Assistant Multicultural Affairs Minister says right-wing forces pose a threat to multicultural Australia as Labor seeks a historic fourth term in Victoria
MELBOURNE, 26 July 2026: Assistant Multicultural Affairs Minister Julian Hill launched a blistering attack on the growing alignment between One Nation and the Liberals at a campaign event in Melbourne, as Labor pursues a historic fourth term in Victoria’s November election.
Hill was speaking at a campaign launch and fundraiser for Labor candidate for Rowville, Dr M Shahbaz Choudhry, at the Australian Indian Community Centre.
A fourth term for Labor would be unprecedented in Victoria.
Hill did not hold back, saying: “A political party that doesn’t have a leader, that doesn’t have any candidates, is sitting where it is in the polls, is a terrifying prospect. Who are these people? They’re fuelled by shadowy money, right-wing forces globally, and they aim to attack the very nature of our modern multicultural society.”
He said it was important to elect Dr Choudhry, describing him as a professional doctor suited to represent the community in the Victorian Parliament.
The audience, drawn from a broad multicultural gathering, applauded his remarks. The event also came amid speculation about a possible leadership spill in Victoria.
Among those present and addressing the event were Lee Tarlamis MP, Steve Staikos MP, Eden Foster MP, Matt Fregon MP and Meng Heang Tak MP, along with prominent members and community leaders from the Pakistani, Indian, Afghan and other communities.
Dr Choudhry thanked supporters for the strong backing he said he had received from the Rowville electorate and wider community.
The evening also featured a successful auction of paintings to raise funds for the campaign, followed by dinner and networking.
