ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses that the relationship between religions and the state in Victoria exhibits traits of both cosmopolitan governance, in which religious actors are collaborating with state actors to create and maintain a peaceful society and a much more top-down governmentality. Religions for Peace Australia began to play a central role promoting positive interfaith relations in Victoria and nationally, cultivating strong relations with state actors responsible for policies concerning religious communities. The chapter provides a brief overview of multifaith initiatives and the Special Religious Instruction (SRI) debate in Victoria. It closes by applying the theories of cosmopolitan governance and governmentality to an analysis of the impact that Ministerial Direction 141 has had on relations between the state, religious, and non-religious organizations and citizens. In conclusion, deliberative democratic processes require patience and perseverance, as well as the acknowledgement that policies and practices must constantly be revised to meet the needs of changing societies.
