Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin is encouraging faith groups across the Lismore electorate to apply for a share of $5 million in grants to make their places of worship and commemoration safer and more secure.

Faith communities can apply for grants of $5,000 to $250,000 under the Safe Places for Faith Communities program, which is 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 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, well-being and resilience, as well as more traditional protective security measures at places where faith communities gather.

Ms Saffin said: “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.”

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

An online information session will be held on Monday, 18 November 2024 at 4pm.

To register for the information session email: safeplacesgrants@multicultural.nsw.gov.au by Friday, 15 November. 

To apply for the grants, visit multiculturalnsw.smartygrants.com.au/SafePlacesforFaithComonmunitiesGrants2024-25. Applications close 3pm, Thursday 19 December 2024.