BRMC works across three interconnected roles:
Our primary role is to strengthen communities, organisations and systems as a trusted connector, intermediary and capacity builder. We also deliver programs and services where they create meaningful outcomes and BRMC is best placed to respond.
Our programs and services include settlement support, aged care community, family and sexual violence education and navigation support, emergency management, community dialogues, cultural training, and community events and celebrations.
BRMC primarily serves Ballarat and the Central Highlands. With government funding, we also undertake outreach across the broader Grampians region. The reach of individual programs varies, and this is reflected in each program’s funding and reporting arrangements.
Years connecting communities
Cultural associations and community groups engaged
Partner organisations engaged
Inclusion – We work to remove barriers so everyone can participate
Responsiveness – We listen deeply and adapt to what we hear
Integrity – We act in the best interests of communities, always
Compassion – We recognise lived experience and lead with empathy
Sustainability – We build relationships, knowledge and systems that last
BRMC’s Board of Governance provides strategic leadership and oversight, ensuring the organisation remains accountable, sustainable, and connected to community priorities. Board members bring professional expertise and lived experience, guiding BRMC’s vision and direction.
BRMC staff deliver programs, build trust within communities, navigate systems alongside people, and strengthen partnerships with services and government. They bring professional expertise and lived experience to create inclusive, responsive environments where people are heard and valued.
Ballarat Regional Multicultural Council, also known as BRMC, is a registered charity and a not-for-profit community service organisation. Established in 1999 BRMC is an incorporated association accountable to members through the BRMC Executive Committee.
BRMC manages the Ballarat Welcome Centre and a team of staff, volunteers and partners with government, community and business to promote our objectives.
BRMC is a not-for-profit (NFP) organisation, formed and driven by culturally and linguistically diverse community members. The creation of the BRMC was also enabled through a consultation organised by the City of Ballarat in 1999, which determined the need to provide a voice and range of culturally sensitive services and support for migrant communities throughout the Central Highlands Region.
BRMC is also accredited under the Aged Care Quality Standards. BRMC offers a core set of services that support engagement and advocacy for new and emerging migrant communities and multicultural communities in the region, including multicultural sector coordination, settlement, community development, aged support, training and education, as well as arts and events
In early 1999, a Steering Committee of 10 people was formed. BRMC constitution was drafted and the association was incorporated in December 1999. Today, BRMC headquarters is located at the Ballarat Welcome Centre, 25-39 Barkly St, Ballarat VIC 3350.
BRMC Original Steering Committee:
Dr Sundram Sivamalai
Sulaika Dhanapala
Frank Williams
Ron Males – German-Austrian Assoc. Member
Felicity Stehlik – German-Austrian Assoc. Member
Claudia Tresoldi-McLean
Lakshmi Maksay
John Lawrence
Joe Pavlovic – Commissioner, VMC
John Pandazopoulos – Commissioner, VMC
