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The Australian Tamil Cultural Society of the ACT Inc (ATCS) is one of the oldest multi-cultural organisations in Canberra. Tamil (pronounced as Tamizh) is one of the oldest languages and the native regional language of Tamil Nadu state of South India. It has been popularly spoken for centuries in India, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, Mauritius, South Africa, and Fiji.

ATCS was formally incorporated as an association under the Incorporated Associations ACT in 2004 and is also a member organisation of FINACT. ATCS unites Tamizh speaking members in Canberra. Thanks to our founding members and office bearers of yester years in foreseeing the need for a Tamizh community in Canberra in establishing ATCS.

The primary purpose of this society is to provide a platform for Tamil speaking members in the ACT and surrounding regions to unite and celebrate Tamil culture through formal and informal social events.

ATCS operates Chennai Tamil School (CTS) to teach Tamil language to kids. ATCS Membership is mandatory for CTS families. ATCS also has a Youth Wing to support International Tamil students studying in ANU, UC and UNSW (ADFA). ATCS has its own radio channel, Tamil FM 91.1, broadcasted on Sundays 2-3 PM and Wednesdays 8-9 PM.

ATCS has evolved significantly as a mature community organisation and has played a vital role in supporting the Tamil community members from various walks of life while also weaving into the beautiful fabric of multiculturalism in the ACT. This is only possible because of the tireless efforts of the our current and past committee members as well as the active community participation. We are proud of who we are and how far we have reached.

Tribute to the Founder Member and Ex-President

Dr Palaniappan Muthiah was the Founder and President of Australian Tamil Cultural Society. He was a community volunteer for over 40 years, fondly remembered as “Uncle Muthiah” by his well-wishers and Society members. He is very popular among the multicultural fraternity for his humility, authenticity, kindness and simplicity.

Uncle Muthiah passed away on 16th June 2022 and will be greatly missed by all of us. We strive to continue the great legacy he has left behind for the Canberra Tamil Community.