Dr Andrew Charlton, MP, has been an unwavering supporter of the Hindu Council of Australia and the broader Hindu community since his election. He has actively engaged with us, listened to our needs, and worked diligently to help us achieve our key priorities.
Advocacy for the Hindu Community
· Opposing Hinduphobia: He has taken a strong stand against Hinduphobia, acknowledging the discrimination, bullying, vandalism, misinformation, and biased media representation that Hindus have endured. His advocacy in this space is deeply meaningful to our community.
· Hindu Heritage Month: He successfully called for Hindu Heritage Month in October in the Federal Parliament, followed by Tamil Heritage Month in January, further cementing the recognition of Hindu contributions to Australia.
· Education and a Hindu School: Andrew has been championing the need for a Hindu school, recognising that it is long overdue and holds immense emotional and cultural significance for Hindus in Australia. His commitment was exemplified when he served as the MC at an event alongside Australia’s Education Minister, Hon. Jason Clare, and India’s Minister of Education, Hon. Dharmendra Pradhan.
· Public Holiday for Deepavali: Andrew has been actively working towards securing a public holiday for Deepavali, recognising its significance for Hindus in Australia.
· Engagement with the Hindu Community: He has always been accessible to the community, attending our events, listening to our concerns, and advocating internally within his party.
Jason Clare: A True Friend of the Hindu Community
Australia’s Education Minister, Hon. Jason Clare, has emerged as a steadfast friend of the Hindu community. His unwavering support for the establishment of the first-ever Hindu school in Australia has been instrumental in making this long-cherished dream a reality. Through his leadership, the initiative has not only been recognised at the highest levels but also received budgetary support, laying the foundation for a dedicated Hindu educational institution that will serve generations to come. His efforts demonstrate a deep respect for the Hindu way of life and a genuine commitment to multiculturalism. His partnership with the community is one that we deeply value and appreciate.
Support for Community Initiatives
· Karma Kitchen & Aged Care Services: Andrew has been a longstanding supporter of Karma Kitchen, actively participating and advocating for its cause. With his backing, discussions with Multicultural Minister Hon. Tony Burke and Hon. Julian Hill have progressed towards securing critical funding under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and infrastructure support. This will enable the provision of culturally sensitive meals for aged-care services, expand vegetarian meal options, and support meals for those in need.
· Recognition of Hindu Contributions: Andrew’s advocacy extends beyond individual initiatives—he has worked tirelessly to ensure that the Hindu way of life is respected, recognised, and protected in Australia.
A Trusted Voice for Hindus in the Government
For years, the Hindu community has felt vulnerable due to misinformation, discrimination, biased media representation, and targeted hate crimes. Hinduphobia is real and growing, and it must be addressed with strong policy action and funding for awareness campaigns. Andrew has been a key voice within the Labor Party, bringing our concerns to the highest levels, including the Prime Minister, and ensuring our issues are not ignored.
His commitment is reflected not just in words but in action. His book showcases his deep understanding of economic and social issues, and his consistent presence at our community events underscores his genuine dedication.
A Call for Stronger Commitment and Funding
While we appreciate the efforts and support of Andrew Charlton, Hon. Jason Clare, Hon. Tony Burke, Hon. Julian Hill, and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, words alone are not enough. Our community needs firm commitments and secured funding to bring these critical initiatives to life:
We require clear commitments to fund the following initiatives before the next election:
· Hindu School – Seed funding and infrastructure support to establish Australia’s first Hindu school, ensuring a dedicated space for Hindu education and values. This is long overdue, and we expect funding guarantees, not just verbal support.
· Karma Kitchen & Aged Care Services – Immediate funding for infrastructure, CHSP accreditation, and ongoing operational costs to provide culturally sensitive meals for aged care and those in need. The Hindu community must have a seat at the table when it comes to aged care policy and food security.
· Action Against Hinduphobia – A dedicated funding package for education programs, awareness campaigns, and stronger policy measures to tackle Hinduphobia, discrimination, and vandalism targeting Hindu institutions. We cannot allow our community to be marginalised any longer.
Please contact HCA at info@hinducouncil.com.au if you have any questions regarding this.
