In Australia, people can express their beliefs and practise their religion without fear and interference. The Muslim population is as diverse as the population of Australia in terms of their natural heritage, customs and traditions. They represent less than two percent of the total population of Australia. Almost 40 percent of the Muslim population were born here. There are Muslims who have migrated from over 70 countries. The three main languages spoken by them at home are Arabic, Turkish and English.
Muslims can choose to become citizens of Australia, which gives them certain rights and places obligations on them as well. A wide-range research on the relations between Muslims and Non-Muslims was conducted over a period of two years. There has been a proliferation of misperceptions and lack of understanding between them. This can lead to ‘fear’ of the other and influence judgement. Stereotypes and prejudices widens the division between them not just in Australia but globally as well.
The international political issues and Australia’s foreign policy towards the Middle East are seriously and intently observed by the Muslim community here. There is a lot of discontent and frustration because of the lack of resolution on the Israel-Palestine conflict and ongoing suffering of the Palestine people; this affects the attitude of the Australian Muslim community towards the West.
The Media has played a huge role in perpetuating misunderstandings and misconceptions about Islam to the West which are not true of all Muslims. The best way to remove such misunderstandings is communication and learning and getting to know each other. There is the willingness on both sides to learn more about each other and co-exist in peace and harmony.
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