The Minns Labor Government has today announced that faith-based organisations can share in $5 million of funding to enhance the safety and security of religious communities across the state. 

And religious organisations and faith-based groups in Penrith are being encouraged to apply for this important grant funding.

Illustrating the government’s continued commitment to support NSW’s diverse communities, the funding helps ensure that every faith community can practice their religion safely.

This is the third and final round of the $15m Safe Places for Faith Communities Grants program. The first two rounds delivered $10m in funding to 258 religious organisations, with applications now open for this latest round of grants. 

Successful applicants could put the funding toward increased security measures – like CCTV and secure fencing, for example – the development of risk plans, or support services to build resilience, among others.

The funding is open to non-profit sharing organisations and could be put toward measures around places of worship, but also religious educational institutions, places of religious significance and faith-based community centres, among others.

Grant funding will support faith communities to:

·         upgrade security and surveillance systems

·         train staff and religious leaders to improve preparedness and risk mitigation

·         build the resilience of faith groups.

The Safe Places for Faith Communities Grants program is administered by Multicultural NSW and this latest round of funding is open for applications until 4pm, Friday, 30 January 2026.

For more information visit https://multicultural.nsw.gov.au/safe-places-for-faith-communities-program/

Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown OAM said:

“Faith leaders and religious organisations are so important in helping our community thrive here in Penrith.

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to safeguarding our religious communities and protecting every person’s right to practise their faith.

“This is the last round of funding in this important program, so I encourage any local faith communities to get their application in.”