Ros SPENCE (Yuroke) (11:59:11) — (14 922) My constituency question is to the Minister for Multicultural Affairs. What information can the minister provide on how the Andrews Labor government has supported multicultural groups in my electorate over the past four years? As the minister knows, the Yuroke electorate is a very diverse community — indeed 51 per cent of Yuroke residents speak a language other than English at home, almost double the Victorian‑wide average of 28 per cent. There has been a significant number of grants awarded to many outstanding local multicultural organisations this term, and any information the minister can provide on the total of this investment would be greatly appreciated.

Response:

Victoria is renowned for its multiculturalism. It’s a place where people from all over the world have come together to make their home. The Multicultural Affairs portfolio supports a wide range of activities across Victoria and is committed to improving support and service access for Victorians from culturally, linguistically and religiously diverse backgrounds.

This support extends to the diverse community in the Yuroke district. Since 2015, through programs such as Community Harmony, Multicultural Festivals and Events, and Capacity Building and Participation – the Victorian Government has provided just under $300,000 to 35 community organisations within the District of Yuroke. This has included funding to organisations such as the Hume Afghan Association, the Victorian Sikh Gurduaras Council, the Kerala Hindu Society and the Craigieburn Nepalese Community.

Some of the grants awarded include funding for the Hmong Australia Festival for three years running (2016, 2017, 2018), the Vesak Festival and Multifaith Initiatives for the North Victorian Buddhist Association, as well as Seniors Organisational Support for the Circolo Pensionati Italiani di Greenvale. The Victorian Government will continue to work with these communities and people who call Yuroke home, whatever their background.

The Victorian Government is committed to supporting diverse communities to feel connected with their traditional culture and identity while supporting their sense of belonging.

We are committed to this work, and to making sure every Victorian has the opportunity to be part of, and contribute to, an inclusive, safe and harmonious state.

The Hon Robin Scott MP
Minister for Multicultural Affairs