About Our History
The Victorian Chinese Association (VCA) was established in 1979 with the mission of uniting Chinese people, advocating for their rights, promoting Chinese culture, and providing social services. Currently, it has 140 member organizations, making it a representative umbrella organization for the Chinese community in Victoria.
Unity Among Chinese People:
The VCA includes a diverse range of member groups such as youth organizations, women's groups, arts groups, Chinese schools, resident associations, professional associations, chambers of commerce, senior clubs, Chinese associations, traditional Chinese medicine associations, martial arts academies, and hometown associations. This diversity ensures that the VCA has broad representativeness within the community.
Social Services:
Since 1986, the VCA has operated a welfare center dedicated to providing social services for Chinese people, including assistance with education, employment, job search, family services, legal advice, housing, and welfare. It serves thousands of individuals annually.
Promotion of Chinese Culture:
Each year, the VCA organizes vibrant celebrations for major events like the Chinese New Year in Melbourne, which has become one of the city's top ten festival events. Additionally, they host annual celebrations for China's National Day and the Mid-Autumn Festival in Melbourne's city square.
The VCA also collaborates with the Murdoch Children's Research Institute on charity fundraising activities. They encourage Chinese participation in politics and support several Chinese Australians in political roles.
Advocacy for Sino-Australian Friendship:
The VCA is dedicated to enhancing and developing bilateral relations between Australia and China. They steadfastly support China's peaceful reunification and the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
In summary, the Victorian Chinese Association plays a pivotal role in the community by fostering unity, providing vital social services, promoting cultural exchange, and advocating for the interests of Chinese Australians while promoting friendship and cooperation between Australia and China.
Youth Division
The Youth Division of the Victoria Chinese Association (FCA) was officially established in October 2018 with the aim of creating an information platform for sharing, communication, and mutually beneficial cooperation among Chinese youth in Melbourne. Currently, the main members of the Youth Division are representatives from various Chinese community youth groups, student associations from Melbourne universities, and outstanding talents from various fields. Their involvement has infused the VCAA with fresh blood, creativity, and energy.
Chinese Assistance Centre
The Melbourne Chinese Service Centre (CSCM), formerly known as the Victoria Chinese Association Welfare Centre, serves as an important local community service outlet for the Victoria Chinese Association. The CSCM provides a variety of services, including settlement services, community support services, psychological counseling, case management, and educational outreach. These professional social work services aim to address the living difficulties of Chinese residents in Australia and improve their quality of life post-migration. Additionally, the center plays a role in promoting Chinese culture, helping people from various ethnic groups in Australia understand China and its vibrant culture.
