Tuesday, 28 October 2025

 Meng Heang TAK (Clarinda) (13:14): Congratulations to the Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association, the South Eastern Melbourne Vietnamese Associations Council and other organisations, who are joining us here in Parliament this week for their exhibition which marks 50 years since the resettlement of the Vietnamese community in Victoria. This week is a great opportunity for celebration and reflection of all the amazing contributions of the Vietnamese community. Our Vietnamese community is significant in size, but more importantly, it makes a significant contribution to our vibrant community. We know that there are an extraordinary number of stories to tell about these many varied journeys from Vietnam to Victoria. From humble beginnings to today, the community has transformed our streetscapes and suburbs, particularly in Springvale South, into vibrant centres. The stories of all Vietnamese who are here and how they have come here are such a crucial part of our history. They make us who we are as individuals and as a community and contribute to the diverse state that we are so proud of. As a community, we recognise the wonderful contributions of the Vietnamese community in ensuring that Victoria has become such a multicultural success story. Thank you to Nicky Chung, Dr Kimson Vu, Cr Loi Truong and so many of the staff, volunteers and community members for what they have been doing here this week.