NSW Government commits $1m to combat Islamophobia

The New South Wales Government has pledged $1 million to address rising levels of Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hate across the state.

The funding, delivered through the Premier's Department and Multicultural NSW, will support the Action Against Islamophobia initiative, led by the Australian National Imams Council (ANIC).

The program will deliver a range of services, including:

• A dedicated Report Islamophobia Support Line
• Case management and counselling for victims
• Advocacy and awareness campaigns on how to report incidents
• Community education and training for frontline services, including police, on responding to Islamophobia.

The announcement follows growing concerns from community organisations over increased anti-Muslim hostility in Australia in recent years. Despite the contributions of Muslim communities to NSW's cultural and economic life, research by the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute shows negative attitudes toward Muslims have remained persistently high for over a decade, with a sharp rise recorded since 2024.

Premier Chris Minns said racism and Islamophobia had no place in NSW.

"It is abhorrent that people continue to perpetuate this kind of behaviour," Mr Minns said.
"Evidence suggests Islamophobia is far more widespread than what is reported. No one should suffer in silence. This program will provide critical support for those affected, while also raising awareness about the need to reject racism in all its forms."

Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said the investment was essential to protecting the state's diverse communities.

"NSW is one of the world's great multicultural success stories. To safeguard it, we must stamp out hatred, including that faced by our Muslim community," he said.
"Greater visibility and awareness of Islamophobia is key to eliminating this bigotry."

ANIC President Imam Shadi Alsuleiman said many Muslims were becoming increasingly anxious about practising their faith in public.

"This rise in anti-Muslim hate has left some fearful of attending mosques or wearing religious attire," he said.
"Islamophobia takes many forms, from blatant abuse to subtle microaggressions. Understanding these experiences is vital to building an effective, holistic response."

The Action Against Islamophobia initiative will begin rolling out services across NSW later this year.