As Greece braces for a record-breaking summer, the hospitality sector is scrambling to find workers, theguardian.com, has reported. A sign outside the Karyatis taverna beneath the Acropolis reads: “Seeking staff, chefs, waiters, kitchen personnel.” It’s a familiar sight across the country.
Tourism, which accounts for 25% of Greece’s GDP, faces a labour gap of around 80,000 positions in hotels and restaurants. “It’s becoming harder and harder to find employees,” says Dimitris Stathokostopoulos, who co-runs the taverna. Many Greeks now opt for office jobs with fixed hours, avoiding demanding seasonal work.
The shortage, partly a legacy of the COVID-19 pandemic, is particularly severe in popular destinations like Crete and Rhodes, where businesses are luring staff from rivals with better wages and benefits. Giorgos Hotzoglou, president of POEET, warns the lack of qualified workers is unprecedented. Many who left the sector during lockdowns haven’t returned, discouraged by its seasonality and limited unemployment support.
Other sectors like construction and agriculture are also struggling with workforce gaps, exacerbated by demographic decline and the emigration of over 500,000 Greeks during the financial crisis.
To ease the crunch, the government has moved to legalize 30,000 undocumented migrants and struck labour agreements with countries like Egypt, India, and Vietnam. Asylum seekers are also entering the workforce through new training programs.
Despite tough migration rhetoric, officials acknowledge the need for foreign labour. “It’s inconceivable that we’re discussing an increasing number of deportations,” says Sofia Kouvelaki of the Home Project, citing future labour demands.
With tourism projected to hit 40 million visitors by 2028, Greece is hosting international job fairs and urging expatriates: “Come back. The Greek economy is not what you remember. It’s doing very well.”
The Australian Hellenic Choir has announced its upcoming concert A Portrait of Greece. It will be held at 4:30pm, Sunday, 1 June 2025 at the Sir John Clancy Auditorium, University of New South Wales.
This concert features two parts. In Part 1, the Choir will perform the song Seikilos’ Epitaph, an original song from ancient Greece dating back to 200BC. A number of songs by Australian Greek Composers, that the Choir has commissioned, will follow. The central theme is migration, especially from the viewpoint of the descendants of the migrants.
Part 2 is a magical journey through Greek music genres and places, with Nisiotika and Demotika songs that everyone knows and loves.
The concert will feature a 15- piece orchestra and several solo performances from up-and-coming Australian Greek vocalists.
“This is a concert for all ages and for all people” James Tsolakis, the Choir’s Founder and President, said. “It showcases the often-hidden talent we have in the Greek diaspora here in Australia, as well as a magical tour of Greek music from around Greece.”
A past concert by the Australian Hellenic Choir.
The Australian Hellenic Choir is a multi-cultural and multi-lingual group of enthusiastic and dedicated singers who aspire to bring the best of the world music to Australian and Greek audiences. The Choir is recognised throughout Australia and internationally. In November 2024, the Choir received a Multicultural Communities Award for its contribution to Multiculturalism.
This is a not to be missed concert. All net proceeds from this event will be donated to a number of Charities that support the homeless.
All existing Board members were re-elected during the meeting, with James Stevens from the Hellenic Club of Sydney appointed to fill a vacant seat. Executive roles will be determined at a follow-up Board meeting scheduled in two weeks.
The elected Board members are: George Mpliokas, Peter Siomos, John Petropoulos, Andrew Kalavritinos, Eve Tusa, Phillip Koinis, George Kafataris, George Lianos, Elias Sioutas, Sam Pashalis, and Mr Stevens.
Proceeds distribution still undecided:
Despite the historic nature of the property deal, the AGM did not include formal discussion on the distribution of sale proceeds — a matter that remains unresolved and, The Greek Herald understands, continues to be a key point of contention between the 21 Greek associations (Unit Holders)* that make up Hellenic Village Ltd.
