Islamophobic incidents in Australia have surged dramatically since the start of Israel’s war on Gaza, according to an independent government-commissioned report. The findings reveal a 150% rise in in-person attacks and a staggering 250% increase in online abuse, marking one of the sharpest escalations of anti-Muslim sentiment in the country’s history.
The report, released on September 12, 2025, was presented by Aftab Malik, Australia’s special envoy appointed to combat Islamophobia. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, speaking at a media briefing in Sydney’s Commonwealth Parliament Offices, said the findings will be “carefully considered” by his government.
“Australians should be able to feel safe at home in any community. We must stamp out the hate, fear, and prejudice that drives Islamophobia and division in our society,” Albanese said.
Key Findings: 150% Rise in Public Attacks
The 60-page report paints a troubling picture of growing intolerance. Malik’s findings show:
- 150% increase in in-person Islamophobic incidents since October 2023.
- 250% rise in online hate speech targeting Muslims during the same period.
- Muslim women and children were disproportionately affected, often targeted for wearing religious attire.
- Graffiti, verbal abuse, vandalism, and physical intimidation were among the most common forms of attacks.
Malik noted that many of these cases go unreported due to fear of retaliation or lack of faith in authorities.
“The reality is that Islamophobia in Australia has been persistent, at times ignored and other times denied, but never fully addressed,” Malik said.
Government Response and Recommendations
The report includes 54 recommendations aimed at combating Islamophobia nationwide. Among the key proposals are:
- A review of counterterrorism laws to ensure they do not unfairly discriminate against Muslims.
- Establishing a national inquiry into Islamophobia to identify its root causes.
- Creating better reporting mechanisms and support systems for victims.
- Education programs in schools and workplaces to dismantle stereotypes and promote cultural understanding.
Albanese pledged that his government will study the recommendations carefully, signaling a potential shift in policy.
Background: Why Islamophobia Is Rising
The sharp rise in Islamophobic incidents coincides with Israel’s war on Gaza following the Hamas-led October 7, 2023 attacks. Australia, like many Western nations, has seen a surge in both Islamophobia and anti-Semitism during the conflict.
Islamophobia in Australia is not new — it spiked after the September 11, 2001 attacks and again during the peak of the so-called “War on Terror.” However, Malik argues that what is happening now is “entrenching hostility in ways we haven’t seen before.”
Muslim Australians make up 3.2% of the population, according to the 2021 Census, yet face higher rates of discrimination compared to other religious groups.
Voices from the Community
Muslim community leaders have welcomed the report but warn that action is needed quickly.
“Reports are good, but we need to see prosecutions, policy change, and real investment in community safety,” said Mariam Veiszadeh, a prominent anti-racism advocate.
Several Muslim families have reported being harassed at mosques, schools, and shopping centers. Social media platforms have also been criticized for failing to remove hate speech targeting Muslims in a timely manner.
A Global Trend
Islamophobia is not unique to Australia. Across Europe and North America, anti-Muslim sentiment has been fueled by populist political parties and anti-immigration rhetoric.
France has faced criticism for its restrictions on Islamic dress, and the UK has seen rising reports of vandalism and harassment targeting Muslims.
