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Celebrating Multicultural Victoria An Evening of Community Connection

1 May 2026

A vibrant and memorable evening brought together people from across Victoria's diverse communities to celebrate the strength, unity, and contribution of multicultural Victoria.

Inclusion, Opportunity & Shared Future

An Evening of Community Connection

The gathering created a welcoming space for grassroots organisations, community members, business leaders, and representatives from various sectors to connect, share experiences, and build stronger relationships. It reflected a shared commitment to inclusion, opportunity, and the continued growth of a harmonious and diverse society.

Attendees enjoyed meaningful conversations and insights focused on community wellbeing, education, economic participation, and the importance of ensuring all voices are heard and valued. The event highlighted how collaboration across cultures and communities plays a vital role in shaping a connected and forward-looking Victoria.

With the presence of community leaders, representatives, and guests from a wide range of backgrounds, the evening showcased the richness of Victoria's multicultural identity and the importance of ongoing engagement at all levels.

Event Highlights

  • Community wellbeing, education and economic participation discussions
  • Engagement with grassroots organisations and business leaders
  • Cross-cultural collaboration reinforcing Victoria's multicultural identity
  • Recognition of contributions individuals and communities make every day
Hon Ben Carroll MP

The Hon. Ben Carroll MP

  • Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2010–present
  • Member for Niddrie, Victoria — 2010–present
  • Deputy Premier of Victoria — 2023–present
  • Minister for Education — 2023–present
  • Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC — 2024–present
  • Minister for Medical Research — 2026–present
  • Member, Legislative Assembly Standing Orders Committee — 2017–2018, 2023–present
  • Member, Dispute Resolution Committee — 2023–present
  • Parliamentary Secretary to the Shadow Minister for Public Transport — 2013–2014
  • Parliamentary Secretary to the Shadow Minister for Roads — 2013–2014
  • Member, Legislative Assembly Privileges Committee — 2022
  • Member, Law Reform, Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee — 2013–2014
  • Member, Economic Development and Infrastructure Committee — 2012–2013
  • Hon Daniel Mulino

    The Hon. Dr Daniel Mulino MP

    Member of the Australian House of Representatives, Australian Labor Party — 2019–present

    Member for Fraser, Victoria — 2019–present

    Assistant Treasurer of Australia — 2025–present

    Minister for Financial Services — 2025–present

    Member, House Select Committee on Nuclear Energy — 2024–present

    Chair, House of Representatives Standing Committee on Economics — 2022–2025

    Member, House of Representatives Standing Committee on Economics — 2019–2025

    Member, House of Representatives Standing Committee of Privileges and Members’ Interests — 2022–2025

    Member, Joint Statutory Committee on Public Accounts and Audit — 2022–2025

    Member, Joint Statutory Committee on Corporations and Financial Services — 2022–2025

    Member, Joint Standing Committee on Treaties — 2022–2025

    Member, Joint Standing Committee on Trade and Investment Growth — 2019–2022

    Member, Joint Select Committee on Social Media and Australian Society — 2024

    Member, House Select Committee on Workforce Australia Employment Services — 2022–2023

    Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer of Victoria — 2014–2018

    Member of the Victorian Legislative Council for Eastern Victoria Region — 2014–2018

    Councillor, City of Casey (Edrington Ward) — 2008–2010

    Deputy Mayor, City of Casey — former

    Acting Mayor, City of Casey — former

    Hon Enver Erdogan MLC

    The Hon. Enver Erdogan MP

  • Member of the Victorian Legislative Council, Australian Labor Party — 2018–present
  • Member for Northern Metropolitan, Victoria — 2018–present
  • Minister for Environment — 2026–present
  • Minister for Outdoor Recreation — 2026–present
  • Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation — 2024–present
  • Member, Legislative Council Procedure Committee — 2023–present
  • Minister for Youth Justice — 2022–2026
  • Minister for Corrections — 2022–2026
  • Minister for Victim Support — 2022–2024
  • Parliamentary Secretary to the Attorney-General — 2022
  • Chair, Legislative Council Economy and Infrastructure Committee — 2020–2022
  • Member / Participating, Legislative Council Legal and Social Issues Committee — 2019–2022
  • Member, Electoral Matters Committee — 2021–2022
  • Member, Pandemic Declaration Accountability and Oversight Committee — 2021–2022
  • Member, Legislative Council Economy and Infrastructure Committee — 2020
  • Hon Natalie Suleyman MP

