BECOMING A MEMBER

Buddhist temples, Buddhist societies and Buddhist groups are welcome to join the Buddhist Council of NSW.

To apply, please download a copy of the application form (download below).

To qualify, Member organisations will need to:

1. Support the Statement of Universal Buddhism (download a copy)

2. Be nominated by an existing member

3. Enclose a copy of your Constitution or Articles of Association.

4. Agree with the Aims and Objectives of the Buddhist Council of New South Wales.

The Buddhist Council's aims and objects (from its constitution) are to:

• to serve as the umbrella organisation for all Buddhist temples and organisations in
  New South Wales, who are accredited as members of the Council.
• to liaise with local, State and Commonwealth government departments on behalf of its members. 
• to act as a watchdog and to take appropriate action in cases of prejudice, disadvantage and insult to member organisations or to the Buddhist religion in general. 
• to assist in the resolution of disputes within member organisations if so invited. 
• to foster a spirit of fellowship, co-operation, friendship and goodwill amongst individuals belonging to the constituent members. 
• to facilitate the interchange of information between members regarding their respective activities; 
• to serve as a forum for the discussion of matters of common interest to all Buddhists; 
• to act in support of member organisations engaged in sponsoring applications for visas for Buddhist monks and teachers coming from overseas countries. 
• to work for peace and harmony through inter-religious co-operation; 
• to act in any way to promote the interests and ideals of Buddhism amongst the community at large; 
• to promote and engage in social welfare activities. 
• to organise religious instruction for children and youths so that they may be aware of ethical and moral values and so become better citizens of Australia
• to conduct training programmes on Buddhist youth leadership and community service; 
• to organise and/or sponsor public talks, forums and seminars on Buddhism and other related subjects; 
• to publish journals, newsletters and books on Buddhism and other related subjects; 
• to establish, support and facilitate a chaplaincy program for prisons, hospitals or other public institutions in service of the community; 
• to provide assistance and advice to members where requested.