In a move set to bolster Melbourne’s multicultural reputation, Lord Mayoral candidate Arron Wood and Deputy Lord Mayoral candidate Erin Deering have announced their support for the establishment of an Intercultural Museum in the city. The museum aims to recognize Melbourne’s rich cultural diversity and showcase the heritage and contributions of its many multicultural communities.
“The Intercultural Museum will be a true reflection of who we are as Melburnians,” Wood said during the announcement.
“It will not only highlight the stories, heritage, and contributions of our diverse communities but also serve as a beacon of understanding, empathy, and cross-cultural dialogue. I am proud to support this project, which will cement Melbourne’s standing as a leader in multiculturalism.”
The proposal for the museum, developed in consultation with multicultural stakeholders, envisions a 10,000 sqm interactive and inclusive facility located at the Queens Corner Building in the Queen Victoria Market precinct, or another suitable site. The museum will celebrate Melbourne’s cultural diversity while fostering inclusivity and promoting community engagement.
Team Wood emphasized that the project is essential for reinforcing Melbourne’s reputation as a vibrant, global, multicultural city. It would be the most significant multicultural museum in Oceania, providing a platform for various communities to share their heritage and contributions. The aim is to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
A media release from the Wood and Deering campaign described the proposed museum as a “true people’s place, embracing intercultural narratives that bring people closer together.” If elected, the pair have pledged to dedicate City of Melbourne-owned land in the Queen Victoria Market area for the museum and to commit $15 million towards its development. Additional funding is expected from state and federal governments, as well as philanthropic contributions.
Initial estimates suggest that the museum could generate significant economic benefits, with projections indicating it could contribute around $55 million per year to local revenue, create jobs, boost tourism, and increase visitation to the Queen Victoria Market.
Deering echoed the sentiment, noting the museum’s potential as both a cultural and economic asset. “This museum will be more than just a cultural hub; it will be an economic driver, supporting local businesses and helping to revitalise our city as we continue to recover and grow,” she said.
The museum will also offer educational programs and events aimed at engaging people of all ages and backgrounds, promoting inclusivity, and reinforcing Melbourne’s multicultural identity.
“This space will foster connections between different communities, strengthen our shared bonds, and create opportunities for all Melburnians to come together and celebrate our unique stories,” Wood said.
As the city continues to recover from recent challenges, the proposed Intercultural Museum could become a vital part of Melbourne’s future, serving as both a cultural symbol and a boost to the local economy.
