A Community Where Everyone Belongs!

The Warrnambool Multicultural Association (WMA) began with a simple belief: everyone deserves to feel welcomed, connected and valued in the community they call home.

Founded in 2022, WMA is a volunteer-led not-for-profit organisation working across Warrnambool and South West Victoria to celebrate diversity, promote cultural awareness and strengthen connections between people from different backgrounds.

Support from the South West Community Foundation (SWCF) has helped WMA strengthen this work and build a more connected, inclusive and welcoming community.

Beyond its award-winning Warrnambool Multicultural Festival, WMA has supported communities to celebrate and connect through events including the South West Malayalee community’s Onam Festival and the South West Indonesian community’s Independence Day celebration.

WMA also helps multicultural residents participate more fully in community life, including promoting and supporting Census participation, advocating for people experiencing discrimination or racism, and building greater understanding across the wider community.

The organisation is committed to respectfully engaging with local First Nations communities and recognising the enduring cultural heritage and contributions of Traditional Owners.

Looking ahead, WMA aims to create more regular multicultural events and activities throughout the year — providing opportunities to share culture and knowledge, connect with local services, build friendships and strengthen confidence and belonging.

With SWCF’s support, WMA is helping create a South West where people from all cultural backgrounds can participate, contribute and proudly call home.