The Central Pontian Association of Melbourne and Victoria (Pontiaki Estia) has received a $48,000 commitment in the event that an Albanese Labor Government is elected, that will get them back up and running, as they strive to keep to their Pontian culture alive.
Peter Khalil, the Federal Labor Member for Wills, announced on Friday, that this funding will enable the community to continue to be a cultural hub where members of the local community come together to discuss, socialise and host events that celebrate Pontian culture and bring people together.
“Since the 1970s Pontiaki Estia has been a place where our local Greek-Australian community comes together to celebrate culture. Almost 50 years on, the organisation remains an integral part of so many peoples and families’ lives and I am proud that a Labor Government would commit to supporting the organisation,” Mr Khalil stated.
Pontiaki Estia was established in 1976 after Greek-Australians recognised a need to keep their Pontian culture alive in a new country. It soon became the social hub of Greek-Australians and a place for exploring and celebrating Pontian history, culture and traditions.
The Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Andrew Giles, stressed that “the team that Anthony Albanese leads understands that the Pontian community in Melbourne and across the country plays a vital role in making Australia the most successful multicultural society in the world.
“We’re committed to listening and acting on the needs of multicultural communities. This announcement is a part of our plan to ensure that culturally and linguistically diverse Australians experience a better future.”
