PM releases government's response to Islamophobia report

The Australian government has unveiled its long-awaited response to a special envoy's report on Islamophobia, opting against a significant overhaul of counter-terrorism laws. Instead, the Albanese government will prioritize establishing a new education taskforce and enhancing community liaison teams for police.

The government's plan includes a package of new measures aimed at improving education and awareness, protection and support, social cohesion, and accountability. Key initiatives involve reviewing the education curriculum to foster racial and religious tolerance, introducing new multicultural grant programs, and expanding mental health support, particularly for Muslim women.

“

We've said it's independent advice. What we don't do is we don't contract out government.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the government's approach, stating that while some recommendations from special envoy Aftab Malik's report were adopted in full, others would receive further consideration. He emphasized that the government does not "contract out government" and relies on advice from national security agencies for its terror laws. The government also rejected a recommendation to establish a commission of inquiry into anti-Palestinian and anti-Arab racism, instead pointing to a longitudinal study on Islamophobia.

Aftab Malik, who released his report with 54 recommendations 10 months prior, expressed his intention to continue advocating for the recommendations the government has not yet addressed. He stated his report remains independent advice and the benchmark for progress, while supporting the actions the government has taken.

“

My report remains my independent advice to the government and the benchmark against which progress should be measured.