Eliminating racism and hate, the establishment of a ‘multicultural ageing’ initiative and prioritising prevention ahead of punishment in youth justice are the key elements of a manifesto released by Victoria’s peak body for multicultural communities ahead of the upcoming state election.

The Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria (ECCV) has issued the manifesto aimed at strengthening social cohesion and inclusion.

Launched at a recent State Election Forum, the document outlines five core asks and 14 “practical recommendations” aimed at sustaining communities, investing in belonging, supporting ageing members of multicultural communities and strengthening wellbeing and safety.

The ECCV says the document is the result of extensive consultations with diverse communities.

“Strategic investments by the next Victorian Government will strengthen social cohesion, foster inclusion and create a Victoria where we all belong,” the manifesto says.

The document calls support for a multicultural ageing initiative that would see the establishment of place-based services in six local government areas backed by a state-wide centre of excellence run by the ECCV.

It calls for an investment “in evidence-based approaches to reduce the overrepresentation of First Nations and culturally diverse people in the youth justice system, including funding for new models such as the Violence Reduction Unit’s early intervention and prevention initiative”.

The manifesto asks for the next government to champion intercultural connection and promote social cohesion by piloting two Intercultural Hubs in Melbourne’s outer suburbs, “creating shared spaces where all residents connect and collaborate across diverse cultures”.

It also calls for “sustained investments in community-led approaches that prevent racism, support people who experience it and strengthen institutional responses”.

Among the 14 recommendations are an investment in a sense of belonging through anti-racism support networks in local government areas, a pipeline of anti-racism grants and a boost to anti-racism programs in schools.

Sustained funding for the ECCV and Regional  Ethnic Communities’ Councils as well as new intergenerational program to strengthen relationships between multicultural parents, caregivers and young people are also among the recommendations.

ECCV CEO Farah Farouque said multicultural communities were great contributors to Victorian society but faced issues.

“Communities contribute economically, socially and culturally. But they are feeling less secure with the cost-of-living crisis and anti-migrant sentiment becoming more open,” she said.

“We need the backing of the next state government to build a sense of belonging and to protect social cohesion,” Ms Farouque said.

“The 2026 Victorian State Election comes at a critical time for our multicultural state. Victoria’s multicultural communities contribute enormously to our economy, society and culture. Their voices – and votes – matter. 

“This is a test for our political culture and the parties who aspire to govern. The next Victorian Government must make strategic investments that strengthen multicultural communities and ensure our state’s extraordinary diversity remains one of our greatest strengths.”