A sweeping review of Victoria’s multicultural policies and programs is now underway—and the state’s diverse communities are being called on to help shape it. It is important that the Review hear from all our Greek community organisations, clubs and associations.
Led by veteran multicultural advocate the former Chairman of the Victorian Multicultural Commission, George Lekakis AO, the Victorian Multicultural Review is holding consultation sessions across the state throughout May—from Springvale to Shepparton, Brunswick to Casey—inviting individuals, cultural organisations, faith leaders, and multicultural media to speak directly to government.
The review comes at a critical time, as global tensions, digital misinformation and rising social division increasingly echo through local communities.
In response, Premier Jacinta Allan in December unveiled a new strategy to bolster social cohesion and reaffirm Victoria’s commitment to diversity. At the centre of that strategy is this review, tasked with ensuring the state’s institutions and policies are fit for purpose in a rapidly changing social landscape.
Key questions are on the table –are multicultural programs working as intended? Are they trusted, accessible, and able to respond to crisis? Can Victoria do more to combat racism, promote meaningful interfaith dialogue, and engage all communities—not just those directly affected?
In March when Lekakis spoke to Neos Kosmos he said he would reflect on the landmark 1978 Review of Post-Arrival Programmes and Services for Migrants report, also known as the Galbally Report, after its chair, Frank Galbally.
“The Galbally Report laid the foundations for migrant and refugee participation in public life in Australia. It established the necessary structures to support their full and productive integration into society.”
“These policies will be shaped by the voices of communities, articulating the best ways to achieve a harmonious and prosperous multicultural society,” he said.
Lekakis emphasised that the process aims to “ensure the broadest participation.”
“I will use mechanisms such as ethnic media, public meetings, and an open process for multilingual submissions,” he said.
Lekakis is supported by a high-level advisory panel including Hass Dellal AO, Carmel Guerra OAM, Miriam Suss OAM, and Mark Duckworth PSM, bringing decades of experience in community engagement, youth advocacy, and social policy. Their findings will directly inform the government’s next steps.
“This is not just another report—it’s about rethinking how Victoria supports its people in a time of complex challenges,” a government spokesperson said. “We’re asking communities to be bold, honest, and visionary.”
The consultation sessions mark a rare opportunity for communities to influence the state’s multicultural future. Victorians with lived experience—whether of racism, exclusion, or hope for change—are encouraged to speak up.
Consultation dates and locations are available here.