    The Hon. Natalie Suleyman MP

  • Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2002–present
  • Member for St Albans, Victoria — 2002–present
  • Minister for Veterans — 2022–present
  • Minister for Small and Family Business — 2026–present
  • Minister for Employment — 2026–present
  • Minister for Tourism — 2026–present
  • Minister for Small Business and Employment — 2024–2026
  • Minister for Youth — 2022–2026
  • Minister for Small Business — 2022–2024
  • Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Assembly — 2022
  • Chair, Legislative Assembly Legal and Social Issues Committee — 2019–2022
  • Member, House Committee — 2015–2018
  • Member, Law Reform, Road and Community Safety Committee — 2015–2018
  • Hon Lizzie Blandthorn MLC

    The Hon. Lizzie Blandthorn MP

    Member of the Victorian Legislative Council, Australian Labor Party — 2022–present

    Member for Western Metropolitan Region — 2022–present

    Minister for Children — 2023–present

    Minister for Disability — 2023–present

    Deputy Leader of the Government in the Legislative Council — 2022–present

    Minister for Child Protection and Family Services — 2022–2023

    Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers — 2022–2023

    Minister for Planning — 2022

    Leader of the House, Victorian Legislative Assembly — 2022

    Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2014–2022

    Member for Pascoe Vale, Victoria — 2014–2022

    Cassandra Fernando MP

    Cassandra Fernando MP

    Member of the Australian House of Representatives, Australian Labor Party — 2022–present

    Member for Holt, Victoria — 2022–present

    Member of the Speaker's Panel — 2025–present

    Member, House of Representatives Standing Committee on Employment, Workplace Relations, Skills and Training — 2025–present

    Member, House of Representatives Standing Committee on Publications — 2025–present

    Member, Joint Standing Committee on Migration — 2022–present

    Member, Joint Standing Committee on the Parliamentary Library — 2022–present

    Member, House of Representatives Standing Committee on Employment, Education and Training — 2022–2025

    Member, Australian Labor Party Administration Committee — 2019–2020

    Member, Australian Labor Party Rules Revision Committee — 2019–2020

    Proxy Member, Australian Labor Party Campaign Committee — 2019–2020

    Kathleen Matthews-Ward MP

    Kathleen Matthews-Ward MP

    Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2022–present

    Member for Broadmeadows, Victoria — 2022–present

    Councillor, City of Hume — 2004–2012

    The Hon. Iwan Walters MP

  • Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2021–present
  • Member for Greenvale, Victoria — 2021–present
  • Parliamentary Secretary for Disability — 2023–present
  • Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural and Multifaith Victoria — 2026–present
  • Acting Speaker — 2024–present
  • Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs — 2024–2026
  • Parliamentary Secretary for Disability and Carers — 2023
  • Chair, Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee — 2023
  • Member, Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee — 2023
  • Basem Abdo MP

    Basem Abdo MP

    Member of the Australian House of Representatives, Australian Labor Party — 2025–present

    Member for Calwell, Victoria — 2025–present

    Member, House of Representatives Standing Committee on Industry, Innovation and Science — 2025–present

    Member, Joint Statutory Committee on Law Enforcement — 2025–present

    Hon Anthony Cianflone MP

    Anthony Cianflone MP

    Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2022–present

    Member for Pascoe Vale, Victoria — 2022–present

    Celebrating Diversity & Recognising Community Contributions

    Events like this reinforce the value of coming together, celebrating diversity, and recognising the contributions that individuals and communities make every day to strengthen our shared future. The presence of community leaders, government representatives, and guests from a wide range of backgrounds underscored Victoria's multicultural identity and the importance of ongoing engagement at all levels.

    Australia Day Celebrations at Government House

    26 January 2026

    Australia Day celebrations were held at Government House following an invitation from the Governor of Victoria, bringing together community leaders, government representatives and members of Australia Defence Forces.

