Community resilience funding boost

The NSW government’s 2026-27 budget has reinforced its commitment to the long-term recovery of the Jewish and Bondi communities, announcing $1.8 million to strengthen Community Resilience and Engagement Coordinators (CRECs).

The funding will spread across seven organisations – the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies (JBD), Waverley Council, Kesser Torah College, the National Council of Jewish Women, Chabad of Bondi, Multicultural NSW and Surf Life Saving NSW.

The CREC program is designed to embed dedicated coordinators directly within affected communities, ensuring that recovery efforts are locally informed, responsive and grounded in real-time needs.

Coordinators work face-to-face with the community to identify emerging issues, strengthen networks, support recovery planning, and ensure government decisions are shaped by accurate insights.

“At a time when our community faces unprecedented challenges, the importance of strong relationships between organisations cannot be overstated,” JBD’s acting head of community engagement Suzanne Green said.

“Collaboration, open communication and support are what enable us to remain resilient and continue working with our community effectively.”

The program’s coordinator at JBD, Harrison Rosen, said, “My role is to listen closely to what is happening across the community, understand the deeper patterns and pressures beneath individual issues, and help shape responses that are strategic and useful.

“I feel very privileged to be in it.”

JBD CEO Michele Goldman said the CREC program strengthens the connection between communities and government at a critical time.

“By placing dedicated coordinators within communities, the CREC initiative ensures that support is locally informed, well-

coordinated and focused on what communities actually need.”

The NSW budget also includes $1 million for the JBD to continue its extensive work supporting the community in the wake of the Bondi terror attack.

Over the past six months, JBD has worked closely with government, law enforcement, schools, mental health providers and communal organisations to address rising antisemitism, coordinate mental health support and ensure the needs of affected families and survivors are understood at every level of government.

“This funding acknowledges the significant amount of work taking place behind the scenes to support our community through recovery,” Goldman said.

“It ensures that work can continue, making sure people feel safe and connected.”