AACS Attends ACU Federal Parliamentary Interfaith Breakfast

AACS CEO Vanessa Cheng and Chairo Christian School Executive Principal Peter Wells joined faith leaders at Parliament House to discuss the role of religious communities in Australia's diverse society.

Leaders from across faith traditions gathered at Parliament House's Great Hall for the Australian Catholic University (ACU) Federal Parliamentary Interfaith Breakfast, where participants explored how confident beliefs, respectful dialogue and spiritual hospitality can strengthen Australia's social fabric.
Among the key messages from the event was that "friendship is the secret sauce" of genuine interfaith engagement—a reminder of the personal connections that underpin meaningful dialogue between different faith communities.

AACS CEO Vanessa Cheng and Peter Wells, Executive Principal of Chairo Christian School, attended the event at the invitation of Mary Aldred MP, Member for Monash.

The breakfast provided an opportunity for faith leaders to engage with parliamentarians during the final sitting week of 2024. Ms Cheng and Mr Wells connected with several members of parliament, including Julian Leeser MP, Speaker of the House Milton Dick MP, and Emma McBride MP, to discuss how faith communities can contribute to the common good in Australia's multicultural society.

Ms Cheng also met with representatives from the Uniting Church in Australia (below), including Charissa Suli, President of the Uniting Church of Australia, and Rev. Mata Havea Hiliau, Moderator of the Uniting Church of Australia.



AACS extends its thanks to Mary Aldred MP for the invitation and to the Australian Catholic University for hosting this important event.