$55m funding boost for religious security
RELIGIOUS schools and places of worship will have access to $55 million in grants to increase security at their premises, following last week’s terrorist attack in New Zealand.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison made the announcement at an Australia-Israel Chamber of Commerce address in Melbourne today.
Grants ranging from $50,000 to $1.5 million will provide for safety enhancements such as CCTV cameras, lighting, fencing, bollards, alarms, security systems and public address systems.
“Our government is committed to keeping every Australian safe. No one should have to fear for their safety,” Morrison said.
“That’s why today we’ve announced we’re extending the Safer Communities Fund following the terrible terrorist attack in New Zealand.”
Morrison said he wished the funding wasn’t needed on places of worship in Australia.
“It grieves me this is necessary but sadly it is and as a Government we will be providing additional resources. Australians should have the right to practice their faith in safety,” he said.
Full coverage in this week’s AJN.
AJN STAFF
comments