Federal Member for Greenway Krishna Temple Marsden Park Short Remarks

Jai Shri Krishna

It’s an honour to be here with you. This spiritual institution is unlike any other, carrying the weight and wisdom of an 800-year-old legacy from India.

This is not just any temple or gathering.

This evening, we celebrate a deep spiritual tradition that takes us back to the divine land of Udupi, often revered as the Mathura of South India.

It was there, more than 800 years ago, that the great Sri Madhvacharya established the Udupi Krishna Temple — ushering in a tradition of worship and service, of scholarship and community strength.

What touched me most when learning about this legacy was the scale of its humanity and hospitality.

More than 1.5 million free meals are served from the Udupi Krishna Temple every year.

This isn’t just hospitality — it is humanity in action. A living embodiment of the dharmic values of seva and karuna.

It is a beautiful example of how spirituality and faith nourish both the soul and the community. And it doesn’t stop there.

The temple has long been committed to supporting students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds — offering scholarships, free education, meals, and even transportation to children from rural areas.

This is how spirituality becomes social impact.

Here in Sydney, under the guidance and blessings of His Holiness, Shri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji, SVKVS continues this legacy with dedication and devotion.

Swamiji’s leadership has not only inspired the community here, but has had a global impact.

As the former International President of Religions for Peace, Swamiji has addressed the United Nations, advocating for unity in diversity, faith in action, and service beyond self.

In Sydney, your work continues in the same spirit.

From yoga programs, Gita teachings, and food donation drives, to youth engagement and support for the elderly.

You are not just building a temple, but nurturing a community — upholding the values that bring light into the world: compassion, unity, humility, and service.

And now, as you prepare to embark on your next chapter with the Krishna Place of Worship and Cultural Centre in Marsden Park, it fills me with joy and pride.

This sacred precinct will be the largest Krishna temple complex in the Southern Hemisphere — a cultural and spiritual landmark for all Australians.

It will be more than just a place of worship.

It will be a beacon for Hindu dharmic traditions, a centre for harmony and heritage, and a source of pride for future generations to cherish and carry forward.

This centre will stand as a symbol of the strength and vibrancy of our multicultural Australia — a place where all are welcome.

That is why I am pleased to announce a re-elected Albanese Government will support your next chapter by delivering $2.5 million for the Sri Krishna Community Hall construction project in Marsden Park.

Labor’s $2.5 million election commitment will help support the establishment of a multi-purpose hall, classroom, kitchen, and kids’ play area.

This upgrade will also help support the construction of basement parking to accommodate visitors safely and more conveniently.

Collectively, this will support enhanced community participation, educational programs, skill-building workshops, and cultural activities.

As His Holiness Swamiji says:

“Building a peaceful society requires respecting each and every religion, and honouring each and every faith.”

Your service and your spirit of unity reflect the best of who we are as a country — diverse, inclusive, and enriched by each other.

As you take this next step in your journey, let me say: I am proud to walk beside you.

I look forward to being part of the realisation of this dream, here in Marsden Park, and I am excited for the new chapter that lies ahead.

Thank you for the inspirational contributions you make — not just to the community, but to the nation.

Jai Shri Krishna