Victorian MPs and community leaders have paid tribute to the outgoing Indian Consul General in Melbourne, Dr Sushil Kumar, praising his role in strengthening ties between Victoria and India and deepening engagement with the Indian diaspora.
At a farewell event attended by parliamentarians, business figures and community representatives, Victorian Upper House MP Lee Tarlamis said Victoria’s partnership with India had become a “shining example” of international collaboration, delivering significant economic and cultural benefits across trade, innovation, education, tourism and sport.
Talamaris highlighted Victoria’s status as home to the largest Indian diaspora in Australia, describing the community’s contribution as central to the state’s diversity and prosperity. He said the progress achieved in recent years reflected the collective efforts of many, including the outgoing Consul General, whose leadership had helped strengthen people-to-people links.
Joining the tribute, MP Nina Taylor said Victoria and India continued to work closely across multiple sectors, producing outcomes that were “mutually beneficial” both economically and culturally.
She praised the Consul General’s hands-on approach, noting he was deeply immersed in local events and community activities, building trust and delivering positive outcomes efficiently.
MP Matt Fregon also attended the farewell, alongside business and community leaders who acknowledged the Consul General’s inclusive leadership style and ability to bring people together across cultures and faiths.
Dr Kumar assumed his role in Melbourne in July 2022, having previously served in Indian missions in Kuwait and Colombo, and held senior roles linked to regional cooperation in South Asia. His career also included service at India’s Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi, as well as a background in scientific research before joining the Indian Foreign Service in 2009. Fluent in several languages, he was widely regarded as accessible and community-focused.
Indian-Australian community leader Sunny Duggal described Dr Kumar’s tenure as one marked by humility, accessibility and tireless dedication to the diaspora. He said the Consulate, under his stewardship, became a welcoming place where people felt heard, supported and respected.
Tributes also extended to the Consul General’s wife Mona and their two daughters, with speakers wishing the family well as they prepare to return to India. MPs and community leaders alike expressed confidence that the Victoria–India relationship would continue to flourish, built on the strong foundations laid during his time in Melbourne.
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