Bigger And Better Victorian African Communities Committee

VIC Premier

The Andrews Labor Government will recruit 12 new members of the Victorian African Communities Committee to help drive change and better respond to community needs.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence today announced the new members will provide advice to the Labor Government, as well as oversee the continued implementation of initiatives under the Victorian African Communities Action Plan.

Being a member of the Victorian African Communities Committee (VACC) provides an opportunity for African- Victorians to work with the Labor Government to deliver positive outcomes for their communities.

Victoria’s African communities understand the needs of their communities better than anyone and will be central to delivering the Government responses.

Established in 2018, the Victorian African Communities Action Plan (VACAP) Implementation Committee oversaw the implementation of a range of initiatives, including homework clubs, leadership and board training programs.

The VACC will build on the significant work of VACAP, which is a key conduit between Government and community and will continue to provide advice across priority areas.

VACAP also helped inform other initiatives and programs across Government, including during the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, with the committee playing an essential role to increase the vaccination rates within African communities.

The 2022/23 Victorian State Budget includes $4.4 million to continue the implementation of initiatives under the Victorian African Communities Action Plan.

The outgoing VACAP members – whose terms will end – are recognised and thanked for their significant contributions since the Committee’s establishment in 2018.

Victorians of African heritage with diverse experiences, skills and strong connections to community are encouraged to apply. Applications to become a member of the VACC are open until 18 July 2022.

More information and details on how to apply can be found online at: fisherleadership.com/opportunities/committee-members

As stated by Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence

“Having African-Victorians lead the drive for change and deliver targeted responses through the Victorian African Communities Committee is invaluable.”

“We’re continuing to support and empower Victorians of African heritage – and we’re proud to work in partnership with these communities to include them in shaping policy and program responses through the VACC.”

/Public Release. View in full here.