Nominations have opened for the 2026 Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence, with the Victorian Government calling for recognition of individuals and organisations supporting multicultural communities across the state.
Announcing the awards on Thursday, Ingrid Stitt said the annual program recognised Victorians helping strengthen social inclusion and multiculturalism.
The awards, organised by the Victorian Multicultural Commission, are now in their 25th year and feature 13 categories including Arts and Culture, Business and Employment, the Multicultural Honour Roll and the Premier’s Award for Intercultural Connection.
“Victoria’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths and we should always celebrate the people who are working tirelessly to build a united, more inclusive Victoria,” Ms Stitt said.
“If you know a Victorian who has made a contribution – I encourage you to nominate them for an award.”
The awards have previously recognised community advocates, councils, youth leaders and multicultural organisations working across Victoria.
Among the 2025 recipients was Dellaram Vreeland, who received the Media Award for work across print and digital media. Greater Shepparton City Council received the Local Government Award for partnerships with multicultural organisations focused on community resilience.
Other recipients included Yuwaluxshayan Kannan, who was recognised with the Refugee Young Leader Award for work supporting refugee youth through mentoring, advocacy and school leadership, and COOK4CALD, which received the Youth Leadership Award for culturally inclusive meal programs addressing food insecurity in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs.
Vivienne Nguyen said the awards played a role in highlighting work taking place across Victoria’s multicultural communities.
“The tireless work of organisations and individuals creating an inclusive and prosperous Victoria deserves recognition, advocacy and celebration. Seize the opportunity to nominate remarkable initiatives and programs that ensure our diverse communities are supported and connected.”
Nominations close at 11:59pm on 13 July 2026, with winners and inductees to be recognised at a ceremony at Government House in October.
Further information about the Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence is available through the Victorian Multicultural Commission.
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