AUSTRALIANS HAVE THE RIGHT TO DISCONNECT AFTER WORKING HOURS
SYDNEY ISLAMIC FUNERALS NEW ATTRACTIVE OFFERS
SMARTRAVELLER TURNS 21
GUIDING TEENS TO LEADERSHIP 6 8 13-29 6 5 31 4
AL-AQSA COMMUNITY EXHIBITION AT ALTAQWA COLLEGE
2024 LOCAL COUNCIL ELECTIONS GUIDE
MUSLIM VOTES MATTER TAKES OFF
Al Wasat Magazine
Gift of Kindness
GUIDING TEENS TO LEADERSHIP
By Jamilah Samian | www.coolmumsuperdad.com
Adolescence is a critical stage in life. Think back to your own teenage years. Remember how everything felt so intense? There’s a good reason for that. Adolescence is when the brain is still developing, especially the part that helps with decision-making and self-control. Teens are juggling a lot—trying to fit in, stand out, figure out who they are, and deal with all those swirling emotions. Understanding this whirlwind is key to guiding them effectively.
Adolescence is a wild and exciting ride—a time of massive change, selfdiscovery, and the thrill of figuring out who you are and what you’re capable of. For parents, educators, and community leaders, it’s also a golden opportunity to help teenagers tap into their strengths and start shaping their futures as the leaders of tomorrow. But how do we do that? It all comes down to understanding what makes this phase so unique and creating an environment that encourages growth, resilience, and, importantly, kindness.
Parents: The First Leaders In A Teen’s Life
As a parent, your role shifts during the teenage years. You move from being the director of your child’s life to more of a mentor, helping them discover who they are and what they’re good at. One of the best ways to do this is by fostering
open communication and encouraging your teen to think critically, with kindness as the cornerstone of these interactions.
Imagine you have a son, Adam, 14, who was disappointed after not making the school debate team. Instead of focusing on the failure, you turn it into a learning moment. You point out that every experience is an opportunity to learn. That simple shift in perspective, coupled with your kindness and understanding would help Adam see the value in his efforts.
As a parent, you teach leadership by example. When you demonstrate qualities like integrity, responsibility, and, above all, kindness in your own life, your teen is likely to follow suit. You can also encourage them to take on responsibilities at home—maybe they can lead a family project or initiate a discussion about an important topic. These experiences are like mini-
leadership boot camps, right in your living room.
Educators: The Architects Of Growth
Take Ms. Aisha, a high school teacher who spotted leadership potential in Sarah, one of her students. Sarah was organized and excelled in group activities, so Ms. Aisha nudged her to run for student council president. Although Sarah was hesitant at first, she eventually took the plunge, guided by Ms. Aisha’s support and kindness. That experience not only boosted Sarah’s confidence but also lit a fire for public service—a passion that will likely shape her future.
Teachers can also help teens find their strengths by giving personalized feedback and encouraging a growth mindset. When students learn that leadership is about influence and service— not just holding a title—they become more eager to
develop those skills. And when they understand that kindness is a vital part of leadership, they grow into leaders who inspire and uplift others.
Community Leaders: Creating A Safe Space For Growth
Beyond the home and school, community leaders— coaches, youth mentors, and religious leaders—play a crucial role in shaping young people’s futures. They can create spaces where teens feel safe to explore their strengths and take on leadership roles through service-learning projects and other community initiatives, always highlighting the importance of kindness.
It Doesn’t Happen Overnight
Helping teens discover their strengths and develop as future leaders isn’t something that happens
overnight, and it’s not something any of us can do alone. It takes a team effort—from parents to teachers to community leaders—to create the right environment for teens to thrive. We must encourage open communication, provide opportunities for leadership, and offer guidance and support grounded in kindness to help today’s teens become tomorrow’s leaders. And when they succeed, we all do. After all, the leaders we help shape today will be the ones guiding our communities tomorrow. Let’s make sure they’re ready for the challenge.
Jamilah Samian is the author of “Raise Me Right”, “Leadership In Parenting”, “Cool Mum Super Dad”, “The Kindness Miracle”, “Cool Boys Super Sons”, “77 Power Parent Tips”, and “Parenting Generation Y & Z”. For more resources, visit www.coolmumsuperdad. com
AUSTRALIANS HAVE THE RIGHT TO DISCONNECT AFTER WORKING HOURS
By Dr. Abul Jalaluddin
From 26 August 2024, Australians working at organisations with more than 15 employees will have the legal right to ignore all work communications out of working hours when deemed reasonable.
