This past weekend I was fortunate to join a spectacular Holi celebration in Lucas, hosted by the Ballarat Indian Association. Hundreds of locals came together to embrace the Festival of Colours. It was pure joy and a living, breathing expression of multiculturalism at its best. My heartfelt thanks to president Ashish Kakaan, past president Elangovan Shanmugam, vice-president Manoj Khandelwal, treasurer Rakesh Patel, secretary Geetha Stephen and events coordinator Kavita Sangwan. Each of you help make Ballarat a better place.

Let me be clear: racism and hate have no place in Victoria. The state Labor government stands firmly with Victorians of every faith, culture and background. Our diversity is our greatest strength, and we are committed to building a safer, more inclusive and more secure Victoria for all.