A proposed “Little India” precinct in Melbourne’s Docklands has ignited both excitement and backlash, prompting a strong call for unity from community leaders as the city moves ahead with funding to bring the vision to life.
Vasan Srinivasan, President of the Federation of Indian Associations in Victoria, has launched a petition urging Indian Australians and supporters to rally behind the initiative, warning that silence in the face of criticism risks undermining a “defining moment” for the community.
His appeal comes after the City of Melbourne committed more than $1.2 million in its draft 2026–27 budget to progress the Little India precinct in Docklands, building on an earlier scoping study. The plan aims to establish a cultural hub that could eventually stand alongside Chinatown and Koreatown as one of Melbourne’s officially recognised precincts.
Srinivasan said the proposal should be a moment of pride, but instead has been overshadowed by negative and, at times, racist commentary.
“With more than 400,000 people of Indian origin in Victoria, we must ask ourselves — if we do not stand up for our identity, culture and future, who will?”
The council’s broader budget includes major investments in cultural infrastructure, public art, and events, alongside a record $2 million for its “Light Up Melbourne” laneway lighting project and $26 million for flagship events such as Moomba, New Year’s Eve and Melbourne Fashion Week.
A new $250,000 multicultural events stream and $200,000 for precinct revitalisation are also aimed at strengthening the city’s diverse cultural landscape.
Lord Mayor Nick Reece said the investment would help reinforce Melbourne’s reputation as a global cultural destination, while Creative and Arts portfolio head Philip Le Liu described the Little India plan as a step toward reflecting the city’s multicultural identity.
For Srinivasan, however, the focus is on community mobilisation. Drawing on decades of advocacy, he pointed to past milestones — from Diwali celebrations to the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne — as proof that progress comes through collective effort.
He is now urging people to make formal submissions, speak out publicly and support the precinct regardless of regional or linguistic differences.
“This is not about North or South, Tamil or Punjabi — this is about being Indian.”
The proposed precinct envisions a large dedicated space featuring Indian cuisine, retail, and professional services, alongside cultural programming designed to showcase heritage and drive economic activity.
Public consultation on the draft budget remains open until 28 April, with the final plan expected to shape the next phase of Melbourne’s multicultural evolution.
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