Bringing the Light of Christ to the Hunter

The Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle represents the Catholic Church in a region extending from Lake Macquarie to Taree and as far inland as Merriwa and Murrurundi.

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Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle

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About

The Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle extends along the east coast of New South Wales from Lake Macquarie to Taree and includes Merriwa and Murrurundi. It covers 10 local government areas, representing almost 150,000 Catholics and is organised into 38 parishes.

Rest in Peace, Pope Francis

“Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis encouraged us all to act in faith. He was passionate about calling the world to care for the marginalised, to protect our common home, and to build a Church that reaches outward rather than turning inward. He lived by example; teaching us to truly know Christ, we must connect with and care for one another. He lived this mission and was a leader who valued dialogue over division and love over fear,” writes Bishop Michael Kennedy.

Discover the diverse areas of our Diocese, from vibrant parishes to schools, early education centres and community initiatives, all working together to support and inspire faith, learning, and connection.

Catholic Life

Community Support

Schools & Education

Your local Parish

Memorial Mass for His Holiness Pope Francis - Monday 28 April

Jubilee Year 2025

Right now, we’re celebrating the Jubilee Year. We have so much happening across our Diocese and invite everyone to get involved!

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Our Impact

Gathering in Faith

We unite Catholics across the Diocese through worship and sacraments, fostering spiritual growth and a strong sense of community.
Serving Those in Need

Committed to Christ’s mission, we provide care and support for those facing hardship, helping the most vulnerable individuals and families in our region.
Excellence in Education

Our Catholic Schools and St Nicholas Early Education Centres nurture both academic growth and personal development, shaping students into compassionate leaders.
Building Safe Homes

We work to ensure safe housing for vulnerable families and individuals, offering not just shelter, but hope and stability within the community.

About the Diocese

Using our interactive map, discover the breadth of services we offer in communities across the Diocese.

Through its parishes, pastoral groups, and agencies including Catholic Schools, the Catholic Community Fund, CatholicCare Social Services Hunter-Manning, St Nicholas Early Education and OOSH, and Hunter Community Housing, our Diocese provides pastoral, educational, social welfare, housing and community development services.

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Join us: A career with purpose

Discover meaningful career paths with the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle. Whether you're passionate about education, social justice, pastoral care or administration, we offer a variety of roles where you can make a real and valued difference in the community.

Explore opportunities to grow, contribute, and be part of a community that values compassion, integrity and service.

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Bringing the Light of Christ to the Hunter

About

The Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle extends along the east coast of New South Wales from Lake Macquarie to Taree and includes Merriwa and Murrurundi. It covers 10 local government areas, representing almost 150,000 Catholics and is organised into 38 parishes.

Special Updates

Visit here for the latest news, reflections, and coverage related to the passing and funeral of Pope Francis, as we join the global Church in mourning, prayer, and remembrance.

Memorial Mass for Pope Francis

Watch: What happens next?

Funeral Mass announced for Pope Francis in Rome

Rest in Peace, Pope Francis

Explore the Diocese

Discover the diverse areas of our Diocese, from vibrant parishes to schools, early education centres and community initiatives, all working together to support and inspire faith, learning, and connection.

Jubilee Year 2025

Our Impact

Gathering in Faith

Serving Those in Need

Excellence in Education

Building Safe Homes

About the Diocese

In the community

Visit our news page for the latest updates and stories from across the Diocese, keeping you connected to the life of our thriving and passionate community.

Statement from the Catholic Diocese on the death of Pope Francis

Bishop Michael Kennedy’s 2025 Easter message

Diocesan Local Churches Pilgrimage

Join us: A career with purpose

Gathering in Faith

Serving Those in Need