NSW Safe Places for Faith Communities Grant Guide

Churches across New South Wales are increasingly looking for CCTV systems, alarm systems and security upgrades to protect congregations, volunteers and property. Whether it’s protecting donation areas, monitoring car parks or improving after-hours security, the Safe Places for Faith Communities Grant allows eligible churches to fund these upgrades without relying solely on donations.

This grant provides $5,000 to $250,000 (excluding GST) for security, safety and resilience improvements at places of worship.

Common Church Security Concerns

Churches searching for church security system or CCTV for church are commonly dealing with:

• Vandalism or break-ins

• Theft of donations or equipment

• Safety of children’s programs

• Unmonitored weekday access

• Large sites with multiple buildings

• Night-time security risks

What Security Systems Churches Can Fund

Eligible grant-funded security upgrades include:

• CCTV systems covering entrances, halls and car parks

• Alarm systems for after-hours protection

• Access control for offices and storage areas

• Security lighting around buildings and walkways

• Intercoms for controlled entry

• Incident response and safety training

Church Grant Funding Pathways

Up to $50,000
No formal security risk assessment required

$50,000 to $250,000
Evidence-based security risk assessment required

How Serious Security Helps Churches

Serious Security supports churches by:

• Designing respectful, non-intrusive CCTV systems

• Avoiding over-surveillance in worship spaces

• Preparing grant-ready scopes and budgets

• Supplying compliant security system quotations

• Delivering staged upgrades after funding approval

Church Security FAQs

Can CCTV be installed inside a church?
Yes, but systems should focus on entrances and shared areas rather than worship spaces.

Can the grant cover multiple church buildings?
Yes, if they are managed by the same organisation.

Can volunteer training be funded?
Yes, safety and preparedness training is eligible.

Can grants fund alarms and lighting?
Yes, alarms and security lighting are eligible expenses.

If your church is considering applying for the Safe Places for Faith Communities Grant, contact Serious Security to discuss grant-aligned security options and compliant system design.