The National Council of Australian Muslims (NCAM) strongly condemns a recent Islamophobic hate crime that occurred at Bankstown Central Shopping Centre on Friday, 20 December 2024. A visibly Muslim woman and her child were subjected to verbal and physical assault in this distressing incident, which was captured on video, is a disturbing example of the escalating Islamophobia in Australia.

In the specific case of the Bankstown incident, NCAM is gravely concerned about the delayed police response. It took more than 24 hours for authorities to act on the victim’s call for help, and the attack was not initially classified as a hate crime. This failure exacerbated the trauma of the victim and her child, who were left unsupported at a time of greatest need. NCAM insists on a comprehensive and transparent investigation into both the delayed response and the procedural lapses by the NSW Police. We demand that the individual responsible be held accountable under the law to send a strong message against future acts of hatred and violence.

Sajida Salman, Director NCAM, expresses deep concern over the escalating number of Islamophobic incidents nationwide, with documented evidence of a significant rise since October 7, 2023. These incidents highlights the broader climate of rising Islamophobia, fueled by inflammatory political rhetoric and public discourse. NCAM is deeply concerned that such discourse risks further escalating hatred and violence against Muslims in Australia. We urge local and national leaders to unequivocally denounce Islamophobia and take immediate steps to combat these hateful acts. Law enforcement must treat all incidents of hate with the utmost seriousness, ensuring proper investigations and consequences for perpetrators.

NCAM also advises the Muslim community to exercise vigilance and caution in light of the rising number of Islamophobic incidents. NCAM remains committed to supporting victims of Islamophobic hate crimes and advocating for systemic changes to ensure the safety and security of all communities in Australia.

For media inquiries, please contact: media@ncam.au

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National Council of Australian Muslims (NCAM) acknowledges all First Peoples as the Traditional Custodians throughout the land across Australia, and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We recognise and respect the historical and traditional connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples have to the land, water, culture and community. We appreciate the importance of the world’s oldest living culture, and support the union of a reconciled Australia. NCAM is committed to ensuring inclusion, equity and equality.