The Anglican Diocese of Sydney has appointed Mercer to an implemented consulting mandate focused on socially responsible investing.

The arrangement involves Mercer tailoring a new multi-manager fund focused on SRI - a key criteria for the diocese.

The consultant will now provide the Diocese with a 'complete' package including the investment strategy review, investment consulting and reporting, and investments through Mercer's multi-manager funds.

"Our investment consultants had already built a strong relationship with the Sydney Anglicans over the previous two years, developing a thorough understanding of their investment philosophy and operating environment," said Gary Burke, Australia/New Zealand business leader for Mercer's investment management business.

"With this knowledge, we were able to respond swiftly and with flexibility to tailor our services to meet their needs,"

Graeme Mather, Australia/New Zealand business leader for Mercer's investment consulting business, said SRI mandates for faith-based organisations is a growing area.

To date, Mercer now consults to more than 12 faith-based organisations in Australia, and more than 20 foundations in the Australia/New Zealand market.

Burke cited the launch of the Mercer Socially Responsible Australian Shares Fund, which was developed for the Diocese, is an example of Mercer working with its clients.