, the 2025 awards will honour both paid and volunteer contributions that support a fairer, more welcoming Victoria. The initiative is led by the Allan Labor Government in partnership with the Victorian Multicultural Commission.
“Victoria’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths,” said Minister Stitt. “These awards are about recognising the people and organisations who work every day to make our communities stronger, fairer and more connected.”
The awards are open across 14 categories including Arts, Business and Employment, Youth Leadership, Emergency Services, Mental Health and Wellbeing, and the Premier’s Award for Community Harmony.
Among last year’s recipients were:
- Rasha Abbas, who received the Refugee Leadership Award for her advocacy on behalf of Palestinian and vulnerable migrant communities.
- Sotiris Hatzimanolis, who won the Media Award for steering Neos Kosmos through a successful bilingual transition and promoting Greek-Australian journalism.
- Ali Agha Wali Zada, who earned the Youth Leadership Award for championing mental health awareness among young people from diverse backgrounds.
Chair of the Victorian Multicultural Commission, Vivienne Nguyen AM, said the awards reveal a quiet but powerful network of leaders across Victoria’s suburbs and regions.
“These awards highlight the remarkable people who are helping to shape a more inclusive Victoria,” said Nguyen. “Their efforts are often quiet, but their impact is profound. If you know someone making a difference in their community, I encourage you to nominate them and help us tell their story.”
The nomination period runs until 11.59 pm on 27 August 2025. Judging will take place during September and October, with the winners to be announced at an awards ceremony later in the year.
Key dates:
- Nominations open: 21 July 2025
- Nominations close: 27 August 2025
- Judging period: September – October 2025
- Winners announced: October 2025
- Awards ceremony: Late 2025
For more information or to submit a nomination, visit multiculturalcommission.vic.gov.au.
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