A recent report from Islamophobia Register Australia reveals a significant rise in Islamophobic incidents, primarily affecting Muslim women and girls. Since its establishment in 2014, the nonprofit organisation has documented a concerning trend, noting a staggering 250% increase in online reports and a 150% rise in in-person incidents from January 2023 to November 2024. This amounts to nearly one Islamophobic incident occurring daily during this period.
The data, compiled by researchers from Monash and Deakin universities, includes 309 verified in-person and 366 online incidents. Alarmingly, Muslim women and girls represent 75% of all victims, highlighting their vulnerability. Dr. Nora Amath, executive director of Islamophobia Register Australia, emphasised that these escalating incidents contradict claims from some Australian politicians who dismiss Islamophobia as a non-issue, stating, “The evidence is irrefutable — Islamophobia is not only real but has reached crisis levels in Australia.”
The report indicates that the wave of reported incidents surged by 1300% in the weeks following October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel. Some disturbing accounts reveal individuals facing violent threats and physical assaults, such as a mother being attacked in front of her children at a food court.
Despite the alarming growth in reports, only 9% of Australians acknowledge an increase in Islamophobia. The register has urged the government, law enforcement, and educational institutions to take decisive action, advocating for targeted interventions, mandatory awareness training, and funding for culturally sensitive mental health support.
Dr. Amath insists that addressing Islamophobia is vital for preserving Australia’s social cohesion and preventing further harm to the Muslim community. She warns that failure to act could undermine the nation’s commitment to fairness and inclusivity.