Multifaith Advisory Group

Supporting collaboration and understanding between all faiths

The Multifaith Advisory Group comprises 27 religious leaders from various Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, Sikh, Jewish and Bahá'í communities. The Group is chaired by the Chairperson of the Victorian Multicultural Commission.

Working with Victoria’s faith leaders to address issues that affect the whole community

The Multifaith Advisory Group assists the Victorian Government to understand and appropriately respond to faith-related issues in Victoria and to support people from a diverse array of cultural and religious backgrounds.

The group meets regularly for robust conversation on contemporary matters affecting faith communities and has provided advice on a range of issues, such as family violence policy, forced marriage and human trafficking.

Members of the Multifaith Advisory Group and MPs stand with a banner: Building Bridges Across Faithsaiths

United Nations World Interfaith Harmony Week: Building Bridges Across Faiths

Multifaith leaders of the Victorian Multicultural Commission’s Multifaith Advisory Group came together on 4 February 2026 to peacefully observe the United Nations World Interfaith Harmony Week.

This global celebration, held annually, encourages interfaith and other groups of goodwill to come together in unity and peace.

At the Multifaith Advisory Group gathering, senior representatives from Victoria’s Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Sikh, Hindu, Buddhist, Baha'i and other faith communities promoted mutual understanding and dialogue, contributing to a culture of peace, hope and harmony.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Ingrid Stitt MP, joined fellow Members of Parliament at the steps of Parliament House for a photo, under a banner promoting social and religious harmony.

Multifaith gatherings such as these are increasingly vital after the Bondi terror attack on 14 December 2025. Through harmony and prayer, we find the strength to stand against all forms of hate and violence.

Victorian Leaders Unite for Peace Forum

The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)’s Multifaith Advisory Group (MAG) hosted a Peace Forum at Parliament House on 11 April 2026, uniting leaders from across Victoria to reflect on how cultivating inner peace can deepen compassion and strengthen our shared humanity. As a platform for respectful and robust interfaith dialogue, the MAG helps guide both government and communities in fostering social cohesion and harmony.

The event featured the Governor of Victoria, Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs Iwan Walters, and VMC Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen, alongside a diverse group of faith and community leaders. Delivered in partnership with the Monash Centre for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies, the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture, and Calm in the City, the forum highlighted the power of contemplative practice in building resilience and unity.

Speakers including Professor Craig Hassed OAM, Sister Jayanti, and Bishop Philip Huggins shared thoughtful insights on how inner peace and mindful reflection can help communities respond to today’s social challenges with compassion, clarity, and a renewed sense of connection.