As Jewish families across Victoria prepare to gather tonight, the Victorian Multicultural Commission has extended its warmest wishes to the community, recognising Rosh Hashanah as a time of reflection, renewal, and hope for the year ahead.

The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) has issued a heartfelt message to Jewish communities across the state as they prepare to welcome Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.

In its statement, the Commission acknowledged the sacred significance of the occasion while celebrating the enduring contributions the Jewish community has made—and continues to make—to the cultural, social, and economic life of Victoria.

A Time of Reflection, Renewal, and Hope

Rosh Hashanah, which begins at sunset tonight, marks the start of the Jewish year 5787. It is a period of deep spiritual significance—a time when Jewish families come together to reflect on the past year, seek forgiveness, and look forward with hope and renewed commitment to their faith and community.

The traditions of Rosh Hashanah are rich with meaning. The sounding of the shofar—a ram’s horn—calls worshippers to awaken their souls. Apples dipped in honey symbolize the wish for a sweet year ahead. Family meals, prayers, and acts of charity mark the ten days of repentance that follow, culminating in Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.

Recognising an Enduring Contribution

The Victorian Multicultural Commission’s statement also highlighted the profound and lasting impact of the Jewish community on Victoria:

“We recognise and celebrate the enduring contribution that the Jewish community makes to Victoria.”

From the arts and education to business, medicine, philanthropy, and public service, Jewish Victorians have helped shape the state’s identity for generations. Their resilience, creativity, and commitment to community have enriched Victorian society in countless ways.

A Message of Warmth and Solidarity

The Commission’s message reflects the spirit of inclusivity and respect that defines Victoria’s multicultural ethos:

“We extend our warm wishes at this special time.”

As Jewish families gather tonight—around dinner tables, in synagogues, and in community centres across the state—they do so knowing that their traditions, faith, and contributions are recognised and valued by the broader Victorian community.

Shana Tova U’Metuka

The Commission concluded its message with the traditional Hebrew greeting:

“Shana Tova U’Metuka! Have a good and sweet year.”

These simple words carry profound meaning—a wish for sweetness, blessing, and peace in the year ahead.

A Celebration of Victoria’s Diversity

Rosh Hashanah is not only a time for the Jewish community to reflect and celebrate; it is also an opportunity for all Victorians to appreciate the richness of the state’s cultural and religious diversity.

The Victorian Multicultural Commission’s statement serves as a reminder that Victoria’s strength lies in its diversity—and that by honouring one another’s traditions, we build a more inclusive, harmonious, and united society.

Warm Wishes to All Celebrating

To all Jewish families and individuals across Victoria welcoming the new year:

Shana Tova U’Metuka!

May the year ahead be filled with health, happiness, and peace. May it be a year of sweet moments, meaningful connections, and abundant blessings.