- Published:
- Sunday 22 February 2026 at 11:30 am
Labor will always back Victoria’s multicultural businesses.
Minister Suleyman today announced $100,000 to support businesses in Chinatown.
This will drive visitors to the area – helping local small businesses to grow and thrive.
The grant will be provided to the Melbourne Chinatown Business Association, who will develop a website and app to promote all businesses in the area.
The app will include business profiles, interactive maps, event information and exclusive promotions.
The funding will also deliver a business awards ceremony later this year, to recognise the efforts and achievements of amazing local traders.
More than a quarter of the world celebrates this season through festivals, including Spring Festival, Tết and Seollal – and Melbourne’s Chinatown proudly plays its part in these celebrations each year.
The association hosts a free public festival that showcases Chinese traditions and fosters unity, with more than 200,000 people joining the celebrations.
The festival includes a massive street party, food stalls, cultural performances, live music, lion and dragon dancing and family-friendly activities.
This funding is part of Labor’s $17 million Supporting our Multicultural Traders and Precincts initiative.
Multicultural businesses are vital to Victoria's economy – they create local jobs, strengthen global connections and enrich the state’s cultural diversity – and Labor will always support them.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Small Business and Employment Natalie Suleyman
“Labor is proud to back Victoria’s Chinese community – which is why we’re supporting small businesses right here in Chinatown.”
“Our state’s multicultural businesses power our economy – creating jobs, trade and opportunities right across the state.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt
“Multicultural businesses are at the heart of our state’s vibrant diversity – which is why we will always support them, including right here in Chinatown.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Metropolitan Sheena Watt
“We will always back our local multicultural businesses – because they create jobs, bring communities together and contribute to our city’s vibrant diversity.”
Quotes attributable to Melbourne Chinatown Business Association President Christina Zhao
“This grant represents a strong commitment to supporting small businesses and strengthening Melbourne’s multicultural economy.”
“Through this funding, MCBA will continue delivering programs that drive visitation, business confidence and long-term growth for Chinatown traders.”