Media Release – 12 September 2025

The National Council of Australian Muslims (NCAM) welcomes the release of the landmark report “A National Response to Islamophobia: A Strategic Framework for Inclusion, Safety and Prosperity”, launched in Sydney by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Minister for Multicultural Affairs Dr Anne Aly, and Special Envoy Aftab Malik. The report represents a critical acknowledgment of the systemic discrimination and hostility faced by Muslim communities across Australia. NCAM commends the extensive community engagement that informed the report and supports its key recommendations, which include stronger legal protections against religious discrimination, improved oversight of hate crime responses, and the development of a national anti-racism framework. These proposals reflect long-standing concerns raised by Muslim Australians and mark a meaningful step toward creating a safer, more inclusive society. “Islamophobia is not new—it is a daily reality for many Australians,” said NCAM Director Sajida Salman. “This report puts that reality on record and provides a clear path forward. What we need now is commitment and action, not more delays or symbolic gestures.” NCAM particularly welcomes the report’s recognition of the need to address anti-Muslim bias across public institutions, media, education, and politics. The inclusion of personal accounts, such as Usman Khawaja’s reflection on abuse faced by his hijab-wearing mother, underscores the urgency of confronting the deep social and cultural roots of Islamophobia in Australia. NCAM urges the federal government to implement the report’s recommendations without delay and to ensure that Muslim communities remain central to this ongoing process. “We will continue to advocate for accountability and work with government to ensure these reforms are not only adopted, but felt by the communities who need them most,” Sajida added.

National Council of Australian Muslims (NCAM)

A leading voice for Muslim civic engagement and the promotion of human rights

PO Box 1050 Cannington WA 6987  |  08 6391 7228  |  admin@ncam.au

© 2024 National Council of Australian Muslims |  ABN 66 672 008 025

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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.