In a significant announcement for Sydney’s multicultural landscape, Member for Parramatta Andrew Charlton has pledged $2 million towards the establishment of the Shree Vitraag Jain Community Centre in Girraween. The funding, part of a re-elected Albanese Labor Government’s election commitment, will support the development of a state-of-the-art multipurpose community and cultural centre to meet the growing needs of Sydney’s vibrant Jain community.
The proposed centre will include a fully equipped library, a stage with modern audiovisual capabilities, a commercial kitchen, and ample space to host religious festivals, cultural events, lectures, and community gatherings. Designed to serve as a spiritual and cultural home for the Jain community, the facility will also be open to the wider public, fostering intercultural exchange and community engagement.
Speaking at the announcement, Andrew Charlton MP expressed pride in supporting such an initiative.
“I am proud that the re-elected Albanese government will contribute to the establishment of such a significant cultural and spiritual hub for the Jain community here in Parramatta,” Mr Charlton said.
“The Shree Vitraag Jain Community Centre will serve as a cultural and spiritual hub for festivals, celebrations, and activities, benefiting both the Jain community and the wider community and further enriching the vibrant multicultural fabric of Parramatta.”
This commitment aligns with the Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles, ensuring a transparent and accountable delivery process. The announcement has been met with enthusiasm by the local Jain community, which continues to grow in Western Sydney.
The Shree Vitraag Jain Community Centre is set to become a cornerstone of cultural harmony, offering a platform for heritage preservation and interfaith dialogue in one of Australia’s most diverse regions.