The term “reasonable” is not defined in the right to disconnect legislation and the Fair Work Commission (FWC) is yet to issue any determination in relation to this matter.
Macquarie Dictionary defines “reasonable” as endowed with reason, agreeable to reason or sound judgement, not exceeding the limit prescribed by reason and moderate or moderate in price. This definition might be acceptable to determine circumstances where right to disconnect is reasonable.
What does right to disconnect mean?
The right to disconnect means that outside their working hours, employees can refuse to monitor, read or respond to contact or attempted contact from their employer, or another person if the contact is work-related including work-related contact from clients or members of the public.
Will the law end contact out of working hours?
No. The right to disconnect law will not restrict employers/ managers from contacting employees whenever they wish. But it does give employees the right to refuse work-related communications (emails, phone calls, text messages etc.) outside work hours unless that refusal is deemed unreasonable.
Defining unreasonable refusal
If required by law such as contacts with on call medical professionals in treatment situations, an employee’s refusal to monitor, read or respond to contact or attempted contact will be unreasonable.
If not required by law, the following factors are considered when deciding if disconnection by an employee is unreasonable: the reason for contact; how the contact is made; how much disruption the
Under the Fair Work Amendment (Right to Disconnect) Act 2023, employees of organisations with 15 or less employees will also be able to disconnect after work from 26 August 2025 if it is considered reasonable.
contact causes the employee; any compensation the employee receives to be available to work when the contact is made or to work outside their ordinary hours; the employee’s role & their level of responsibility and the employee’s personal circumstances, including family and/ or caring responsibilities.
Penalty for non-compliance
If an employee raises concerns to FWC regarding an employer’s continuous contact out of work hours, the employer could receive a fine of $18,000.
Dispute resolution
At the first instance, the legislation requires that a dispute about an employee’s right to disconnect should be discussed and resolved at the workplace level. If that is not achieved or achievable, employees or employers may lodge a report to the FWC to deal with a dispute.
Concluding remarks
Several countries in the world have adopted right to disconnect laws in the last decade. France is the pioneer in this space, enacting such laws in 2016. Other countries include Belgium, Italy, Luxembourg, Spain, Slovakia, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Ireland and the Philippines. Details around reasonableness and right to disconnect are yet to be worked out. The industries are grappling with these uncertainties which will depend on individual circumstances of employees. Future “test cases” will provide clarity in the implementation of this new law. The right to disconnect law creates a brand-new right and an opportunity to take control over private life of Australian employees. This law could pave the way for employees to claim compensation for unpaid overtime, significantly impacting sectors where after-hours work is common.
SYDNEY ISLAMIC FUNERALS NEW ATTRACTIVE OFFERS
By Shazma Gaffoor
Sydney Islamic Funerals (SIF) is now offering affordable funeral packages for the Muslim community in New South Wales.
Under the charge of Sydney’s largest mosque Masjid Omar, which provides other services such as religious education, marriage services and community events, SIF specialises in funeral services.
Introduced last month, SIF now offers a complete funeral service from preparation of the will to the final funeral rites starting from $6000 for adult funerals. The funeral service includes 24 hour removal from home, mortuary care, washing & shrouding and janaza with an experienced sheikh among other options.
They offer burial plots in five locations which are, Kemps Creek Memorial Park, Rockwood General Cemetery, Forest Lawn Memorial
Park, Castlebrook Memorial Park and recently introduced, Greendale Garden Cemetery. These offers are available for a limited time at the locations below.
SIF also provides the option of shipping services across the globe with varying charges according to location.
SIF’s website covers pertinent questions comprehensively about the deceased, from what to do at the first signs of someone passing away to visiting the grave afterwards.
For more information and funeral bookings, you can place a request directly on Sydney Islamic Funeral’s website. Alternatively, you could email or call them on the numbers provided on their page. All details are located on their website, sydneyislamicfunerals.org.au.
SMARTRAVELLER TURNS 21
For 21 years, Smartraveller has been a trusted and knowledgeable authority for Australians preparing to travel or already travelling overseas. That’s over 20 years of helping Australians stay safe with travel advice.
Although we weren’t always known as Smartraveller, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has informed Aussie travellers since the 1970s.
The department first published a booklet, ‘Notice to Australian travellers’, which we included with every newly issued passport.
