Australia
Victorian Multicultural Commission Opens Nominations for 2026 Multicultural Awards for Excellence: The Victorian Multicultural Commission has officially opened nominations for the 2026 Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence, recognising individuals and organisations that have made outstanding contributions to strengthening multiculturalism and community inclusion across the state.
Announced by Ingrid Stitt on behalf of the Allan Labor Government, the awards program marks its 25th year in celebrating Victoria’s diverse communities and the people working to build a fairer, stronger and more connected society.
The annual awards feature 13 categories, including Arts and Culture, Business and Employment, the Multicultural Honour Roll, and the prestigious Premier’s Award for Intercultural Connection.
Among last year’s recipients were:
- Dellaram Vreeland, Media Award – for her work in print and digital media
- Greater Shepparton City Council, Local Government Award – for partnering with multicultural
organisations to build community resilience - Yuwaluxshayan Kannan, Refugee Young Leader Award – for championing refugee youth empowerment
through school leadership, mentoring and advocacy - COOK4CALD, Youth Leadership Award – for their work addressing food insecurity in the south eastern
suburbs through culturally inclusive meal programs.
Speaking on the launch of the awards, Minister Ingrid Stitt said Victoria’s multicultural identity remains one of the state’s greatest strengths.
“Victoria’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths and we should always celebrate the people who are working tirelessly to build a united, more inclusive Victoria,” she said.
She also encouraged community members to nominate deserving individuals and organisations making a positive impact across the state.
Chairperson of the Victorian Multicultural Commission, Vivienne Nguyen, highlighted the importance of recognising initiatives that support and connect diverse communities.
“The tireless work of organisations and individuals creating an inclusive and prosperous Victoria deserves recognition, advocacy and celebration,” Nguyen said. “Seize the opportunity to nominate remarkable initiatives and programs that ensure our diverse communities are supported and connected.”
Nominations for the 2026 Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence will remain open until 11:59 pm on 13 July 2026. Winners and inductees will be honoured during a special ceremony at Government House in October.
More information about nominations and award categories is available at Victorian Multicultural Commission.
