This year’s Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence were celebrated at a ceremony at Government House, hosted by Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, Governor of Victoria. Awards were presented across 14 categories, recognising contributions in Arts, Business, Emergency Services, Media, Police, Sport, Youth and more.
Among the distinguished recipients was Luba Tanevski, who received the Prevention of Family Violence Award. With more than 35 years of service, Ms Tanevski has long supported migrant and refugee women, empowering them to rebuild their lives after experiencing family violence.
The Mental Health and Wellbeing Award was presented to the Centre for Muslim Wellbeing, a community-led organisation dedicated to improving mental health, spiritual wellbeing and social cohesion among Victoria’s Muslim communities.
Youth-led initiative COOK4CALD was recognised with the Youth Leadership Award for its work addressing food insecurity. The group provides culturally inclusive meals and hosts community events that celebrate diversity and strengthen social inclusion.
Victoria Police Chaplain Rabbi Shmuel Karnowsky received the Police Community Exemplary Award for his ongoing work to foster social cohesion and build stronger relationships between Victoria Police and Jewish young people.
The prestigious Premier’s Award for Community Harmony was jointly awarded to Ruchi Sharma and Gurdwara Siri Guru Nanak Darbar Officer, recognising their transformative leadership in supporting wellbeing, unity and connection across multicultural and multifaith communities.
In addition, 36 Victorians were inducted into the Multicultural Honour Roll, acknowledging their outstanding service and contributions across the state.
Premier Jacinta Allan praised the award recipients for their contribution to a stronger, more connected Victoria.
“Victoria is a place where everyone is welcome, no matter where you come from – these awards highlight and celebrate those who have strived for a united, more inclusive Victoria.”
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt acknowledged the profound impact of this year’s honourees.
“Victoria’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths – these remarkable individuals and organisations have contributed so much to our state, and we are richer for their efforts.”
Victorian Multicultural Commission Chairperson, Vivienne Nguyen AM, emphasised the power of diversity and community leadership.
“These prestigious annual awards demonstrate that embracing difference makes us stronger. The passion, dedication and achievements of our nominees reflects the richness and resilience of Victoria’s multicultural communities.”