In 1985, the department published a brochure titled ‘Everyone’s guide to trouble-free overseas travel’. However, until the mid-1990s, the department only published travel advisories for countries where there was serious concern for the safety of Australian travellers.
In 1996-97, following the government’s e-strategy, the department began publishing travel advisories on the DFAT website. And to reach even more Aussies, Smartraveller joined social media in 2011!
Today, Smartraveller has information from passports, visas and travel insurance to detailed travel and cultural advice on over 175 destinations.
In the latest survey with the Insurance Council of Australia, 50% of travellers said they’d use a Smartraveller channel for advice.
Remember for your next overseas trip to make Smartraveller your first destination, subscribe for free updates and follow us on social media.
COMMUNITY PHARMACY DELIVERS
CHEAPER
MEDICINES FOR PATIENTS
“It’s now clear that lowering the maximum Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) copayment is the best way to make medicines cheaper and support Australians challenged by the cost of living to meet their healthcare needs,” Pharmacy Guild of Australia
President Professor Trent Twomey said.
Figures released by the Commonwealth Government show lowering the maximum copayment is more than 11 times more effective in delivering cost of living relief to all Australians.
“The numbers prove, in black and white, the positive impact lowering the maximum PBS copayment has on the lives of all Australians, not just a select few.
“The lowering of the maximum co-payment from $42.50 to $30 has saved patients a total of $346 million on medicines, as opposed to the $30 million from 60-day dispensing.
“On behalf of patients and community pharmacists, along with our partners, the Australian Patients Association, Chronic Pain Australia and Food for Change, the Guild campaigned to secure the Government’s historic lowering of the copayment, the first in the 75-year history of the PBS,” Professor Twomey said.
Together with the freezing of the concessional patient co-payments for five years until 1 January 2029, negotiated as part of the Eighth Community Pharmacy Agreement, community pharmacy continues to deliver cheaper medicines for all Australians.
“Community pharmacists are delighted the benefits of these landmark changes are now being realised in the everyday lives of Australians.
“We know, when putting together the weekly budget, some patients continue to go without medicines – so there is more work to be done. The recent 6th Australian Healthcare Index (AHI) survey and report, by Healthengine and the Australian Patients Association, revealed 28% of respondents were skipping buying needed medicine due to cost of living pressures.
“The Australian Bureau of Statistics also reports a rise in the people who delayed or went without prescription medication due to cost, from 5.6 per cent in 2021-22 to 7.6 per cent in 2022-23.
“In a country as fortunate as ours, patients should never feel they need to sacrifice their lifesaving medication in preference of other living costs,” Professor Twomey said.
AL-AQSA COMMUNITY EXHIBITION AT AL-TAQWA COLLEGE
ICOM R U OK? WEEK
ICOM
Our Primary students celebrated an amazing R U OK? week filled with meaningful activities and valuable lessons.
Our students enjoyed some mindful colouring on our giant R U OK? board adding their own creative touches
and making it a vibrant display.
Throughout the week, students got hand-on making friendship bracelets, badges and flowers. While others enjoyed face painting.
Our amazing SRC students set up a pizza and lolly stall where all proceeds were donated towards mental health awareness.
We also held an inspiring Art
and Poetry competition and in class activities throughout the week, where students expressed their thoughts on R U OK? The poetry competition was especially meaningful, as it drew on references from the Holy Quran and Hadith to highlight the importance of mental well-being and supporting our brothers and sisters.
Alhamdullilah we wrapped up the
week with an R U OK? assembly, with a special performance showcasing the importance of inclusiveness and maintaining mental health.
As Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Show mercy to those on the earth, and you will be shown mercy from above.” (Sunan Abi Dawood). This hadith stresses the importance of compassion and support to one another.
ICOM ARABIC WEEK
ICOM
Our students truly shined during Arabic Week, immersing themselves in the beauty and depth of the Arabic language and culture with a series of engaging
assemblies tailored to each level. Arabic holds a special place in Islam, being the language of the Quran and central to understanding the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
From mesmerising Quran recitations that captivated the audience, uplifting songs that highlighted
the language’s musicality, and interactive role-plays that brought Arabic conversations to life.
Informative presentations explored the rich heritage of the language, while impressive student projects demonstrated creativity and skill.
The assemblies also featured exciting prizes and recognition
for outstanding achievements, along with Arabic trivia that tested students’ knowledge and encouraged further learning.
These assemblies were a wonderful way to promote Arabic language and culture.
