Multicultural festivals and events program guidelines

• Message from the Minister for Multicultural Affairs

  Multicultural festivals and events encourage Victorians to learn about our state’s many cultures, to experience different traditions, and to showcase the pride we have in our multicultural society.

• What is the 2026–27 Multicultural Festivals and Events Program?

  The Multicultural Festivals and Events (MFE) Program offers grants to help multicultural communities run events that bring people together and celebrate our shared diversity.

• Priority groups and events

  This is why the MFE program shares the funding fairly and supports communities that have fewer resources or smaller networks.

• Expectations of funded festivals and events

  Events funded by this program must be respectful and open to all Victorians.

• Who can apply

  Information about the eligibility requirements for the program.

• Who cannot apply

  Some organisations cannot apply for funding under the program.

• What types of events and activities can be funded?

  Understands what types of events and activities can be funded under the MFE program.

• What types of events and activities cannot be funded?

  Read about the types of activities that are not eligible for funding under the program.

• What costs are supported?

  Read about the costs that the funding program supports.

• What costs are not supported?

  The costs that are not supported under the funding program.

• Small stream (up to $5000)

  A funding stream for smaller events within the MFE program.

• Medium stream ($5,001 to $15,000)

  Funding in the medium stream is competitive and for larger events within the MFE program.

• Large stream ($15,001 to $50,000)

  Funding in this stream is competitive and for events that have broad reach across Victoria.

• Matched Funding, Quotes and Partnership explained

  For medium and large stream applications to be eligible, you must attach evidence of expenditure for all budget items of $10,000 and over.

• How will your application be assessed?

  All applications will be checked to make sure they meet the eligibility requirements.

• Assessment process overview

  All applications undergo an eligibility assessment. Medium and large stream applications also undergo an assessment of the responses to the criteria.

• Submitting your application

  What you can expect from the application process.

• Successful grant recipients

  If successful, your organisation must enter into a funding agreement, consider GST implications for your organisation and submit a final report.

• Do you need more information or help?

  You can attend an information session, contact the Multicultural Affairs team or read more online.

• MFE program acronyms and definitions

  Understand the list of acronyms used to explain the MFE program.

• Appendix 1: MFE Checklist

  Use this checklist to ensure your application is appropriately completed.

Updated 19 March 2026