Today marks a change in the leadership of our state with the appointment of Premier Ben Carroll. It also marks an important milestone with the introduction of key multicultural reforms into State Parliament.
The new legislation represents the next step in implementing the vision mapped out in Victoria’s Multicultural Review, led by George Lekakis, a former ECCV Chairperson.
ECCV has endorsed the review and now welcomes the introduction of the Multicultural Victoria Amendment Bill 2026. The proposed laws establish Multicultural Victoria: a new statutory body that absorbs the role of the Victorian Multicultural Commission. The new body will be led by the Multicultural Coordinator General, supported by two deputies and an advisory council.
We look forward to examining the legislation in detail as part of our role as the independent peak body representing grassroots migrant and refugee communities.
For more than 50 years, ECCV has worked across the political divide to advocate for effective multicultural institutions and policies that work for all our communities. On behalf of multicultural communities, ECCV congratulates Premier Ben Carroll and thanks former Premier Jacinta Allan.
Ahead of the November 2026 state election, ECCV will continue to advocate to the Government, Opposition and all parties for action to tackle racism and discrimination, improve access to services, seek support for multicultural community organisations and address cost-of-living pressures.
Victorians represent 300 cultural backgrounds, speak 290 languages and follow almost 200 faiths. Our diversity is our strength— and also demands constant care.
Quote attributable to Farah Farouque, ECCV Chief Executive Officer:
“With our state election platform soon to be released, we look forward to working with all sides of politics to secure the next chapter of multiculturalism in our state. ECCV members want to see meaningful action to tackle rising hate in all forms, cost-of-living pressures and equitable access to essential services.”
Quote attributable to Silvia Renda, ECCV Board Chair:
“The introduction of the Multicultural Victoria Bill is an opportunity to strengthen how multicultural communities are represented and heard in government decision-making. We need to see a model that has the independence, authority and community trust needed to make a practical difference.”
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