Category Archives: VMC
Building the Architecture of Cohesion: VMC Chairperson Louise Perry’s Vision for a United Australia
At the Think Social Cohesion National Summit, Perry Outlines a Roadmap for Government Action Through Listening, Thinking, and Acting
By Dhabessa Wakjira
In a powerful keynote address at the Think Social Cohesion National Summit in Parramatta, Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) Chairperson Louise Perry laid out a clear and compelling vision for how governments can build the institutional architecture necessary for lasting social cohesion.
Speaking to 160 leaders from government, community organisations, settlement agencies, and academia, Perry distilled her message into three essential steps: Listen, Think, Act . This framework, she argued, offers a practical pathway for governments to engage meaningfully with diverse communities and translate dialogue into tangible outcomes.
“The VMC was pleased and proud to partner with Mortgage Stress Victoria to deliver a community information session in Melbourne, last night,” the Commission noted in a recent social media post, highlighting one such instance of this framework in action.
The Summit: Converting Discussion into Commitment
Convened by SydWest Multicultural Services, Settlement Services International (SSI), and the Settlement Council of Australia (SCOA), the summit was designed not as a traditional conference, but as a “working room, built to act rather than to talk” . The event was structured to ensure that participants did not simply listen to speakers but actively shaped the conversation through real-time contributions, with more than 300 live inputs synthesised and fed back into the discussion .
The summit culminated in an emerging Social Cohesion Roadmap, identifying five interconnected priorities: clear rights and responsibilities, broader community reach, economic participation, accountability for commitments, and a renewed national narrative recognising multiculturalism as a defining strength.
The “Listen, Think, Act” Framework
1. Listen: Active and Deep Engagement
Perry urged governments to “listen actively and deeply to communities,” moving beyond token consultation to genuine engagement that builds trust and understanding . The summit itself embodied this principle, with organisers committing to provide every delegate with a report within 28 days outlining what had changed because of their participation .
2. Think: Connecting Ideas for Cohesion
The second step, “Think,” involves reflecting on what governments have heard and “how different ideas fit together” to address complex challenges . This requires moving beyond siloed thinking and recognising that issues of cohesion, belonging, and participation are interconnected.
3. Act: Building and Uplifting Others
The final step is to “act by building and uplifting others across sectors and borders to achieve outcomes” . This demands collaboration across government, community organisations, and private sectors, as well as a commitment to accountability.
A Landmark Moment for Victorian Multiculturalism
Perry’s address carried particular weight as she announced that the Multicultural Victoria Bill had entered the Victorian Parliament that very afternoon, establishing a new statutory body to lead the state’s multicultural and multifaith portfolio . This legislative milestone will provide a permanent institutional framework for the work of building social cohesion.
A National Call to Action
The summit concluded with a specific national proposal from former Tasmanian Premier and Australian Multicultural Council Chair Peter Gutwein, who called on the federal parliament to “debate and pass a motion” formally declaring Australia a multicultural country .
The summit participants demonstrated that Australia does not lack ideas on social cohesion—it lacks a shared framework for acting on them. Perry’s “Listen, Think, Act” framework offers one such framework, providing governments with a clear roadmap for building the institutional architecture necessary to create a more cohesive, inclusive, and united Australia.
Building Bridges in Times of Hardship: A Community Unites Against Mortgage Stress
By Daandii Ragabaa
For many migrants and refugees, owning a home represents far more than a financial asset. It is security, stability, and tangible proof that a new life can be built from the ground up. It is the Great Australian Dream .
Yet for many, that dream has become a source of deep anxiety. The burden of mortgage repayments, rising interest rates, and the escalating cost of living have turned homeownership into a heavy burden of stress.
Last night, in a show of community solidarity, the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) partnered with Mortgage Stress Victoria (MSV) to deliver a vital community information session in Melbourne. The event was a lifeline for migrant communities who often bear the brunt of financial hardship in silence.
A Collaborative Effort for a Pressing Crisis
Financial stress rarely exists in isolation . It is a relentless intruder that seeps into every aspect of life, affecting health, relationships, employment, and a family’s sense of security . For migrant and refugee communities, the challenges are compounded. Language barriers, unfamiliarity with financial systems, cultural expectations, or simply not knowing where to turn can make that first step towards seeking help nearly impossible.
The event—attended by Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs Iwan Walters MP, representatives from both the VMC and MSV, and almost 150 community leaders—affirmed a crucial message: help is available, and issues can be tackled before problems become crises .
