The Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria (ECCV) has welcomed the Allan Government’s plan to create Multicultural Victoria, a statutory body that will combine the roles of the Victorian Multicultural Commission and the Office of Multicultural Affairs.
The reform stems from the Victorian Multicultural Review, led by George Lekakis AO, which made 41 recommendations after consultations with more than 640 Victorians and 150 peak bodies and community groups. The Review pointed to an erosion of trust in government institutions, noting that “building social cohesion and restoring trust will require ongoing effort, cultural competence within institutions, and a clear dedication to collaborating with Victoria’s multicultural and multifaith communities.”
Multicultural Victoria will be chaired by an independent Multicultural Coordinator General, supported by two deputies and a five-member advisory council. It is expected to begin operating next year.
ECCV Chairperson Abiola Akinbiyi said the development of a whole-of-government multicultural strategy, announced as part of the reforms, was a breakthrough.
“The development of a new strategy must be informed by migrant and refugee communities to ensure that lived experiences, community voices and aspirations are reflected in the plan,” she said.
“An overarching strategy will certainly help guide government departments to better meet the needs of our diverse communities, especially in challenging times.”
ECCV CEO Farah Farouque highlighted the credibility of the review process.
“The Review’s extensive community consultations—including contributions from more than 640 Victorians and 150 peak bodies and community groups—adds to its credibility,’’ she said.
“ECCV commends the detailed work undertaken by Mr Lekakis and his advisory group in finalising the Review. It lays strong foundations for Government to shape Victoria’s multicultural future.’’
Other measures announced include recognition of language services as an essential service, a new $5 million fund to build capacity in multicultural organisations, extra funding to boost visits to multicultural museums, and stronger recognition of the needs of regional communities.
The ECCV said these steps, along with the creation of Multicultural Victoria, marked an important opportunity to rebuild trust and strengthen the role of multiculturalism in the state.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
