The Victorian Government’s new Multicultural Business Ministerial Council met for the first time last week to assist in developing new business opportunities and strengthening the state’s export capacity.
Minister for Innovation, Services and Small Business Louise Asher said the new council will help facilitate business opportunities that take advantage of Victoria’s cultural and linguistic resources.
“The Coalition Government believes multicultural diversity is one of Victoria’s greatest strengths and defining features. The diversity of our population is a great social and economic asset, and is a valuable resource in understanding overseas markets,” Ms Asher said.
“The Council will promote Victoria as a culturally diverse business centre in recognition of the fact our multicultural business communities are a key business investment attraction that can contribute significantly to the state’s growth and development.
“Some 29 per cent of Victorian small businesses are owned by people not born in Australia and they have contributed enormously, both culturally and financially, to the Victorian small business sector.”
The council’s members include representatives of the Korean, Italian and Greek Chambers of Commerce, the Australia-Chinese Business Council, the Australia-Russia Business Council and the Federation of Indian Association of Victoria.
Ms Fotini Kypraios, Senior Associate at Meerkin & Apel lawyers is one of 19 members appointed to the council and the only member of Greek heritage.