What Mortgage Stress Victoria Offers
Mortgage Stress Victoria stands as a beacon of hope. As the only specialist service in Australia providing free, integrated legal, financial counselling, and social work support for homeowners at risk of losing their homes, MSV is uniquely placed to intervene at critical moments .
Their work is a testament to the power of a holistic approach. As MSV articulates, “Our structure recognises that mortgage stress is complex, with many different causes and consequences” . By tackling the root causes—which often include family violence, job loss, and systemic barriers—MSV helps clients navigate the pressures contributing to their mortgage and achieve lasting financial and housing security .
The Power of Community Engagement
The success of the partnership between the VMC and MSV lies in its culturally accessible approach. Bringing trusted information directly into communities, through community leaders and familiar faces, is more than just good engagement—it is prevention.
When community leaders understand the signs of mortgage stress and where to direct families for help, they can intervene before a financial problem becomes a full-blown crisis. As one attendee noted, “The best time for support is before financial stress becomes financial crisis” .
A Shared Commitment to Prevention
The Victorian Multicultural Commission’s commitment to this issue is resolute. Recognising that financial stability is central to successful settlement and community cohesion, the VMC is ensuring that vital information reaches those who need it most. The event was a clear demonstration that by working together—across government, community organisations, and multicultural leaders—we can build a safety net that prevents the loss of homes and the fracturing of families.
Congratulations to everyone involved in creating that bridge between communities and the help available to them. Initiatives like this matter, because they ensure that for many Victorians, the dream of a secure home remains a reality.
Celebrating Qaammee: A Sacred Oromo Tradition of Womanhood, Unity, and Cultural Pride
The Rituals of Buqqisaa and Daddarbaa — A Timeless Celebration of Young Women
By Daandii Ragabaa
The Oromo people are blessed with a rich tapestry of cultural traditions that have been passed down through generations. Among these, the Ayyaana Qaammee stands as one of the most beautiful and significant celebrations—a sacred festival honouring young unmarried women, their transition into adulthood, and their vital role in the continuity of Oromo society.
The word Qaammee refers to a young unmarried woman who participates in this sacred festival. The celebration embodies the essence of youthful femininity, purity, and the promise of a bright future. It is a rite of passage, a communal blessing, and a moment of profound cultural significance.
This year, as the community gathers to celebrate Qaammee, we extend our warmest greetings: “Baga Nagaan Ayyaana Qaammee geessan!” —Happy Qaammee Festival!
Understanding Qaammee: More Than a Celebration
The Qaammee festival is more than just a cultural event—it is a sacred tradition that connects the Oromo people to their ancestors, their community, and the natural world around them. It is a celebration of womanhood, a blessing for the future, and a reaffirmation of Oromo identity.
The festival takes place annually, beginning in the month of Hagayya (roughly July-August) and continuing through the month of Fulbaana (September-October). The timing coincides with the end of the rainy season—a time of renewal, abundance, and new beginnings. This year’s celebration is a continuation of this sacred tradition, bringing communities together in joy, song, and blessing.
Central to the Qaammee celebration are two key rituals:
- Buqqisaa — The “Breaking” or preparation ceremony
- Daddarbaa — The “Passing” or blessing ceremony
The Buqqisaa Ceremony: Preparation and Unity
The Qaammee celebration begins with the Buqqisaa ceremony, a vibrant evening of preparation and community bonding.
Gathering by the Water
On the evening of Buqqisaa, young unmarried women (Qaammeen) gather in groups and make their way to a nearby river or stream (laga or caffee). This is a time of sisterhood, joy, and anticipation. The women come together in large numbers, united by their shared identity and purpose.
The Breaking of Qunnii
At the water’s edge, the women perform the ritual of Buqqisaa—the breaking or preparation of Qunnii, a special plant similar to grass that has a fragrant fruit (gumaa/firii) at its base. When the Qunnii blooms, it becomes Dhallaadduu, ready for use.
The Qunnii plant is significant for several reasons:
- It produces a natural fragrance that is pleasing to the senses
- It has medicinal properties that are beneficial for women’s health
- It is used as a natural perfume (Qayya) by the young women
Songs, Dance, and Celebration
The Buqqisaa ceremony is accompanied by traditional songs, dances, and celebrations that continue well into the night. The women sing Faaruu Qaammee (Abaabilee)—special songs composed for the occasion—as they prepare the Qunnii together.
