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Dear RAC member,
It is with a deep sense of heartfelt gratitude that I write to you to express my sincere appreciation.
As the Regional Advisory Councils (RACs) come to an end – and as work continues to establish a fit-for-purpose engagement model in the anticipated Multicultural Victoria entity – I hope you will join me in reflecting on the important advocacy work RAC members have done over many years.
The conclusion of the RACs on 30 June 2026 marks the end of a chapter shaped by your passion, generosity and unwavering belief in the strength and value of our collective voice.
For almost 15 years, the RACs have ensured that the lived experiences of diverse communities were heard and respected within government and across departments, agencies and sector partners – even though, at times, it felt challenging.
Whether your tenure as a RAC member was long or short, your energy, insights and advice – your differences of opinion, and your care and concern for others – made a lasting difference to our state. You affirmed the need for such engagement as part of a functioning democracy.
Your contribution extended far beyond RAC meetings. In times of uncertainty, of challenge or crisis, you stood with the VMC and communities. You were trusted leaders, supporting and uniting communities, when that was most needed.
You have been tireless advocates on issues that matter to communities. From mental health and family violence to racism, housing and employment, you have helped to shape government responses, strengthen partnerships and place community voices at the centre of decision-making.
While the RACs are ending, I know the relationships we have built will continue. You are, for example, invited to remain connected through the new VMC Community Network WhatsApp Group (CNWG), as the VMC transitions to Multicultural Victoria (if you would prefer to opt-out of the CNWG, simply notify the VMC via engagement@vmc.vic.gov.au by 30 June 2026).
I encourage you also to nominate worthy recipients for the 2026 Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence – and to promote the awards via your respective networks and social media platforms. For more information and to nominate, click here.
Meanwhile, thank you once more for your leadership, friendship and dedication. Serving alongside you, as Chair of the VMC, has been a great honour and privilege.
And for those of you familiar with this line... No doubt, “I’ll be back” joining with you in some other capacity to further strengthen the foundations of our multicultural state and nation.
Sincerely
Vivienne Nguyen AM
(for the last time) Chairperson, Victorian Multicultural Commission
Victorian Multicultural Commission
News and events
Nominations closing soon!
Nominations are closing on the 13 July 2026 for the 2026 Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence (MAEs). Now in its 25th year, the Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence are Australia’s longest‑standing multicultural awards. The MAEs recognise individuals and organisations making outstanding contributions to Victoria’s multicultural communities and intercultural and interfaith understanding.
The 2026 MAEs include 13 categories: Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll, Premier’s Award for Intercultural Connection, Arts and Culture, Business and Employment, Media, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Prevention of Family Violence, Public Sector Diversity and Inclusion, Police, Refugee Leadership, Refugee Youth Leadership, Sport and Recreation, and Youth Leadership.
You may nominate any individual or organisation you believe deserves recognition. Prior to nominating, please read the nomination guide. Nominations can then be submitted through the nominations portal.
For questions about the nomination process, contact the Awards team: awards@vmc.vic.gov.au
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country and pay our respect to them, their culture and their Elders past and present.