At an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) held in October 2023, Unit Holders unanimously agreed to sell the 105-acre property at Gurner Avenue, Austral, for $117.5 million. At that time, the Board proposed that 50% of net proceeds be distributed to Unit Holders based on their shareholdings, with the remaining 50% to be donated to a new charitable vehicle — the Australian Hellenic Future Fund (AHFF). However, no consensus was reached on this proposal at the time.
Land deal finalised following turbulent sale process:
The recent AGM took place just three days before the official announcement on Thursday, May 8, that the property had been sold for a higher-than-expected $119.5 million to Castle Group. The agreement includes a $200,000 donation to the proposed AHFF.
In response, the Board quickly re-engaged the second and third preference bidders from its original campaign. While the second buyer chose not to proceed, Castle Group eventually emerged as the successful bidder, increasing its offer during negotiations and providing multiple non-refundable payments to secure the transaction.
The Hellenic Village property at Austral.
Castle Group’s vision for Austral
Castle Group plans to develop a 550-home master-planned community on the site, taking advantage of its proximity to the upcoming Western Sydney International Airport and new infrastructure in the region.
Stuart Allen, Head of Development for Castle Group, said: “We’re a Western Sydney company, we’re part of the community that we work in, and we’re excited for this opportunity to positively shape Austral’s future.”
The development is part of a broader surge of urban growth in Austral, which has been earmarked by state and local governments for major residential and commercial expansion.
Despite the financial success of the sale, the future direction of Hellenic Village remains unclear. The central question of how to manage and distribute the proceeds looms large.
The idea of using half the net proceeds to seed a long-term philanthropic fund has its advocates, but also opposition from Unit Holders who believe their organisations should directly benefit from the sale.
As the newly confirmed Board prepares to meet again to determine leadership roles, it is expected that this issue will need to be addressed with urgency.
Whether through formal resolution or further consultation with Unit Holders, the path forward will require unity, transparency, and a clear vision for how to honour both the financial opportunity and the original purpose of the Hellenic Village project.
*The 21 Greek associations who make up the Hellenic Village Ltd:
Order of AHEPA NSW INC – 3 shares
AHEPA Heracles INC – 3 shares
Apollo Sports and Cultural Club – 1 share.
Cyprus Hellene Club Inc – 2 shares.
Diakofton Association – 3 shares.
Elassona Philanthropic Association – 3 shares
Greek Taxi Drivers’ Assoc. – 1 share
Hassion Philanthropic Assoc – 3 shares
Hellenic Club of Sydney – 3 shares
Helmos Philanthropic Association – 3 shares
Kalavryton Society (NSW) ‘Aghia Lavra’ Inc – 3 shares
Lefkadian Brotherhood of NSW LTD – 2 shares
Messolonghi Association – 3 PO
Meteora Association – 3 shares
Pan-Arcadian Association of NSW – 2 shares
Pan-Korinthian Association of NSW – 2 shares
Pan-Nafpaktian Association ‘Nafpaktos’ – 2 shares
Pan-Thessalian Federation – 2 shares
Pan-Thracian Association of NSW ‘Democritus’ – 2 shares
Association of Plataneon ‘O Platanos’ – 3 shares
Saint Barbara Philanthropic Association – 2 shares
The event is held in support of The Brain Cancer Group (TBCG) and raises vital funds for brain cancer research, education and patient and carer support programs.
This year’s breakfast will feature two inspiring voices from within the brain cancer community:
Dr Alexander Yuile, Medical Oncologist and researcher with The Brain Cancer Group, will speak about his commitment to advancing treatment options for patients living with brain cancer. Dr Yuile is currently undertaking a PhD focused on the molecular biology of gliomas and how these insights may contribute to future therapies.
Emily Kirk, a young mother and brain cancer patient, will share her powerful story of diagnosis, recovery, and hope. Her journey highlights the importance of early intervention, patient advocacy, and access to specialist care. Emily is also working on a new podcast project to support and empower patients and carers navigating similar experiences.
The Annual Breakfast for Brain Cancer is a signature fundraising event for the White Pearl Foundation, bringing together brain cancer specialists, patients, carers, ambassadors and the wider community in a united effort to improve outcomes for those affected by brain cancer.
