Indian Society of WA secures $500,000 boost for Diwali Mela

By Our Reporter
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WA Multicultural Interests Minister Dr Tony Buti with local author Pasan Ganegama. The WA Minister has announced $500,000 in State Government support for the Indian Society of WA’s Diwali Mela, part of a $900,000 package for multicultural festivals

Western Australia’s cultural calendar is set to shine over the coming months, with the State Government committing $900,000 to support three major community festivals.

The funding comes through the Office of Multicultural Interests’ Global Connections Through Local Events program, designed to highlight the traditions and contributions of diverse communities while creating economic and tourism benefits for the State.

Diwali Mela, hosted by the Indian Society of Western Australia, has secured the largest share of support, receiving $500,000. The two-day festival of lights will be staged at Langley Park on 4 and 5 October, promising music, dance, food, and performances by international artists.

The Australian Arab Festival, organised by the Australian Arab Association, will follow on 8 November at Burswood Park. Backed by $200,000, it will celebrate the cultures and contributions of Arab communities across WA with a program of entertainment and family-friendly activities.

Western Australian Africa Week, run by the Organisation of African Communities in WA, has also been granted $200,000. Dates for the event are expected to be confirmed soon.

Each festival will feature a business component, providing a platform for local enterprises from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to connect, showcase their work, and engage with wider audiences.

Multicultural Interests Minister Dr Tony Buti said the program would give these flagship events an extra boost. “I am proud the Global Connections Through Local Events program will boost these flagship cultural events and help them to shine even brighter for everyone to enjoy,” he said.

“These festivals support economic and tourism outcomes for the State, providing a platform for WA businesses and attracting international and interstate visitors through the star power of international artists. There is no better way to learn more about the traditions and contributions of our culturally diverse communities, than to experience it for yourself.”


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