In solidarity with Palestinian Christians, the NCCA asks its member Churches and the wider Australian community to consider a boycott of goods produced by Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

Rev Tara Curlewis, General Secretary of the NCCA said “We are asking the member Churches of the NCCA to consider boycotting particular goods produced in Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. It is hoped that such actions will liberate the people from an experience of injustice to one where a just and definitive peace may be reached.”

In a motion moved by the Uniting Church and seconded by the Anglican Church, Israel and Palestine’s right to exist within secure internationally recognised borders was affirmed.

The motion noted that there must be an early end to the occupation of Palestine through freely and peacefully negotiated solutions in accordance with international law and United Nations resolutions.

Rev Curlewis said, “The NCCA welcomes the easing of the Israeli blockade of Gaza in recent days and calls for an immediate end to the blockade. The NCCA will stand in solidarity with the people of Palestine and act for an end to the injustice and suffering borne by the people”.

Rev Curlewis will convey these resolutions to the Prime Minister, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, members of Federal Parliament, the Executive Council of Australian Jewry and the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils among other interest groups.

The NCCA’s aid agency, Act for Peace, will continue to encourage churches around Australia to assist ongoing actions on the boycott and support advocacy initiatives calling for a just peace as all parties work toward an end to the conflict.

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Rev Tara Curlewis is available for Interview

Media Enquiries: Debra Porter  (02) 9299 2215