The completion of the Greek Community of Melbourne’s (GCM) long-awaited multi-function community theatre space at St Dimitrios in Windsor is now supported through a pre-election commitment by Federal Labor to bring the project to life.
The announcement was made at the historic High Street location by Assistant Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs and Member for Bruce, the Hon. Julian Hill; Member for Macnamara, Josh Burns; and Labor’s Candidate for Melbourne, Sarah Whitty.
They were welcomed and hosted by GCM President Bill Papastergiadis OAM, Vice President Anthie Sidiropoulos, Board Member Helene Hiotis, and local members of the Greek Community.
The commitment will support the next stage of works at St Dimitrios Hall, aiming to transform the currently incomplete hall next to the much-loved church into a modern, multi-functional community space.
The redeveloped venue will be capable of hosting events, meetings, performances, workshops, and other community-focused activities that will serve Melbourne’s southeast.
This next stage follows the ongoing refurbishment currently underway as part of the Federal Government’s infrastructure investment across the GCM’s four suburban community halls located in Yarraville, Brunswick, Thornbury, and Windsor.
Announcing the commitment, Minister Hill said: “I am delighted to announce that a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will support the redevelopment of St Dimitrios Hall — retaining its beauty and traditions while also making it fit for purpose in a growing and diverse community.”
“The Greek community in Windsor and its surrounding suburbs is part of the fabric of Melbourne, and community hubs like these are vital places for preserving and sharing linguistic and cultural heritage,” Mr Hill said.
Member for Macnamara, Josh Burns, added: “What makes our local community so special is our diversity. The Greek community has called Macnamara home for decades, and they’ve generously welcomed us all to share in their incredible culture.”
Labor Candidate for Melbourne, Sarah Whitty, also commented: “I’m so pleased to see this investment coming to life with the completion of Stage 2. The hall redevelopment means so
much to the Greek community in Melbourne. It’s essential to have well-designed, safe spaces where communities can come together.”
GCM President Mr Papastergiadis welcomed Labor’s renewed support, saying: “This announcement has significant and far-reaching implications for the GCM’s ability to develop cultural offerings. It cements the GCM’s role as a leading provider in this dynamic and evolving space.”
“The funding will also allow us to expand collaborations with other community groups, promoting a holistic approach to engagement — not just among Greek organisations, but with Melbourne’s wider multicultural community,” Mr Papastergiadis said.
“At the same time, this is a long-term investment in the infrastructure of the GCM. It gives us the ability to create accessible, modern facilities that will serve the community for decades. This is a much-needed venue for Melbourne’s southeast and will support our cultural, educational, and community outreach programs.”
GCM Vice President and Cultural Committee member Anthie Sidiropoulos added: “We’ve seen firsthand how these halls become spaces where community members feel safe and welcome. They’re powerful platforms for delivering our cultural and community programs.”
GCM Board Member Helene Hiotis also commented: “Creating spaces that support our programs — including early learning education, cultural expression, and performance — is a vital part of our vision for the Community’s educational and cultural development.”
