Victoria’s largest annual celebration of multiculturalism will return later this month, with Cultural Diversity Week set to run across the state from 21 to 29 March.
Community leaders gathered in East Melbourne on 12 March to mark the start of the countdown to the 2026 celebrations. Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs Iwan Walters joined Victorian Multicultural Commission Chair Vivienne Nguyen for the launch at the Simpson Street tram siding.
A specially decorated Cultural Diversity Week E-Class tram formed the centrepiece of the event, reflecting Victoria’s multicultural communities and their shared journeys. The tram was created through a partnership between Yarra Trams and the Department of Transport and Planning and is already operating across Melbourne’s tram network.
Presented by the Victorian Multicultural Commission, the week will feature a wide range of cultural activities, performances and community events across the state under the theme “Culture connects us all”.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt said the event brings communities together to recognise the state’s cultural heritage.
“Cultural Diversity Week is an opportunity for all Victorians to celebrate our collective heritage and the diversity that makes Victoria such a vibrant and dynamic state. It is a time to acknowledge that our diversity is our greatest strength.”
Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs Iwan Walters said the theme highlights the role of shared stories in building community understanding.
“This year’s theme, Culture connects us all, highlights how sharing stories and experiences fosters understanding and belonging. I encourage all Victorians to get on board and celebrate Cultural Diversity Week and the many cultures that make up our vibrant state.”
The week will conclude with the Victorian Multicultural Festival, a three-day event scheduled from 27 to 29 March at Grazeland in Spotswood. The festival will feature music, dance, food and cultural performances from across Victoria’s communities.
Victorian Multicultural Commission Chair Vivienne Nguyen said the program encourages people to engage with cultures beyond their own.
“Culture is a living, breathing source of joy and purpose. We invite every Victorian to enter someone else’s world this week, whether through a conversation on a tram or a meal at the festival at Grazeland.”
Victorians are invited to host or attend community events during the week and share stories through a digital campaign organised as part of the statewide program.
Cultural Diversity Week coincides with Harmony Day and the United Nations Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on 21 March.
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