Presidents Message

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

We began the month of May with a warm and engaging members’ gathering held on the 7th of May.

We were fortunate to receive training from South East Monash Legal Service on the topic of Healthy Relationships and our Rights and Responsibilities in relation to family violence and the law. The session was both informative and thought-provoking, sparking honest and respectful discussions — especially around cultural dynamics and challenges within families.

We also welcomed guest speakers from South East Palliative Care, who provided an insightful overview of what palliative care entails and the services their organisation offers. Their presentation was educational and well-received, with many participants actively engaging through thoughtful questions.

A delicious lunch was shared during the meeting, fostering connection and community spirit. It was wonderful to see new faces in the room, and we’re thrilled to be receiving more membership applications each day. Our network is growing, and our collective presence is stronger than ever.

I’m delighted to share some exciting news: the Interfaith Network’s long-standing application for Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status has been approved by the ATO, with the endorsement taking effect from 16 May 2025. This is a significant milestone that opens up new possibilities for funding and expanding the services we provide to our community.

Please join me in warmly welcoming Vivek Shah and Jasbir Suropada to the Executive Committee. Their wealth of experience and commitment will be invaluable to our ongoing work, and I look forward to collaborating with them in our shared mission.

On a national note, I feel deeply encouraged by the recent federal election results. As a multicultural Australian, I am proud to see the country choose leadership that values humility, inclusion, and compassion. While Peter Dutton’s rhetoric on immigration and national security was perceived as divisive by many, Anthony Albanese’s leadership has brought a tone of unity and respect. This election result was a strong message from Australians — a rejection of racism, division, and hatred in favour of shared values and community.

In these uncertain times, when so many around the world are displaced by conflict or disaster — in places like Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, and others we rarely hear about — I am reminded of how fortunate we are to live in safety. But with that privilege comes a responsibility to speak out, care for others, and stand in solidarity with those who are suffering.

Let us continue to foster understanding, empathy, and collective action. Together, we have the power to create change and help build a more just and compassionate world.

Be safe. Be empowered. Speak out for those who have no voice.

Warm regards,
Mehtap Williams, President, Interfaith Network