THE HON STEPHEN JONES MP
ASSISTANT TREASURER
MINISTER FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES
MEMBER FOR WHITLAM

MEDIA RELEASE

Religious schools and preschools, places of worship and faith-based community centres in the Illawarra and Southern Highlands are being encouraged to apply for funding as part of the Albanese Government’s Securing Faith-Based Places grant program.

The Securing Faith-Based Places grant program, which is now open, provides a $40 million investment over four years to improve security at religious schools and preschools, places of worship and faith-based community centres.

This grants program will be an open, competitive, and merit-based program.

From today, local eligible organisations can apply for grants between $25,000 and $500,000 to address risks of crime and violence resulting from religious and racial intolerance.

The program will support security infrastructure upgrades, including fencing, lighting, security cameras, traffic barriers, alarm systems, and access controls, as well as engagement of security guards.

Applications close 11 September 2023.

Grant guidelines are available at: http://business.gov.au

Applications can be submitted via: https://portal.business.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Member for Whitlam, Stephen Jones:

“We are a diverse region that welcomes people of all faiths. I strongly encourage local organisations to apply for the Securing Faith-Based Places grant program.”

“The Albanese Government is committed to ensuring that people of all faiths can practise their beliefs free from violence and discrimination."