The Andrews Labor Government is highlighting Victoria’s vibrant and diverse multicultural communities with a new round of grants for festivals and events across the state.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Colin Brooks announced more than $1.2 million in new funding to create more opportunities for multicultural organisations to celebrate and share their culture and traditions with all Victorians.

The Multicultural Festivals and Events program offers grants of up to $50,000 for events. One shining example of the Government’s support to promote Victoria’s cultural diversity is the much-loved Pako Festa.

The free festival highlights the contributions made by Geelong’s multicultural communities and is access friendly, encouraging crowds of all abilities to get involved in the range of community led entertainment and activities.

Since November 2014, the Labor Government has invested more than $25 million to support thousands of multicultural festivals and events across Victoria.

We know there is always more we can do to promote our vibrant communities, that’s why we’ll deliver $12 million to continue to support multicultural festivals and events right across Victoria.

Multicultural organisations are encouraged to apply for the latest round of Multicultural Festivals and Events funding. Eligible events must be held between 1 July and 31 December 2023.

Applications are open until Wednesday, 5 April. For more information visit vic.gov.au/multicultural-festivals-and-events-program.