The process has officially begun for the 24th year of Victoria’s Multicultural Awards, with the time coming to once more celebrate the stellar work of its individuals and organisations through their leadership and commitment to diversity.
The Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Ingrid Stitt, opened nominations for the 2025 Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence on Monday, calling on all Victorians to help shine a light on its stand-out citizens and organisations that contribute to the diverse, inclusive landscape of Victoria.
There are 14 award categories in 2025, including the Arts, Business and Employment, Emergency Services, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Sport, Youth Leadership, the Multicultural Honour Roll and the Premier’s Award for Community Harmony.
Nominees for the awards, which are organised by the Victorian government and the Victorian Multicultural Commission, include those who contribute through both paid and voluntary work to promoting inclusivity and fostering community connections.
Among last year’s recipients was Neos Kosmos Editor Sotiris Hatzimanolis, who received the Media Award.
“Victoria’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths – and these awards are about recognising the people and organisations who work every day to make our communities stronger, fairer and more connected,” Stitt said in an official announcement on the nominations.
“Whether they’re mentoring young people, creating cultural spaces or breaking down barriers, I look forward to celebrating the incredible work of our multicultural champions.”
Victorian Multicultural Commission Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen urged everyone to participate in honouring those who contribute greatly to the state.
“These awards highlight the remarkable people who are helping to shape a more inclusive Victoria – their efforts are often quiet, but their impact is profound,” Nguyen said.
“If you know someone making a difference in their community, I encourage you to nominate them and help us tell their story.”
Nominations will close on 27 August 2025. Further information, including where to nominate, can be sourced at multiculturalcommission.vic.gov.au/multicultural-awards-for-excellence.
The winners will be celebrated at a special ceremony later this year.
