General News
29 April, 2025
ALP stimulus for festivals
A RE-ELECTED Albanese Labor government will support the ongoing success of Cairns’ vibrant multicultural festivals, ensuring they continue to bring communities together for years to come.
This $450,000 election commitment will help secure the Cairns African Festival, Chinese Lantern Festival, Indian Festival and Diwali Celebrations for the next three years giving organisers certainty and the resources they need to plan, grow and welcome more locals and visitors alike.
Senator Queensland Nita Green said the festivals “are an essential part of the social and cultural life of Cairns”.
“They bring people from all walks of life together to celebrate together,” she said.
“We’re making sure that community organisers don’t have to worry year to year about whether they can afford to hold these events. They’ll have the certainty they need to plan ahead, expand their reach and grow community pride.”
Labor candidate for Leichhardt Matt Smith said Far North Queensland was a welcoming and diverse community.
“These festivals are a celebration of everything that makes Far North Queensland such a special place to live,” he said.
“Supporting multicultural events means supporting connection, belonging and pride in our community.
“It means recognising the huge contribution migrant communities make to our region and ensuring those stories, traditions and cultures continue to be shared and celebrated.”
