The Victorian Government has launched a set of public resources aimed at helping people recognise and respond to Islamophobia, marking the International Day to Combat Islamophobia and responding to recent anti-Muslim incidents.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt announced the ‘Combatting Islamophobia Resources’, developed with Muslim community representatives. The guides explain different forms of Islamophobia and provide advice on how to respond to incidents of hate or discrimination.
The materials include information on how to intervene safely, support those affected and report incidents when they occur. Translated versions will also be made available so they can reach communities across the state.
Ms Stitt said the government remained committed to supporting Muslim Victorians and addressing racism.
“We will always back Victoria’s Muslim communities and stand with them,” she said.
“There is no place for hate, division or discrimination of any kind in our state.”
“It is the responsibility of all Victorians to play a role in stamping out these distressing and hateful acts.”
The government said the resources were produced with input from Muslim communities to ensure they reflect lived experience and provide practical guidance.
The release comes after a series of anti-Muslim incidents in Victoria, which authorities say highlight the need for stronger public awareness and community action.
Work is also underway with Muslim organisations and leaders to address Islamophobia in schools. The government said it would collaborate with groups including the Islamic Museum of Australia, the Islamic Council of Victoria and the Board of Imams to support greater understanding among students.
Board of Imams Victoria Executive Director Sheikh Moustapha Sarakibi welcomed the initiative and said it sends a clear message about the state’s position on anti-Muslim discrimination.
“The Board of Imams Victoria welcomes this important step by the Victorian Labor Government, developed in partnership with the Muslim community, to tackle Islamophobia in our state,” he said.
“This guide sends a clear message that anti-Muslim hate has no place in Victoria.”
The Victorian Government says the resources form part of broader work aimed at reducing racism and strengthening multicultural communities. Officials say Victoria has introduced anti-vilification laws and developed an Anti-Racism Strategy as part of this approach.
The guides are available through the Victorian Government website and include translated versions intended to make the information accessible to a wider audience.
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