The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) has officially announced that its Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held on Sunday, 15 June 2025, at 1:00 pm at the Andrianakos Centre, Alphington Grammar School.
The meeting will address key governance and financial matters, including the election of a new Board of Management and Electoral Committee, the ratification of minutes from the 2023 AGM, and the presentation of the 2024 financial and president’s reports.
Delays Explained, Transparency Affirmed:
In a message to members dated May 28, GCM’s Honorary Secretary Nick Koukouvitakis addressed the delay in convening the AGM, citing the unexpected illness of the originally appointed auditor from Crowe Australasia. The audit, which began in September 2024 after the transition from PwC, was restarted in early 2025 under a new lead auditor.
“There has been a delay in completing our audited report because of a set of extenuating circumstances,” Koukouvitakis wrote. He reaffirmed that legal advice had been sought to clarify any confusion regarding statutory obligations and confirmed that “our constitution rules apply.”
Members are encouraged to submit any proposals for General Business in writing to the Secretary at least seven days before the meeting. Nomination forms for the upcoming Board elections are available on request and must be submitted by 5:00 pm on Saturday, 14 June via email to info@greekcommunity.com.au or in person at Level 3, 168 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne.
A year of cultural impact and community engagement:
In his annual message, GCM President Bill Papastergiadis OAM reflected on a “productive year” marked by major cultural, educational, and diplomatic initiatives.
The report details dozens of events hosted or facilitated by the GCM between July 2023 and June 2024, including:
- Antipodes Festival featuring Melina Aslanidou, which secured Tier 1 event status from the City of Melbourne;
- Visits from the Vice President of the European Commission, Greek Ministers, and the President of the Greek Community of Tashkent;
- Educational outreach, including the Greek Summer Camp in Thessaloniki, school collaborations, and adult language courses;
- A storytelling program, Greek Film Festival, and performances such as Axion Esti with Dimitris Basis and George Ellis.
“These events clearly demonstrate the incredible work of our staff, volunteer committees and Board,” Papastergiadis said, crediting strong partnerships with associations and governments locally and abroad.
Financial overview: Strategic investment in growth
In his detailed financial summary, Honorary Treasurer Associate Professor Marinis Pirpiris outlined a deliberate and strategic expansion of the GCM’s programs — an expansion which resulted in a controlled operating loss of $1.6 million for the financial year ending 30 June 2024, significantly reduced from the previous year’s $2.9 million.
“When removing depreciation and interest, the loss for this year was $938,000 as compared to last year’s $2.3 million,” Pirpiris noted, emphasising that the financial position of the GCM “remains strong, robust and resilient.”
With an estimated asset portfolio value of $120 million, the GCM has continued to invest in key areas such as education, cultural preservation, and infrastructure.
“This substantial asset base reflects prudent governance, strategic investment and a strong commitment to long-term financial sustainability,” Pirpiris wrote.
Key revenue sources included consistent school fees, church collections, targeted grants, sponsorships, and venue hire. Rental income rose from $1.25 million to $1.43 million, but the conclusion of several COVID-era grants affected overall income. Expenditures increased due to expanded staffing and event costs, but also included major capital works, such as the restoration of Evangelismos Church — made possible by “the generous support by Mr Andrianopoulos OAM and the Andrianopoulos family.”
Importantly, the GCM also saw strong returns from its investment in cultural and educational programs.
“The rise in participation and engagement across all age groups is a strong indicator that these investments are already yielding tangible returns in terms of social impact, cultural continuity, and community pride,” Pirpiris added.
Looking ahead: Towards a sustainable and inclusive future
The GCM Board has outlined clear priorities for the years ahead, aiming to balance responsible financial stewardship with bold community investment.
Among the goals listed in the annual report:
- Returning to a balanced or surplus operating position by refining cost structures and enhancing revenue streams;
- Finalising and launching new educational and cultural projects, including intergenerational initiatives and creative spaces;
- Building on our strong reputation and trust within the broader Australian community to secure sustainable funding.
“The decision to operate at a controlled deficit was not taken lightly,” Pirpiris noted. “Rather, it reflects a conscious investment in community cohesion, education, cultural preservation, and infrastructure renewal. These areas have long-term strategic importance and will strengthen [the Community’s] ability to serve future generations.”
He concluded with a message of gratitude: “The Board acknowledges and thanks all members, staff, benefactors, and partners who have contributed to our shared success. Together, we are building a legacy of pride, progress, and purpose.”
For full AGM details and nomination information, visit the official notice here.
