Construction works on the multifunctional centre of the Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Australia and New Zealand have entered the second stage, with support from the Department for Romanians Abroad.
The building, located at 103 Porteous Road, Harkness (Melton West), Victoria, will host the “St. Dumitru Stăniloae” Cultural and Missionary Centre, the diocesan chapel, and classrooms for the Romanian school.
According to a press release from the Diocese of Australia and New Zealand, the second stage includes the arrangement of parking and pedestrian access, ordering and delivery of structural materials, erection and execution of the building, connection to the electricity grid, plumbing and electrical works, interior finishes, and other related tasks.
These works will ensure the full functionality of the spaces dedicated to liturgical, educational, and cultural activities.
The need for the project stems from the Romanian community’s desire to have its own spiritual and cultural centre to serve pastoral, educational, and identity needs.
The project aims to strengthen Romanian identity in the diaspora by creating a centre for spiritual, cultural, and educational activities; to support religious and cultural values through services, courses, and events; and to foster Romanian-language education through lessons in language, history, and culture.
The second stage of the project is scheduled to take place by 20 December 2025. The first stage was carried out last year.
Photo: Romanian Diocese of Australia and New Zealand
