A dream more than a decade in the making is set to become reality for the Gold Coast’s Hindu community, following a significant funding announcement that will help establish a dedicated cultural and community precinct in Arundel.
The Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association secured a $500,000 grant through the Queensland Government’s Multicultural Connect program, paving the way for the development of a long-envisioned community hub that will serve generations to come.
The new precinct will include a modern events space, kitchen, dining facilities and administrative offices, creating a permanent home where community members can gather, celebrate cultural traditions, host educational activities and strengthen social connections.
For many Hindu families across the Gold Coast, the announcement represents more than just a building project. It is the culmination of years of dedication, fundraising and advocacy by volunteers, committee members and community leaders who worked tirelessly to create a place where culture, faith and community can thrive.
Queensland Minister for Multiculturalism, Fiona Simpson, joined community members in Arundel to share the news and acknowledge the efforts that brought the project to this important milestone.
Local MP Sam O’Connor said the precinct reflects Queensland’s multicultural success story, where communities are supported to maintain their cultural identity while contributing to the broader social fabric.
“This part of the facility we’re funding will be available to everyone, but there’s nothing wrong with spaces that are also hubs for particular groups of Queenslanders,” he said.
“There’s not just one type of community organisation or faith-based space. There are many because people have different backgrounds and can belong to many different groups.”
Mr O’Connor noted that the precinct already includes a mosque and community centre, Presbyterian church, Chinese Christian church, Orthodox church and several other community organisations, creating a diverse and inclusive environment where different cultures and faiths coexist.
“People should be able to gather with others from their community and celebrate their culture. I’m proud to have supported them to achieve this dream of creating a cultural precinct,” he said.
The Gold Coast is home to a vibrant and growing Hindu population, contributing significantly to the region’s cultural diversity and economic prosperity. Community leaders say the new precinct will provide a central gathering place that fosters inclusion, preserves cultural heritage and encourages greater engagement with the wider community.
Members of the Association expressed gratitude to the Queensland Government for recognising the importance of multicultural communities and investing in infrastructure that strengthens social cohesion.
The project is also a testament to the power of community collaboration. Current and former committee members, volunteers and supporters have spent years working towards the vision of establishing a dedicated cultural home for the Hindu community on the Gold Coast.
Once completed, the precinct is expected to become a landmark community asset, hosting cultural celebrations, educational programs, youth activities and community events that welcome people from all backgrounds.
For the Gold Coast Hindu community, the announcement marks the beginning of a new chapter—one that honours the dedication of those who carried the vision for more than a decade and creates a lasting legacy for future generations.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
