Islamophobia in the NT
Article adapted from Australia's Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia and Action Against Islamophobia, 2026
There is no universally accepted definition of Islamophobia. It is an umbrella term that means a number of things. Some define it as anti-Muslim hatred, anti-Muslim sentiment and anti-Muslim prejudice. Increasingly, many academics, activists and community leaders define it as anti-Muslim racism.
Islamophobia is a form of racism that specifically targets Muslims or those perceived to be connected to Islam or the Muslim community. It manifests in various ways, from overt acts of violence to subtle forms of discrimination. This prejudice not only seeks to marginalise and silence Muslims but also denies them their rights, equal opportunities, and freedom of movement in society.
Institutionalised and systemic Islamophobia involves policies, practices, and norms within organisations and systems that unfairly disadvantage Muslims, reinforce stereotypes, and perpetuate discrimination. It manifests through discriminatory policies, unequal access, biased media, underrepresentation, and marginalisation, and addressing it promotes a more equitable and inclusive society.
Australian Initiatives to Combat Islamophobia
Australia's Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia
Islamophobia Register Australia
Ways to report a hate crime
By reporting incidents, you become part of a larger movement to remove hate, racism and prejudice from our society. Reporting also allows authorities to understand patterns of behaviour in local areas to maintain your safety. Many reporting options are available to you:
Community registers
Your local Muslim Organisation / Imam
Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC)
To lodge a complaint with the AHRC, call the AHRC’s National Information Service on 1300 656 419 or 02 9284 9888
NT Anti-Discrimination Commission | NT Anti-Discrimination Commission
Local Councils
You should check if your local council can resolve or address your complaint – for example, graffiti removal or street cleaning.
Online safety | eSafety Commissioner
If the incident happens online, you may be able to report it to the Office of the eSafety Commissioner.
If you are a bystander or witness to hate, racism or prejudice
If you witness an assault or an act of violence, contact the police:
In an emergency or life-threatening situation, call:
Triple Zero (000)
and ask for police.
If there is no immediate danger, call:
Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
or the Police Assistance Line (131 444).
When people who witness hate, racism or prejudice speak out against it, this act makes the person being targeted feel supported. It can make the person being hateful reconsider their behaviour. Don’t put yourself at risk. But if it is safe to do so, speak up and stand with the victim. Even a simple gesture can be powerful.
The AHRC has tips for Bystander action: how to speak up against racism.
You can also submit a written report to Crime Stoppers. Crime Stoppers is an independent non-for-profit that collects information on crimes and shares accordingly with law enforcement agencies.