More than 30 mosques and Islamic centres across Victoria will welcome the public this weekend as part of the 2026 Victorian Mosque Open Day, an annual initiative aimed at challenging hate and encouraging understanding.
Supported by the Allan Labor Government, the event will take place on Saturday, 7 February, with communities across metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria participating. Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt has encouraged Victorians to visit their local mosque and engage directly with Muslim communities at a time of heightened concern about Islamophobia.
“Just weeks ago, an Imam was assaulted in a targeted act of anti-Muslim hatred – this week, mosques across Victoria will open their doors to all Victorians to combat hate and foster understanding,” she said.
Visitors will be able to take part in guided mosque tours, observe prayers and join activities such as hijab tutorials and henna art. Organisers say the day offers a chance to better understand the role mosques play as places of worship, connection and reflection.
Participating centres this year include ICMG Brunswick Mosque, Horsham Mosque and the Islamic Society of Geelong, with events spread across the state.
“Victorian Mosque Open Day is a great opportunity for all Victorians to step inside their local mosque, meet the community and learn more about the Islamic faith in a welcoming space,” Ms Stitt said.
The state government has committed $400,000 to support the initiative through to 2027, working in collaboration with the Islamic Council of Victoria. The funding sits alongside broader measures aimed at addressing discrimination and racism, including strengthened hate speech laws, recognition of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia and the development of a guide to support both victims and bystanders.
To see the full list of participating mosques and Islamic centres, visit vic.gov.au/victorian-mosque-open-day.
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