Radio Brisvaani
Melbourne, January 13 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Senior Victorian MPs and community leaders have come together to acknowledge the contribution of outgoing Indian Consul General in Melbourne Sushil Kumar, praising his efforts in strengthening Victoria–India relations and enhancing engagement with the Indian diaspora.
The tributes were delivered at a farewell gathering attended by parliamentarians, business representatives and community figures. Speaking at the event, Victorian Upper House MP Lee Tarlamis said the partnership between Victoria and India had grown into a strong example of international cooperation, producing meaningful outcomes across sectors such as trade, innovation, education, tourism and sport.
He noted that Victoria is home to Australia’s largest Indian diaspora and said the community’s contribution remains central to the state’s social fabric and economic strength. Tarlamis added that the progress achieved in recent years reflected the combined efforts of many stakeholders, including the outgoing Consul General, whose leadership helped reinforce people-to-people links.
MP Nina Taylor also paid tribute, saying ongoing collaboration between Victoria and India continued to deliver shared economic and cultural benefits. She highlighted the Consul General’s active engagement with local communities, describing his approach as practical, approachable and effective in building trust and achieving results.
MP Matt Fregon joined the farewell alongside business and community leaders, many of whom commended the Consul General for his inclusive leadership and his ability to bring together people from diverse cultural and faith backgrounds.
Dr Kumar assumed his role in Melbourne in July 2022. His earlier postings included assignments in Kuwait and Colombo, along with senior responsibilities related to regional cooperation in South Asia. He has also served at India’s Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi and began his professional career in scientific research before joining the Indian Foreign Service in 2009. Known for his multilingual skills and accessibility, he built a reputation as a community-focused diplomat.
Indian-Australian community leader Sunny Duggal described Dr Kumar’s tenure as marked by humility, openness and consistent support for the diaspora. He said the Consulate became a welcoming space under his stewardship, where community members felt heard and respected.
Tributes also recognised the support of Dr Kumar’s wife, Mona, and their two daughters, with speakers extending best wishes to the family as they prepare to return to India. Those present expressed confidence that the Victoria–India relationship would continue to strengthen, building on the solid foundations established during Dr Kumar’s time in Melbourne.
