About us
Who We Are
The Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria (ECCV) is the peak body for migrant and refugee communities in Victoria. We work with more than 220 member organisations, including ethnic associations, multicultural service providers, and eight regional ethnic communities’ councils.
ECCV has been advocating for human rights, freedom, respect, equality and dignity for migrant and refugee communities, and for a socially cohesive and inclusive Victoria since 1974. We have a strong history of informing industry practice and influencing all levels of governments to promote culturally responsive approaches, anti-racism, equitable access to services and socially just policy.
We are the Victorian representative council of the Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Council of Australia (FECCA).
Our History
ECCV was established on 14 July, 1974 at a meeting to discuss the ramifications of abolishing the Immigration Department, attended by more than 180 people representing 22 ethnic groups. A decision was made at the meeting to create ECCV, Australia’s first ethnic council, to act as an umbrella organisation for Victoria’s migrant, refugee and multicultural groups. This was a significant moment. In 1974, ECCV made history by becoming the first community-led organisation to give new Australians a united voice.
Read more about our history here.
Our Vision
A culturally diverse, fair and equitable Victoria – for all.
Our Purpose
To empower communities through leadership, advocacy and partnerships, as the independent voice of multicultural Victoria.
Our Values
Our values guide the work of ECCV Board Directors, staff and volunteers. Read more in our Strategic Plan 2025-30.
Courage
We are proactive, innovative and inspired by new ways of thinking
Integrity
We will act in a fair, transparent, honest and ethical manner
Respect
We value all people and their diversity
Compassion
We believe in freedom for all and celebrate cultural diversity as our greatest asset
Leadership
We strengthen and build the capacity of our communities through advocacy and leadership
Equality
We uphold equal opportunity and human rights and reject all forms of racism and xenophobia
What We Do
ECCV advocates and lobbies all levels of government on behalf of migrant and refugee communities across areas such as human rights, access and equity, and improving services. As our core business, we advocate on issues that are of concern to our members. We also help build the capacity of new and emerging communities, and develop policy on a wide range of issues by undertaking original research, often in collaboration with major tertiary institutions.
ECCV works with a diversity of partners, member organisations and stakeholders. In turn, our partnerships and projects inform our policy and advocacy work, which help to identify gaps in policy and services, and place lived experience and community voices at the centre of our work.