Eastern Victoria Region
Renee HEATH (Eastern Victoria) (13:04): (339) My question is for the Minister for Multicultural Affairs. On 8 June my office wrote to the minister on behalf of Sikh Volunteers Australia, who were seeking assistance to purchase land in Monbulk, but I have still not received a response. Sikh Volunteers Australia are a not-for-profit organisation that provide resources to the most vulnerable in our communities. Their impact was highlighted during the 2019 bushfires, when they provided meals and hampers to affected communities. They want to expand their operation via the purchase of land at 585 Belgrave-Hallam Road. This land is currently owned by an Islamic group who are unable to build a school on it due to council restrictions, but now they want to sell the land to the Sikh community, who need an assurance that their plans will not be blocked. Minister, in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis the Sikhs provide an incredible service. When will their request be approved so that disadvantaged individuals can get the support that they need?