The Allan Labor Government is continuing to back Victoria's growing multicultural communities with dedicated funding for new community centres to support cultural connection, celebration and belonging.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt today announced that expressions of interest are now open for Indian community organisations in Melbourne's west and south-east to establish new community centres in their regions.
Grants of up to $2.4 million are available for each centre, to support local organisations to deliver culturally appropriate spaces where communities can gather, connect and celebrate their heritage.
Victoria's Indian community is incredibly diverse, with community members from many different cultural, linguistic and faith backgrounds. Applicants are encouraged to consider this diversity in their proposals and put forward plans for a community space that is inclusive, welcoming and accessible to all.
Victoria is home to more than 370,000 people of Indian ancestry, the largest Indian-born community in Australia. From students and small business owners to healthcare workers and engineers, Indian Victorians contribute to every part of our economic, cultural and social life.
The Labor Government is supporting Victoria's Indian community through the Revitalising Central Dandenong Project, delivering a new Little India Precinct with up to 470 new homes, 2,500 square metres of community space, and a new supermarket and food market hall.
Victoria's diversity remains one of our greatest strengths, and the Labor Government continues to support multicultural communities through a range of targeted programs and initiatives that build social cohesion and promote inclusivity.
Premier Jacinta Allan visited India in September 2024 - her first overseas trip as Premier - further strengthening Victoria's long-standing relationship with one of its most important community and trade partners.
Expressions of interest open on 6 August and close on 17 September 2025.
For more information on how to submit an expression of interest, visit: https://www.vic.gov.au/community-centre-expressions-of-interest.
As stated by Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt
"Victoria is proudly home to the largest Indian-born community in Australia - and we're making sure Indian Victorians have the spaces they need to connect, celebrate and thrive."
As stated by Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts Harriet Shing
"We're building vibrant, inclusive precincts like Little India in Dandenong, and helping Victoria to grow well by creating homes, jobs and community spaces that reflect and support our rich diversity."
