Multicultural communities are right at the heart of Melbourne’s story, enriching our city through their leadership, innovation and community spirit.
The Carroll Labor Government has recognised the significant contribution of individuals and organisations at the 2026 Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence.
The awards celebrate the achievements of recipients across 13 categories, including Prevention of Family Violence, Mental Health, Arts, Business and Employment, and Media.
The Media Award was presented to Neary Ty, an award-winning 9News Melbourne journalist and daughter of Cambodian refugees.
Community radio station 3ZZZ was also acknowledged for its work amplifying the voices of multicultural communities for 37 years.
Malavika Kadwadkar, a senior community engagement and gender equality leader, received the individual Prevention of Family Violence Award, after spending two decades working at the intersection of women’s health, multicultural engagement and family violence prevention.
Southeast Community Links won the organisation Business and Employment Award for supporting more than 24,000 multicultural community members through financial wellbeing, settlement, housing and family violence support services.
The Water Well Project was awarded the organisation Refugee Leadership Award for improving the health of refugees and asylum seekers.
Through free, culturally sensitive sessions led by volunteer professionals and interpreters, the project empowers newly arrived communities with information to navigate the healthcare system.
For the full list of award winners and highly commended recipients, visit https://www.multicultural.vic.gov.au/victorian-multicultural-awards-for-excellence
As stated by The Hon. Ben Carroll MP, Premier of Victoria
“Multicultural communities are at the heart of Victoria’s success. I congratulate all award recipients, Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll inductees and nominees. Thank you for everything you do to strengthen our state.”
As stated by The Hon. Paul Edbrooke MP, Minister for Multicultural Affairs
“The Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence are celebrating their 25th year, and this year’s nominees and recipients are not only champions of their community, but leaders that define Victoria’s multicultural story.”
As stated by Interim Multicultural Coordinator General, Louise Perry
“The winners, inductees and nominees of the Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence affirm our collective commitment to the tremendous diversity that has long defined Victoria and enriched our state.”
