Faith communities across New South Wales, including organisations in Parramatta, are set to receive support under a new $5 million funding round aimed at improving safety and security at places of worship.
Three organisations in Parramatta will share in the latest round of the Safe Places for Faith Communities Grants, part of the Minns Government’s broader $15 million commitment over four years to strengthen security at religious sites and community gathering spaces. Since 2023, 355 organisations across NSW have received support through the program.
The grants program supports practical measures including upgrades to security systems and infrastructure, incident management programs, first-aid training and wellbeing support services. The scheme is designed to help organisations prepare for, respond to and recover from safety incidents.
NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said faith communities should be able to practise their religion without fear.
“All faith communities in NSW have the right to gather and practise their religion in safety and without fear.
The Minns Labor Government is committed to supporting our diverse communities, and our $15 million investment in strengthening security at places of worship reflects that commitment.
This funding will help grant recipients deliver practical upgrades that make their communities safer and more secure.”
State Member for Parramatta Donna Davis said the funding would assist local religious organisations in improving security measures.
“Everyone has the right to feel safe in their place of worship and this funding aims to do exactly that.
Parramatta is home to a multitude of faith communities and it’s great news that three local organisations will benefit from this support to bolster safety and security.”
The Safe Places for Faith Communities Grants program is administered through Multicultural NSW and forms part of the state government’s broader response to concerns around safety, religious inclusion and community cohesion.
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