A re-elected Albanese Labor Government will invest $60 million to help deliver the renewal of St Patrick's Cathedral Precinct – a multi-purpose community precinct in East Melbourne.
The 'Light Into the City' renewal project will turn the Cathedral's surrounds into a true community precinct – a site for art, culture and education, and a resource for outreach to vulnerable members of the community.
Through this election commitment, the Albanese Labor Government's contribution will help deliver the community spaces and amenities in the project – providing new restrooms, a new multi-purpose building and an onsite café that has the potential to be established in partnership with a Registered Training Organisation.
The story of Victoria's Catholic community is also a story of our migrant communities. Catholic groups from all across Melbourne and beyond have a deep connection to St Patrick's, including Indian, Vietnamese and Filipino Australians.
These communities would play a role in the Precinct redevelopment to create a sense of its ownership by every community who makes up Victoria's Catholic faith – through statues in the grounds, co-dedicated chapels and grottoes, and exhibitions and events for cultural communities.
Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.
Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
"St Patrick's is more than just a cathedral for Victoria's large and diverse Catholic community – it's a precinct of heritage, education and culture.
"I'm proud that, if re-elected, my Government will contribute towards making this precinct one for everyone to visit, enjoy, gather and learn from – no matter where they're from or what they believe."
Quote attributable to Minister for Multicultural Affairs Tony Burke
"Melbourne's Catholic community comes from every corner of the globe, and we're proud that this precinct redevelopment will honour the contribution that people from many countries have made to their faith and to the city more broadly."
