The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) is led by commissioners appointed by the Minister for Multicultural Affairs for terms of up to 4 years.
The VMC Commissioners:
- work at a grassroots level to gain a solid understanding of the issues facing ethnic communities
- attend events
- liaise between different faith and community groups
- meet on a bi-monthly basis
- develop strategies to address community issues.
Vivienne (Viv) Nguyen AM, Chairperson
Current term: August 2023 to 21 August 2026
First appointed: 24 August 2019
Viv Nguyen’s greatest talent is continuing what she started soon after arriving in Australia as a 12-year-old refugee: being a passionate advocate for genuine community engagement and cultural diversity.
For over 25 years Viv has been a leader in corporate, community and government settings, applying her business knowledge and technical expertise to work with community organisations to advance their social objectives. She held executive roles at AustChoice Financial Services, AMP Asset Management and ANZ Banking Group, where she led their global diversity strategy. She was also President of the Vietnamese Community in Australia Victoria Chapter from 2016 to 2019.
In 2002, Viv was inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll for advocating for women’s leadership and supporting young Vietnamese people. In 2003, she was awarded the Australian Centenary Medal and in 2021 was awarded the Australian Order in the AM division for advancing multicultural Victoria.
Sylvia Coombe
Current term: September 2023 to September 2027
First appointed: September 2023
Sylvia Coombe is the President of the Fijian Community Association Victoria Inc. (FCAV) in Melbourne and a board member of the United Pasifika Council of Victoria Inc.(UPCOV). With over 16 years of experience in Quality Management and Rail Safety in the Victorian Public Rail Transportation industry, she has made significant contributions in ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety for passengers and employees.
In addition to her professional role, Sylvia actively volunteers and supports various state, federal, and local boards and organizations. She serves on peak bodies, advisory bodies, local councils, research bodies, and consultation committees for the PALM Scheme in Victoria, which strengthens relationships between Australia and Pacific Island countries. Sylvia's commitment to community welfare extends further as she has served as a volunteer CFA firefighter, works as a grant panel assessor, and is currently a multicultural safety ambassador with the Migrant Worker Centre. These roles demonstrate her dedication to public safety, supporting local communities, and protecting the rights and safety of migrant workers.
Overall, Sylvia Coombe's extensive experience in quality management, her leadership roles in community associations, and her active involvement in volunteer work showcase her passion for the welfare of others and her commitment to making a positive impact in various spheres of society.
Dr Judy Tang
Current term: September 2023 to September 2027
First appointed: September 2019
Judy is a strong advocate for multiculturalism and LGBTIQA+ communities with expertise in psychology, ageing, research and mental health. With extensive relationships across government and community, Judy has volunteered for more than 10 years to promote and advocate for multiculturalism and equality for migrants.
She is a former VMC Multicultural Champion and President of the Australian GLBTIQ Multicultural Council, a national body that advocates for the rights of multicultural and multifaith LGBTQIA+ people and communities. Judy has a doctorate in neuropsychology and is a practicing clinical neuropsychologist.
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