This funding round reflects the NSW Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting the safety and security of places of worship and other locations where religious groups gather regularly. Since 2023, a total of 355 organisations have been supported.

The Safe Places for Faith Communities Grants take a resilience-based approach to safety and security by equipping organisations to prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from incidents.

Four organisations within the Wollongong electorate have secured funding to support a range of initiatives, including security system and infrastructure upgrades, incident management, first-aid training, and safety and wellbeing services, including:

• St Elias Antiochian Orthodox Church.
• FaithPoint United Pentecostal Church.
• The Islamic Society of Illawarra; and
• Wollongong Baptist Church.

In 2025, the Nan Tien Temple and Essence of Life Youth Group Incorporated, both based in Berkeley, were successful in securing funding through this program to enhance security at their premises.

For more information on the program, please visit: Safe Places for Faith Communities Program – Multicultural NSW.

NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said:

“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.”

Member for Wollongong, Paul Scully said:

“Wollongong’s strength lies in its rich cultural and faith diversity, and it is encouraging to see local organisations supported to enhance the safety and wellbeing of their communities through practical initiatives and investment.

“I’m pleased that four local organisations will benefit from this support to keep their places of worship safe and secure into the future.”