AMEC criticises Australian government over 'Unholy/Divine' events

Bishops and representatives of the Australasian-Middle East Christian Apostolic Churches (AMEC) issued a joint statement on September 29 criticizing the Australian government for not condemning a series of events titled Unholy/Divine at the Museum of Contemporary Art. The religious leaders expressed disappointment regarding the government's silence and called for leaders to end what they described as an attitude of hate toward Christianity.

The statement noted that while individuals have the freedom to express themselves or ridicule religious beliefs within the law, the group is concerned that such expressions receive government financial support. Although no specific funding was reportedly allocated for these particular events, the AMEC pointed out that the venue receives millions of dollars in government funding annually. The group also highlighted that Divine Playhouse, which previously operated out of a former church, recently received a $100,000 grant from Create NSW.

The Christian leaders stated that government principles regarding social cohesion and intolerance must extend to Christians. They requested that leaders defend freedom of speech while also condemning speech that deliberately denigrates people of faith and ensuring public funds do not support such content. Three Unholy/Divine events remain scheduled at the museum through October.