“We are honoured to have Dr Yuile and Emily Kirk join us this year,” said Suzane Peponis-Brisimis, founder of The White Pearl Foundation. “Their insight and courage will inform and inspire. We look forward to hearing them speak.”
Tickets are on sale now, with strong demand anticipated. All proceeds from the event will go toward funding The Brain Cancer Group’s research program.
As in previous years, this fundraising brunch promises to be a truly enjoyable event, featuring inspiring speakers, a raffle with great prizes to be won, and a variety of donated gifts available for purchase at the Breakfast for Brain Cancer Bazaar.
The White Pearl Foundation also acknowledges the valued support of The Greek Herald, our official media partner for this event.
If you’re looking for a way to make a positive impact in your community, we encourage you to gather family and friends and attend, safe in the knowledge that all profits will go directly to brain cancer research.
If you cannot attend but would like to make a donation, please follow the donation link on the White Pearl Foundation’s website.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the generous prize donors and sponsors who have contributed to this year’s fundraising efforts.
Burwood Dental Centre, Candles by Athena, CAW 9, Felicia Aroney Artist, Frutex, Hip Hampers, King Living, Levendi Jewellers, Mint Lime Blue, Oceania Cruises, Oh Marmo, Plekto By Hand, Sam and Christina Tsatsoulis, Sappho Designs, Sensi Wines, Shoal Bay Country Club, The Greek Islands Taverna, The Herring Room, Tracey O’Donoghue and TravelManagers. We also acknowledge our sponsors Orama Communications and Zest Waterfront Venues for their generous charity rates.
Your support plays a vital role in helping us raise much-needed funds for brain cancer research. Your contribution demonstrates the power of community, coming together for a meaningful cause. We are deeply grateful for your kindness and commitment.
To offer prizes to the fundraising program and for all other enquiries, please contact Suzane on 0418 238 723.
The fundraising brunch will be held in the Pacific Room of the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Wunulla Road, Point Piper at 10:30am on Friday, May 23rd, 2025. Tickets are available now and can be purchased through www.whitepearlfoundation.org. We hope to see you there.
Brain Cancer Facts:
Brain cancer kills more children in Australia than any other disease.
Brain cancer kills more people under 40 than any other cancer.
Brain cancer is the second biggest cancer killer of females 0–44 years (aTer breast cancer).
Brain cancer has the highest personal and economic burden of any cancer.
Brain cancer survival rates have barely increased in the last 30 years.
No risk factors for brain cancer have been iden1fied and no screening procedures are available.
Effec1ve treatment op1ons for brain cancer pa1ents are limited and tumours develop resistance to standard therapies.
The most common malignant brain tumour, high-grade glioma (HGG) is almost 100% fatal. YET brain cancer receives less than 5% of Government cancer research funding.
St Basil’s NSW/ACT has responded to a Federal Court ruling which found the aged care provider unlawfully dismissed a Chinese Australian nurse because of her race, ordering more than $346,000 in compensation.
Wei Han, also known as Casey, worked as a registered nurse at St Basil’s Lakemba facility in Sydney’s west for nine years before her termination in January 2020. The court found she was unfairly targeted and ultimately fired after raising concerns of workplace bullying and racial discrimination.
In the lead-up to her dismissal, Ms Han reported feeling unsafe and unsupported at work, alleging she was ostracised by a clique of Filipino staff and ignored by management. She sent two formal complaints to her manager in late 2019, including one on Christmas Eve detailing how co-workers allegedly refused to help her provide care to residents.
Rather than investigate her concerns, the facility instead used those emails to scrutinise Ms Han’s own professional conduct. Federal Court Justice Yaseen Shariff found that allegations she failed to deliver adequate clinical care were “based on flimsy foundations.”
The court determined Ms Han’s dismissal was racially motivated, with preference shown to workers of a different ethnicity, and ruled that St Basil’s had violated her right to raise workplace complaints.
