The Victorian Multicultural Commission has tabled its 2024–25 Annual Report in State Parliament, marking a year shaped by both challenge and collaboration. The report outlines achievements across policy, community engagement and cultural celebration, with the Commission reaffirming its role as a trusted bridge between government and Victoria’s multicultural and multifaith communities.
Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen AM said the year was defined by “trusted, respectful and candid relationships” with communities and government. She acknowledged that global conflicts had affected local harmony, but praised the Commission’s work in creating “safe spaces to listen and hold each other’s emotions and pain with care and empathy.”
The report highlights Victoria’s launch of its first Anti-Racism Strategy, alongside the federal Multicultural Framework Review and National Anti-Racism Framework. “Leaders from all walks of life must engage and re-engage to find a better path forward,” Nguyen said, adding that the VMC “hopes our work inspires others to champion inclusivity, embrace diversity, and continue to build a Victoria that is welcoming and vibrant for all.”
Across 2024–25, the Commission attended more than 600 community events, delivered 24 Regional Advisory Council meetings, and hosted flagship programs such as Cultural Diversity Week and the Victorian Multicultural Gala Dinner in Geelong, which brought together 500 community leaders. The Multicultural Film Festival received a record 1,275 submissions, and Cultural Diversity Week drew over 50,000 social media interactions and nearly 10,000 visitors to the Multicultural Festival at Grazeland.
Advocacy remained central to the VMC’s work. The Commission contributed to reviews and policy submissions on issues including anti-vilification laws, social cohesion, youth justice and multicultural participation in the public sector. It also partnered with the Premier and Minister for Multicultural Affairs to host an online forum on bail reform and anti-vilification laws. Through the Regional Advisory Forum, the VMC gathered community insights on mental health, housing, and family violence, later translating them into 18 policy recommendations for government consideration.
The VMC also led interfaith and youth initiatives through its Multifaith Advisory Group and Multicultural Youth Network, both of which played a key role in fostering peace, leadership and civic participation. The Multifaith Advisory Group’s “Peace Building through Contemplation, Compassion, and our Common Humanity” forum at Parliament brought together faith leaders and scholars to explore unity in times of division.
The report concludes with a message of gratitude to Minister Ingrid Stitt, community partners, media outlets, and sponsors whose support “enhanced impact and engagement across all aspects” of the VMC’s work. The Commission’s efforts, Nguyen said, continue to rest on a simple belief:
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