Media Release: Thrive 2025 - Sunshine Library Exhibition

Fifty years ago, Vietnamese refugees arrived on Australian shores, bringing with them stories of resilience, determination, and hope. Today, their legacy is woven into the fabric of Australia's multicultural society.

To honour this milestone, the Australian Vietnamese Women's Association (AVWA) is proud to present the Thrive 2025 - Sunshine Library Exhibition, running from Wednesday, March 19 to Thursday, May 1, 2025, at Level 1 of the Sunshine Library.

This exhibition celebrates the personal journeys, achievements, and contributions that have shaped Australia over the past 50 years. Visitors will experience first-hand accounts of resilience, cultural heritage, and the remarkable impact of Vietnamese Australians across business, education, the arts, and community leadership.

Since their arrival, Vietnamese Australians have built new lives, contributing to a stronger, more diverse Australia. We acknowledge that this journey has taken place on the lands of the Traditional Owners, to whom we pay our deepest respect. To all Australians, especially our Veterans, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for the support that has shaped this story of resilience and success.

This exhibition is a lead-up to the 50-year commemoration that will take place at the National Vietnam Veterans Museum in March, where we will continue reflecting on our shared history and honouring those who helped shape it.

Be Part of the Celebration!

• Exhibition Dates: Wednesday, March 19 – Thursday, May 1, 2025
• Location: Level 1, Sunshine Library, VIC
• Free entry | Open daily to the public

We welcome people of all backgrounds - community members, educators, students, families, and professionals - to attend, learn, and connect with these powerful stories. Schools, organisations, and media outlets are encouraged to engage, share these stories, and help celebrate this milestone of resilience and contribution.

About AVWA
The Australian Vietnamese Women's Association (AVWA), established 42 years ago, is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting the health, well-being, and empowerment of Vietnamese community members. With over 420 employees across Victoria, AVWA provides a range of services including aged and disability care, playgroups, vocational training, and counselling services. AVWA operates five key program areas: Family and Children Services, Training and Vocational Services, Aged and Disability Services, Health and Community Wellbeing, and Cultural and Language Services.

Media Contact
Nicky Chung
CEO
Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association Inc.
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Phone: 0475 871 589