Who We Are & What we do?

Our
History

Welfare activities

In SMCV, welfare activities focus on supporting community well-being through health programs, education, and outreach services for a better life

Cultural & Social Events

In SMCV, cultural and social events foster community engagement, celebrate heritage, and create meaningful connections for all members.

Maintain Unity & Integrity

At SMCV, we promote unity and integrity by fostering respect, collaboration, and honesty to build a strong, cohesive community.

outdoor recreation

Would you like to join soccer, football, basketball or other popular sports? We are waiting for you.

History of Sri Lankan Muslim Community of Victoria (SMCV) (Formerly IMAN Australia & AusLanka)​

Origins and Establishment

The Institute of Muslim Academic Network (IMAN) Australia Inc. was founded with a vision to promote educational, social, cultural, and economic enrichment within the Muslim community. The initiative began with a meeting held at Hoppers Crossing on 21st December 2008, where a group of dedicated individuals recognized the need for an Islamic education program tailored to the community’s children.
Recognizing the lack of formal Islamic classes, a small group of four social aspirants embarked on a journey to establish an Islamic educational institution. Through intensive meetings, brainstorming, and documentation, the concept gradually took shape. However, one of the biggest challenges was finding a suitable venue. After considerable efforts, a community centre under Wyndham City Council was secured with the assistance of HIRA Australia.

The Establishment of IMAN Classes

On 21st February 2009, with the blessings of Almighty, IMAN launched its first Islamic class at the Central Park Community Centre, Hoppers Crossing. The program started with twelve children, enrolled in two classes within a single room.

From the outset, the community strongly supported and encouraged this initiative. Parents and non-parents alike participated in fundraising, planning, and organizing events such as the 2009 Performance Night, which played a crucial role in motivating both teachers and management.

As the program gained momentum, more teachers joined, helping to expand the curriculum and resources. By the end of the first year, IMAN had grown into a structured institution with four active classes and over 50 students, supported by five qualified teachers.

Expansion and Formalization

While IMAN’s primary focus was children’s education, the organization also took steps to engage adults by hosting Islamic talks and events. Programs included:

 

  • ‘Welcome Ramadan’ lectures by Sheiks Nawas, Awad, and Aroos
  • Public lectures by Dr. Abdullah (Periyardhasan), a renowned psycho-therapist
  • DVD release of Dr. Abdullah’s lectures in October 2010

 

With growing participation, the informal group saw the necessity of formalizing the organization. This process involved several milestones:

 

  • November 2009 – The name IMAN Australia was officially announced during the first Performance Night.
  • June 2010 – The inaugural meeting was held, and the first Management Committee and office bearers were elected.
  • August 2010 – IMAN Australia was officially incorporated under the Associations Incorporation Act 1981.
  • November 2010 – The official IMAN logo was designed and released.

Renaming to AusLanka in 2021

In 2021, the organization underwent a transformation and was renamed AusLanka, reflecting its broader vision of serving the Sri Lankan community in Australia beyond just academic activities. The renaming marked a new phase in its journey, expanding its focus to include welfare, cultural, and social initiatives aimed at strengthening the identity and unity of the Sri Lankan Muslim diaspora in Victoria.

Renaming to Sri Lankan Muslim Community of Victoria (SMCV) in 2024

In 2024, AusLanka was renamed the Sri Lankan Muslim Community of Victoria (SMCV). This change was made to expand the organization’s reach and ensure inclusivity for all Sri Lankans living in Victoria, Australia. The new name reflects a commitment to fostering unity among Sri Lankan Muslims while welcoming all Sri Lankans to engage in cultural, social, and educational activities

Vision, Mission, and Objectives

Article – 2: Vision

“A Journey towards perfection through Cultural, Educational and Social enrichments.”

Article – 3: Mission

3.1 To engage in welfare activities for the betterment of the community through conducting activities of educational, cultural, and linguistic nature.

3.2 To develop better understanding and awareness among the community to cohabit in a multiethnic and multi-religious society.

Article – 4: Objectives

The objectives of the Committee are:

  • 2.1 To educate children with Arabic language and cultural values.
  • 2.2 To carry out welfare activities for the community.
  • 2.3 To maintain the unity and integrity within the Community.
  • 2.4 To organize cultural and social programs common to the Community.
  • 2.5 To involve in activities for the betterment of the wider community in the area.

Future Aspirations

With its new identity as SMCV, the organization is committed to fostering community development, cultural preservation, and educational excellence. By strengthening Sri Lankan identity within the broader Australian landscape, SMCV aims to be a pillar of support and enrichment for all Sri Lankans in Victoria, promoting unity, inclusivity, and community service.

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