Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pledged to carefully review recommendations from an independent report on Islamophobia, which found anti-Muslim sentiment has reached “unprecedented levels” across the country.
The report, compiled by Special Envoy Aftab Malik, highlights the widespread normalisation of anti-Muslim abuse, saying many incidents now go unreported. It documents verbal harassment, graffiti, and attacks on Muslim women and children for their identity and appearance.
The 60-page study proposes 54 recommendations, including an inquiry into religious discrimination and its broader impact on social cohesion and democracy.
Albanese, speaking alongside Malik in Sydney, condemned religious hatred, calling it an attack on Australia’s core values. “Australians should feel safe in every community. We must stamp out the hate, fear, and prejudice that drives Islamophobia and division,” he said.
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The findings come nearly two years after the Israel-Hamas conflict reignited antisemitism and Islamophobia in Australia. By November 2024, Islamophobia Register data showed a 150% surge in hate incidents.
The government has previously received recommendations from an antisemitism envoy, who in July urged measures such as stronger protections for Jewish students and screening of visa applicants for extremist views.
Albanese said his government would take both reports seriously, stressing that national unity depends on tackling all forms of religious hatred.
