As we move through the month of June, I want to take a moment to reflect on two significant national events that invite us—individually and collectively—to listen, learn, and act with compassion: National Reconciliation Week and Refugee Week.
City of Greater Dandenong Funding
I am delighted to share that the City of Greater Dandenong will continue to fund IFN for a further 4 years. The new funding agreement commences on July 1st, 2025, and will end on June 30th, 2029.
The funding will assist IFN to continue to support our members in their service and work within the local community.
We thank the City of Greater Dandenong for their continued support and partnership with IFN.
National Reconciliation Week (May 27 – June 3)
This year’s theme, “Now More Than Ever,” was a powerful reminder that truth-telling, justice, and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples remain essential to the soul of our nation. For our Interfaith community, it is a moment to affirm our commitment to healing relationships and to walking alongside First Nations communities with humility and solidarity.
Let us continue to honour the deep spiritual connection that Australia’s First Peoples have to this land, and to reflect on how our diverse faith traditions can support a future built on equity and mutual respect.
Refugee Week (June 16–22)
This year’s theme, “Finding Freedom,” echoes across all our traditions, reminding us of the journeys of so many who seek safety, dignity, and a sense of belonging. Australia’s refugee communities bring strength, resilience, and a richness of culture and faith that deepen our shared humanity.
As people of diverse faiths, we are uniquely placed to extend welcome, challenge fear, and foster inclusive communities where everyone has the chance to thrive.
Let us hold these weeks not as isolated dates, but as ongoing invitations to live out our shared values of compassion, justice, and peace.
In mid-June there has been more unrest in the Middle East. These events have caused so much upset and worry to our neighbours, and community members who have loved ones in Iran and the surrounding countries. We stand with you in this time of sorrow, fear, and uncertainty.
As people of different faiths and beliefs, we are united by a common thread: the deep yearning for peace, the sacredness of every human life, and the hope for a just and compassionate world.
We acknowledge the pain and anguish experienced by those watching from afar as their homelands suffer from conflict, instability, and loss. Your grief is real. Your longing for safety, dignity, and peace for your families is shared by all of us.
Let this message be a reminder:
You are not alone. We see you. We care. We pray with you and for you.
We call upon all people—regardless of faith or background—to speak and act with empathy, to resist division and hatred, and to hold tightly to our shared humanity.
May the voices of peace rise above the noise of war.
May compassion guide leaders and communities alike.
May all who suffer find comfort, strength, and justice.
In unity and hope…
Thank you for all that you do in your communities and for being part of this interfaith journey.
Warm regards,
Mehtap Williams, President, Interfaith Network
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