Deadline: 17-Apr-2026
The Victorian government offers grants of up to $50,000 to support multicultural festivals and events that celebrate cultural diversity and community participation. Funding aims to strengthen social cohesion, encourage cultural sharing, and support regional and metropolitan multicultural organisations.
Program Overview
The Multicultural Festivals and Events Program supports activities that celebrate and preserve cultures, share traditions, and encourage all Victorians to participate in cultural events. The initiative promotes understanding, respect, and social cohesion across diverse communities.
Funding Streams
Funding is provided through three streams:
- Small Grants: Up to $5,000
- Medium Grants: $5,001 – $15,000
- Large Grants: $15,001 or more
The program also includes the Regional Multicultural Festivals and Events Fund, with over $1 million available to support multicultural community organisations delivering events in regional Victoria.
Funding Details
- Maximum Grant Amount: $50,000 per project
- Eligible Activities: Festivals, cultural events, and programs that promote multicultural engagement and social cohesion
- Purpose: Celebrate cultural diversity, foster participation, and strengthen community connections
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Organisation Type: Incorporated legal entity under Victorian or Commonwealth legislation, or an Act of Parliament
- ABN: Must have a current Australian Business Number (ABN) matching the organisation’s name in the application
- Not-for-Profit Status: Must be registered with ACNC, Consumer Affairs Victoria, ASIC, or operate as a social enterprise supporting multicultural communities
- Grant Compliance: No overdue final reports from previous Victorian state government-funded grants, including Multicultural Affairs grants, by the application closing date
How to Apply
- Confirm Eligibility: Verify incorporation, ABN, and not-for-profit status.
- Select Funding Stream: Choose small, medium, or large grant depending on project scope.
- Define Project Scope: Plan multicultural festivals or events that foster participation and social cohesion.
- Prepare Budget: Include eligible costs aligned with program rules.
- Submit Application: Complete the application before the closing date, ensuring all eligibility and program requirements are met.
Tips for a Strong Application:
- Demonstrate community impact and participation goals
- Clearly show alignment with program objectives for cultural diversity and social cohesion
- Provide detailed budgets and timelines
- Ensure all prior grant reporting obligations are up to date
Why This Program Matters
The initiative strengthens multicultural engagement by:
- Supporting festivals and events that celebrate cultural traditions
- Encouraging inclusive community participation
- Promoting understanding, respect, and social cohesion across Victoria
- Supporting regional multicultural organisations in delivering impactful events
FAQ
1. Who can apply? Incorporated not-for-profit organisations, social enterprises, or entities registered under Victorian or Commonwealth legislation.
2. What funding is available? Grants up to $50,000, with small ($5,000), medium ($5,001–$15,000), and large ($15,001+) streams.
3. Can regional organisations apply? Yes, through the Regional Multicultural Festivals and Events Fund.
4. Are individuals or for-profit organisations eligible? No, only incorporated not-for-profit organisations or social enterprises are eligible.
5. What can the grant be used for? Eligible costs for multicultural festivals, events, and programs that foster participation and social cohesion.
6. Are there reporting obligations? Organisations must have no overdue final reports from previous Victorian state government-funded grants.
7. How to increase funding approval chances? Submit thorough applications demonstrating eligibility, impact, alignment with program objectives, and compliance with budget rules.
Conclusion
The Victorian Multicultural Festivals and Events Program empowers organisations to celebrate cultural diversity, enhance community participation, and strengthen social cohesion. By supporting festivals and events across metropolitan and regional Victoria, the program fosters understanding, engagement, and meaningful cultural exchange among communities.
For more information, visit Victorian Government.
