The National Council of Australian Muslims (NCAM) is urgently calling attention to the alarming rise in Islamophobic incidents across Australia. Recent events, including the graffiti attacks and the arson of a bus, highlight an unsettling trend that threatens the social fabric of our diverse society. Despite the severity of these attacks, the lack of response from political leaders, including the Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition, is deeply concerning.

Sajida Salman, Director of NCAM, emphasized the troubling silence from the nation’s leadership in condemning these acts of hate, stating, “When political leaders fail to address the targeted harassment of Muslim Australians, it sends the message that some Australians are less deserving of safety and respect. This undermines the values of equality and justice that Australia stands for.”

The rise of Islamophobia has been met with either denial or minimization by some political figures and media outlets. This downplaying of hate crimes only exacerbates the fear and hurt within the Muslim community, which is already reeling from these incidents. NCAM calls on all political leaders to take immediate, tangible action, which includes public condemnations of Islamophobic acts and the implementation of policies to combat hate speech and promote inclusivity.

Furthermore, NCAM is concerned with the media’s selective reporting, particularly following a recent Islamophobic attack in Chester Hill, Western Sydney, on December 15, 2024. While graphic anti-Muslim vandalism targeted one of Sydney’s most diverse suburbs, many media outlets chose to downplay or completely ignore the incident. NCAM urges media organizations to demonstrate fairness and balance in their reporting, especially on issues that affect the social cohesion of our communities.

NCAM remains committed to working with the government, law enforcement, and the broader community to address the growing threat of Islamophobia. It is time for decisive action to ensure that all Australians, regardless of their faith or background, can live without fear of discrimination

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

END

Join in the conversation at

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.