ICCV
ISLAMIC CO-ORDINATING COUNCIL OF VICTORIA
Helping Australian businesses export halal products to over 140 countries
ICCV is the largest Halal certification organisation in Australia servicing clients locally and internationally.
ICCV is responsible for the certification, monitoring, and supervision of Halal food for the domestic market as well as the export market.
Clients cover a range of sectors including abattoirs, food processing businesses, transportation and cold storage operators.
We are the largest halal certification body in Australia. Professional, experienced and trusted.
AB A T T OIR
We monitor the certified businesses for compliance of halal requirements.
FOOD P R O C ESSING
We work with abattoirs to get and keep their halal certification.
ACCREDITED MARKETS
ICCV is specifically accredited within these Muslim majority countries.
Our certification is approved for all halal importing countries.
We provide full turnkey solution for FGMs to get halal.
Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Brunei, Oman, Kingdom of Bahrain,Tunisia,Yemen, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Kuwait, Libya, Qatar, Afghanistan, Albania, Bangladesh, Bosnia, Iran, Kosova, Morocco, Maldives.
We provide a means for direct supervision in house for quality assurance.
SUPP L Y CHAIN
We provide logistics companies for cold room and transport to get halal.
Our certificate is approved in countries that now require halal certificate if goods have halal stamps:
Canada, South Korea, China, European Union (EU), New Zealand, Russia Federation, Sri Lanka, United Kingdom, United States of America (USA).
VICTORIA 2024 LOCAL COUNCIL ELECTIONS GUIDE
ABOUT ELECTIONS WHEN IS THE NEXT LOCAL COUNCIL ELECTIONS?
• Local council elections will be held in Victoria by post this October for all councils except Moira Shire Council.
• The roll closed at 4 pm on Wednesday 7 August. It is too late to enrol or update your enrolment for these elections.
• Your vote matters. Local council elections are your chance to choose who you want to represent your community on the issues that you care about.
Do I have to vote?
• You must vote in your local council election if you are enrolled to vote.
• You do not need to vote if your local council is Moira Shire Council.
• If you get a ballot pack and do not vote, you will be sent a letter.
• You will be asked why you did not vote.
• You may have to pay a fine.
Information for carers
The guide for families, carers and supporters of people with a cognitive impairment due to disabilities or age-related illnesses is full of tips and advice for helping someone you care for to enrol and vote in an election.
How voting works
Local council elections are held by post. all voters will recieve ballot packs so you can complete your vote and post it back before the voting deadline. You can also hand deliver it to the election office in your council area.
What happens at a voting centre
When you vote at a voting centre, you will be asked:
• your name and address
• if you have already voted in the election.
It will also:
• confirm your electorate
• mark your name on the roll to record you have voted
• give you your ballot paper(s).
You will then be directed to a voting compartment so you can fill in your ballot paper(s) privately. You must then place your completed ballot paper(s) in the ballot box.
ABOUT ELECTIONS
LOCAL COUNCIL ELECTIONS
Local councils make decisions about local issues, for example:
• sporting facilities and recreation reserves
• libraries and community centres
• animal registrations
• rubbish and recycling collection.
Who you elect
In a local council election, you are voting for people to become councillors.
Depending on your council, you may be voting for:
• several people from the whole council area to represent you (an unsubdivided council)
• several people from the council area to represent your section of the community (multi-councillor wards) or
• one person from the council area to represent your section of the community (single councillor wards).
Check the structure of your council.
After all the councillors have been elected, they decide who will act as mayor (except in Melbourne City Council).
Melbourne City Council
In Melbourne City Council elections, you elect:
• the lord mayor and deputy lord mayor (also known as the leadership team)
• 9 councillors.
ENROL TO VOTE HELP IN YOUR LANGUAGE
For every major election we translate information on how to enrol, find your candidates and vote into 20 languages, including Auslan.
Some of our election staff can speak other languages as well as English. At a voting centre, they’ll be wearing a sticker to let you know which languages they speak.
You can also talk to us in any language by phoning 03 9209 0112 during business hours.
AWAY DURING THE ELECTION
You can ask us to send a replacement ballot pack to a new address (including interstate and overseas addresses) if:
• you will be away when ballot packs are mailed (from Monday 7 October)
• your address has changed since the roll closed (Wednesday 7 August).
If you have moved within or out of your council area after the roll closed, you must vote for your old address. If you fail to vote, you risk a fine.
Applications open on Tuesday 15 October.
Ballot pack replacement Vote in person
If you’ll be away from your enrolled address with no access to mail, you can vote in person at your local election office.
