Victorian Tamil Association Inc.
The Victorian Tamil Association Inc. (VTA) is a nonprofit organization established in 1978 by early Tamil migrants from Sri Lanka, initially as the Ceylon Tamil Association and later known as the Eelam Tamil Association Vic[1]. Founded under the leadership of the late Professor C. J. Eliezer, it aimed to support Tamil immigrants facing displacement due to Sri Lanka’s post-independence language policies and systemic discrimination[1].

History

The association originated as a social platform for Tamil professionals and skilled migrants who arrived in Victoria during the 1970s[1]. Following the 1983 anti-Tamil pogroms in Sri Lanka, the VTA played a pivotal role in advocating for humanitarian visas under Australia’s Special Humanitarian Assistance program, aiding displaced families in resettling and integrating into Australian society[1].

Operations

The VTA operates community language programs and a community center[2]. It has historically focused on addressing psychosocial challenges faced by refugees, including social isolation and educational barriers[1]. The organization collaborates with Tamil associations globally to preserve cultural identity and foster solidarity[1].

Victorian Tamil Community Centre

In partnership with the Victorian Tamil Community Centre Unit Trust, the VTA supported the establishment of the Victorian Tamil Community Centre (VTCC) in Dandenong, a $4.53 million facility partially funded by government grants[5]. The VTCC, managed independently, provides event spaces and services for weddings, cultural functions, and community gatherings[4][5].

Governance

As a registered charity, the VTA adheres to nonprofit governance standards, emphasizing community empowerment and cultural preservation[2][5]. Its activities remain central to Victoria’s Tamil diaspora, particularly in maintaining linguistic and social ties[1][2].

[1] https://vta.org.au [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/203d13ec-6cf4-e811-a96b-000d3ad064bd [3] https://vta.org.au/contact_us.htm [4] http://vtcc.org.au [5] https://www.lankaweb.com/news/items/2020/05/30/vic-tamil-association-formerly-known-as-eelam-tamil-association/