Our Vision
Our vision is of a world where the dharma – the teachings and practices of the Buddha – are part of everyday life and contribute to the wellbeing of all. We seek to achieve this through supporting a flourishing Buddhist community that:
- – has strong and sustainable Buddhist organisations
- – has productive relationships between Buddhist organisations, with other faiths, with government and other social organisations
- – contributes to the wellbeing of individuals, families and communities and society through putting the dharma into practice.
We work with and for the Buddhist community and others who share our vision to achieve this.
Our Four Pillars
MEMBER HELP
- Advice and information
- Low cost insurance
- Representation to government
BUDDHIST EDUCATION
- Special Religious Education (weekly Buddhist ethics classes in government schools)
- Training Unit
BUDDHIST CARE
- Hospital Chaplaincy
- Prison Chaplaincy
- Programs in nursing homes
BUDDHIST CONNECTION
- Developing, analysing and publishing new content
- Organising community projects and events
- Engaging in public relations, linking with the government, media and other interfaith organisations
Buddhist programs
We co-ordinate programs that promote Buddhist values within the community. This includes our fully government-accredited Buddhist Special Religious Education (SRE) and Chaplaincy programs. Our SRE program trains and supports volunteer teachers to provide weekly Buddhist ethics classes to primary school children. These classes share beneficial Buddhist values and ethics to the younger generation.
Our Chaplaincy program trains and places chaplains into prisons and hospitals. Our chaplains interact with people who are at a critical stage in their life. They relieve suffering by providing emotional and spiritual support in a compassionate and understanding manner.
Government liaison
We assist State Government agencies such as the Community Relations Commission, NSW Health, Corrective Services and the Department of Education and Training. We also work with Commonwealth Government agencies such as the Department of Immigration and Citizenship.
Our Member Services program provides free advice and support to our member organisations on a range of topics such as good governance, incorporation, tax and finance, technology, and fundraising, amongst other issues. We bridge gaps in information by providing our member organisations with information and timely advice.
Interfaith relationships
Media, promotion & representation
We engage with the Buddhist community using a combination of media and promotion. This involves regularly updating our blog and sharing insightful stories through our Facebook page. We respond to queries from media organisations via email (office@buddhistcouncil.org) or phone (02) 9966 8893..