The women break and prepare the Qunnii, sharing in the work and the joy of the occasion. The atmosphere is filled with laughter, song, and the spirit of unity.
Returning Home with Blessings
After the preparation is complete, each woman returns to her home with the Qunnii she has prepared. She places it on the doorstep (balbala irra kaawwatanii) as she enters, symbolizing the blessings she brings into her home.
The Ashaashullaa Tradition
On this same evening, young girls (ijoolleen dubaraa) participate in a special tradition involving Ashaashullaa—a plant similar to moss or creeping vine. The Ashaashullaa is tied to their hands and feet (harkaa fi quba miilatti hidhatanii bulu), and they sleep with it overnight.
In the morning, the plant has turned their hands and feet red—a beautiful decoration that adds to their adornment. The plant is considered a traditional ornament for girls, enhancing their beauty and connection to nature.
The Daddarbaa Ceremony: Blessings and Passing Forward
The following day is the Daddarbaa ceremony—the Passing or Blessing ceremony. This is the main day of the Qaammee celebration, when the young women receive the community’s blessings and are honoured for their transition.
Gathering at the Meeting Place
In the morning, the young women take the Qunnii they prepared the previous evening and gather at a designated meeting place, known as the Mootii Durbaa (the place of the chosen leader). The Mootii Durbaa is the eldest or most respected among the young women, chosen by the group.
The Journey Through the Community
From the Mootii Durbaa, the women begin their journey through the community. Walking in groups, they sing the Abaabilee songs as they go from house to house. They start with the Warra Angafaa (the elders/leaders of the clan) and then visit every household in their community.
The Ritual of Daddarbaa
At each household, the women perform the Daddarbaa ritual. They pass the Qunnii from the previous day to the household, receiving blessings in return. They eat and drink a little at each home, and the elders offer prayers and blessings for their future.
The women continue this journey until they have visited all the households in their community, spreading joy, receiving blessings, and reinforcing the bonds of community.
The Role of Young Men in Qaammee
While Qaammee is primarily a celebration of young women, young men also play an important role—though it is very different from that of the women.
Young unmarried men (who are not yet married) do not participate in the Buqqisaa or Daddarbaa ceremonies in the same way as the women. However, they accompany the women during the celebrations, walking alongside the groups and participating in the songs and dances.
The Wadaajii Tradition
The most notable tradition involving young men is the Wadaajii Dhungachuu—a ritual that is eagerly awaited, especially by the men. This tradition is unique to the Oromo culture and reflects the playful and respectful nature of the Qaammee celebration.
During the procession, when the women leave one household to go to the next, the young men position themselves along the route. As the women pass, the men suddenly fall to the ground in front of them and attempt to “drink” (dhungachuu) from them. The women, in turn, push the men away using their hands and the Dhallaadduu they are carrying.
This is a playful ritual, not a violation. The men approach with respect, and the women respond with good-natured resistance. The location for this ritual is often a boqoo/maddii—a designated area along the route.
After the ritual, the women continue on their way, laughing and continuing their songs. The men, having participated in the tradition, rejoin the procession. This tradition is an important part of Oromo youth culture, reinforcing bonds between young men and women while maintaining cultural protocols.
Important note: Men who participate in the Wadaajii ritual are not allowed to marry the women they “drink” from—it is a matter of cultural respect and propriety.
The Spiritual Significance of Qaammee
At its heart, the Qaammee celebration is a spiritual experience. The rituals are conducted with reverence and respect, invoking the blessings of Waaqa (God) and the ancestors.
The young women receive the prayers of the elders, the admiration of the community, and the hope of their families. The celebration is an act of thanksgiving—giving thanks for the rain, the harvest, and the continuity of Oromo culture.
The songs of Qaammee, known as Abaabilee, carry deep meaning and are an essential part of the celebration:
“Aababilee haa doolee” — Let the Abaabilee songs be sung
“Haayee yaa shoroorootoo” — Oh, the beautiful songs
“Shoororoo haati deechee” — The mother has sung the Shoororoo
“Yaa qal’oo qaammen geechee” — The Qaammee women have come
A Celebration of Promise and Renewal
As the Qaammee festival concludes, the participants and their families are filled with a sense of pride, joy, and hope. The young women who have been blessed and celebrated carry with them the strength and support of their community as they embark on their journeys into adulthood.