For the Melbourne City Council election, you can vote in person at the election office after 3 pm on Thursday 19 September (following the ballot draw) then from 9 am on weekdays until Friday 25 October, excluding public holidays.
For all other councils, you can vote in person at the election office for that council. In person voting is open weekdays from 10 am, Wednesday 18 September to Friday 25 October, excluding public holidays.
The election office is a temporary office set up in your council area for the election. You can vote or drop off your ballot pack at the relevant election office, but not your local council’s offices.
Find your local election office and opening hours on the election venue locator.
If you’re going to be away from your enrolled address between Monday 7 October and Friday 25 October, you may still be able to vote in your local council’s election.
YOUR LOCAL COUNCIL
• Your vote helps to decide who is in charge.
• Every Australian citizen aged 18 years or older must enrol and vote.
• You must vote at every Federal, State and local council election.
• If you do not vote you may have to pay a fine.
Your local council
• Victoria has 79 local councils. Your local council depends on where you live.
• For local council elections you vote for people who make decisions about your local area.
• These people are called councillors.
• The leader of the council is called the mayor.
What councillors do?
Your councillors make decisions about:
• parks and sporting grounds
• community services
• libraries
• roads and footpaths
• rubbish and recycling
• public buildings and halls
• dog and cat registration
• building and construction.
When is my local council election?
• Local council elections are held every 4 years.
• Ballot packs are mailed out in October.
• Contact the VEC if you do not get your ballot
• pack by Tuesday 15 October.
HOW DO I VOTE?
YOU WILL GET A BALLOT PACK IN THE MAIL.
POSTAL VOTING
My ballot pack
Your ballot pack has:
• a ballot paper
• a ballot paper envelope
• instructions about how to vote
• information about the candidates (these are called candidate statements).
• a reply paid envelope to mail your ballot paper back. Phone the VEC if you do not get your ballot pack by Tuesday 15 October.
How
do I fill in my ballot paper?
This is an example of a ballot paper.
You must write a number in each box on the ballot paper
• write 1 in the box next to the person you most want to win
• write 2 in the box next to your second choice
• keep numbering until every box has a number
• use numbers only.
Source: The State of Victoria (Victorian Electoral Commission)
Step 1. Put number 1 on Team Kouta box below and number every box after to make your vote valid
Step 1. To vote for TEAM KOUTA for councillor, follow the preferences below.
Step 2. Number every box to make
• fill in your ballot paper
HOW TO VOTE
• put your finished ballot paper in the ballot paper envelope
• complete your details on the back, write your date of birth, sign and date it
• put your ballot paper envelope in the bigger addressed reply-paid envelope
• you do not need a stamp
• put it in the post as soon as you can
• Your vote must be in the mail or hand delivered to your local election office by 6 pm on Friday 25 October.
CANDIDATES
People who want to be on the local council are called candidates. Each person has different ideas. You need to pick the person or people who you think will do the best job. Each candidate writes to voters about their ideas.
• You will get candidate statements in your ballot pack. or
• You can phone the candidate and talk to them.
This information will help you make a choice. Contact details for candidates are on the VEC website.
With pride and responsibility, I am running as your Greens-endorsed candidate for North Central Ward. I will work tirelessly to make Darebin more representative, equitable, and safe.
My family and I have called Reservoir home for 17 years and love living in our diverse community.
As a devoted father, experienced engineer and committed human rights activist, I believe Council must address the big issues through local action. If elected, my priorities are to:
Tackle cost of living and prioritise people over profit by funding local services and advocating for affordable housing.
Build a new sustainable Reservoir Leisure Centre.
Enhance community pride and safety by eliminating traffic hotspots, discouraging hoon-driving, tackling rubbish dumping and making our parks and streets safer.
Improve Council procurement policies to ensure service providers align with our values and are not involved in human rights breaches, including the genocide in Gaza.
Lead local climate action by supporting programs like solar bulk-buying, building a neighbourhood battery, and improving public transport in collaboration with state government.
With my engineering qualifications and passion for human rights, I will bring new knowledge to council. greens.org.au/vic
Darebin City Council Elections postal ballot between 7th and 25th October.
greens.org.au/mohammad-helmy
mohammad.helmy@vic.greens.org.au
www.vec.vic.gov.au
CHECK
THE MEANINGS OF WORDS
Ballot paper envelope: an envelope where you put your filled-in ballot paper. You sign your name and write the date on this flap.
