The Australian Islamic Centre (AIC) in Newport will receive an upgrade to its sports and activity facilities if the Labor government is re-elected next month.
Federal Youth Minister Dr Anne Aly joined Gellibrand MP Tim Watts, Williamstown MP Melissa Horne and members of the AIC executive at the Newport centre on Monday April 14 to announce $385,000 in funding for the upgrade should Labor win the May 3 election.
The funding will pay for the construction of a roof over the AIC’s existing outdoor sports and activity area, meaning it can be used regardless of the weather.
The space will cater for Muslim and multi-faith groups in Newport and surrounds, many of whom attend the AIC’s mosque and use its facilities including a school, library and sporting clubs.
In making the announcement, Mr Watts said he was proud to represent one of the most multicultural electorates in the country, but that multiculturalism worked best when it was invested in.
“This project will build on AIC’s excellent work to bring our community together, fostering activities for our multicultural faith groups, women and youth to come together, celebrate together and play together,” Mr Watts said.
“Our suburbs need infrastructure investments that provide space for community activities, improve community cohesion and reduce social isolation.”
The Australian Islamic Centre was contacted for comment as were the other candidates for the seat of Gellibrand, the Liberal Party’s Ben Reeson, The Greens Ponraj Krishna Pandi and Family First’s Jo Garcia,
Gellibrand is considered one of Labor’s safest seats, with Mr Watts re-elected with a margin of 11.5 per cent in 2022.
