Evan Mulholland, Liberal Member for the Northern Metropolitan Region, has been appointed Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs, as announced by Opposition Leader Brad Battin. The role highlights Mulholland’s connection to multicultural communities and his focus on engaging with their needs.
Sharing his personal connection to Australia’s migrant story, Mulholland spoke about his late grandparents, Teresa and Domenico Caruso, who arrived in Australia in the 1950s with little more than a suitcase.
“I am a proud grandson of migrants,” Mulholland said. “I am a beneficiary of Australia’s great migrant story, and my electorate of Northern Metropolitan is home to so many families who have come from all over the world to live, work, and raise a family.”
Mulholland highlighted the significant contributions of multicultural and multi-faith communities, noting, “Our multicultural and multi-faith communities strengthen our state and make a meaningful contribution. The Liberals and Nationals understand that by encouraging and supporting these communities, we create a richer and more tolerant society.”
In his new role, Mulholland is focused on addressing key priorities for these communities, including tackling the cost-of-living crisis and safeguarding freedoms of religion and worship. “I’ve been listening to multicultural and multi-faith communities, and I understand their priorities,” he said.
He also highlighted a recent petition he initiated regarding the removal of the Lord’s Prayer from parliamentary proceedings, which garnered 11,000 signatures. The petition led to the Victorian government reversing its decision, following significant feedback from faith-based communities.
In addition to his multicultural portfolio, Mulholland has been named Shadow Minister for Major Projects and Shadow Minister for Arts and Creative Industries, while retaining his role as Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party in the Legislative Council.
“As a member of Brad Battin’s leadership team, I will be a strong voice at the table for the hopes and aspirations of Victoria’s multicultural and multi-faith communities,” Mulholland said.
His appointment underscores a focus on fostering inclusion and addressing the diverse needs of Victorians.
