The Allan Labor Government continues to support Victoria's vibrant calendar of multicultural festivals and events, by supporting our communities to celebrate and share culture and traditions through the Multicultural Festivals and Events Program (MFE).
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt today announced that 147 organisations will share in over $1.1 million in funding to deliver multicultural events across metropolitan and regional Victoria from January to March 2025.
The Multicultural Festivals and Events (MFE) Program and the Regional Multicultural Festivals and Events grant programs ensures Victoria's multicultural communities can celebrate and preserve traditions in meaningful ways while showcasing the vibrancy of Victoria's multiculturalism to the wider community.
A recipient of the MFE program is The Bell Street Mall Traders Association, who will be organising Iftar in the Mall and Beyond, allowing anyone interested to gather and enjoy a delicious buffet halal meal.
Sunraysia Indian Association, a recipient of the Regional MFE, will deliver Holi Mela Festival of Colours, which celebrates the triumph of good over evil and the changing of the seasons.
Organisations receiving funding through this round of funding represent the diverse cultural landscape of Victoria, with over 90 ethnicities and 70 faith groups represented through this round of grants.
Since 2014, the Labor Government has invested more than $41 million to deliver close to 10,000 multicultural festivals and events across the state.
Previous recipients include Africare Community Services for the AfriVibes in Wodonga Festival 2024, a celebration of art, craft, food and performance held in August.
The Australia Mission of Sai Inc. received funding for the inaugural Kingston Diwali, and the Chinese Alliance of Australia also received funding for the Moon Festival 2024 Celebration.
For more information and to view the full list of successful recipients, visit vic.gov.au/multicultural-festivals-and-events-program.
As stated by Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt
"We're continuing to back our diverse communities with funding for multicultural events and festivals - bringing Victorians together to share their traditions and celebrations across the state."
"Our diversity is one of our greatest strengths. These grants celebrate our multicultural communities, promoting an inclusive and harmonious society, and ensuring a sense of belonging for all."
