28 January 2025

The President of the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM), Bill Papastergiadis OAM, recently met with the new Consul General of Greece in Melbourne, Dimitra Georgantzoglou, following her assumption of duties. The meeting was conducted in a warm and constructive atmosphere, underlining the shared commitment to supporting Melbourne’s vibrant Greek community.

Discussions centered on preserving and deepening the strong bonds between the Greek diaspora in Melbourne and their homeland, as well as ensuring that the Consulate General continues to provide efficient and high-quality services to Greeks living abroad.

“It is a great honour to take on my duties in Melbourne and collaborate with such an active and passionate diaspora. Providing prompt and effective service to Greeks abroad is a primary priority, with the aim of simplifying their daily lives. Our collaboration with the Greek Community of Melbourne is vital in achieving these goals,” Georgantzoglou stated.

Both parties pledged to work closely together to address challenges facing the diaspora and to strengthen the trust and collaboration between the Greek community and the Greek authorities. Photo: Supplied

She also emphasised the importance of digitising consular services, a process already underway, to streamline access to public services and improve efficiency.

Bill Papastergiadis OAM highlighted the Greek Community of Melbourne’s ongoing efforts to maintain strong ties with Greece.

“The GCM strives to strengthen our bonds with our homeland. We are proud of our collaboration with the Consulate General and the support it provides to the diaspora. I am confident that, with Georgantzoglou, we will develop even more initiatives that promote unity and prosperity for Greeks in Melbourne,” he said.

During the meeting, Papastergiadis briefed the Consul General on the GCM’s upcoming events, including the 2025 “Antipodes” Festival, set to take place on February 22-23, and the traditional Greek Independence Day celebrations on March 25.