Victorian Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt is encouraging all multicultural and multifaith communities to take part in the consultation process. Photo: Ingrid Stitt Facebook.
Victorian Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt has announced a period of community consultations for Victoria’s Multicultural Review.
The process has seen the establishment of an advisory group which will engage multicultural communities across 10 regional and metropolitan local government areas. The advisory group will conduct discussions and workshops to hear directly from multicultural Victorians about how the government can tackle discrimination, build social cohesion, and foster a more inclusive Victoria.
The review is being led by George Lekakis, with support from a targeted advisory group including Hass Dellal, Carmel Guerra, Miriam Suss, and Mark Duckworth.
It will ultimately recommend how the government can strengthen systems, organisations and policies to better resolve conflict, foster connection and celebrate the diversity of the state’s multicultural and multifaith communities.
The government says that, as important steps are undertaken through a new anti-racism strategy and the Anti-Vilification and Social Cohesion Bill which was recently enshrined in law, it is critical that multicultural organisations have the support they need to strengthen inclusion and unity across all communities, especially those that are new and emerging.
Minister Stitt said Victoria’s multiculturalism was one of the most precious parts of the state.
“It’s essential that our systems actively support inclusion, tackle discrimination and bring communities together,” she said.
“We encourage all multicultural and multifaith communities to take part in this consultation process – your voices are integral in shaping the future of Victoria’s multicultural policies and programs.”
Mr Lekakis added, “As someone who has dedicated my life to advocating for the rights and inclusion of multicultural communities, leading Victoria’s Multicultural Review is not just a responsibility – it’s a deeply personal mission.
“This work is about ensuring every Victorian is included, valued, and can access government services. It’s about building a future where our diversity is not just acknowledged but celebrated as a strength.”
Information on where and when consultations will take place and how to participate is available here.
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