Dear Dr Greiss

Mayor, Campbelltown City Council

We, the members of a diverse and thriving community, seek your urgent attention and leadership to revoke the recent "Stop Use Order” issued to the Australian Muslim Welfare Centre (AMWC) to stop using the community facility located at 13-17 Eagleview Road, Minto, NSW 2566 as a place of public worship. We believe there may be a misunderstanding regarding the primary functions of the AMWC Community Facility.

Whilst we appreciate the ongoing efforts of the Campbelltown City Council to ensure the well-being and compliance of our community spaces, we are profoundly disappointed at the unfair treatment  and targeting of our Community Facility. The AMWC community facility has long been a vital hub for fostering community cohesion, cultural exchange, and interfaith dialogue. Our facility addresses the increasing requirements of our community by offering a range of services, including social and cultural events, counselling, and community welfare activities. Unfortunately, the ‘Stop Use Order’ hinders our members and the broader community from accessing these vital services.

The AMWC conducts empathy services almost every week to support members who have lost family members. All our activities, including these empathy services, emphasize AMWC's commitment to collective well-being and local development, benefiting not only individuals but the entire community. Utilising a community centre for offering prayers and worship, doesn't inherently transform the facility into a "Place of public worship." When the imperative need for prayer arises for a Muslim – a fundamental obligation in Islam – our centre serves a secondary role by facilitating prayer and worship.

We request you to take prompt action and revoke the "Stop Use Order" for the AMWC Community Facility and the unfair targeting of our community. Revoking the order would enable the AMWC to continue its role in fostering harmony, understanding, and inclusivity within our community. Furthermore, we propose the exploration of an "Additional Permitted Use" designation for 13-17 Eagleview Road, Minto property (like 201 Eagleview Road, Minto) as a progressive solution. By granting this designation, the AMWC can continue its invaluable work without hindrance. This approach not only upholds the principles of religious freedom and diversity but also cultivates a spirit of collaboration between our community and the Council.

We invite, and urge, Mayor Dr George Greiss and the Campbelltown City Council to stand with us, acknowledging the dynamic role of the AMWC. Together, let's pave the way for a future where harmony, respect, and unity flourish. Your support in this regard would not only reflect the Council's commitment to our community's well-being but also uphold the principles of inclusivity and mutual respect that define our vibrant city as "A City of opportunity for all."

We await your response and hope for a positive resolution that serves the best interests of our community.

Sincerely,

Habib Bhuiyan

Vice President 2

Australian Muslim Welfare Centre