    Service, Respect & Shared Responsibility

    The occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on the values that unite Australians, including service, respect and shared responsibility. The celebrations included engagement with Deputy Premier The Hon. Ben Carroll MP and senior leadership from the Australian Army, Air Force and Navy.

    The professionalism, dedication and continued service of the men and women of Australia Armed Forces were acknowledged, recognising their vital role in protecting communities and upholding national values both at home and abroad.

    The event highlighted Australia strength as a nation, not only through its institutions but through the everyday contributions of those who serve, support and strengthen communities.

    Australia Day celebrations concluded with a shared commitment to building a fair, inclusive and resilient nation.

    Hon Ben Carroll MP

    Air Commodore Brett Williams, RAAF

    Commander, Air Force Training Group — 2025–present

    Commander Air Academy, Royal Australian Air Force — former

    Director General, Defence Force Recruiting — former

    Commanding Officer, No. 77 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force — former

    Hon Ben Carroll MP

    Allan Hamley

    Student, Defence and Strategic Studies Course, Australian Defence College — 2025–present

    Project Director, LAND 400 Phase 2, Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group — former

    Program Director, Main Battle Tank, Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group — former

    Director, Armoured Vehicle Division, Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group — former

    Hon Ben Carroll MP

    The Hon. Ben Carroll MP

  • Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2010–present
  • Member for Niddrie, Victoria — 2010–present
  • Deputy Premier of Victoria — 2023–present
  • Minister for Education — 2023–present
  • Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC — 2024–present
  • Minister for Medical Research — 2026–present
  • Parliamentary Secretary to the Shadow Minister for Public Transport — 2013–2014
  • Parliamentary Secretary to the Shadow Minister for Roads — 2013–2014
  • Member, Legislative Assembly Standing Orders Committee — 2017–2018, 2023–present
  • Member, Dispute Resolution Committee — 2023–present
  • Member, Legislative Assembly Privileges Committee — 2022
  • Member, Law Reform, Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee — 2013–2014
  • Member, Economic Development and Infrastructure Committee — 2012–2013
  • Hon Ben Carroll MP

    Captain Ben Esler, RAN

    Commanding Officer, HMAS Cerberus — 2025–present

    Defence Attaché, NATO Maritime Security Centre of Excellence — former

    Executive Officer, HMAS Arunta — former

    Principal Warfare Officer, Royal Australian Navy — former

    Australia Day Reception at Government House Victoria

    21 January 2026

    Held this evening and graciously hosted by Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Elaine Gardner AC FASSA FASSA, Governor of Victoria.

    Community & Service

    The Australia Day Reception at Government House Victoria brought together the Governor, Deputy Premier of Victoria The Hon. Ben Carroll MP, distinguished members of the Armed Forces, volunteers, and leaders from Victoria diverse multicultural communities.

    The evening highlighted the values that unite Australians service, inclusion, and a shared commitment to community.

    The event also provided an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions and to recognise the individuals and organisations whose contributions continue to strengthen Victoria and the nation.

    Why it matters

    Celebrates unity and acknowledges the people and organisations strengthening Victoria multicultural fabric.

    Major General Jason Blain DSC AM CSC

    Major General Jason Blain, DSC, AM, CSC

    Head Land Systems, Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, Department of Defence — 2023–present

    Commander, 7th Combat Brigade, Australian Army — 2020–2021

    Branch Head and Senior Adviser, National Security and Defence, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet — c. 2018–2020

    Director General Force Options and Plans, Department of Defence — 2016–2018

    Director of Military Commitments – Army — 2014–2015

    Commander, 1st Brigade, Australian Army — former

    Deputy Director General Land Warfare — former

    Mohamed Semra

    Mohamed Semra

    Mayor, Maribyrnong City Council — 2025–present

    Councillor, Maribyrnong City Council — 2024–present

    Ahmed Hassan

    Ahmed Hassan OAM

    Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Youth Activating Youth — 2014–present