“The conduct of St Basil’s management team caused Ms Han to suffer mental harm and financial loss,” Justice Shariff said.
In response to the ruling, St Basil’s NSW/ACT issued a statement acknowledging the court’s findings but noted that the events in question took place several years ago under different leadership.
“While we will not comment on individual legal matters, we recognise the importance of listening, learning, and continuing to evolve as an organisation,” the statement read.
St Basil’s said it has since undergone a “major transformation,” including the appointment of new leadership and significant improvements to its governance, compliance, and workplace systems.
“As discussed in the judgment, St Basil’s has also taken considerable steps ‘to ensure that there are better systems in place to guard against the risk of repeated contraventions’,” the organisation noted.
“We are proud of the genuine progress made across our homes, now fully compliant with national aged care standards, and remain deeply committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for every resident, staff member, and family we serve.”
According to the judgment, the managerial staff involved in Ms Han’s case are no longer employed by St Basil’s.
The first day of competition for the 2025 Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia National Schools Event (GOAANSE) officially commenced in Perth, Western Australia on Thursday, May 8, as students from across the country competed in volleyball and futsal.
Volleyball competition heats up
Despite a slightly delayed start, the volleyball tournament quickly delivered high-intensity matchups. Schools including Oakleigh Grammar, St Euphemia College and All Saints Grammar made early progress, with several key afternoon games proving decisive.
In the boys’ division, St Euphemia remained undefeated after a close two-set win over Oakleigh Grammar, with powerful hitting and teamwork setting them apart.
In the girls’ division, a dramatic match between Oakleigh Grammar and St Euphemia came down to the final point of the third set. Oakleigh came from behind to secure the win with a late surge, marking one of the standout performances of the day.
St Andrew’s Grammar also impressed, with their girls’ team finishing in fourth place with three wins and three losses — an improvement on last year. The boys’ team opened with a win but couldn’t maintain momentum, finishing sixth.
Futsal showcases skill and determination
The futsal competition was just as competitive, with All Saints, St George College, and St Spyridon College standing out in the boys’ division. All Saints claimed the title following a draw with St Spyridon and a subsequent win, as their rivals suffered a crucial loss.
In the girls’ division, St Andrew’s delivered a dominant performance, winning all five of their matches and conceding just three goals throughout the day. Their success reflects the progress of the school’s Perth Glory football development program.
St Andrew’s girls finished with 37 goals for and only 3 against, including a 3-0 victory over St George in their final game.
The basketball competition is scheduled to take place today, with more results to follow.
On Friday, the 54-year-old was sentenced in the NSW District Court to one year and 10 months’ imprisonment to be served via an intensive correction order (ICO), allowing him to remain in the community under strict supervision.
According to news.com.au, the court heard MacGill introduced his cocaine dealer to Marino Sotiropoulos, the brother of his partner, in April 2021. That introduction led to the exchange of $330,000 for a kilogram of cocaine.
While MacGill denied knowing the scale of the deal, the judge found he played “an indispensable role” in facilitating the transaction.
One of the four men arrested for the alleged kidnapping of Stuart MacGill.
“Although his knowledge was limited… his conduct resulted in the supply of one kilogram of cocaine. He did so for no perceived benefit,” Judge Nicole Noman SC said in sentencing MacGill.
Days after the transaction, Sotiropoulos’ associates were allegedly defrauded in a follow-up deal, prompting threats against MacGill and culminating in his violent abduction. The former cricketer was kidnapped, assaulted, and later released in Sydney’s south-west.
The court acknowledged MacGill’s cooperation with police and his signs of rehabilitation, noting he had abstained from drug use since his 2023 arrest. His sentence includes 495 hours of community service, drug and alcohol testing, and psychological treatment.
Character references submitted ahead of sentencing, including one from former Test captain Steve Waugh, described MacGill as “responsible” and “resilient.”
He is reportedly considering an appeal against his conviction and sentence.
