The politics of the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne and Victoria (1928-1959)

Dr. Christos Fifis talks to SBS Greek about the types of strife and conflict faced by the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne and Victoria, their causes and their impact on its performance. The seminar is part of the Dardalis Archives Seminar Series organized by La Trobe Greek Studies Department.

Dr Christos Fifis (first on the left). Source: Supplied

The Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne and Victoria (GOCMV) aimed from its inception in 1897 to represent the Greek settlers in Melbourne and Victoria and provide them services (church services, classes of Greek, cultural activities, etc). 

Internal and external strife, divisions and disputes are not uncommon in some organizations which can lead to change but if left unrestrained to persist can lead to disastrous consequences. 

The GOCMV experienced some dire times of strife and divisions in the period between 1928 and 1959 due to internal and parochial antagonisms, political disagreements and disputes with the Church authorities which more often deteriorated its ability to perform its role.