Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Bhuj

5 April, Announcing Government support for Nilkanth (Neel-Kanth) Community Hub

Jai Shree Swaminarayan!

Dear guests and respected friends,

It is a privilege to join you here again at Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Bhuj.

I was pleased to last join you here with the NSW Premier, Chris Minns, for Ankut.

That was a wondering celebration.

As many here know, since the dawn of this new century, members of the Swaminarayan migrated to Sydney to improve their lives, make Australia their home, and promote the teachings and message of Lord Shree Swaminarayan.

More than a decade ago, the community first acquired land in Kings Park.

And as a local member of Parliament, who was only a few years into her term, I had the honour of attending the opening of this Mandir in 2013, and it always holds a special place in my heart.

It is incredible to see how much this Mandir, and our community, have grown.

I admire the role this place of worship plays in supporting youth engagement, promoting culture, providing education, and delivering benefits to residents of all ages across Western Sydney and beyond.

And I vividly recall during Ankut, the youngsters here narrating the story of Diwali for the Premier and I, and it allowed me to see firsthand just what an impression your education is having.

And my friends, today I bring good news about how we will support you to continue this journey.

A re-elected Albanese Labor Government will provide $1.3 million to support Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Bhuj convert its existing warehouse and establish the Nilkanth Community Hub.

This will provide enhanced cultural, educational, social and recreational opportunities for our growing community.

The Nilkanth Community Hub will promote cultural enrichment through events, education through classes and workshops, and youth engagement through sports activities such as indoor volleyball and soccer.

In Hindu culture, I understand that Nilkanth is directly linked to Lord Shiva, who is often referred to as ‘Nilkantha’ due to his blue throat.

This is attributed to his act of consuming the poison that emerged during the churning of the ocean, thus saving the world from destruction.

The story of Lord Shiva is a prominent narrative in scripture, symbolizing sacrifice and divine power.

It is important I acknowledge the Minister for Home Affairs, the Honourable Tony Burke MP, and the Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs, the Honourable Julian Hill MP, for supporting your proposal on behalf of the Albanese Government.

I look forward to seeing Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Bhuj continue to enrich the community, and with some luck, being with you for the opening of your next facility here in Kings Park!

Thank you for having me here tonight to share this news with you.

Jai Shree Swaminarayan!

MICHELLE ROWLAND MP

MEMBER FOR GREENWAY

SUPPORT TO ESTABLISH NILKANTH COMMUNITY HUB

Labor Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland MP today announced that a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will deliver $1.3 million to support the establishment of the Nilkanth Community hub in Kings Park.

This $1.3 million election commitment will support Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Bhuj to convert its existing warehouse into a multipurpose space for the Hindu community, benefiting members of all ages.

This expanded community facility will promote cultural enrichment and provide a vital space for events and programs, education classes and workshops, and youth engagement through sports activities.

Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.

Quotes attributable to the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, Member for Greenway:

“This commitment from the Albanese Labor Government will support enhanced cultural, social and recreation opportunities for our community in Greenway and Western Sydney.

“I had the honour of attending the opening of this Mandir in Kings Park over a decade ago and have cherished watching it grow.

“This investment of a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will help the community progress the next chapter here in Kings Park.”

SATURDAY, 5 APRIL 2025