The festival is also a reminder of the beauty and resilience of Oromo culture—a culture that has survived centuries of oppression and continues to thrive in the hearts of its people.
The Challenge of Cultural Erosion
It is important to note that the Qaammee festival is in danger of being forgotten in many areas. In some places, it is no longer celebrated at all. In others, a modified version called “Qaammee Sidaamaa” is celebrated on October 1st (Fulbaana 1, ALH), but even this is not the same as the traditional celebration.
This erosion of cultural traditions is a loss for the Oromo people. These traditions are not just customs—they are expressions of Oromo identity, resilience, and continuity. They connect the present generation to their ancestors and provide a foundation for the future.
The responsibility of reviving and preserving these traditions falls on the current generation. As the saying goes, “Duudhaaleen Oromoo hedduun isaanii bakka hin jiran. Bakkatti deebisuun dirqama dhaloota ammaa ti” —Many Oromo traditions are no longer practiced. It is the duty of the current generation to bring them back.
Conclusion: The Eternal Light of Qaammee
Qaammee is more than a celebration—it is a sacred tradition that connects the Oromo people to their past, their present, and their future. It is a moment to honour young women, to bless their journey, and to affirm the enduring strength of Oromo culture.
As the community gathers to celebrate, let us remember the beauty, grace, and resilience of the Oromo people. Let us honour the young women who carry the hopes of their community. And let us commit ourselves to preserving and reviving these sacred traditions for future generations.
“Kan Baranaa kan egeree nuun haa jedhu!” —May this year’s celebration be one of abundance and joy!
Baga Nagaan Ayyaana Qaammee geessan!
This feature article is dedicated to all the young Oromo women—past, present, and future—who carry the spirit of Qaammee in their hearts, and to the communities who are working to preserve this beautiful tradition.
A Line Crossed: Ambassador Suleiman Dedefo Warns of Eritrea’s Grave Violation of Ethiopian Sovereignty
In the volatile landscape of the Horn of Africa, where alliances shift like desert sands and the embers of conflict never fully cool, a stark warning has been issued. Ambassador Suleiman Dedefo, Ethiopia’s top diplomat, has leveled a serious accusation against Eritrea: that it has committed a “grave violation” of Ethiopia’s sovereignty by sending an armed military delegation across their internationally recognized border into the Tigray region—without the consent of the Ethiopian government.
A Breach of Sovereign Borders
According to Ambassador Dedefo, Eritrea’s military delegation did not merely cross into Ethiopian territory; it was received by forces engaged in active military confrontation with the Ethiopian government—a “gang group” aligned with the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). This, he argues, constitutes a direct and reckless act of alliance with a group waging war against Ethiopia.
“It is highly unusual and contrary to established principles of international law for an armed military delegation to cross the internationally recognized border of another sovereign state without the consent of its government,” Ambassador Dedefo stated, framing the incursion not as a diplomatic misstep but as a fundamental breach of the rules that govern relations between sovereign nations.
The Legal Framework: A Violation of the UN Charter
The Ambassador’s words carry the weight of international jurisprudence. Under the United Nations Charter and customary international law, the territorial integrity and political independence of sovereign states are inviolable. An armed incursion by one state into another, particularly to support an armed group hostile to the host government, is widely recognized as an act of aggression.
By receiving Eritrea’s military delegation in territory it does not control, the TPLF-aligned forces have, in Ambassador Dedefo’s view, effectively made Eritrea a party to the conflict. “This amounts to joining the war that TPLF is waging on Ethiopia,” he declared. Such an action erases any pretense of Eritrea acting as a neutral observer or a humanitarian partner—it positions Asmara as a belligerent.
A Reckless Alliance
The implications extend far beyond the battlefield. Ambassador Dedefo characterized Eritrea’s move as a “reckless act of alliance with a mercenary group” that jeopardizes not only Ethiopia’s sovereignty but also the stability of the entire region. In the Horn of Africa, where borders remain contested and historical grievances run deep, an act of this nature threatens to unravel the fragile peace.
By aligning with a group that the Ethiopian government has designated as hostile, Eritrea is gambling with regional security. The message sent to other nations in the region is deeply troubling: that borders can be crossed with impunity, and that external actors may choose sides in a neighbor’s internal conflict without consequence.
