Portarlington will welcome visitors from near and far for the National Celtic Folk Festival in June thanks to support from the Allan Labor Government.
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant today congratulated the National Celtic Folk Festival who will receive $ to support their event.
The National Celtic Folk Festival program offers a broad range of arts and activities including poetry, cuisine, markets, workshops, children’s entertainment and more.
The festival is the largest of its kind in Australia, with activity from Friday 5 to Monday 8 June, the festival takes place along the foreshore and in numerous venues throughout the township – spreading the celebration and economic benefits right throughout the region.
The Allan Labor Government is continuing to back Victoria’s vibrant multicultural communities by keeping festivals and events affordable for working families.
More than 75 organisations will share in over $620,000 through the Multicultural Festivals and Events Program and Regional Multicultural Festivals and Events Fund to host events between April and June 2026.
With event costs rising, the program will help groups celebrate their proud cultures without added financial pressure.
Multicultural organisations applied for grants ranging from $5,000 for smaller community events to $50,000 to host events of all sizes.
The program ensures equitable access for groups that may otherwise face barriers to delivering events.
Events must be free, inclusive, accessible and culturally safe - with alignment to the Victorian Values Statement and commitment to social cohesion.
It’s now more important than ever that we come together, learn from one another to strengthen understanding and respect.
Victoria is a proudly multicultural and multifaith state – that only Labor will protect.
For more information and to apply for the next round which is open now, visit vic.gov.au/multicultural-festivals-and-events-program.
Quote attributable to Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant
“I’m proud to support events like the National Celtic Folk Festival, which bring people to the Bellarine Peninsula and shine a light on our local venues and businesses.”
“It’s a great chance for locals and visitors to come together, share in the culture, and connect as a community.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Multicultural and Multifaith Victoria Ingrid Stitt
“Victoria’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths and these grants help people of all backgrounds celebrate and share their culture.”
“We’re making sure rising event costs are not a barrier to hosting Victoria’s extraordinary multicultural events calendar.”
Quote attributable to Director of National Celtic Folk Festival Una Mclinden
We’re incredibly grateful for this support, which allows National Celtic Folk Festival to continue offering and delivering an inclusive
