The 2026 Premier’s Harmony Dinner, held on March 26 in Sydney, celebrated multicultural leaders through awards and performances, drawing more than 1,600 attendees. Hosted by Premier Chris Minns and Minister Steve Kamper at ICC Sydney’s Grand Ballroom, the event highlighted the valuable contributions of communities across NSW to inclusion and unity.
The evening featured a three-course meal, live entertainment, and networking opportunities. MCs Janice Petersen and Adam Liaw guided the program, which opened with a Welcome to Country by Uncle Brendan Kerin and a performance of the national anthem by the Federation Children’s Choir. Entertainment included CHUTNEY’s Bondi tribute, HALO Vocal Ensemble, Cle Morgan, and DJ LaVida’s after-party set.
A moving tribute honoured the victims of the recent Bondi tragedy, including an on-stage interview with hero Ahmed Al Ahmed and Coordinator General Joseph La Posta. Premier Minns also launched the new Multicultural Honour Roll, recognising figures such as Father Chris Riley AM, Ali Karnib, and Syed Atiq ul Hassan for their lifelong impact. The event also promoted initiatives such as “One Mitzvah for Bondi,” encouraging acts of kindness and community solidarity.
Now in its 15th year and the largest edition yet, the dinner reflected NSW’s diversity and the strength of its multicultural communities. Supported by sponsors including CommBank and SBS, it reinforced social cohesion in the wake of the Bondi tragedy while celebrating cultural richness.
The evening showcased outstanding community leadership through the announcement of 13 Multicultural Community Medals and new inductees to the NSW Multicultural Honour Roll. Ahmed Al Ahmed, recognised for his bravery during the Bondi attack, received a Community Hero Award for his selfless actions. A dedicated tribute also honoured the 15 lives lost in the December tragedy.
Among the award recipients were three Indian-origin winners:
- Gargi Ganguly, Chairperson of Orana Residents of Indian Subcontinental Nations (ORISCON), won the Regional Unity Medal for her work in making Dubbo a thriving multicultural hub through initiatives such as the Cross-Cultural Carnivale.
- Khushee Gupta received the Best Report in Multicultural Media award for her podcast Don’t Talk Back, which explores issues affecting younger South Asians and has attracted more than 37,000 YouTube views in its latest season.
- Indian Link won Multicultural Publication of the Year.
Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said: “The Multicultural Medals recognizes the individuals and organisations who quietly make an extraordinary difference in our communities. Their dedication really does enrich the lives of people across New South Wales. They are also a reminder that the social capital that makes our state so strong is built every day – through conversations, connection and the coming together of people from many cultures and faiths. My heartfelt congratulations to all the winners. You are champions for a harmonious and inclusive NSW.”
From Bondi to beyond, 2026 Harmony Dinner saluted NSW’s inclusive spirit and harmony.
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