The Right to Self-Defense
Perhaps the most significant portion of Ambassador Dedefo’s statement is his assertion regarding Ethiopia’s legal recourse. “Such actions may give rise to Ethiopia’s rights under international law, including those recognized by the UN Charter,” he noted. He went further, stating unequivocally that “Eritrea becomes a legitimate target for any action that Ethiopia could take in self defense”.
This is not merely diplomatic rhetoric. Article 51 of the UN Charter enshrines the “inherent right of individual or collective self-defence if an armed attack occurs.” By framing Eritrea’s actions as an armed incursion in support of a hostile force, Ambassador Dedefo has laid the groundwork for a potential Ethiopian military response—one that would be legally justified under international law.
The Broader Context
Ambassador Suleiman Dedefo is no stranger to the complexities of Ethiopian diplomacy. Having served as Ethiopia’s ambassador to the United Arab Emirates and later as its top envoy to Somalia, he has been at the center of some of the region’s most sensitive negotiations. He has previously warned of external forces creating “political and strategic challenges” to Ethiopian interests and has been a vocal critic of those who threaten the nation’s sovereignty.
His latest warning comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Horn of Africa. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has spoken of “correcting” the historic loss of Red Sea access, a statement that has drawn sharp criticism from Eritrea. Meanwhile, Egypt has deployed troops to Somalia, further complicating an already fraught regional dynamic. Into this cauldron of competing interests, Eritrea’s alleged military incursion adds a volatile new element.
A Line That Cannot Be Uncrosed
Ambassador Dedefo’s words are a clear signal: Ethiopia views Eritrea’s actions as an act of war. Whether this leads to direct military confrontation between the two neighbors remains to be seen. What is certain is that the diplomatic landscape of the Horn of Africa has shifted.
The international community now faces a critical test. Will it condemn Eritrea’s violation of Ethiopian sovereignty and call for de-escalation? Or will it remain silent, allowing the precedent of armed incursion to take root? Ambassador Dedefo has drawn a line in the sand—a line that, once crossed, may prove impossible to uncross.
As the region holds its breath, one thing is clear: the principle of sovereign borders, hard-won over centuries of international law and diplomacy, hangs in the balance. And Ethiopia, through the voice of its ambassador, has made it known that it will not stand idly by while that principle is trampled.
A Grateful Farewell: The End of an Era at the Victorian Multicultural Commission
After seven years of dedicated service, Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen AM reflects on a journey of connection, resilience, and hope for a multicultural Victoria
MELBOURNE, VICTORIA — There are moments in public life that transcend the ordinary—moments when service becomes more than a duty and transforms into a calling. For Vivienne Nguyen AM, her seven-year tenure as Chairperson of the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) has been precisely such a moment.
In a heartfelt farewell, Ms Nguyen announced her final day as Chairperson, closing a chapter that has seen Victoria’s multicultural communities navigate unprecedented challenges and celebrate remarkable triumphs.
A Journey of Service
“Today marks my final day as Chairperson of the Victorian Multicultural Commission, and I wanted to take this opportunity to simply say thank you.”
For seven years, Vivienne Nguyen has stood at the intersection of government and community, serving as a bridge between Victoria’s culturally, linguistically, and religiously diverse populations and the institutions that serve them. Her journey to this role began long before her appointment—it started when she arrived in Australia as a 12-year-old refugee from Vietnam, a young girl who would grow into one of Victoria’s most passionate advocates for genuine community engagement and cultural diversity .
Her path has been extraordinary: from refugee to corporate leader, from community volunteer to Member of the Order of Australia . In 2021, she was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for “significant service to the multicultural community of Victoria” . This recognition was not the culmination of her work but rather a milestone along a continuing journey of service.
Standing Together Through Crisis and Celebration
“It has been a privilege to stand alongside Victoria’s multicultural and multifaith communities through moments of crisis and celebration, joy and pain, laughter and tears, agreement and robust (and respectful) discussions, and indeed for that matter the disagreements we accepted of each other.”
Nguyen’s tenure was marked by extraordinary challenges. Just months into her role, the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the world, disproportionately affecting multicultural communities who faced language barriers, misinformation, and economic hardship. Under her leadership, the VMC became an essential link between government and community .
“The voices of [multicultural] communities are far more amplified, noticeable, involved and engaged now than we have ever seen,” she reflected on the pandemic experience .
