Australia is a true melting pot of cultures and religions, from those whose ancestry dates back millennia, to those who will have arrived just this year.
Tarneit is home to thousands of Islamic people and three fantastic mosques: Virgin Mary Mosque, Melbourne Grand Mosque and Golden Wattle Masjid.
It was great to see this mosque open day, Victorians learning more about Islam and who Muslims are, demystifying mosques, breaking down stereotypes surrounding Muslims and revealing the rich diversity we have within our community of Tarneit. It was a chance to overcome the negative and invective rhetoric that we may hear and build dialogue, understanding and respect in the community.
Breaking down Islamophobia is not just a moral imperative, it is also crucial for building a more just, peaceful and equitable world. Let us all commit to taking action and making a difference by supporting policies that promote equity and inclusion and working toward a society that values diversity and celebrates our differences. Let us all remember that peace is at the heart of the Muslim faith.
The Allan Labor Government is continuing to deliver for Melbourne’s west with two new train stations and planning upgrades for a third – improving safety, accessibility and better connecting locals for years to come.
Riverdale North Primary School is set to open Term 1, 2025