The Andrews Labor Government is helping even more multicultural and multifaith communities hold events to celebrate their culture and traditions.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence today announced $750,000 for 205 community organisations across the state to deliver COVIDSafe multicultural festivals and events held between now and the end of June.

It will support large scale events like the Melbourne Italian Fiesta and SalamFest, alongside smaller events like the Geelong Nepalese Association’s Holi Festival, which is expected to attract around 200 people.

All events will adhere to COVIDSafe settings, with many organisations choosing to continue hosting digital events.

The Castlemaine State Festival will receive funding to support its popular opening night celebration, featuring award-winning singer-songwriter and activist Ajak Kwai who sings of her exile from South Sudan as a refugee, in Arabic, English and her native Dinka language.

With Victoria’s iconic entertainment and events industry impacted by the coronavirus pandemic, this funding aims to support the safe return of festivals and events to the state’s cultural calendar and support the revitalisation of our economy.

The Labor Government is also delivering on its commitments to Greek and Hindu communities, with $200,000 for events celebrating the bicentenary of Greece’s independence and $50,000 to support various Hindu organisations host events.

For a full list of events, visit vic.gov.au/multicultural-festivals-and-events-program.