A re-elected Albanese Labor Government will commit $4.5 million to construct a Greek cultural hub in the heart of Greek Australia – Oakleigh.
The election commitment comprises $4 million towards the construction of a state-of-the-art Cultural and Language Enrichment Centre, next to St Anargiri Greek Orthodox Church, and $500,000 towards additional works on the site.
The centre will become a vital community and cultural hub, helping to preserve Greek heritage and bring people together.
The Federal Electorate of Hotham, especially the Oakleigh area, is renowned as the cultural heart of Melbourne’s Greek community and home to over 14,000 Greek Australians.
This vibrant, multi-generational community regularly hosts the city’s cultural events, including Easter services and the Oakleigh Glendi outdoor festival. However, it lacks a dedicated space for community gatherings, socialising and celebrating traditions.
There is a need for a community cultural hub, as seniors seek social support in their Greek language and youth groups, dancers and language school classes lack a consistent, sheltered, central space for their activities. Additionally, domestic and international visitors and exhibitions are often turned away due to the lack of available space.
This investment from the Albanese Labor Government will bring long-term benefits to the wider community, reflecting its dedication to, and appreciation of, Australia’s multicultural heritage and the people who enrich Australia.
Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.
Clare O’Neil MP, Federal Member for Hotham, said, “The Culture and Language Enrichment Centre will reflect the rich Greek heritage that thrives in our south-east Melbourne community – and beyond – creating a vibrant, multi-purpose hub in Hotham.”
“It will celebrate Greek Australian culture which enriches this country so much, strengthen community bonds across generations and serve as a cultural centrepiece for both Hotham and the broader city,” O’Neil added.
“Oakleigh is the heart of Melbourne’s Greek community, where I consistently see both young and older generations coming together to celebrate culture and traditions. However, there’s a real need for a dedicated space to support these activities.
“This election commitment from the Albanese Labor Government will provide a central hub that serves everyone and helps tackle isolation.
“I couldn’t be prouder to be in a position to deliver this critical cultural facility, creating a home for this wonderful community that has always been so hospitable and welcoming to others.”
Julian Hill MP, Federal Member for Bruce, said, “Growing up in Melbourne it was just a fact of life that you couldn’t play with your Greek friends some weekends because they were at Greek school. So many young Australian Greek kids have spent weeknights, weekend mornings or afternoons at language school, learning their family’s language and culture and making Australia a better, richer country in the process.”
“South-east Melbourne wouldn’t be the same without the contribution of Melbourne’s Greek community,” Mr Hill added.
