NSW GOVERNMENT GRANT ROUND TO ENSURE MAITLAND FAITH COMMUNITIES ARE SAFE

Faith groups across Maitland are encouraged to apply for a share of $5 million to make their places of worship and commemoration safer and more secure.

They will be able to apply for grants of $5,000 to $250,000 under the Safe Places for Faith Communities program which in now open.

This new grant round gives those who missed out in the previous funding round and new applicants a chance to apply for funding to be used anywhere in NSW at eligible faith-based centres including places of worship,
seminaries, religious museums, religious community centres, religious retreats and places of religious significance.

The program takes a holistic approach to safety and security by supporting community preparedness, wellbeing and resilience, as well as more traditional protective security measures at places where faith communities gather.

The Anglican Parish of East Maitland, St. Peter’s Church received $12,000 in funding to the East Maitland Precinct Security Upgrade as part of the first round of the program.

To apply, visit multiculturalnsw.smartygrants.com.au/SafePlacesforFaithCommunitiesGrants2024-25.

Applications close 3pm, Thursday 19 December 2024.

NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said:

“The NSW Government is proud of our reputation as a safe place for people to practice their faiths and come
together without fear of harm.”

“I encourage every eligible group across NSW to apply to assist them to maintain and improve the security of their sacred places so they can continue to be places of guidance and peace for attendees.”

Jenny Aitchison MP, Member for Maitland said:

“In Maitland we are fortunate to have such diversity of faith to showcase our vibrant multicultural community.”

“When we invest in areas of worship and commemoration we are investing in future generations to ensure we can all continue to enjoy the freedom to practice our faith without fear of harm"