    Member, Australian Multicultural Council — present

    Member, Victorian Crime Prevention Taskforce — former

    Deputy Chair, Victorian African Action Plan Implementation Committee — former

    Member, African Australian Community Taskforce — former

    Member, Multicultural Youth Network — former

    Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC FASSA

    Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Elaine Gardner AC FASSA

  • Governor of Victoria — 2023–present
  • Vice-Chancellor, Monash University — 2009–2023
  • Deputy Vice-Chancellor, University of Melbourne — 2005–2009
  • Professor of Economics, Monash University — 1993–2005
  • Hon Ben Carroll MP

    The Hon. Ben Carroll MP

  • Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2010–present
  • Member for Niddrie, Victoria — 2010–present
  • Deputy Premier of Victoria — 2023–present
  • Minister for Education — 2023–present
  • Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC — 2024–present
  • Minister for Medical Research — 2026–present
  • Member, Legislative Assembly Standing Orders Committee — 2017–2018, 2023–present
  • Member, Dispute Resolution Committee — 2023–present
  • Parliamentary Secretary to the Shadow Minister for Public Transport — 2013–2014
  • Parliamentary Secretary to the Shadow Minister for Roads — 2013–2014
  • Member, Legislative Assembly Privileges Committee — 2022
  • Member, Law Reform, Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee — 2013–2014
  • Member, Economic Development and Infrastructure Committee — 2012–2013
  • Rajat Vinayak with Hon Ben Carroll MP at Government House Victoria

    Rajat Vinayak with The Hon. Ben Carroll MP

    Australia Day Reception at Government House Victoria

    Showcasing AusInd Bridge Foundation next-generation leadership alongside Victoria Deputy Premier.

    Diwali State Reception Victoria's Multicultural Celebration

    19 October 2025

    A vibrant celebration of culture, cuisine, and shared values between Victoria and the Indian-Australian community

    A Celebration of Community & Inclusion

    Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

    The Diwali State Reception, hosted by the Victorian Government at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre with Premier The Hon. Jacinta Allan MP, celebrated the vibrant connection between Victoria and the Indian-Australian community.

    The evening showcased the richness of Diwali through culture, cuisine and shared values, reflecting the strength of Victoria's multicultural fabric. It was a meaningful celebration of community, inclusion and collaboration.

    Event Highlights

    • Cultural performances celebrating Indian traditions
    • Authentic Indian cuisine and traditional foods
    • Engagement with Victorian government and community leaders
    • Strengthening people-to-people connections
    Jacinta Allan

    The Hon. Jacinta Allan MP

    Premier of Victoria — 2023–present

    Leader of the Victorian Labor Party — 2023–present

    Member for Bendigo East, Victorian Legislative Assembly — 1999–present

    Member, Victorian Cabinet — 2002–present

    Deputy Premier of Victoria — 2022–2023

    Deputy Leader of the Labor Party (Victoria) — 2022–2023

    Leader of the House, Victorian Legislative Assembly — 2014–2022

    Minister for Transport and Infrastructure — 2014–2023

    Minister for Public Transport — 2014–2018

    Minister for Roads — 2014–2018

    Minister for Suburban Rail Loop — 2020–2023

    Minister for Commonwealth Games Delivery — 2022–2023

    Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs — 2002–2006

    Minister for Education Services — former

    Lily D'Ambrosio

    The Hon. Lily D'Ambrosio MP

  • Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2002–present
  • Member for Mill Park, Victoria — 2002–present)
  • Minister for Climate Action — 2022–present
  • Minister for Energy and Resources — 2022–present
  • Minister for the State Electricity Commission — 2022–present
  • Chair, Legislative Assembly Privileges Committee — 2023–present
  • Minister for Energy — 2022
  • Minister for Environment and Climate Action — 2022
  • Minister for Solar Homes — 2018–2022
  • Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change — 2016–2022
  • Minister for Suburban Development — 2016–2018
  • Minister for Energy and Resources — 2014–2016
  • Minister for Industry — 2014–2016
  • Minister for Community Development — 2010
  • Shadow Minister for Cost of Living — 2010–2014
  • Shadow Minister for Energy and Resources — 2013–2014
  • Shadow Minister for Suburbs — 2010–2014
  • Shadow Minister for Consumer Protection — 2010–2013
  • Shadow Minister for Energy — 2010–2013
  • Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development — 2007–2010
  • Parliamentary Secretary for Victorian Communities — 2006–2007
  • Member, Legislative Assembly Privileges Committee — 2015–2018, 2023
  • Member, Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee — 2003–2006
  • Ros Spence

