The Allan Labor Government is boosting support for Victoria’s growing multicultural communities, announcing major funding for new community centres that will foster cultural connection, celebration and belonging.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt said expressions of interest are now open for Indian community organisations in Melbourne’s west and south-east to establish purpose-built centres in their regions.
“Victoria is proudly home to the largest Indian-born community in Australia – and we’re making sure Indian Victorians have the spaces they need to connect, celebrate and thrive.”
Grants of up to $2.4 million will be available for each centre, enabling local organisations to create culturally appropriate spaces where communities can gather, connect and celebrate their heritage.
Victoria’s Indian community, numbering more than 370,000 people, is the largest in Australia and spans a rich mix of cultural, linguistic and faith backgrounds.
From students and small business owners to healthcare workers and engineers, Indian Victorians contribute across every part of the state’s economic, cultural and social life.
Applicants are encouraged to reflect this diversity in their proposals, ensuring the centres are inclusive, welcoming and accessible to all.
The announcement builds on the Government’s broader support for Victoria’s Indian community, including the Revitalising Central Dandenong Project, which will deliver a new Little India Precinct with up to 470 new homes, 2,500 square metres of community space, a supermarket and a food market hall.
Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts Harriet Shing said the Government was committed to building spaces that embody Victoria’s diversity.
“We’re building vibrant, inclusive precincts like Little India in Dandenong, and helping Victoria to grow well by creating homes, jobs and community spaces that reflect and support our rich diversity.”
Premier Jacinta Allan’s first overseas trip in September 2024 was to India, underscoring Victoria’s strong ties with one of its most important community and trade partners.
Expressions of interest are open from 6 August until 17 September 2025. More details are available at vic.gov.au/community-centre-expressions-of-interest.
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