• Ballot pack: a set of papers, envelopes and instructions to use for postal voting.
• Ballot paper: a sheet of paper you write your vote on.
• Candidate: a person who wants to be a councillor.
• Candidate statements: information about each candidate in your ballot pack.
• Councillors: a group of people chosen by the people in the local area to make decisions about this area.
• Enrol: put your name on a list to vote.
• Local council: your local area and the people who make decisions about it.
• Mayor: the leader of councillors.
• Rates: money you pay to your local council. Your council uses this money for roads, public buildings and community services.
• Postal vote: voting at home and sending your vote in the mail. All local councils use postal voting. Use the ballot pack you get in the mail.
• Vote or voting: to make your choice on your ballot paper.
• VoterAlert: free SMS or email service for voting reminders if you are on the State roll.
Saved council’s aged care service
Taken up pedestrian safety
Campaigned to fix Upfield Train Line Opposed Islamophobia Won first successful pro-Palestine motion
Source: The State of Victoria (Victorian Electoral Commission)
More information
You can get more information from the Victorian Electoral Commission.
If you are deaf, hard of hearing, and/or have speech impairment phone National Relay Service 133 677 and ask for 03 8620 1100.
For speech-to-speech relay phone 1300 555 727 and ask for 03 8620 1100
Sue Bolton stands up for the community
Authorised by D Holmes, PO box 392, Carlton South Vic 3053
Saved Fawkner outdoor swimming pool
VOTE TEAM KOUTA
GENOCIDE ACCOMPANIES SETTLER COLONISATION –SOUTHWESTERN VICTORIA AND PALESTINE
Bilal Cleland dunk1689@gmail.com
Most Victorians are familiar with the Great Ocean Road, built from 1919 to 1932, extending from Geelong to the Surf Coast then to the sandstone cliffs of Port Campbelle and on to Warrnambool, Port Fairy and Portland.
This road is remembered as one of the great projects of the immediate post-war era when the government was forced to create jobs for returning soldiers.
What not many travellers remember is that this journey covers a sad and distressing history of First Nations dispossession, resistance and genocide, the Eumeralla Wars of the 1830s and 40s
Settler Colonialism
The colonisation of Australia by Britain was based upon the doctrine 0f Terra Nullius, a land without people.
This is similar to the later statement by Herzl about settlement in Palestine in terms of “a people without a land to a land without a people.
Of course, both assumptions were false and were soon demonstrated as such by the resistance of the indigenous inhabitants who had lived there for thousands of years.
Looking at the process of colonisation, there is a common theme whether in Palestine or southwestern Victoria.
Imperial Entitlement
Identified as the Dhawurd Wurrung language speakers, composed of 56 clans and 5 sub-dialects by Ian Grant in his Scars in the Landscape, the inhabitants
of the Warrnambool, Port Fairy and Portland districts, suffered from British whalers incursions from 1810.
The Convincing Ground Massacre of 1833 or 34 was the first recorded of a series of clashes and massacres which went on for decades.
The European settlers regarded the land as unoccupied and open to their sheep.
The Gunditjmara waged guerrilla war, taking sheep and cattle for food and threatening their shepherds.
The demand of the British textile industry for wool meant high profits from the fertile lands of the indigenous people.
Drought from 1838 then a colonial depression, put economic pressure on the squatters, intensifying conflict.
In 1837 settlers in the Portland Bay District appealed to Governor Bourke for protection from attacks.
In 1838 a group of 82 settlers threatened to declare a ‘black war’ if authorities did not give them further protection but in fact rapes and massacres were already occurring.
Palestine, then part of the Ottoman Empire, was also seen as a land for the taking and there were sporadic attempts to settle European Jews there, beginning with sponsored refugees from the Russian pogroms following the assassination of the czar in 1861.
Herzl’s vision was of a secular Zionism which denounced theocracy and espoused liberal European values.
But it was from the beginning a colonial project, as he explained in his letter to Cecil Rhodes.
Palestine’s significance increased once Britain had taken control of the Suez Canal, the route to India and the east. 1915-1917 during the war, several developments drove the British government to announce the Balfour Declaration, its support for a Jewish state in Palestine.
The Palestinians objected.
The Palestine Arab Delegation, Observations on the High Commissioner’s
Interim Report on the Civil Administration of Palestine during the period 1st July 1920 – 30th June 1921 stated: “What confusion would ensue all the world over if this principle on which the Jews base their “legitimate” claim were carried out in other parts of the world! What migrations of nations must follow! The Spaniards in Spain would have to make room for the Arabs and Moors who conquered and ruled their country for over 700 years…” Reason had not place before imperial ambition.