    The Hon. Ros Spence MP

    Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2014–present

    Member for Kalkallo, Victoria — 2022–present

    Minister for Agriculture — 2023–present

    Minister for Community Sport — 2022–present

    Minister for Carers and Volunteers — 2022–present

    Minister for Treaty and First Peoples — 2025–present

    Minister for Roads and Road Safety — 2025–present

    Minister for Multicultural Affairs — former

    Minister for Youth — former

    Parliamentary Secretary for Public Transport — former

    Parliamentary Secretary for Road Infrastructure — former

    Government Whip, Victorian Legislative Assembly — former

    Councillor, Hume City Council — 2008–2012

    Mayor of Hume City Council — 2011–2012

    Nick Staikos

    The Hon. Nick Staikos MP

    Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2014–present

    Member for Bentleigh, Victoria — 2014–present

    Minister for Suburban Rail Loop — 2025–present

    Minister for Housing — 2025–present

    Minister for Building — 2025–present

    Minister for Finance — 2025–present

    Minister for Multicultural Affairs — former

    Assistant Treasurer — former

    Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer — former

    Enver ErdoÄŸan

    Hon. Enver Erdogan

    MLC — Member of the Victorian Legislative Council (2018–present)

    MLC — Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation (2023–present)

    MLC — Minister for Environment (2026–present)

    MLC — Minister for Outdoor Recreation (2026–present)

    Former Minister for Corrections and Youth Justice

    Bronwyn Halfpenny

    Bronwyn Halfpenny MP

    Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2014–present

    Member for Thomastown, Victoria — 2014–present

    Minister for Industrial Relations — 2025–present

    Minister for Workplace Safety — 2025–present

    Parliamentary Secretary for Industrial Relations — former

    Parliamentary Secretary for Workplace Safety — former

    Member, Law Reform Committee — former

    Member, Public Accounts and Estimates Committee — former

    Pauline Richards

    Pauline Richards MP

    Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2022–present

    Member for Cranbourne, Victoria — 2022–present

    Minister for Women — 2025–present

    Minister for Prevention of Family Violence — 2025–present

    Member, Public Accounts and Estimates Committee — former

    Councillor, City of Casey — former

    John Mullahy

    John Mullahy MP

    Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2022–present

    Member for Glen Waverley, Victoria — 2022–present

    Parliamentary Secretary for Health — 2025–present

    Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health — 2025–present

    Parliamentary Secretary for Ambulance Services — 2025–present

    Member, Legislative Assembly Economy and Infrastructure Committee — former

    Member, Legislative Assembly Environment and Planning Committee — former

    Mathew Hilakari

    Mathew Hilakari MP

    Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2022–present

    Member for Point Cook, Victoria — 2022–present

    Parliamentary Secretary for Transport — 2025–present

    Member, Legislative Assembly Economy and Infrastructure Committee — former

    Member, Legislative Assembly Privileges Committee — former

    Union official, Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union — former

    Vivienne Nguyen

    Vivienne Nguyen AM

    Chair, Victorian Multicultural Commission — present

    Deputy Chair, Victorian Multicultural Commission — former

    Commissioner, Victorian Multicultural Commission — former

    Board Member, Northern Health — former

    Board Member, Migration Council Australia — former

    Community Connection & Government Support

    The Diwali State Reception demonstrates Victoria's strong commitment to celebrating cultural diversity and fostering inclusive communities. The presence of multiple government leaders underscores the importance of Australia-India relations and the recognition of the Indian-Australian community's invaluable contributions to Victoria's multicultural society.

    NALSAR Professor Felicitated at Parliament of Victoria

    9 May 2025

    Recognition for advancing India Australia academic ties and Campus Startup Culture across universities.

    Parliament Recognition

    Melbourne, Parliament of Victoria

    Dr. Srinivas Subbarao, Dean and Professor at the Department of Management Studies and Head of the International Office at NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, was formally felicitated at the Parliament of Victoria for strengthening academic and people-to-people ties between India and Australia.

