Wednesday, 22 June 2022

Members statements

Preston Mosque

Ms WATT (Northern Metropolitan) (09:40): Since it opened in 1976 the Preston Mosque has been at the very heart of Melbourne’s ever-growing Muslim community, acting not only as a place of worship but also as somewhere to gather, learn and grow within the Islamic faith. Last week I had the distinct pleasure of visiting Preston Mosque and touring its newly renovated facilities with Moustafa Fahour, founder of the Islamic Museum of Australia, and La Trobe University vice-chancellor, John Dewar. Supported in part by the Andrews Labor government, the upgrades include the installation of 215 solar panels, new security features and an 1175-square-metre expansion, enabling the mosque to service an extra 1000 worshippers and increase the capacity of their community welfare services—ranging from mental health education programs to Arabic classes—safely, comfortably and sustainably. In addition to a playground, cafe and library, this will only further cement Preston Mosque’s role as a hub of culture, connection and community in Melbourne’s north. I am truly proud to represent a region that is so vibrant and culturally diverse, and I am even prouder to do it as a member of a Labor government that is committed to celebrating multiculturalism, building interfaith connections and fostering a more inclusive community.