The National Council of Australian Muslims – NCAM firmly rejects recent statements made by Liberal Senator Dave Sharma, who dismissed the prevalence of Islamophobia as “fictitious.” This baseless assertion undermines the lived experiences of Australian Muslims and the mounting evidence of Islamophobic attacks that continue to target Muslim communities across the country.

The recent arson attack on an Islamic school bus in Adelaide, underscores the real and escalating threat that Islamophobia poses to the safety and well-being of Australian Muslims. These incidents – ranging from physical assaults and verbal abuse to online hate and discrimination – are occurring on a daily basis.

Sajida Salman, Director of the NCAM, emphasized the undeniable reality of Islamophobia: “The evidence is irrefutable, and to dismiss this issue as fictitious is a direct affront to the thousands of Australian Muslims who face hatred, discrimination, and violence simply because of their faith. This kind of rhetoric not only trivializes their experiences but also fuels a culture of division and intolerance.”

The NCAM calls on all political leaders to acknowledge the undeniable reality of Islamophobia and to take concrete steps to combat it. This includes publicly condemning Islamophobia in all its forms and pushing for more inclusive policies that protect all Australians from discrimination, regardless of their faith or background.
“We must not allow uninformed political rhetoric to overshadow the real and harmful impact of Islamophobia on individuals, families, and communities across Australia,” said Sajida Salman.

The NCAM remains steadfast in its commitment to fighting Islamophobia and ensuring that the voices of those affected are heard. Through advocacy, education, and community support, we will continue to work toward a society free from hate and discrimination.

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.