Around 350 people from dozens of nationalities gathered at Parliament House for the 2025 Multicultural Community Reception, marking one of the highlights of Multicultural Queensland Month. Premier David Crisafulli used the occasion to thank communities across the state for their contributions and to encourage them to celebrate their heritage while embracing life in Queensland.
Reflecting on his own family history, the Premier recalled his grandfather’s journey from Italy to Ingham, where he cut sugar cane in physically demanding conditions before bringing his family to join him. “We as a state are better because of the sacrifices you made,” he said. “When you bring your culture, events, and connection to your homeland—you make Queensland better. Thank you for what you do in welcoming people to the best part of the best country in the world.”
The theme of this year’s Multicultural Queensland Month is “one Queensland, many stories”, underlining the role of migration in shaping the state’s social fabric. More than one in five Queenslanders were born overseas, with connections to over 220 countries and territories. Households across the state speak more than 190 languages and practise over 110 religions.
Minister for Multiculturalism Fiona Simpson said the gathering was a chance to recognise both long-established and emerging communities. “We, as a state, are better when we come together and celebrate our diverse stories,” she said. “We are stronger when we help each other to overcome the barriers preventing full participation in every aspect of our great state. From our First Peoples with their oldest continuous living culture, to the emerging migrant communities settling in our state for a better life—the Crisafulli LNP Government is steadfast in our commitment to a fair, prosperous, and inclusive Queensland.”
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