Yesterday, the Andrews Labor Government announced plans to invest in the yearly event celebrating all things Bel Paese if re-elected.
With more than 380,000 Australians of Italian background calling Victoria home, the state boasts the largest tri-colour community in the whole country.
The Andrews Labor Government has thus announced plans to continue to champion and celebrate our vibrant culture if re-elected, by investing 600,000 dollars into the Melbourne Italian Festa in hopes of making it even bigger and better.
For more than four decades, the event has delighted and entertained thousands of Victorians who come together to enjoy the entertainment and attractions of the Bel Paese. Festival goers are treated to live music, comedy and food stalls featuring mouth-watering Italian delicacies of the highest quality.
The funding is part of a 12-million-dollar allocation being proposed by Labor to support multicultural festivals and events in Victoria. Since coming to government, Labor have invested more than 25.6 million dollars in supporting more than 6,300 festivals and events celebrating the state’s diverse multicultural communities. This is an initiative that Andrews shows no intention of slowing down:
“Victoria’s cultural diversity is what makes out state great – multicultural festivals and events are an important way to celebrate the contribution communities make each and every day,” the premier said.
“Labor is doing what matters – we’ll support multicultural festivals and events that celebrate dance, music, language, art and food, making sure that they’re bigger and better than ever.”
Attesting to the importance of championing the Italian community, Victoria’s Minister for Multicultural affairs Ross Spence said:
“Victoria is home to a proud and vibrant Italian community, which is an integral part of our state.”
He continued:
“This program allows multicultural and multifaith communities to celebrate and share their heritage with all Victorians regardless of their background.”
This news has arrived with the Victorian state election fast approaching, with voters set to take to the polls in just under a month on Saturday, November 26.
