In the first official meeting between Greek Community of Melbourne President Bill Papastergiadis OAM and Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan, the genuinely warm and welcoming atmosphere suggested this would be just one of many meetings to come.
In the relaxed and friendly environment, the Premier and the GCM President discussed various issues spanning the needs of all Victorians, as well as matters specific to Greek Australians who have made this state their home. Also in attendance were Government MPs Nick Staikos, Kat Theophanous, and Lee Tarlamis.
The Premier noted that growing up in Bendigo was not a barrier to understanding the significance of people of Greek background in Victoria. In fact, one of her close friends and neighbours was of Greek heritage. The topic of Greeks in Victoria and their impact in the arts, education, commerce, sports, and the wider community was the centrepiece of the conversation.
Premier Allan said, “Greek culture is such a key part of Melbourne and Victoria’s identity. It was a pleasure to meet in person with Bill Papastergiadis to discuss the Greek community and how we can work together to bring Greek culture to Melbourne through events, festivals, and educational programs. Our relationship with the Greek community is more than a partnership. It is a true friendship. We have accomplished a lot together, and we will keep on building on that.”
One issue that was touched upon was the Premier’s recent announcement at the VMC Gala Dinner regarding the naming of over 6,000 roads, parks, and public spaces in honour of persons from different cultural backgrounds. Bill Papastergiadis thanked the Premier for this initiative, noting, “Acknowledging our wonderful diversity is one of the defining characteristics of our state.” He added, “This announcement demonstrates, in concrete terms, how our multifaceted identity in Victoria is being recognized so that our place in it will be recorded for generations to come. Symbols are an important part of how we and those around us perceive our place in this world.”
Mr. Papastergiadis then provided the Premier with a detailed outline of the GCM’s education program, emphasizing the importance of language preservation. He highlighted the broader community’s commitment to this cause, pointing to the significant infrastructure projects planned for Alphington Grammar and the other two Greek grammar schools—St. John’s and Oakleigh Grammar.
The Premier also informed Bill that she was committed to attending the Antipodes Festival in 2025, stating that it was a highlight of Melbourne’s rich cultural calendar.
Bill concluded by saying, “No doubt, the Greek Community as a whole has a friend in the Premier. We have someone interested in our community and a Premier who wants to connect with us. When you factor in the hard work and presence of Steve Dimopoulos, Nick Staikos, Kat Theophanous, and Lee Tarlamis, we are well served in furthering our interests and needs.”
