Supporters argue that with over 208,000 Hindus in New South Wales and more than 684,000 across Australia, the time has come to formally recognise Diwali as a public holiday.

Critics argue that SB 509 prioritises abstract foreign threats over immediate protection for communities at risk from domestic extremism such as from white supremacists and Khalistani extremists.

Minister for Defence Industry highlighted the temple's role as a hub for family, tradition, and culture in the growing Hindu community.

“They are hard-working, family-oriented and peace-loving communities, and it is a national disgrace that they have been publicly vilified from any quarter.”

Prof. Biman Prasad said the gathering highlights the nation’s ability to come together as one people to celebrate, practice, and understand their traditions.

‘March for Australia’ rallies in nine cities on 31 August are being led by an anti-immigration group that has singled out Indian migrants, framing recent arrivals as “replacement plain and simple.”

Kamikamica reaffirmed government’s zero-tolerance stance on religiously motivated attacks, assuring that “any assault on faith will not be tolerated” and pledging support for dialogue, peace, and reconciliation.

Fiji Police are investigating a spate of thefts targeting Hindu religious statues in Nadi, with five incidents reported within a single day.

For weeks, Dharmasthala’s name was tied to an imagined horror story that received global amplification.

The partnership brings together two of the world’s oldest cultures to advance sustainable investment, ethical trade, and inclusive innovation across South Australia and beyond.