: Published: 12 July 2014

UPDATE: Please sign the Online Petition which now has signatures from over 80 countries!

Promoting Gender Equality and Empowering Women is No. 3 on the list of eight declared United Nations (UN) Millennium Development Goals, and is strongly supported by the FABC.

One of Australia's senior monks, Ajahn Brahm, was invited to deliver a speech on Gender Equality at the UN Day of Vesak Convention in Vietnam in May 2014. Unfortunately, Ajahn Brahm was prevented from delivering his speech by a ban imposed by conference organising committee the day before it was due to be given at the Convention. Ajahn Brahm's paper had been pre-approved by the conference organising committee several months before the event.

The FABC and Australian Buddhist communities are very disappointed at this missed opportunity to promote the important issue of Gender Equality at an international Buddhist event to celebrate the most important day in the Buddhist calendar.

: Published: 07 June 2014

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's message on Vesak Day

On Vesak Day, which marks the birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha, the United Nations joins millions of people -- Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike -- in reflecting on his life and teachings.

The Buddha’s message of peace, compassion and love for all living beings tells us to open our hearts and embrace all members of our human family, especially those in need. These timeless teachings can help guide governments and the international community.

: Published: 31 May 2014

Requirements For Registered Marriage Celebrants (RMC) Applicants

• It is desirable for the applicant to be over 40 years of age.

• The applicant must be an Australian Citizen and reside in Australia or an Australian Permanent Resident of at least three years duration.

• The applicant must be a practicing Buddhist.

: Published: 24 May 2014

Dodgy Buddhist monks wearing robes that hide tracksuit pants and runners are scamming Melburnians and visitors to the CBD, Consumer Affairs says.

Consumer Affairs Victoria and the Buddhist Council of Victoria warned on Monday of conmen dressing as Buddhist monks and asking for money in exchange for prayer beads, amulets and spiritual guidebooks.

Swinburne University student Tara Siri, 21, said she was walking with friends down Spring Street last month when a "monk" approached them bowing his head and smiling, before pushing a plastic hologram picture of Buddha into her friend's hand and asking for cash.

"First she was like 'Oh, I don't have any money' but then he kept smiling and handing her the picture. She got out her wallet and handed out $2, but he wanted more. He really put the peer pressure on," Miss Siri said.

: Published: 12 May 2014

We are very excited to inform you about the Buddhist Life Stories of Australia project, which hopes to document and preserve the oral history of Buddhism in Australia.

Please visit the campaign site here: http://www.pozible.com/buddhistlifestoriesaustralia It features many of Australia’s prominent Buddhist leaders including Venerable Ajahn Brahm, Venerable Thich Phuoc Tan, Venerable Chi Kwang, Venerable Robina Courtin, Venerable Bhante Sujato, Kim Hollow, and Laura Chan. You can also make contributions to support the project directly on this website. All contributions are tax-deductible and we highly appreciate all pledges large or small. Our goal is to raise $10,000 in 45 days and we are off to a great start already! This project is a modest first step of a larger, long-term program that will allow us to document more life stories, not only of ordained members of the Sangha but also the lay community.

: Published: 08 May 2014

MESSAGE FROM THE PRIME MINISTER

VESAK 2014

I am pleased to provide this message on the occasion of Vesak.

Each year, millions of people around the world unite in observance of the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha. It is an important time for the Buddhist community to come together to celebrate, reflect and renew faith.

On this occasion Australians are reminded of the significant contribution that Buddhism makes to the life of our country. Religious faith is an important element in our society.

For many, it provides meaning, purpose and inspiration to their daily lives. I acknowledge your commitment to respect, compassion and understanding as taught by Buddha.

I send my best wishes to everyone celebrating Vesak this year.

(signed)

The Hon Tony Abbott MP Prime Minister of Australia 6 May 2014

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FABC News

Paper on Gender Equality by Australian Senior Monk blocked at UN Day of Vesak in Vietnam

UN Secretary-General's Vesak Message

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's message on Vesak Day