Welcome to Faith NSW

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Friday, October 13, 2023

Better Balanced Futures and Faith NSW CEO Murray Norman issued this statement today, in collaboration with the Faith NSW Executive:

“Australia prides itself on being the most successful multicultural and multifaith country in the world.

“Over the years, faith communities in Australia have consistently demonstrated respectful engagement, meaningful dialogue, and harmonious coexistence.

“We recognise many faith communities maintain deep connections with countries overseas, through family, heritage, or shared faith. At this time, it is vital that international affairs and conflicts do not spill over to Australia, bringing unwanted dispute and tension in our society. These conflicts must not disrupt the peace, unity and harmony of our nation.

“We, as faith communities and leaders, unequivocally reject any form of hate speech and violence, including protests that vilify or incite hatred directed to any community, faith, or race, or which intimidate or harass others. We firmly believe that our diversity is one of our greatest strengths, benefiting all faith groups and communities, respecting differing perspectives and allowing us to differ, disagree, and thrive without hate or violence.

“We acknowledge that our diverse beliefs and creeds, which may sometimes sharply contrast with one another, only strengthen our commitment, relationship with one another, and advocacy for social harmony and mutual respect among all Australians.

“We call on all Australians, regardless of the faith community to which they belong or place of worship they attend, to live in harmony with their fellow Australians of different faiths or no faith and engage in respectful dialogue on matters and issues of differences and conflicts.

“There is no room for disharmony and hate in Australia.”

ENDS

About Faith NSW:

Faith NSW, also known as Better Balanced Futures, represents the united faith communities across Australia and NSW.

Faith NSW is committed to fostering robust, mutually respectful relationships between the faith communities and engaging with all levels of government, and each other, to address common causes and interests.

Through these collaborative efforts, we strive to build a more socially cohesive society that celebrates and upholds a rich freedom of religious belief and practice.