Nominations have opened for the 2025 Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence, which are now in their 24th year.
The Awards were launched this week by Victoria’s Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Ingrid Stitt.
“Victoria’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths — and these awards are about recognising the people and organisations who work every day to make our communities stronger, fairer and more connected,” the Minister said.
“Whether they’re mentoring young people, creating cultural spaces or breaking down barriers, I look forward to celebrating the incredible work of our multicultural champions.”
The multicultural awards aim to recognise individuals and organisations who make Victoria a better place through their leadership and commitment to diversity.
This includes promoting inclusion, building community connections and supporting a fair and welcoming Victoria for everyone.
“These awards highlight the remarkable people who are helping to shape a more inclusive Victoria — their efforts are often quiet, but their impact is profound,” said Victorian Multicultural Commission Chairperson, Vivienne Nguyen.
“If you know someone making a difference in their community, I encourage you to nominate them and help us tell their story.”
Nominees can be recognised for both paid and voluntary work across a range of categories, including:
- The arts
- Business and employment
- Emergency services
- Media
- Police
- Prevention of family violence
- Refugees
- Public sector diversity and inclusion enhancement
- Mental health and wellbeing
- Sport
- Youth leadership
The multicultural awards also include the Multicultural Honour Roll and the Premier’s Award for Community Harmony.
Some of last year’s recipients are:
- Rasha Abbas, who was recognised in the Refugee Leadership Award category for her work in championing the rights and wellbeing of Palestinian and vulnerable migrant communities;
- Sotiris Hatzimanolis, who received the Media Award for championing Greek Australian journalism and leading Neos Kosmos through a successful bilingual transition; and
- Ali Agha Wali Zada, who was awareded the Youth Leadership Award for his advocacy on mental health awareness and cultural inclusion among young people.
Nominations will close at 11.59pm on 27 August 2025. The recipients will be announced at a special ceremony to be held later this year.
Leave a Reply