More than 100 events and festivals have received a share of over $800,000 in funding for next year through the Celebrating Multicultural Queensland program.
More than 13 new events will be held in 2022 including the Cairns Italian Festival, the Mongolian Naadam Festival and the Papua New Guinea Cultural and Traditional Day in Logan, alongside a long list of established and signature events held across the state.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Leanne Linard said the Celebrating Multicultural Queensland program funding was crucial for organisations to help bring festivals and events to local communities.
“Celebrating multicultural cultures in Queensland is not only great for our personal and social well being but it also contributes to creating healthy societies, building social cohesion and stimulating local economies,” she said.
“I’m delighted there are so many opportunities for Queenslanders across the state to get involved next year.
“This is a fantastic chance to celebrate the many different traditions and customs that are part of our multicultural Queensland.”
The Celebrating Multicultural Queensland program supports events and projects through annual grants funding rounds to promote a united, harmonious, and inclusive Queensland.
Events set to return next year include the Brisbane Chinese Festival, the Townsville Cultural Festival and Carnival of Joy, the Luminous Lantern Parade in South Brisbane, the Gold Coast Multicultural Festival and Diwali.
A total of 101 events will receive funding ranging from $1,000 to $20,000 in 2022.
Ms Linard said multiculturalism is a key part of Queensland’s culture and identity.
“There’s no doubt Queensland’s diversity is a success story and is a cause for celebration,” she said.
“Our state is home to people from 220 different countries and territories who speak more than 180 languages and identify with over 110 different faiths.
“Nothing connects people like multicultural festivals and events do – and I’m delighted we have one-hundred-and-one ways to see this in action next year.”
