The Allan Government delivered as its media release says, a “community-focused Victorian Budget 2025/26”, with more than $1 billion allocated to “strengthen families, support multicultural communities, and invest in frontline services”.

At the centre of the budget is a very evident commitment to multiculturalism, with over $20 million allocated to support Victoria’s communities—”ensuring that every Victorian, regardless of background or faith, feels a deep sense of belonging and safety”. The public tensions over the war between Hamas and Israel – often stoked by the Greens and activists – put pressure on Victoria’s multicultural communities.

“We’re ensuring that every Victorian, regardless of their culture, background, faith or identity, feels safe, welcomed and celebrated here in our state,” said Ingrid Stitt, Minister for Multicultural Affairs.

The investment includes $5.6 million for multicultural and multifaith community infrastructure, support for cultural engagement programs, and support of the Greek Community of Melbourne, and completion of the Vietnamese Museum of Australia.

New migrants and refugees will also benefit from $3.6 million in dedicated support, while multicultural seniors will receive more than $2 million to strengthen community connections.

Significantly, $7.6 million has been earmarked for the Migrant Workers Centre, ensuring international students and migrant workers are protected and empowered in their workplaces and communities.

Support for families and children is a key priority, with Minister for Children and Disability Lizzie Blandthorn highlighting targeted programs to assist new parents and those facing housing or financial stress.

“We’re on the side of families when and where they need it most – caring for new parents as they care for their child, and investing in our child and family services so every Victorian grows up safe and supported,” said Blandthorn.

“We’re making sure Victorians with a disability get the support they need and deserve.”

The Budget includes $22 million to expand Victoria’s Early Parenting Centre network, including a new centre in Northcote, and nearly $272 million to boost child protection and early intervention services.

Victoria’s commitment to food security is also being significantly bolstered. The government will double the Community Food Relief Program with a $9 million boost, and invest an additional $18 million in statewide food relief, bringing the total food security funding to more than $74 million since 2020.

“No one should have to choose between putting food on the table and paying the bills – we are making sure Victorians don’t go hungry by supporting the vital work of food relief organisations,” said Ros Spence, Minister for Carers and Volunteers.

Youth have received attention – $20 million has been allocated for youth programs targeting South Sudanese, Somali, Afghan, and Pasifika communities. Young Victorians will also have more access to mentoring, education and drug outreach programs.

“We’re backing young Victorians with the support, opportunities and services they need to thrive – because when young people are engaged and empowered, our whole community benefits,” said Natalie Suleyman, Minister for Youth and Veterans Affairs.

Veterans have also been given a hand “Veterans have given so much to our nation and this Budget delivers more funding for the Shrine of Remembrance and our employment support program.

“Honouring their service and supporting them to make a successful transition to civilian life.”

The Allen government wants to “lead the nation in its response to family violence” and has, invested $123 million in services and prevention initiatives.

“Victoria leads the nation in our efforts to end family violence, but that work is far from over – this investment delivers more programs and services to support victim-survivors and to stop violence before it starts,” said Natalie Hutchins, The Hon Natalie Hutchins Minister for Treaty and First Peoples, Minister for Prevention of Family Violence and Minister for Women

“We know that when we listen to First Peoples about the policies that directly affect them, we can make real, practical change – that’s why this Budget continues to invest in self-determination and Closing the Gap,” said Hutchins.

Support continues for LGBTIQ communities, with programs like QHub and Transgender Victoria.

“Equality is not negotiable in Victoria and our work continues to support the rights of all LGBTIQA+ Victorians to be who they are and love who they love,” said Vicki Ward, Minister for Equality.

With targeted investments across multiculturalism, youth, equality, family safety and wellbeing, the Allan Government’s 2025/26