Asian Business Association of Whitehorse Inc.
The Asian Business Association of Whitehorse Inc. (ABAW) is a dynamic, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to fostering economic and cultural connections between Asia and Australia. While our roots lie in strengthening Australia–China business relations, our mission extends to empowering multicultural business communities and promoting local economic development across Victoria.
ABAW offers a wide range of support services to business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals—from strategic guidance to networking and advocacy—delivered by a team of experienced and passionate industry leaders. What sets us apart is our commitment to inclusivity and public engagement. Through flagship events, such as major cultural festivals and community fundraisers, we strive to bring people together, strengthen cross-cultural understanding, and build lasting partnerships that benefit the broader community.
Our signature event, the Box Hill Chinese Lunar New Year Festival, is one of Melbourne’s most iconic multicultural celebrations. The 2025 festival, held on February 1st, was a resounding success, drawing over 100,000 attendees who enjoyed a vibrant program featuring lion and dragon dances, cultural performances, interactive workshops, and a spectacular fireworks display. The event was graced by the presence of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, underscoring its significance in Victoria’s cultural calendar.
With deep insight into Chinese business culture and strong ties to key stakeholders in China, ABAW is uniquely positioned to help businesses engage with Asian markets through targeted, culturally informed initiatives.
At our core, we believe collaboration and diversity are the cornerstones of a thriving society—and we’re proud to be building those bridges every day.
Upcoming Events
2026 Manningham Chinese New Year Festival
🧧 2026 Manningham Chinese New Year Festival: Save the Date! 🧧
Celebrate the Year of the Horse at Jackson Court!
The countdown is on! The Asian Business Association of Whitehorse Inc. (ABAW), in partnership with the Manningham Council, is proud to invite you to the 2026 Manningham Chinese New Year Festival on Saturday, 7 February 2026.
Join us for a day of tradition, excitement, and community spirit as we transform Jackson Court into a vibrant festival hub.
What to Expect:
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✨ Cultural Performances: Non-stop entertainment featuring traditional lion dances, music, and martial arts.
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🥟 Street Food & Market Stalls: A diverse range of flavors and unique finds from across the community.
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🎈 Family Fun: Activities and entertainment for all ages throughout the day.
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🎆 Fireworks Display: A spectacular fireworks show to light up the night sky at approximately 9:30 PM.
Event Details:
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📅 When: Saturday, 7 February 2026
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⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)
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📍 Where: Jackson Court Shopping Centre, Doncaster East
Gather your friends and family for Manningham’s premier multicultural celebration. We can’t wait to welcome the New Year with you!
2026 Box Hill Chinese New Year Festival
🧧 2026 Box Hill Chinese New Year Festival: The Grand Celebration! 🧧
Experience Melbourne’s Most Iconic Chinese New Year Festival!
Get ready for the biggest event on the Box Hill calendar! The Asian Business Association of Whitehorse Inc. (ABAW) invites you to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the 2026 Box Hill Chinese New Year Festival on Saturday, 21 February 2026.
As we welcome the Year of the Horse, Box Hill’s Bank streets will come alive with a high-energy atmosphere that draws tens of thousands of visitors from across Victoria.
Event Highlights:
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🐉 Grand Lion & Dragon Dance: Witness the traditional blessing of the shops and spectacular street parades.
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🏮 Giant Street Market: Over 100 stalls featuring authentic Asian street food, merchandise, and community displays.
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🎤 Main Stage Extravaganza: A 14-hour marathon of non-stop cultural performances, pop music, and traditional arts.
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🧨 Firecracker Displays: Experience the traditional sounds and excitement of firecrackers to ward off evil spirits and welcome good luck.
- 🎆 Double Fireworks Spectacular: We are lighting up the sky twice! Catch our stunning fireworks displays at 9:30 PM and again at Midnight (12:00 AM)
Event Details:
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📅 When: Saturday, 21 February 2026
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⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)
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📍 Where: Main Street, Market Street, and Whitehorse Road, Box Hill
Join us for an unforgettable day of cultural pride and festive joy in the heart of Box Hill!