Dehumanisation
Dehumanisation, which elevates the status of the invader and portrays the dispossessed as inferior in every way, makes dispossession palatable to the settler, whether in Palestine or southwestern Victoria.
The Gunditjmara, like all the tribes, were regarded as devoid of culture, devoid of history and unworthy to occupy their lands.
Typical was the attitude expressed in an 1841 meeting between leading colonists and officials in Portland with the Chief Protector of Aborigines, George Robinson.
“They thought the local Aboriginal people were barely human and that soldiers should be brought in to shoot whole tribes along the Glenelg.”
Ian Clarke in Scars in The Landscape, documents dozens of massacre sites in southwestern Victoria.
The Zionist colonisers of Palestine reflect similar attitudes to the occupied.
Herzl in The Jewish State, echoed by his followers over the years, wrote that the Zionist project, “…shall be a sector of the wall of Europe against Asia, we shall serve as the outpost of civilization against barbarism.”
Israeli peace activist Uri Avnery wrote “[Herzl’s] sentence could easily be written today. American thinkers propound the ‘clash of civilisations’, with Western ‘Judeo-Christian’ culture battling ‘Islamic barbarism’. American
Source: kooriweb.org
leaders declare that Israel is the outpost of Western civilization in the fight against Arab-Muslim ‘international terrorism’.”
Genocide as the Final Solution
The Gunditjmarra killed sheep and cattle and the occasional shepherd.
Like the response of Israel to resistance, this was met by violence, Native Police attacks and poisoning.
There were many cases of damper laced with arsenic being provided to hungry families who died in agony. Robinson recorded that he saw several who had survived but who could not walk.
Squatters and their henchmen went on shooting parties, comparing black hunts to kangaroo hunts.
Thomas Browne alias Rolf Boldrewood, like Herzl and his original liberal European values, defended the local inhabitants as fine but wronged people until a party of them stole food from his house.
He demanded help from the Governor and a party of police was sent after the perpetrators. They were tracked down and many killed, “… when the troop turn their horses’ heads homeward, all the known leaders of the tribe are down.” [10 August 2013 SMH]
Another threat was eliminated.
The remnants of the
indigenous population were herded onto a Mission Station at Lake Condah where their culture and language was forbidden. This genocidal pattern is still underway in Palestine. Francesca Albanese speaking at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, presented her report, ‘Anatomy of a Genocide’.
“Following nearly six months of unrelenting Israeli assault on occupied Gaza, it is my solemn duty to report on the worst of what humanity is capable of, and to present my findings,” she said. [26 March 2024 UN News]
A leading American Islamic scholar, Omar Suleiman, summarised the situation in Gaza:
“This time, the Nakba is being televised, and it has a stench of finality to it. What is happening in Palestine can no longer be described as genocide or even ethnic cleansing. It is beyond mass extermination – it is total erasure.” [19 October 2023 Al Jazeera]
The difference in responses to indigenous rights in North America, Australia, New Zealand. Ireland and South Africa seems related to whether the indigenous inhabitants were able to assert their rights in that nation, or whether the indigenous were suppressed.
The author is a prominent Australian Muslim scholar and activist.
MUSLIM VOTES MATTER TAKES OFF
By Shazma Gaffoor
The Melbourne-based grassroots movement Muslim Votes Matter or MVM launched its national campaign on September 1, 2024, at the Broadmeadows Townhall, geared to inform the community of their purpose particularly in the current climate and in the lead up to the Federal elections.
Moderated by MVM Western Australia (WA) lead, Naser Alziyadat, the campaign kicked off with WA Ulama Board President, Sheikh Mohammed Shakeeb, who spoke about why the Muslim community should care about politics, to a packed audience of 350 attendees. Then recently returned Australian surgeon from Gaza, Dr Bushra Othman, addressed in an emotional speech about the failing medical system and the harrowing plight of many Gazans, where she felt they only seemed to scratch the surface during their three-week medical mission. Dr Othman stated the need for the Muslim community to be “involved and aware of who their constituents are” will enable them to make better informed decisions about issues pertaining to the Muslim community.
