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.​

Free Community Floristry Workshops

Create something beautiful. Learn something new. Connect with others.

Discover the joy of flower arranging with ABAW’s free community floristry workshops, delivered by Box Hill Institute and supported by SRL. Designed for beginners and flower lovers, these hands-on sessions offer a welcoming space to explore your creativity and meet new people.

Through demonstrations and guided activities, you’ll learn how to prepare and care for seasonal flowers, combine blooms and foliage, and create balanced arrangements. You’ll make up to two floral designs to take home, which may include a bouquet, posy, table centrepiece or contemporary arrangement.

All floral materials and vessels are provided. Please bring a towel, flower snips, a pen and notepad, and plan how you’ll transport your arrangements home. Bring your own lunch or purchase it nearby.

October 2026 – April 2027
Selected Saturdays | 10am–2pm
Box Hill Institute
Free to attend — places are limited, Registration open soon

Part of ABAW’s community program supporting mental health and social connection through shared learning and creativity.

Free Community Kitchen Boot Camp

Build kitchen confidence. Cook something delicious. Connect with others.

Discover the foundations of home cooking with ABAW’s free community kitchen boot camps, delivered by Box Hill Institute and supported by SRL. Whether you’re completely new to cooking or looking to strengthen your everyday skills, these welcoming, hands-on sessions are a great place to start.

Through demonstrations and guided cooking activities, you’ll practise preparing ingredients, explore essential cooking methods and learn how to cook and present simple, delicious meals. Along the way, you’ll pick up kitchen organisation tips and time-saving techniques, with recipes and skills you can use at home.

No previous cooking experience is required. Please bring an apron, a pen and notepad. If you have dietary requirements, contact the ABAW Event Team before your session and let the chef know when you arrive.

November 2026 – May 2027
Selected Saturdays | 10am–2pm
Box Hill Institute — Elgar Road Campus
Free to attend — Registration open soon, spots limited

Part of ABAW’s community program supporting mental health and social connection through shared learning and cooking.

🧧 Coming Soon: 2027 Chinese New Year Festivals! 🧧

Two spectacular celebrations. Two vibrant communities. One unforgettable Chinese New Year.

Following the incredible success of our 2026 celebrations, the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse (ABAW) is excited to announce that the Chinese New Year Festivals will return to Box Hill and Manningham in February 2027!

Get ready to welcome the Year of the Goat with spectacular cultural performances, lion and dragon dances, delicious food, family entertainment, community activities and much more.

📍 Box Hill
📍 Manningham
📅 February 2027

Full event dates, programs and details will be announced soon. Follow ABAW and stay tuned!

✨ Sponsorship opportunities are now available.
To express your interest, please contact [email protected].