Changes to the Minister of Religion Labour Agreement (MORLA) settings now allow religious institutions to sponsor overseas workers under the occupation Religious Assistant (ANZSCO 451816). This new initiative broadens visa sponsorship options that were formerly limited to the occupation of ‘Minister of Religion’.
Australia
Religions for Peace Statement on Assyrian Church Stabbing
The leadership team of Religions for Peace Australia (comprised of Buddhist, Christian, Quaker, Hindu, Muslim, Brahma Kumaris and Jewish faith leaders) have come together to consider the needs of our nation and the strengthening of social cohesion. Many issues have been exposed by this event. In faithful response, Religions for Peace Australia issues a call addressing faith community needs along with steps towards harmony and protection of the community.
Steps Leading Towards Harmony: World Interfaith Harmony Week Lecture
Religions for Peace Australia and Canberra Interfaith Forum hosted the annual World Interfaith Harmony Week Lecture at Parliament House, Canberra on 28 February 2024. The Guest Speaker was Dr. Pal Dhall, International speaker and presenter on Human Values with experience integrating ethics and human values of mankind’s religions to create harmony and peace in society and culture.
Urgent Call for Peace and a Letter of Thanks to Foreign Minister Penny Wong
Religions for Peace Australia responds to the Foreign Minister’s warning to Israel “Do not go down this path“, as the prime ministers of the three countries said in a joint statement on Thursday that Israel “must listen to its friends”. Israel is urged not to proceed with its planned ground assault on Rafah. Religions for Peace Australia thanks the Foreign Minister for calling for an urgent Humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza.
2024 World Interfaith Harmony Week Lecture
Religions for Peace Australia and Canberra Interfaith Forum will host the annual World Interfaith Harmony Week Lecture at Parliament House, Canberra. The Guest Speaker will be Dr. Pal Dhall, International speaker and presenter on Human Values with experience integrating ethics and human values of mankind’s religions to create harmony and peace in society and culture. This event will be available on Zoom, on Wednesday 28th February from 5pm.
Australia Day: Gratitude Unveiled, Responsibilities Embraced
Australia goes beyond just being a country, and Australia Day goes beyond a mere commemoration; for immigrants, it becomes a symbol of hope and safety, a place of refuge from difficult journeys across seas and deserts and the dangers of human trafficking. It’s not just a piece of land; it’s a sanctuary full of opportunities where immigrants, after facing challenges, find comfort and the promise of a better life. Here, one person granted citizenship writes on the importance of Australia Day and what Australia has to offer.
Joint Interfaith Statement ~ Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons
A Joint Interfaith Statement – signed by 115 faith bodies and organisations – has been provided addressing the issues of nuclear weapons, their economic and planetary life impact on all, and the works taken up by people of faith. We know that there is no true safety, security and peace for any of us until there is safety, security and peace for all of us.
Federal government moves to ban Nazi salute after spike in anti-Semitism, racism
The federal government has announced a plan to make it a criminal offence to perform the Nazi salute in Australia.
Meanwhile, hundreds of prominent Australians have signed a letter denouncing anti-Semitism and racism.
Jewish and Islamic groups say there has been a huge rise in anti-Semitism and Islamophobia.
Statement by Religions for Peace Australia: Ending the Conflict in Israel and Palestine
Religions for Peace Australia is Australia’s largest interfaith organization with a presence in every state and territory. In light of the recent tragic events in Palestine and Israel beginning on October 7th. 2023, Religions for Peace Australia is deeply concerned with the suffering and loss of life on all sides. We call upon multi-faith communities across the world to lead by example, fostering unity and understanding.
Meditation & Prayers for Peace & Hope in the Middle East, Australia & Beyond
Religions for Peace Australia and United Religious Initiative invites all to Meditation and Prayers for Peace and Hope in the Middle East, Australia and Beyond on Zoom, on Sunday, 22 October 2023 at 6:30pm AEDT.
Prime Minister’s message to faith leaders on Referendum
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed a gathering of faith leaders asking them to vote Yes for the upcoming Voice referendum. Here is his full statement.
Securing Faith-Based Places
The Securing Faith-Based Places grant program provides $40 million over three years to improve security at religious schools, pre-schools, places of worship, and faith-based community centres. The objective of the grant opportunity is to address the risk of crime and violence motivated by religious or racial intolerance through the installation or upgrade of security infrastructure and/or the engagement of security guards at those sites.
