Federal Government Cancels Grant for Taha Humanity Association Amid "Social Cohesion Concerns"
The federal government has cancelled a $670,000 grant for the Taha Humanity Association of Victoria, citing "social cohesion concerns." The grant, initially pledged by Labor MP Julian Hill, was intended to upgrade the association's community centre in Dandenong and support programs such as English lessons.
The decision followed claims that the Melbourne-based Islamic community group was mourning the death of Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Minister for Multicultural Affairs Anne Aly confirmed the cancellation, stating:
"Due to social cohesion concerns I've decided to not go ahead with a grant for the Taha Humanity Association."
A member of the Taha Humanity Association reported that they had not received any official correspondence from the federal government regarding the cancellation.
State Government Also Investigates Taha Association Funding
The Victorian government's Department of Premier and Cabinet is now investigating the appropriate use of state grant funding by the Taha Humanity Association. The association has received approximately $215,000 in state grants since 2014. The Victorian government recently introduced a "social cohesion values commitment" for organizations receiving funding.
Political Reactions and Questions of Due Diligence
Opposition Senator James Paterson welcomed the federal government's decision but questioned the due diligence of the Albanese government, calling for Julian Hill to explain his recommendation of the grant. In response, Labor backbencher Ed Husic defended Mr. Hill, stating he could not have foreseen future events.
Separate Investigation into Sydney Islamic School and Mosque
Separately, the federal education department is investigating reports of a link between an Islamic school in Sydney, Al Zahra College, and a neighboring mosque. This investigation comes after a sheikh reportedly praised Ayatollah Khamenei. Education Minister Jason Clare stated that Khamenei should not be mourned, citing his actions against his own people and alleged orchestration of attacks in Australia.