18th of March 2025, 12:53 PM
Parliament of Victoria | Legislative Council
David ETTERSHANK (Western Metropolitan):
My question is for the Minister for Multicultural Affairs. My constituent who lives in Truganina is increasingly concerned for her safety following a series of high-profile Islamophobic attacks.
The Islamophobic Register’s latest research shows a concerning rise in assaults, abuse and threats, with in-person and online incidents more than doubling since the previous reporting period. Worryingly, there is also a gendered element, with three-quarters of the attacks targeting women and girls.
Governments at every level must condemn hate in all its forms. In 2022 the United Nations General Assembly designated 15 March as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, but this date is yet to be officially recognised in Australia.
My constituent asks: could the minister provide an update on the government’s response to the rise in attacks on Muslim women and girls and the government’s position on formally recognising 15 March as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia?
Written Answer received 6th of May 2025:
The Allan Labor Government recognises that the rise in Islamophobia is deeply concerning. There is no room for any act with the intention of spreading fear or hate here in Victoria, and the targeting of Muslim women and girls is completely unacceptable.
On 15 March 2025 our government publicly recognised International Day to Combat Islamophobia. This recognition included a commitment to develop a Combatting Islamophobia guide, which will build awareness of the harmful impacts of Islamophobia, provide information for Victorians on how to stand up to Islamophobia and highlight safe reporting pathways. We are also developing a whole of government framework for the coordinated escalation of issues impacting Muslim communities. This work is now underway, and I look forward to sharing more details in the future.
We are also providing $3 million to five Islamic community organisations for activities that address and prevent Islamophobia. This includes funding for the Australian Muslim Women’s Centre for Human Rights to deliver programs that address the disproportionate impact of Islamophobia on Muslim women and young people. The Islamic Council of Victoria is also receiving funding to continue its vital Islamophobia Support Service.
These initiatives form part of a suite of broader actions our government is taking to address vilification and racism, including through the new Anti-Vilification and Social Cohesion laws, which will make it easier to prosecute those who incite hatred. We are also delivering Victoria’s anti-racism strategy 2024-29, which provides a statewide roadmap and practical actions to stamp out racism and faith-based discrimination.
Through these initiatives, we will work hard to ensure Victoria’s Muslim communities feel safe, supported and able to thrive.
Hon. Ingrid Stitt MP
(Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Multicultural Affairs)
[ENDS]
