OSECI launches Australia's first National Islamophobia Index
The Office of Australia's Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia (OSECI) today announced the launch of Australia's first National Islamophobia Index, a landmark initiative that will measure and track community attitudes towards Muslims and Islam across the country.
Commissioned by OSECI and delivered in partnership with the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute, the Index will establish a robust national evidence base to better understand the drivers of anti-Muslim prejudice, inform policy development, and support programs that strengthen inclusion and social cohesion.
The research will provide ongoing insights into attitudes towards Muslims across different demographic groups, regions, and social contexts, while identifying both the risk factors that contribute to discrimination and the conditions that promote belonging and inclusion.
Statement from Australia's Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia, Aftab Malik
"Effective action requires strong evidence. The National Islamophobia Index will provide Australia with the first comprehensive measure of attitudes towards Muslims and Islam, helping move the conversation beyond anecdotes and towards data-driven solutions. The Index will support governments, institutions and communities to better understand the nature and drivers of Islamophobia, strengthen accountability, and inform practical actions that foster inclusion and social cohesion."
The research will be conducted by the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute using a nationally representative sample drawn from Life in AustraliaTM, the Social Research Centre's probability-based research panel.
Statement from Scanlon Foundation Research Institute CEO, Anthea Hancocks
"By measuring attitudes through a nationally representative framework, the National Islamophobia Index will provide important insights into factors that contribute to social cohesion in Australia. This research will help build a stronger understanding of community attitudes and support efforts to create a society where everyone feels safe, respected and included."
Findings will be published through an annual National Islamophobia Index report, providing valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, community organisations and the broader public.