Dr Preethi Suraj, President of the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ), Jim Varghese AM, Chair of the Springfield City Group Board, and FICQ team joined Shyane Neumann MP to welcome Assistant Minister for Immigration Matt Thistlethwaite MP to the future site of the “House of India” community and cultural centre in Greater Springfield.
During the visit, officials toured the site and outlined the vision for the project, which is supported by a $5.5 million Labor election commitment aimed at fostering multiculturalism and community engagement in the region.
The “House of India” will serve as a vibrant hub for Queensland’s Indian community, hosting cultural programs, language classes, sporting activities, and community events. It is also designed as an inclusive space for all Ipswich residents, providing facilities for crisis accommodation, education programs, food relief initiatives such as Meals on Wheels, and youth engagement.
Shyane Neumann MP said: “This $5.5 million commitment delivers a new home for the Indian community, but it will also be a shared community space for Ipswich. Our government stands with Indian Australians and recognises the significant contribution they make to our society.”
FICQ has championed the project for decades, reflecting the growth of the Indian diaspora in the Western Corridor, which now numbers around 10,000 people in Ipswich and Greater Springfield. The centre will provide a permanent space for Indian associations and cultural groups to hold events, meet, and carry out charitable work, while also welcoming the wider community.
Dr Preethi Suraj added that the vision for the centre is to bring generations together, offering a platform for cultural exchange, storytelling, and stronger community connections. Land for the project has been provided by Springfield City Group, with strong support from local stakeholders across party lines.
Queensland’s Indian-born population has grown by nearly 60 per cent between 2016 and 2021, with areas such as Springfield and Ipswich emerging as key centres for the community. The “House of India” is expected to meet both cultural and practical needs, reinforcing heritage while serving daily community functions.
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