Wednesday, 4 February 2026

 Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice) (09:43): I was delighted to attend the Lunar New Year festival held on Sunday at Victoria Street, Richmond, along with my cabinet colleague and good friend of the Vietnamese community Natalie Suleyman. I also note that a number of members in this chamber were there – Mr Mulholland and Mr Trung Luu – and local councillors such as Sarah McKenzie. Victoria Street was alive with colour, culture and energy as families, local businesses and community members came together to welcome the Year of the Horse.

Community events like this do more than just mark a moment on the calendar; they strengthen community bonds, showcase culture and support local traders. The Vietnamese community has made an extraordinary contribution to Victoria’s social, cultural and economic life. Last year we marked 50 years since the resettlement of the first Vietnamese refugees in Australia, and since that time the community has become one of the most vibrant and resilient in our state. The fact that most would count a banh mi as a fixture in Melbourne’s culinary scene is a testament to how they have enriched our state. The contribution of the Vietnamese community will be immortalised through Victoria’s Vietnamese Museum Australia, backed by $8.7 million in funding from the Allan Labor government and over $9 million from the Albanese Labor government. I thank the Victoria Street Business Association for such a memorable event. As we welcome the Year of the Horse I wish everyone strength, courage and prosperity. Chúc mừng năm mới. Happy new year, everybody.