Her leadership through those difficult times was lauded by many, earning her a second four-year term . She worked tirelessly to ensure that government programs and restrictions were communicated effectively to diverse communities, partnering with community leaders and peak bodies to deliver unique resources for those who needed them most .
The Quiet Work That Builds a Community
“Throughout this journey, I have been constantly inspired by the generosity of community leaders, volunteers, faith leaders, young people and organisations who quietly give their time and talents in service of others. Much of this work happens behind the scenes and without recognition, yet it is these everyday acts of kindness, leadership and service that make Victoria the welcoming and inclusive place we are proud to call home.”
Nguyen’s farewell speech was as much a tribute to others as it was a reflection on her own work. She acknowledged the unsung heroes of Victoria’s multicultural communities—those who work without fanfare, who give without seeking recognition, who serve without expecting reward .
Indeed, throughout her tenure, Nguyen consistently highlighted the work of others. In farewell messages to outgoing commissioners, she noted that their “inspirational and unwavering leadership, dedication and advocacy has been instrumental in promoting understanding, connection and collaboration among Victoria’s diverse communities” . She praised her Deputy Chairperson, Bwe Thay, as having been “by my side, providing steadfast support and strongly advocating for Victoria’s culturally, religiously and linguistically diverse communities” .
Looking Forward with Hope
“While my time as Chair comes to an end, my belief in the future of multicultural Victoria has never been stronger.”
Nguyen’s farewell is not one of resignation but of optimism. She leaves the role at a moment of significant transformation for multicultural affairs in Victoria. The establishment of Multicultural Victoria as a fit-for-purpose organisation, elevating multicultural affairs across the whole of the Victorian government, presents what she calls “an exciting opportunity to shape the future” .
The new statutory body will combine the engagement role of the VMC with the policy role of the Department, with new responsibilities including developing safety plans for communities affected by serious events . A new Multicultural Coordinator General will lead it, supported by two deputies and a five-member advisory council of commissioners .
Nguyen has welcomed these changes, stating that she welcomes “the Multicultural Review report and its proposed structural changes to ensure government policies are fit-for-purpose” and “the decision to review the Multicultural Act Victoria 2011, which must focus on strengthening cohesion and creating a richer, more inclusive, fairer and better Victoria” .
Gratitude and Continuity
“I leave this role with immense gratitude for the friendships formed, the conversations shared and the many lessons I have learned from individuals and communities across Victoria. Thank you for your trust, your wisdom and your unwavering commitment to building a stronger, fairer and more connected Victoria.”
In her farewell, Nguyen expressed deep gratitude for the relationships she has built across Victoria—the friendships, the conversations, the lessons learned. Her words reflect a genuine appreciation for the communities she has served and the people who have walked alongside her.
“Although this chapter closes, my commitment to our multicultural communities does not.”
Nguyen has made clear that her departure from the Chairperson role does not signal an end to her advocacy. She looks forward to remaining involved and continuing to attend community events across Victoria in the months and years ahead .
A Lasting Legacy
The legacy of Vivienne Nguyen’s tenure is visible in the strengthened connections between government and multicultural communities, the amplified voices of diverse Victorians, and the foundations laid for the future of multicultural affairs in Victoria.
Her journey—from 12-year-old refugee to Chairperson of the Victorian Multicultural Commission—is itself a testament to the opportunities that a multicultural society can offer . Her story is a reminder that diversity is not merely something to be tolerated but something to be celebrated and embraced.
“Together, we have celebrated our diversity, navigated difficult times with compassion and resilience, and continued to strengthen the foundations of our multicultural state.”
Conclusion
As Vivienne Nguyen AM steps down from her role as Chairperson of the Victorian Multicultural Commission, she leaves behind a legacy of service, advocacy, and hope. Her seven-year tenure has seen Victoria’s multicultural communities through a pandemic, through celebration, through crisis, and through transformation.
Her final message is one of gratitude and optimism—gratitude for the privilege of service, and optimism for the future of multicultural Victoria. The establishment of Multicultural Victoria, with its expanded mandate and renewed focus, represents an exciting new chapter in the story of Victoria’s diverse communities.
And while Nguyen’s role as Chairperson has come to an end, her commitment to multicultural Victoria has not. As she herself has said, “this chapter closes, my commitment to our multicultural communities does not.”
“Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving alongside you.”
— Vivienne Nguyen AM, Chairperson (for the last time), Victorian Multicultural Commission
Advocacy for Oromia 