The opening of the PRONIA Oakleigh office marks a pivotal moment for Greek-Australian community services. This event highlights PRONIA's commitment to multicultural support in Melbourne. Additionally, it underscores the organization's role in providing Greek welfare in Australia. The new facility at 37 Portman Street aims to enhance the aged care PRONIA offers. Therefore, this development promises stronger connections within the community.
PRONIA, a cornerstone of Greek-Australian welfare, celebrated this milestone on August 22, 2025. The occasion drew prominent figures from political and community leadership. The PRONIA new Oakleigh office now serves as a hub for essential programs. It reflects years of dedication to culturally responsive care.
The Grand Opening Ceremony
CEO Sylvia Hadjiantoniou welcomed everyone warmly. She emphasized resilience and hope.
“What I would like to say is that today is not just the opening of a building. It's the opening of our new chapter. A chapter of resilience, inclusion, and hope. On behalf of PRONIA, thank you for joining us in celebrating this milestone. Together, let's shape a stronger future.”
Local leaders shared similar sentiments. State Member for Oakleigh Steve Dimopoulos MP praised PRONIA's impact. He highlighted the respect and love they showed for their care.
“We represent a community that needs you, respects you, and loves the care that you give them.”
Federal Member for Hotham Clare O’Neil MP delivered the keynote. She extended the message further.
“This is not just a new chapter for PRONIA, this is a new chapter for our community and the way that we can care and look after one another.”
The ceremony concluded with the ribbon-cutting. Ms. O’Neil joined Mr. Dimopoulos, PRONIA President Elpis Korosidis, and Ms. Hadjiantoniou. They cut the ribbon together. Distinguished guests included Mayor Paul Klisaris and Viv Nguyen AM. Others, such as Justice Emilios Kyrou AO and George Lekakis AO, also attended.
Design and Purpose of the New PRONIA Oakleigh Office
The PRONIA new Oakleigh office embodies thoughtful design. Acquired in 2020, the building underwent complete redevelopment. Cassisi Architects led the transformation. Director Loretta Cassisi explained the vision. "We created a calm, warm, and professional environment," she said. It mirrors PRONIA's values and cultural identity.
Every detail supports the mission. The space promotes accessibility and client-centered care. For instance, it efficiently welcomes clients. Staff benefit from functional layouts. Moreover, the design reinforces PRONIA's role as a trusted connector. It offers advice and care seamlessly. This setup strengthens the Greek-Australian community services.
The office is situated in the heart of Oakleigh. This location boosts reach in the south-eastern suburbs. Therefore, more people can access support. The redevelopment turned a tired building into a vibrant space. It aligns perfectly with Melbourne's multicultural background.
PRONIA's Legacy in Greek Welfare Australia
PRONIA has been serving for over 50 years, since 1972. It empowers culturally diverse communities, particularly Greek Australians. Services include home care and dementia support. Additionally, they offer family programs and early intervention. Counselling and free legal aid are available too. Community engagement rounds out the list.
The organization delivers person-centered care. It promotes dignity and independence. For example, the "Stronger Together" program supports individuals with dementia. Upcoming changes, including the Support at Home program, are scheduled to begin in November 2025. This replaces Home Care Packages. PRONIA actively prepares for aged care reforms. Their approach leverages cultural knowledge.
Events like Greek Family Story Time foster heritage. These initiatives connect generations. Moreover, PRONIA sponsors festivals such as ESTIA in Tasmania. Their work builds stronger futures. Volunteers and staff drive this success. Community feedback praises their professionalism.
The Importance of Multicultural Support in Melbourne
Multicultural support in Melbourne drives harmony and success. Australia thrives as a diverse society. Waves of migration shape it daily. For instance, services reduce misunderstandings. They promote unity effectively. Additionally, integration policies prohibit discrimination. This approach boosts economic growth.
PRONIA exemplifies this in action. It addresses the specific needs of Greek-Australians. However, broader benefits extend to all. The McKell Institute notes Australia's success in multiculturalism. It follows an integration model. Therefore, organizations like PRONIA are vital. They value traditions and practices.
Government frameworks support this. The Multicultural Framework Review highlights contributions. Programs educate on cultural issues. As a result, society grows stronger. PRONIA's expansion aligns with these goals.
Impact on the Greek-Australian Community
Melbourne hosts the largest Greek population outside Greece and Cyprus. Over 173,000 people claim Greek ancestry in this area. Nationally, 424,750 report Greek roots. In Victoria, 181,184 people have Greek ancestry. Of them, 46,623 were born in Greece.
This community relies on tailored services. PRONIA fills that gap effectively. For example, aged care PRONIA supports independence. Dementia programs offer cultural sensitivity. Moreover, family violence support is crucial. The PRONIA Oakleigh office opening expands access. It targets the south-eastern suburbs directly.
Community leaders recognize this. Figures like Viv Nguyen AM champion diversity. Their involvement at the event shows unity. Therefore, PRONIA strengthens bonds. It empowers individuals to thrive.
Looking Ahead: Future Initiatives and Growth
The PRONIA Oakleigh office opening signals exciting growth. Plans include enhanced NDIS disability support. Social groups for under-65s run weekly. These build connections in Clayton and Brunswick.
Aged care reforms loom large. The new Act starts soon. PRONIA seeks a Manager for Quality and Compliance. This role ensures smooth transitions. Additionally, volunteer opportunities abound. Community input shapes services.
Partnerships grow stronger. For instance, ties with the Greek Media Group deepen. Events like storytime preserve heritage. Moreover, honors for volunteers inspire more involvement. The office will host these activities. It promises a brighter future for all.
In conclusion, the opening of the PRONIA Oakleigh office marks a significant transformation in community care. It blends tradition with modern needs. Therefore, Melbourne's Greek-Australians gain immensely. This milestone inspires ongoing progress.
Photo Gallery of the opening event
Photo Credit: Con Deves
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