    During his Melbourne visit, Subbarao engaged with policymakers, academic leaders, and institutions advancing collaboration under the Victoria India Strategy 2025 2030. His leadership in the Campus Startup Culture initiative now sparking dialogue in Indian universities and gaining traction in Australia was specially acknowledged.

    The felicitation was hosted by Iwan Walters MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs, at Parliament of Victoria. The visit was facilitated by AusInd Bridge Foundation, led by Deepak Vinayak OAM JP, with support from Kamala Kanta Dash, Secretary of the Foundation.

    Subbarao thanked Walters for the warm reception and acknowledged the pivotal role of AIBF, Deepak Vinayak OAM JP, and Dash in advancing India Australia academic diplomacy. He also expressed gratitude to Srikrishna Deva Rao, Vice-Chancellor of NALSAR, for visionary leadership enabling NALSAR global engagement.

    Why it matters

    Highlights growing momentum in India Australia higher-ed collaboration and shared commitment to innovation, academic excellence, and people-to-people connections.

    The Hon. Iwan Walters MP
    • Member of Parliament, Victoria (Greenvale) - Current
    • Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural and Multifaith Victoria - Current
    • Parliamentary Secretary for Disability - Current
    • Acting Speaker, Victorian Legislative Assembly - Former
    Dr. Srinivas Subbarao felicitated at Parliament of Victoria
    Dr. Srinivas Subbarao receives felicitation at the Parliament of Victoria.
    Dr. Srinivas Subbarao with hosts and AIBF leaders
    With Mr Hon.Iwan Walters, MP and AusInd Bridge Foundation leadership during the visit.

    Inspirational Visit by Dr. Kiran Bedi, PPMG, PNBB to Melbourne

    30 April 2025

    India's first woman IPS officer engages with diaspora on leadership and social reform

    Dr. Kiran Bedi

    Dr. Kiran Bedi, PPMG, PNBB

    First woman officer of the Indian Police Service (IPS)

    Distinguished Career

      Founder, Navjyoti India Foundation — present

      Founder, India Vision Foundation — present

      Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry — 2016–2021

      Director General, Bureau of Police Research and Development, Government of India — 2007

      Police Adviser to the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations — 2003–2005

      Director General, Home Guards and Civil Defence, Government of India — former

      Inspector General of Prisons, Tihar Jail — former

      Deputy Commissioner of Police, Delhi Police — former

      First Woman Officer of the Indian Police Service (IPS) — 1972

      Bharatiya Janata Party Chief Ministerial Candidate for Delhi — 2015

      Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service — 1994

    Diaspora Engagement

    Strengthening India-Australia people-to-people ties

    Dr. Kiran Bedi, PPMG, PNBB, India's first woman IPS officer and social activist, brings decades of experience in public service and social development. Her visit to Melbourne and engagement with the Indian diaspora underscores the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties between India and Australia.

    Focus Areas of the Visit

    Leadership

    Social Reform

    Governance

    Youth Engagement

    Visit Impact & Legacy

    People-to-People Ties

    Strengthening connections between Indian diaspora and homeland

    Youth Inspiration

    Motivating next generation of leaders in the diaspora community

    Community Engagement

    Promoting civic responsibility and active participation

    Launch of the Parliamentarians Forum for Tech Diplomacy

    21 April 2025

    Advancing Responsible, Inclusive Tech in Global Diplomacy

    Forum Launch Ceremony

    Official launch of the Parliamentarians Forum

    Australian Parliamentarians with delegation
    Tech Diplomacy Forum discussion
    Forum Launch Ceremony
    Forum Launch Ceremony
    Forum Launch Ceremony
    Forum Launch Ceremony
    Forum Launch Ceremony
    Forum Launch Ceremony
    Forum Launch Ceremony
    Forum Launch Ceremony
    Forum Launch Ceremony

    Global Initiative Launch

    A new era in technology-driven diplomacy, we were thrilled to launch the Parliamentarians Forum for Tech Diplomacy, a global initiative dedicated to fostering collaboration on the responsible and inclusive use of emerging technologies.

