“Our Strength Lies in Multiculturalism, and We Deeply Respect Indian-Australians,” Says Anne Aly

New Delhi: Dr. Anne Aly, Australia’s first cabinet minister for multicultural affairs, visited India this weekend to reaffirm Canberra’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity amid concerns over recent anti-India demonstrations in Australia. As part of her outreach, she met Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and various multifaith leaders to honor the Indian diaspora’s rich cultural and social contributions to Australian life.

Aly, who was born in Egypt and moved to Sydney at the age of two, shared her personal journey as a migrant and Muslim growing up in Australia. In an interview with The indian express, she spoke about the goals of the newly established Ministry of Multicultural Affairs under Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s government, her admiration for the Indian community, and the importance of protecting pluralism in an increasingly polarized world.

“India and Australia share a deep bond built on people-to-people connections”

“Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has made it very clear that we value Indian-Australians as integral members of our diverse society,” Aly stated. “We are optimistic about what our two nations can achieve together.”

During her visit, Aly met Kiren Rijiju, India’s Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, to discuss the growing role of Indian-origin Australians in national life. “I emphasized how much Australia values the contributions made by our Indian-origin population to our civic, economic, and cultural fabric,” she said.

Her final stop in New Delhi included visits to Jama Masjid, Birla Mandir, and Bangla Sahib Gurdwara, where she met leaders from multiple faiths. “All of these religions are proudly represented within our community in Australia,” she noted, underscoring the shared respect for faith and diversity between the two nations.

“Multiculturalism defines Australia’s national identity”

As Australia’s first independent Cabinet Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Aly described her work as both professional and deeply personal. “Being a migrant myself, this portfolio is close to my heart,” she said. “My story is one among many that make up the tapestry of Australia’s multicultural identity.”

She added, “Multiculturalism is more than a government policy—it is a cornerstone of who we are as a nation. The Australian government is committed to ensuring that every citizen can participate fully in civic, cultural, and economic life.” Earlier this year, Aly inaugurated Australia’s first National Office for Multicultural Affairs to celebrate diversity and support inclusive policy development.

“Indian-Australians enrich our nation”

Speaking about the contribution of the Indian diaspora, Aly highlighted that the India-Australia relationship is rooted in shared values and human connections. “Indians form the second-largest and fastest-growing migrant community in Australia, with over one million people of Indian origin now calling Australia home,” she said.

“Indian-Australians play a crucial role in building our society—from healthcare and education to business and community welfare. Their volunteerism and civic engagement reflect our common ideals of empathy and shared responsibility.”

She also mentioned the work of the Centre for Australia-India Relations in Sydney, which strengthens cultural, business, and academic ties. “The Center invests in people and ideas through grants, scholarships, think-tank partnerships, and cultural fellowships that reinforce the living bridge between our two nations,” she added.

“We stand with the Indian community against hate and division”

Addressing concerns about recent hate incidents targeting the Indian community, Aly reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance approach to divisive acts. “Every Australian deserves to feel safe, respected, and included, regardless of their faith, ethnicity, or heritage,” she asserted.

She recalled that leaders including the Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, and herself have publicly condemned anti-India protests and divisive rhetoric. “Prime Minister Albanese said it best: ‘You are welcome here. Indian-Australians make our country stronger,’” Aly quoted.

“The vast majority of Australians support multiculturalism and believe it enhances our national character,” she continued. “Even as pluralism faces global challenges, our government is actively addressing threats such as misinformation, online hate, and foreign interference.”

“Growing up as a Muslim in Australia shaped my values”

Reflecting on her early life, Aly said, “Australia’s identity has always been inherently multicultural. More than half of all Australians today were either born overseas or have a parent who was. I was one of them.”

“I came to Australia from Egypt as a toddler and grew up in Sydney’s western suburbs surrounded by neighbors from every corner of the world. We used trash bins as wickets for street Cricket, and when parents called us home, every name had a different accent—that was the Australia I knew.”

She recalled moments of self-doubt as a child. “When my parents called me by my Arabic name, Azza, I sometimes wondered if I belonged or could succeed. Today, as Australia’s first Muslim woman elected to parliament, and now the first Muslim cabinet minister, I know that I do belong.”

“I am proud of my journey and what it represents. My story is part of Australia’s broader story—a story of inclusion, resilience, and shared opportunity. I believe many Australians of Indian heritage can relate to that,” she concluded.