Supporting religion and spirituality
The purpose of these resources is to provide school leaders and teachers with general information about religious practices that have implications for NSW public schools and the diverse communities they serve. These resources aim to promote cultural and religious inclusion by outlining aspects of practices such as dress, diet, prayer, and religious observances and advice on ways to support students.
Legislative and policy context
The rights to freedom of religion and belief and freedom from discrimination on the basis of religion are protected constitutionally and legislatively by Section 116 of the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act, the Australian Human Rights Commission Act 1986 (Cth), and the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth). In NSW, the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 prohibits discrimination on the ground of race which includes ethno-religious background.
Multicultural policies at federal and state levels of government recognise the right of all Australians to express their cultural, linguistic, and religious diversity within Australia’s national legal framework. All government agencies are committed to supporting and responding to this right.
The department’s Multicultural education policy and Anti-racism policy reflect our commitments under these laws and policies. They articulate the responsibilities of NSW public schools in responding to the needs of our culturally diverse school communities and in countering racial and religious discrimination in the learning and working environment.
Summary of related laws and policies
Commonwealth and State government
- Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW)
- Australian Human Rights Commission Act 1986 (Cth)
- Multicultural NSW Act 2000
- Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth)
- Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act, Section 116
NSW Department of Education
Australin Bureau of Statistics (2021), Snapshot of Australia.
Australian Government (1990), Education Act 1990.
Australian Human Rights Commission (1986), HREOCA: religious freedom.
Jewish Board of Deputies (2008), Understanding Judaism.
NSW Department of Education (2015), The Wellbeing Framework for Schools.
NSW Department of Education (2022), Anti-racism policy.
NSW Department of Education (2024), Multicultural education policy.
NSW Department of Education (2024), Other activities of a religious nature in schools procedures.
NSW Department of Education (2024), Religious education and special education in ethics policy
NSW Department of Education (2024), Uniforms at school procedures.
NSW Department of Education (2024), Uniforms at school checklist.
NSW Department of Education (2025), Controversial issues in schools procedures.
NSW Government (2000), Multicultural NSW Act 2000: Multiculutural principles.
Important note:
Beliefs and practices within each religion vary greatly across religious denominations and according to family and cultural traditions. Adherence to specific religious beliefs and practices also varies on an individual basis. Information in this resource should be used as a guide only. Principals are encouraged to consult closely with students, parents/carers, and their local communities in the development of strategies intended to support the specific religious needs of students.
Religious diversity in NSW
Religious diversity is a growing aspect of NSW society, with almost 150 religions represented. This diversity is reflected in the student population in our public schools. Teachers and students should develop an understanding of this growing religious diversity and implement culturally responsive strategies that facilitate equitable learning outcomes for all students and promote inclusion, school-community harmony, and social cohesion.
While Christianity is the most common religion in NSW, the 2021 Census shows that 11.6% of the population are affiliated with a non-Christian religion. The most common non-Christian religions are:
| Religion | % of NSW population |
|---|---|
Buddhism |
2.8% |
Hinduism |
3.4% |
Islam |
4.3% |
Judaism |
0.5% |
Sikhism |
0.6% |
Source: Multicultural NSW (2022). Multicultural NSW Community Relations Report 2022.