Victoria’s multicultural small and medium enterprises (SMEs) took centre stage at the Victorian Multicultural Commission’s (VMC) Multicultural Business Forum, where leaders from government, industry and community honoured the vital role these enterprises play in driving economic success and social harmony.
Hosted in partnership with the City of Melbourne and sponsored by the Bank of Sydney, the event—chaired by VMC Commissioner Bill Papastergiadis OAM—brought together more than 200 entrepreneurs, policymakers and business advocates to discuss opportunities, challenges and innovative practices across Victoria’s richly diverse business landscape.
Keynote Addresses and Insightful Panels
Minister for Small Business and Employment Natalie Suleyman opened the forum, underscoring the government’s commitment to supporting multicultural business owners with tailored programs and streamlined regulatory processes.
VMC Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen AM echoed this sentiment, highlighting the Commission’s role in fostering “critical and vibrant connections” that underpin community cohesion.
Lord Mayor of Melbourne Nicholas Reece spoke on the City’s efforts to forge economic and cultural bonds through collaborative initiatives such as multicultural precincts and export support services.
In his remarks, he said,
“The City of Melbourne is pleased to support the Multicultural Business Forum and the role it plays in strengthening economic and cultural bonds.”
Nick Richardson, CEO of the Melbourne Press Club, moderated a flagship panel featuring:
- Melos Sulicich, CEO of Bank of Sydney
- Bihong Wang, Chair of the Multicultural Ministerial Business Council of Victoria
- Nithya Gopu Solomon, Executive Leader in Multicultural Engagement
The discussion examined how multicultural SMEs spur local growth by introducing new market opportunities, applying international best practices, and leveraging community networks.
“As employment plays a significant role in developing a sense of belonging, purpose and identity for migrants and refugees, multicultural businesses safeguard community harmony and social cohesion in Victoria,”
noted Melos Sulicich.
Building Bridges Between Communities
Commissioner Bill Papastergiadis emphasised the forum’s twin goals of economic innovation and social connection.
“Victoria’s diverse multicultural businesses not only contribute to our economic prosperity; they are also bridges between communities, fostering understanding, respect and harmony,”
he said.
Attendees benefited from targeted breakout sessions on digital transformation, export readiness, and accessing government grants. One session, led by industry experts from the Ministerial Business Council, explored strategies for scaling exports to Asia–Pacific markets. Another workshop, facilitated by the Bank of Sydney, covered financial planning and loan options specifically designed for culturally diverse entrepreneurs.
In closing remarks, Vivienne Nguyen reaffirmed the VMC’s pledge to continue supporting multicultural entrepreneurs through future training programs, networking events and policy advocacy.
“The Victorian Multicultural Commission is proud to support events like the Multicultural Business Forum, which foster critical and vibrant connections and community harmony,”
she concluded.
The 2025 Multicultural Business Forum highlights Victoria’s commitment to leveraging the creativity and resilience of its migrant and refugee business owners, recognising that their success is integral to the state’s economic future and the social fabric of its communities.
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