The Victorian Government has appointed an expanded Multicultural Health Advisory Committee to help shape Victoria’s health system, aiming to address barriers faced by culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas announced the strengthened committee this week, saying it would ensure the state’s healthcare system works effectively for all Victorians, regardless of cultural background or language.

Victoria is one of Australia’s most diverse states, with residents representing more than 300 ancestries, speaking over 290 languages and practising more than 200 faiths. While diversity is a defining strength, government officials acknowledge many multicultural communities face challenges accessing healthcare due to language barriers, cultural differences and limited access to appropriate information.

The advisory committee brings together healthcare professionals, community leaders and representatives from key multicultural organisations, including the Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria, the Victorian Multicultural Commission and the Victorian Refugee Health Network. Members bring both professional expertise and lived experience, which the government says will help identify gaps and improve engagement between communities and the health system.

The committee will be chaired by Parliamentary Secretary for Women’s Health Kat Theophanous, who said the group would play a key role in supporting fairer health outcomes and ensuring diverse voices are reflected in health policy.

One of its first tasks will be to support the rollout of the Victorian Multicultural Health Survey, expected to open in early 2026. The survey will allow multicultural and multifaith communities to share their healthcare experiences and highlight barriers, helping inform future reforms and service improvements.

The committee’s expanded role will also include advising on mental health, including the implementation of the Diverse Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing 10-Year Framework. The framework aims to ensure all Victorians can access a safe, inclusive and culturally appropriate mental health system.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt said listening to diverse communities was essential to building a respectful and inclusive healthcare system, while Minister Thomas emphasised the committee would help translate community feedback into practical action.

The government said the initiative forms part of its broader Multicultural Health Action Plan 2023-27, which seeks to improve access, equity and health outcomes across Victoria’s diverse population.

The announcement comes amid growing recognition that culturally responsive healthcare is critical to improving outcomes, particularly as Victoria’s multicultural population continues to expand.

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