Mike Baird/ Victor Dominello med rel: Premier Meets with Community Leaders Following Sydney Siege

NSW Premier Mike Baird and Minister for Citizenship and Communities Victor Dominello have today met with religious leaders to discuss measures being taken to maintain community harmony following the siege at the Lindt cafe in Sydney’s CBD.

The meeting was attended by faith leaders representing the diverse religious communities of NSW as well as Deputy Police Commissioner Catherine Burn.

Mr Baird said NSW was proudly one of the most multicultural societies in the world and the tragic events of this week had brought the community closer together.

“The sense of community in NSW is strong and the floral tribute that continues to grow at Martin Place is a symbol to the world that we are united in our grief,” Mr Baird said.

“We are all grieving the loss of two innocent Australians and some communities are feeling more vulnerable than others at this time.

“We’ve come together to send a clear message that religious intolerance or hatred won’t be tolerated.

“The outpouring of support for members of our Islamic community has been humbling and is symbolic of the values we stand for as Australians: freedom, democracy and harmony.”

Mr Dominello said the meeting resulted in a shared commitment from religious leaders to continue advocating for peace and harmony across all communities of NSW.

“The events of this week have shaken us all and now more than ever we must focus on the things that unite us all as Australians,” Mr Dominello said.

“Leaders from across our diverse religious communities have come together today to pray for the victims and survivors.

“They’re urging Australians of all faiths and cultures to deepen their understanding, respect and acceptance of one another.

“Through a Statement of Unity, the leaders are pledging to reach out beyond their own communities and congregations to serve as a united public voice for harmony, and unanimously condemn any actions that threaten our way of life.”