Thursday, 16 October 2025

 Dylan WIGHT (Tarneit) (14:48): (1330) My question is to the Minister for Multicultural Affairs. How does our Multicultural Festivals and Events Fund help promote diversity and inclusion in Victoria? The multicultural festivals and events program is currently open for applications. The fund plays a vital role in helping our diverse communities celebrate together, with grants ranging from $5000 to $50,000. Our diversity is one of our greatest strengths, and nowhere is that more evident than in our western suburbs, where people from all backgrounds come together to share their celebrations, food, language and traditions. Next weekend I will be attending Diwali celebrations in Tarneit, one of many local events that show how multiculturalism enriches our community and brings people together in a spirit of pride and inclusion. Our Indian community in particular plays a vital role in shaping Victoria. Almost 260,000 Victorians were born in India, the largest Indian diaspora in Australia, and India remains one of Victoria’s top trading partners, student markets and tourism sources.