A re-elected Federal Labor Government will deliver $5.5 million to support the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) establish a new ‘House of India’ community and cultural centre in South East Queensland’s fast-growing Western Corridor.

This election commitment will go towards establishing a dedicated hub for community activities and cultural events, as well as a meeting place for Indian community associations, and other multicultural and faith groups. 

The centre would also serve as a shared facility, which the whole Ipswich community could utilise, and provide a range of benefits and services, including crisis accommodation, community education, language schools, sporting facilities, and kitchen facilities for food relief charities, such as Meals on Wheels. 

FICQ has been championing the House of India project for decades and the initiative aims to support the growing Indian population in the Western Corridor, with around 10,000 people of Indian heritage now living in Ipswich and Greater Springfield.

Labor’s $5.5 million election commitment recognises the significant economic, social and cultural contribution the Indian community makes to Queensland, and the Ipswich and Springfield region.

Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Oxley, Milton Dick:

“Today, we are proud to announce a $5.5 million commitment to help build the first Indian community and cultural centre in Queensland.

“This investment in a new House of India will make the dreams of the Queensland Indian diaspora a reality.

“With a growing Indian Australian population in Oxley and Blair, it’s about time the community’s vision for a House of India was realised. 

“This election commitment is not just about bricks and mortar. It’s about providing a hub for the Indian community and helping them connect with their heritage, while promoting cultural awareness and understanding among the broader population.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann:

“Ipswich is not only one of the fastest growing areas in Queensland, it’s becoming one of the most diverse as well, so Labor is delivering the community facilities our region needs and deserves.

“The Indian diaspora makes a huge contribution to the economic and social fabric of Ipswich, and is the one of the most educated and employed communities in Queensland. It’s about time they had their own community centre.

“This would be a valuable community asset for Ipswich, and bring a range of economic, cultural and community benefits to our state.

“I want to thank the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland, Springfield City Group and others who have been working with us to see this funding made available. We’re keen to work with them to bring this very worthy project to fruition.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Labor candidate for Moreton, Julie-Ann Campbell:

“The Albanese Labor Government is building Australia’s future and investing in the first ever House of India in Queensland.

“The Indian diaspora is one of the fastest growing communities in Australia and plays an important role in the multicultural country we live in today.

“This is great news for Indian communities across the southside of Brisbane and the western suburbs, including Ipswich.

“This commitment shows that only a re-elected Federal Labor government will ensure multicultural communities in Queensland get the support they need.”