International Day to Combat Islamophobia

Opened the debate

Faruqi argued that the motion required urgency due to the seventh anniversary of the Christchurch mosque massacre, in which 51 Muslims were killed by an Australian radicalised terrorist. Faruqi contended that Islamophobia had become normalised in Australia, pointing to recent incidents such as a thwarted attack in Perth and violence in Ballarat. Faruqi criticised the government and media for downplaying these threats and failing to take decisive action against anti-Muslim hate. Faruqi asserted that political rhetoric continued to dehumanise Muslims despite performative gestures of solidarity.

Government response

Watt opposed the motion, stating that the Greens had circulated it minutes before the sitting began without seeking agreement from other parties. Watt argued that this approach prioritised political attacks over genuine efforts to promote social cohesion and stamp out racism. Watt maintained that the government actively resisted Islamophobia and had a record of working with other parties on related issues. Watt indicated that the government would oppose the motion but remained open to future discussions if the Greens engaged in collaborative processes.