Mark Coure
Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism
The Minns Labor Government has abandoned its commitment to keeping faith communities safe, with Multiculturalism Minister Stephen Kamper admitting in Budget Estimates today that there is no funding to continue the Safe Places for Faith Communities Program in the 2026-27 NSW Budget.
The admission means the Government has effectively axed the dedicated program that provided grants to churches, mosques, synagogues, temples and other places of worship to install vital security measures including CCTV, fencing, lighting, reinforced doors and access control systems.
Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism Mark Coure said the Government’s decision was a disgraceful betrayal of faith communities across NSW.
“At a time when our social cohesion is under significant strain, Labor has shamefully axed the only dedicated program designed to keep places of worship safe.” Mr Coure said.
“This is a government that has spent years telling our churches, mosques, synagogues and temples that their safety is a priority, only to turn around and abandon them when they need support the most.”
“The hypocrisy of the Minns Government to talk about protecting religious freedom and community cohesion while simultaneously ripping away a program that protected those very places of worship is appalling.”
Mr Coure said the decision was particularly concerning given the heightened security environment facing religious communities across NSW.
“We have seen too many incidents of threats, intimidation, vandalism and attacks against religious communities, yet this Labor Government has decided now is the time to walk away from dedicated funding for their security.” Mr Coure said.
“You cannot tell people their safety matters and then leave them to foot the bill themselves.”
“Faith communities deserve better, not more empty promises from the Minns Labor Government.”
The Safe Places for Faith Communities Program provided grants of between $5,000 and $250,000 to specifically fund security infrastructure.