Other prolific speakers include Muslim Women Australia CEO Maha Abdo OAM, who spoke about making informed decisions in the current
climate; community health and anti-racism advocate, Dr Umber Rind, who drew a parallel between the Indigenous struggle and what’s unfolding in Gaza presently; community veteran and former head of Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV) and currently representing Muslim Voices of Calwell, Nail Aykin, highlighted that there was “no more safe seats” add believes the community’s best option is a hung parliament.
Video recorded speeches were also played from MVM’s UK counterpart Dr Wajid Akhter who expressed a principle-based approach is what’s required to political empowerment. Advice about what it means to be a ‘thinking Muslim’ was also delivered through a pre-recorded video by The Thinking Muslim podcast host, Muhammad Jalal.
The final speaker, renowned community activist and MVM’s national representative, Ghaith
Krayem, took to stage to address their mission and impact as well as detailed insights into MVM activities. The event concluded with a panel discussion between Nail Aykin, Maha Abdo and Ghaith Krayem about ‘the future of political engagement for Muslims in Australia’.
MVM was formed aiming to amplify Muslim voices, and back potential candidates who align with addressing issues facing the Muslim community in Australia.
FACING THE FEAR OF AN LNP VICTORY: A COMMUNITY PERSPECTIVE
By Ghaith Krayem Muslim Votes Matter
One concern that frequently arises in discussions surrounding political activism is the fear of inadvertently helping the LNP Coalition win another term in government. The question is often asked, “What if the LNP wins because of what we’re doing? Aren’t they worse?” This is a legitimate concern, and it’s important to address it with both realism and long-term strategy.
First, let’s consider the political landscape.
For the LNP Coalition to secure a majority, they would need to gain 21 seats in the upcoming election—an incredibly high bar. Even if they were to count on the support of conservative independents like Bob Katter, the math still doesn’t favor them. Historically, major electoral
swings of this magnitude are rare, especially in today’s political climate where independent candidates and minor parties are gaining traction. Since 2000, we’ve seen that major political shifts happen under extraordinary circumstances, and the current environment doesn’t suggest such a wave in the Coalition’s favor. While we cannot be complacent, the numbers simply don’t indicate a strong likelihood of an LNP comeback.
Even in the improbable event of an LNP victory, it’s essential to remain focused on the long-term objectives of our community. Our political engagement isn’t about the outcome of a single election, but about building lasting power and influence. If we allow the fear of short-term setbacks to paralyse us, we risk losing sight of the broader goals we are working toward.
Our community has weathered years of LNP governance before, and while another term under their rule may not be ideal, it’s a sacrifice we can endure if it leads to longterm political empowerment. We must consider the broader impact: emerging from this period with a more united, politically engaged community that is ready to influence future policies and leaders.
It’s true that the rhetoric from the LNP is often divisive, and their policies can stoke fear and discrimination. However, it’s important not to be swayed by
rhetoric alone. Both major parties, including Labor, have enacted policies that have harmed our community.
For example, it was a Labor government that introduced offshore processing for asylum seekers—a policy that directly affected vulnerable individuals.
More recently, Labor has introduced legislation that impacts faith-based schools, which raises concerns for religious freedom. Since the events of 9/11, both parties have contributed to the securitization and criminalization of our community. While their public statements may differ, the outcomes of their policies often look strikingly similar.
We must not fall into the trap of believing that one party will automatically protect our rights and dignity, while the other will not. Our political engagement must be based on the principles of justice and fairness, not on the assumption that any single party will act in our best interest without consistent pressure.
Ultimately, we must ask ourselves a moral question, “Is it a price we are willing to pay to stand against genocide?” Our political decisions must reflect our values, and standing firm in the face of injustice— regardless of the potential political consequences—is a defining moment for our community.
The stakes are high, and the potential risks of another LNP term are real. However, compromising our
principles for short-term political gains risks losing the very essence of what we are fighting for. Justice, fairness, and human rights are not negotiable, and if standing up for these values means enduring another term under a government that we don’t agree with, then that is a price we must be prepared to pay.
In the end, our focus must remain on long-term empowerment and the pursuit of justice, rather than the fear of short-term setbacks. As a community, we must continue to build our political influence and strengthen our collective voice so that we can shape the future. This is not about one election or one party, but about laying the groundwork for lasting change that will benefit generations to come.
In Surah An-Nisa (4:135), we are reminded:
“O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just.”
This verse calls on us to stand firm in the pursuit of justice, even when it’s difficult. It emphasises that justice must be upheld above personal ties or inclinations. In these challenging times, we must take this to heart. Our actions today will define us as a community and shape the future for generations to come.
