A powerful show of unity and compassion was on display as The Salvation Army hosted its national Multicultural Launch event for the 2026 Red Shield Appeal at NSW Parliament House on 23 April.
The event brought together leaders from government, business, media and more than 20 community groups, highlighting the collective effort to support vulnerable Australians and strengthen multicultural engagement across the country.
Leaders Unite for a National Cause
The event was formally launched by distinguished leaders from government and business, including Dr. S. Janakiraman, Consul General of India in Sydney; Hon. Warren Kirby MP, NSW Parliament; and Marek Ristwej, Chair of Marque Capital and LBW Trust.
Now in its 62nd year, the Red Shield Appeal remains the nation’s largest and longest-running door-knock fundraiser, with a goal of raising $41 million in 2026 to fund essential services across Australia.
Supporting Communities in Need
Funds raised through the appeal help deliver critical support in areas including homelessness, domestic and family violence, youth services, financial hardship, and drug and alcohol rehabilitation. A significant focus also remains on supporting culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
Miriam Gluyas, Territorial Commander of The Salvation Army, emphasised the organisation’s long-standing commitment to multicultural Australia, noting its 140-year history of service and community impact.
She highlighted the importance of the multicultural launch as a platform to connect with community leaders dedicated to supporting diverse communities.
A Shared Responsibility Across Cultures
Sheba Nandkeolyar, whose organisation has supported the initiative for over two decades, described the campaign theme “Be Hope” as a reflection of Australia’s multicultural spirit – where generosity transcends cultural boundaries and giving becomes a shared responsibility.
The contribution of Multiconnexions has played a key role in strengthening outreach and engagement within multicultural communities.
Impact Across Australia
Through its extensive national network of more than 400 centres and 2,000 services, The Salvation Army continues to deliver significant impact. In the past year alone, the organisation provided assistance to someone in need every 17 seconds, delivered over 1.7 million care sessions, supported more than 228,000 individuals, and offered over one million nights of accommodation.
Additionally, more than 1.4 million meals were provided to people accessing homelessness services, underscoring the scale and importance of the organisation’s work.
Continuing the Mission of Hope
The Red Shield Appeal stands as one of Australia’s most powerful expressions of community compassion, bringing people together to restore dignity, resilience and hope for those facing hardship.
Australians are encouraged to support the appeal by donating online, visiting local Salvos Stores, or contributing through community fundraising efforts.
As the campaign continues, the message remains clear – every act of generosity helps build a stronger, more inclusive and compassionate Australia.