His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia has been conferred an Honorary Doctorate by the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), in recognition of his contribution to the Church, theology, and public discourse.
The honour was jointly awarded by the NKUA’s Department of Theology and the Department of Social Theology and Religious Studies.
Rector Professor of Medicine Gerasimos Siassos welcomed Archbishop Makarios to the university, describing him as a figure who “embodies the combination of faith and knowledge, tradition and progress, humility and greatness.”
“We hope that the wisdom, virtue and dedication that characterise your journey will always constitute a shining example and a springboard of hope for the future of Orthodoxy and Hellenism,” he added.
Professor Emmanuel Karageorgoudis, Dean of the Theological School, praised the Archbishop’s ability to bridge theology with lived experience, saying: “In his person, academic Theology meets tangible liturgical mystagogy as the logical entity of science partakes of the apophatic language of experience.”
Following the presentation of official texts and the ceremonial investiture, Archbishop Makarios expressed gratitude for the distinction.
“I accept [it] as a special distinction that reflects towards the Apostolic and Ecumenical Throne of Constantinople, to which I belong, towards the highly respected person of our Patriarch and towards the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, which with the grace and mercy of God I shepherd,” he said.
The Archbishop then delivered a keynote address titled “Vox Populi (Voice of the People) on the Internet: The contemporary threat of the corruption of ecclesiastical and democratic thought.”
In his speech, His Eminence explored the challenges posed by digital discourse, particularly on the internet, arguing that the so-called “voice of the people” online can be misleading.
“We cannot accurately detect the ‘voice of the people’ on the internet, because there is more noise coming from the shouting minority than the truth that is not expressed by the silent majority,” he noted.
He encouraged engagement with the silent majority to combat online toxicity, misinformation, and hate speech: “The people tell us that evil rages when good people do nothing… The inaction of the silent majority is ultimately what allows the few on the internet to form an image of the Church and Democracy, which, however, is not true.”
A dinner was later held in the Archbishop’s honour at the Grande Bretagne Hotel in Athens.
In an official letter, Mitsotakis emphasised the strong and historic ties between Greece and Australia, highlighting a longstanding friendship forged through common struggles to defend freedom and democracy, as well as a shared commitment to peace, security, and international cooperation.
The Greek Prime Minister underscored both nations’ dedication to upholding a rules-based international order, always in accordance with the UN Charter and international law, including UNCLOS.
Anthony Albanese celebrates re-election as Prime Minister during a Labor victory event in Sydney on Saturday, May 3, following a decisive win in the 2025 federal election.
Mitsotakis also paid tribute to the Greek Australian community, noting: “I am proud to note that the vibrant Greek community in Australia has played and continues to play a vital role in further deepening this friendship.”
He concluded his message by expressing his readiness to work closely with Prime Minister Albanese to strengthen cooperation between Greece and Australia, both bilaterally and through multilateral institutions, “for the benefit of our peoples and for the advancement of our shared values.”
Ange Postecoglou has made football history, becoming the first male Greek Australian coach to lead a team to a major European final after guiding Tottenham Hotspur to a 2-0 victory over Bodø/Glimt in the Europa League semi-final.
Spurs cruised to a 5-1 aggregate win in Norway, with second-half goals from Dominic Solanke and Pedro Porro ensuring safe passage to the final, where they will face Manchester United in an all-English showdown in Bilbao on May 22 (AEST).
“Couldn’t be prouder of the lads,” Postecoglou said post-match. “We knew it was a difficult place to come. We’re aware of the record they have here, the pitch. I think the lads handled it well. Excited, we’re in a final.”
The achievement comes amid intense pressure on the Greek Australian manager following a troubled Premier League season for Spurs, who sit 16th on the table. But Europa League success could offer redemption and secure a Champions League spot.
Manchester United secured their spot in the final with a 4-1 second-leg win over Athletic Bilbao, progressing 7-1 on aggregate.
This marks the second all-English Europa League final in six years, following Chelsea’s 2019 win over Arsenal. Notably, Tottenham have beaten United three times this season.
