The Federal Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendon O'Connor said the event sees players for culturally diverse communities compete in a six team Australian rules tournament.
"But it's more than just a footy game – it's bringing diverse communities together in the spirit of friendship, unity and a bit of healthy sporting competition," Mr O'Connor said.
However, it's not all about the football with a family day hosting police stalls, Auskick demonstrations and cultural events.
The Unity Cup is held at Windy Hill - the home of the Essendon AFL club - and celebrates cultural diversity across Melbourne.
"The Unity Cup is a fantastic event which brings together people from the diverse communities of Melbourne," Mr O'Connor said.
"In Australia there's a lot more that unites us than divides us. This day is about celebrating that through sport – and what better sport than AFL?"
"It's great to see that this event has grown each year since it began in 2008. This is another step toward fostering social cohesion and a better understanding of the diverse communities that make Melbourne and Australia a great place to live".
"I thank the participants of today's event, the AFL representatives, the AFP and Victorian Police officers for making today such a fantastic event."
"And I thank the communities of Melbourne for showing their enthusiasm for building a diverse and harmonious Australia."