Wednesday, 4 February 2026

 Meng Heang TAK (Clarinda) (19:17): (1506) My adjournment matter is for the Minister for Multicultural Affairs, and the action I seek is for the minister to provide me with the latest update on funding for the South Eastern Melbourne Vietnamese Associations Council, SEMVAC, in Springvale South in my electorate. SEMVAC do so much for families across Clarinda and across the south-east suburbs. Their casework numbers are really impressive, supporting locals with housing and finding work, health, medical services and so much more. They are an important asset for many families, and they provide an important place for people to come together and meet.

That is why I am very proud to see that last year’s budget invested $80,000 to support SEMVAC’s work. This was a fantastic result for our local community and one that I was proud to celebrate with SEMVAC during National Volunteer Week last year. SEMVAC is such a wonderful example of volunteerism in our community and bringing people together to connect community. We are so lucky to have them locally in the Clarinda district, and we are a stronger and healthier community because of them, along with all the other amazing local community and multicultural support organisations that deliver services and foster community engagement, connections and belonging in the south-east. Thank you to SEMVAC and to all our community organisations for the incredible impact that they have in building our thriving and inclusive community in Clarinda.

Again, congratulations and thank you to Dr Kim Son Vu, Cr Loi Truong and all SEMVAC’s executive committee and amazing volunteers, who give so much of their time and energy to support our community and those that need assistance. SEMVAC continues to play a vital role in strengthening our community, supporting families, celebrating cultures and providing essential services. I thank the minister. I am looking forward to hearing more on how this funding has helped SEMVAC to continue its important work.