The Diocese of Armidale covers a significant portion of the New England and North West Slopes and Plains of NSW.
In total it covers 91,500 square kilometres, extending north to Tenterfield, south to Quirindi and as far west as Walgett and Mungindi. A diocese is a region and community of faithful Catholics, represented by a bishop.
Originally established in 1869 the Diocese went as far east as the South Pacific Ocean and was 120,000 square kilometres. In 1887 the coastal area was separated and the Diocese of Lismore created. At the same time, the northern section of the then Maitland Diocese was moved to Armidale Diocese giving the new Armidale Diocese the parishes of Tamworth and Gunnedah. Armidale Diocese now borders Toowoomba, Lismore, Maitland, Newcastle, Bathurst and Wilcannia-Forbes Dioceses.
The Diocese has 24 parishes, 25 schools, and 1 university residential college.
The Diocese of Armidale supports the community through pastoral care, education, social welfare and financial services. Its Catholic education system is committed to striving for educational excellence and thereby to extending the Kingdom of God. Centacare seeks to provide services for the social and emotional wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities in the Diocese. All our agencies and ministries work alongside local people from all walks of life, as well as organisations committed to enhancing the way of life we enjoy in North Western NSW.
We welcome all who would like to join our communities or be guided by the principles and teachings of Christ.