The Federal Government will provide up to $25 million towards major restoration works at the Greek Orthodox Archdiocesan site at Cleveland Street, Redfern.
This investment will help restore the historical Cathedral of the Annunciation of Our Lady; upgrade the St Andrew’s Theological College; and help build a new Great Hall, Library and Museum.
The reconstruction and upgrades to these facilities will ensure there is a space for the Greek Orthodox community to practice and celebrate their faith for generations to come.
Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the funding at an Official Welcome Doxology for His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew on Saturday, October 5.
The Welcome Doxology was held at the Cathedral of the Annunciation of Our Lady in Redfern, and also marked the official blessing and reopening of the church after it was closed to undergo extensive renovations and upgrades in the form of a golden altar and throne, as well as detailed and beautiful iconography.
In a speech at the Doxology, Mr Albanese highlighted the benefits of the restoration works.
“This is an investment that will benefit the whole community. Not just the Greek Australian community or the Greek Orthodox community, but the whole community of our multicultural nation,” Mr Albanese said.
“This is a vision that His Eminence [Archbishop Makarios of Australia] has had and has gone through government processes to provide support for because it is about honouring and preserving centuries of tradition, sharing knowledge with the whole nation and passing it down to future generations and nourishing aspiration for the next 100 years of community and faith.
“I am pleased the Australian Government can contribute funding to such an important community project.”
