MELBOURNE, 21 April 2025: In a big boost to Indian and Subcontinent people, Federal Member for Aston, Mary Doyle, and Federal Member for Bruce, Julian Hill today announced that a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will support the Australian Indian Community Charitable Trust (AICCT), Rowville, with $690.000 funding to modernise the museum and help establish a library dedicated to the Indian subcontinent studies for research and educational programs.
A media release says:
“This $690,000 election commitment will allow the Museum to – Procure advanced audiovisual equipment, Establish a library dedicated to Indian subcontinent studies, Support research and development initiatives and Implement interactive digital education programs.
The Dr. Dinesh Parekh museum at the AICCT premises has many artifacts including those on Hindu mythology, paintings, engravings, sculptures, coins and a stamps collection. The proposed upgrade is likely to help preserve and make these valuable collectables safe for future generations.”
Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles, says the media release.
Julian Hill MP said, ” The Australian Indian Community Centre is a hub of multicultural community life in Melbourne’s East. A re-elected Albanese Labor Government will support this terrific project to be delivered in partnership with the Trust.
Ultimately, this will digitise and preserve a valuable collection of over 2,000 artifacts, more than 300 historic coins dating back to 600 BC, and a vast stamp collection from various nations.
A digital library for researchers and a Gandhi Memorial Lecture Theatre to further cultural and academic engagement will complement the digitisation work.”
Mary Doyle MP said, “I am proud to be part of an Albanese Labor Government that supports Aston’s vibrant multicultural and multifaith communities.
Everyone deserves spaces where they feel safe, welcomed, and where they can learn—and we’re committed to making that a reality.”