    It was an honour to host Dylan Wight MP, Mathew Hilakari MP, and distinguished members of the Australian delegation from the Parliament of Victoria. This gathering, organised in partnership with the AusInd Bridge Foundation, brought together policymakers, business leaders, academics, and young changemakers from Australia and India.

    Key Takeaway

    A key takeaway from the event was the importance of tech-enabled diplomacy and inclusive leadership in shaping a better future. Drawing inspiration from Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi G20 model, we explored how multi-stakeholder engagement across diverse sectors can drive positive change on the global stage.

    Event Highlights

    Multi-Stakeholder Engagement

    Policymakers, business leaders, academics, and young changemakers coming together.

    Tech-Enabled Diplomacy

    Exploring the responsible use of emerging technologies in global relations.

    Global Inspiration

    Drawing from Prime Minister Modi's G20 model for inclusive leadership.

    Hon. Sanjay Seth, Minister of State for Defence, Government of India
    Ministerial Engagement

    Meeting with Shri Sanjay Seth, Minister of State for Defence, Government of India

    11 September 2024

    Mr. Deepak Vinayak OAM JP, our Founder and Chairperson, had the privilege of meeting Shri Sanjay Seth, Minister of State for Defence, Government of India, at a reception hosted by the Consulate General of India in Melbourne. Their discussions spanned a wide range of topics, including strategies to further strengthen bilateral ties between India and Australia.

    Such fruitful meetings play a vital role in fostering business and political relationships between the two nations, reinforcing the commitment to deepening Australia ‘India cooperation across multiple sectors.

    Minister of State for Defence, Government of India — 2024–present

    Member of the Lok Sabha, Bharatiya Janata Party — 2019–present

    Member for Ranchi, Jharkhand — 2019–present

    Member, Committee on Subordinate Legislation — 2019–present

    Member, Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology — 2019–present

    Member, Committee on Welfare of Other Backward Classes — 2019–present

    Chairman, Jharkhand State Khadi and Village Industries Board — 2016–2019

    Member, Local Board, State Bank of India, Patna Circle — 1999–2005

    President, Federation of Jharkhand Chamber of Commerce and Industries — 1999–2000

    Chairman, Jharkhand State Khadi & Village Industries Board (2016–2019)

    Member, Local Board, State Bank of India (1999–2005)

    Strengthening Victoria India Relations India's Independence Day Celebrations

    11 September 2024

    Landmark celebrations at MCG highlight growing bilateral partnership ahead of Premier's visit to India

    Historic Celebration at MCG

    Uniting communities, strengthening ties

    The celebration of India's Independence Day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground highlighted the enduring and growing relationship between India and Victoria. The event brought together community leaders and senior representatives of the Victorian Government, including the Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, The Hon. Ben Carroll MP, underscoring the strength of people-to-people and institutional ties.

    A significant highlight was the illumination of Melbourne's iconic landmarks in the colours of the Indian tricolour, including Flinders Street Station, symbolising unity, multicultural pride and shared values. These gestures reflected Victoria's commitment to recognising the contributions of the Indian community and strengthening bilateral connections.

    Premier's Upcoming Visit to India

    The occasion also coincided with engagement ahead of The Hon. Jacinta Allan MP's forthcoming visit to India. A pre-departure briefing and community feedback session held at the Parliament of Victoria demonstrated the Government's inclusive approach and its focus on deepening collaboration across education, innovation, business, technology, transport, and the visitor economy.

    About the Celebration

    The celebration of India's Independence Day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground highlighted the enduring and growing relationship between India and Victoria. The event brought together community leaders and senior representatives of the Victorian Government, including the Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, The Hon. Ben Carroll MP.

