Friday, 12 September 2025
Australia’s Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia, Mr. Aftab Malik, handed down his independent submission to the Australian Government on Islamophobia today.
This role was established in 2024, alongside the Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism.
When Australians are targeted or marginalised because of their faith, culture or background, it damages the social fabric that binds us all.
The Coalition acknowledges the work undertaken by Mr. Aftab.
His report is the product of extensive engagement and is a contribution to the national conversation about how we respond to prejudice, strengthen respect and build resilience in our society.
The report finds Islamophobia is a feature of life for too many Australians and it is corrosive to the unity and wellbeing that all Australians should enjoy.
There has simply been too much hate in Australia in recent times.
Our social cohesion is being clawed at by malicious foreign actors and a small minority among us who have given way to base prejudices.
Too many now consume hate and extremism from evermore obscure online sources.
The work for the Government to encourage unity and civility has perhaps never been greater.
We will await the Government’s formal response to the recommendations and will carefully consider the proposals it chooses to take forward.
Our guiding principle in approaching this work is that every Australian should be free to live their life in safety and dignity, and to exercise their rights and responsibilities in equal measure, regardless of their faith, race, gender or background.
