Improving safety in Victoria

The state government has opened the Jewish Community Security Infrastructure Program, with the aim to ensure Jewish communities, including those in Wyndham, can safely practise their faith.

Multicultural Affairs Minister Ingrid Stitt announced the opening of the program on May 8, with up to $1 million available to bolster the safety and security of Jewish community buildings.

Ms Stitt said every Victorian, regardless of their cultural or faith background, deserves to feel safe.

“Social cohesion is incredibly important here in Victoria,” she said.

“We are making sure that these facilities continue to be places where communities can come together to meet, work and practise their faith.”

Grants of up to $200,000 will be available to Jewish community organisations to support the purchase, installation or improvement of security equipment at community facilities.

The state government said these communal spaces are essential to Jewish communities, serving as places to safely come together and practice faith and traditions.

Applications will be prioritised from smaller organisations, such as community halls and hubs, and facilities that have limited or outdated security infrastructure in place.

Applications opened on May 9, and will close at 3pm on Thursday, July 18. Details: vic.gov.au/jewish-community-security-infrastructure-program