Multiculturalism and social cohesion on the agenda as hundreds gather in Canberra

FECCA2026 National Conference | 14–16 October 2026 | Australian Parliament House and Old Parliament House, Canberra

Hundreds of multicultural leaders, politicians, senior business and community representatives from across the sector will come together in Canberra from 14-16 October for the FECCA2026 National Conference: Navigating Change, Shaping Australia. Many Stories, One Future.

The conference is hosted by the Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA) and presents a critical opportunity to discuss Australia’s multicultural identity as the nation seeks answers on key social and economic issues.

“Multiculturalism continues to enrich the Australian story, not diminish it. Our FECCA 2026 Conference will bring community leaders, policymakers and experts together to focus on how leadership, belonging, cultural inclusion, economic and social participation are integral to shaping shared values for Australia’s future,” said Prerana Mehta, FECCA CEO.

WHEN: 14-16 October 2026

WHERE: Australian Parliament House and Old Parliament House, Canberra


PHOTO/FILMING/BROADCAST OPPORTUNITIES:

Walk for Multiculturalism, 11:30am Thursday 15 October – Conference delegates will walk side by side, from Australian Parliament House to Old Parliament House, in a show of solidarity and celebration.

“The walk will reflect the long journeys many people have made to build a new life in Australia, while recognising at its heart that we are invited to walk on Country with First Nations peoples and cultures,” said Prerana Mehta, FECCA CEO.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: Two live panel discussions will be among some of the Conference highlights, including keynote addresses from Christine Holgate, and the Hon Dr. Anne Aly MP, Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Minister for Small Business.

PANEL 1: Wednesday 15 October, 10am – Multiculturalism in Australia Today Hosted by John-Paul Janke, SBS-NITV National Indigenous Affairs Editor.

  • Chiaka Barry MLA – Shadow Attorney-General, ACT Legislative Assembly
  • Senator David Pocock – Independent Senator for the ACT
  • Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM – doctor, lawyer, disability advocate
  • Senior Sergeant Maha Sukkar APM – Victoria Police
  • Cr Mohammad Semra – Mayor, City of Maribyrnong
  • Paula Kruger – CEO, Media Diversity Australia

MEDIA PASSES: are available for accredited journalists. Interviews with FECCA CEO Prerana Mehta, selected speakers, and community leaders can be arranged subject to availability.

Please email media@fecca.org.au to apply for a one or two-day media pass.

ENDS

Media contacts:

Carlo Krikowa

carlo@fecca.org.au

+ 61 467 429 763

Mia Ferreira

media@fecca.org.au

+61 411 053 369

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