    Landmarks Illuminated in Tricolour:

    • Flinders Street Station
    • Melbourne Town Hall
    • Arts Centre Melbourne
    • Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
    MCG India Independence Day Celebration

    The Hon. Jacinta Allan MP

    Premier of Victoria — 2023–present

    Leader of the Victorian Labor Party — 2023–present

    Member for Bendigo East, Victorian Legislative Assembly — 1999–present

    Member, Victorian Cabinet — 2002–present

    Deputy Premier of Victoria — 2022–2023

    Deputy Leader of the Labor Party (Victoria) — 2022–2023

    Leader of the House, Victorian Legislative Assembly — 2014–2022

    Minister for Transport and Infrastructure — 2014–2023

    Minister for Public Transport — 2014–2018

    Minister for Roads — 2014–2018

    Minister for Suburban Rail Loop — 2020–2023

    Minister for Commonwealth Games Delivery — 2022–2023

    Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs — 2002–2006

    Minister for Education Services — former

    Deputy Premier Ben Carroll

    The Hon. Ben Carroll MP

    • Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2010–present
    • Member for Niddrie, Victoria — 2010–present
    • Deputy Premier of Victoria — 2023–present
    • Minister for Education — 2023–present
    • Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC — 2024–present
    • Minister for Medical Research — 2026–present
    • Member, Legislative Assembly Standing Orders Committee — 2017–2018, 2023–present
    • Member, Dispute Resolution Committee — 2023–present
    • Parliamentary Secretary to the Shadow Minister for Public Transport — 2013–2014
    • Parliamentary Secretary to the Shadow Minister for Roads — 2013–2014
    • Member, Legislative Assembly Privileges Committee — 2022
    • Member, Law Reform, Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee — 2013–2014
    • Member, Economic Development and Infrastructure Committee — 2012–2013

    Event Highlights

    Iconic Landmark Illumination

    Flinders Street Station and other Melbourne landmarks lit in Indian tricolour colours

    Community Engagement

    Pre-departure briefing and feedback session at Parliament of Victoria

    Bilateral Partnership

    Focus on education, innovation, business, technology and transport collaboration

    Victoria-India Relations Enter New Era with Premier's India Strategy Launch

    13 January 2018

    Deepak Vinayak OAM JP addresses historic moment at Australia India Institute

    Historic Address

    Deepak Vinayak OAM JP's keynote speech

    Key Quote:

    "This is a historic day when we witness Victoria's relationship with India entering a new era. Victoria's India Strategy is holistic. I want to congratulate the Hon. Daniel Andrews & his government for taking this forward."

    - Deepak Vinayak OAM JP

    At the prestigious Australia India Institute (University of Melbourne), Deepak Vinayak delivered a powerful address reflecting on India's diaspora and the strength of Victoria's personal connections with India during the launch of the The Hon. Daniel Michael Andrews AC India Strategy.

    The event marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations, with the strategy representing a comprehensive framework to deepen economic, cultural, and educational ties between Victoria and India.

    Victoria's India Strategy Highlights

    Holistic Framework

    Comprehensive approach covering economic, educational, and cultural dimensions

    Diaspora Engagement

    Leveraging the strength of India's diaspora in Victoria

    Academic Partnership

    Hosted at Australia India Institute, University of Melbourne

    Marty Mei with Hon. Ros Spence
    Marty Mei with The Hon. Ros Spence MP and Deepak Vinayak OAM JP.

    Marty Mei

    Multicultural Affairs Adviser to the Premier of Victoria — 2017–2024

    Community Advocate and Multicultural Affairs Adviser — former

    Advisor to Victorian Government Ministers and Members of Parliament — former

    Instrumental in community engagement strategies, supporting multicultural partnerships and Victoria India relations alongside The Hon. Ros Spence MP.

    The Hon. Ros Spence MP

      Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, Australian Labor Party — 2014–present

      Member for Kalkallo, Victoria — 2022–present

      Minister for Agriculture — 2023–present

      Minister for Community Sport — 2022–present

      Minister for Carers and Volunteers — 2022–present

      Minister for Treaty and First Peoples — 2025–present

      Minister for Roads and Road Safety — 2025–present

      Minister for Multicultural Affairs — former

      Minister for Youth — former

      Parliamentary Secretary for Public Transport — former

      Parliamentary Secretary for Road Infrastructure — former

      Government Whip, Victorian Legislative Assembly — former

      Councillor, Hume City Council — 2008–2012

      Mayor of Hume City Council — 2011–2012

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