Government gives $500,000 to Australian Hindu temple
The Victorian government has provided $300,000 to the Hindu society through various grants in the past seven years. Recently, it has committed to providing an additional $500,000 to Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple, one of the largest Hindu temples in Australia; these funds will be used to build multipurpose halls at the temple in Carrum Downs. The funds are to be released once authorities approve the proposed work. Funding to the Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple, consecrated in 1994, is part of the Andrew government’s commitment to providing $21 million for upgrading multicultural communities’ facilities.
According to the secretary of the Hindu Society of Victoria Ratnam Kandasamy, approximately 150,000 to 200,000 devotees visit the temple every year. Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence also visited the temple on 31 March and gave the following statements.
“It is very critical that all Victorian residents feel a sense of belonging and have places to connect with their traditions and culture, and the Sri Shiva Vishnu Temple is important for that purpose.”
“The temple is great, both in its appearance and its purpose in supporting Hindu Victoria residents come together.”
“We are glad to help the new hall construction to help Victorian Hindu community,” Mr Spence added.
Ms Kilkenny, a cabinet secretary, said the Hindu society and Sri Shiva Vishnu Temple are an essential part of the regional community. “We’re glad to construct the new hall and the community’s much-desired festivals and events,” Ms Kilkenny added.
