Wednesday, 3 June 2026

 Gary MAAS (Narre Warren South) (10:12): It was an honour to join many leaders and members of our Christian communities from across the state at the Victorian Christian communities dinner recently. The event was a wonderful opportunity to recognise the immense contribution of our Christian communities. It was a true illustration of our state’s diversity too, with representatives from various faiths in attendance that evening, including Catholic, Protestant, Baptist, Uniting Church, Orthodox, Anglican, Assyrian, Lutheran, Presbyterian and many others. Those attending represented not only many Christian faiths but many nationalities and languages too. Everyone was united by the importance of faith, service and compassion for our communities.

Our Christian communities contribute much to our state, and I see this work every single day in my electorate of Narre Warren South. Not only do they give those who observe faith a place to gather, worship and connect, but their work across schools, hospitals, aged care facilities and charitable organisations is often part of people’s daily lives. Our Christian communities also do important work supporting those in need of crucial assistance, including vulnerable families, those struggling with housing, those experiencing financial instability, refugees and asylum seekers. It was great to be joined at the dinner by local Christian leader Reverend Robert Elkhuizen from Hampton Park Uniting Church. This church does so much good work in the community. I thank the Premier for hosting such a wonderful event.