
Rohit Roy Kumar is an award-winning community leader, social advocate, and philanthropist whose lifelong commitment to service has transformed the lives of countless individuals and families across Victoria. As the Founder and President of the Australian Integrated Fijian Association of Victoria (AIFAV), Rohit has become one of the most respected figures within Victoria’s multicultural and community sectors.
In recognition of his outstanding contribution to community service, inclusion, and leadership, Rohit was honoured with the Citizen of the Year 2026 award by Melton City Council — the highest individual civic honour awarded by the municipality. This prestigious recognition acknowledges more than a decade of dedicated service to multicultural communities, people with disabilities, seniors, youth, carers, and vulnerable individuals throughout Victoria.
Originally from Fiji, Rohit commenced his professional career with the Ministry of Education before migrating to Australia in 2001 in search of greater opportunities. Like many migrants, he faced significant challenges establishing himself in a new country, but through determination, resilience, and a passion for helping others, he built a successful career across both the private and public sectors.
Professionally, Rohit has held senior analyst and leadership positions with some of Australia’s largest ASX-listed organisations, including Shell, BP, Castrol, and Telstra Corporation, as well as roles within Hume City Council and the Australian Federal Government.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Rohit’s greatest passion has always been community service. Through AIFAV, he has spearheaded numerous community initiatives, cultural programs, educational workshops, charity events, and fundraising campaigns that have supported thousands of people from diverse backgrounds. His leadership has helped foster cultural understanding, social inclusion, community participation, and support for individuals facing hardship.
Rohit’s commitment to inclusion is also deeply personal. As a parent of a child with a disability, he understands the challenges faced by families and has dedicated significant time advocating for accessibility, disability inclusion, and equal opportunities within the community.
His exceptional service has been recognised through numerous prestigious awards and appointments, including:
🏆 Citizen of the Year 2026 – Melton City Council
🏆 Meritorious Award (2018) – Presented by the Governor of Victoria, Her Excellency Linda Dessau AC
🏆 Semi-Finalist – Prime 7 Regional Achievement & Community Awards (Diversity & Inclusion Category)
🏆 Nominee – Victorian Disability Awards for Excellence (Department of Health and Human Services)
🏆 Finalist – Citizen of the Year, City of Melton (2020)
🏆 Regional Advisory Committee Member – Victorian Multicultural Commission (North-West Metropolitan Region, 2018–2021)
Rohit is an Accredited Chartered Manager and holds postgraduate qualifications in Business Management, an Advanced Diploma in Accounting, and a Certificate III in Financial Services, all obtained in Australia. He is also a member of the Institute of Public Accountants (IPA) and an associate of the Institute of Financial Accountants (IFA).
Under Rohit’s leadership, AIFAV has grown into one of Victoria’s most active multicultural community organisations, receiving numerous accolades including an Award of Excellence from the Governor of Victoria and the Inclusiveness & Diversity Award at the Community Achievement Awards.
Today, Rohit continues to inspire others through his vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to building stronger, more inclusive communities. His journey from a migrant arriving in Australia with hope and determination to becoming a recipient of the City of Melton’s highest civic honour serves as a powerful example of resilience, service, and the positive impact one individual can have on society.
“I came to Australia searching for a better life, but through serving the community I found something even greater — purpose, belonging, and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others.” – Rohit Roy Kumar
