In the aftermath of the Bondi Beach terrorist attack, a concerning trend has emerged: women donning hijabs are facing a surge in anti-Muslim abuse. The Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) has reported a near-200% increase in hate incidents since the attack, with a Muslim disability support worker, a hijab-wearing woman, and others becoming victims of harassment and intimidation. The ANIC's Action Against Islamophobia initiative has recorded 62 incidents, including physical attacks and online hate speech, primarily targeting women in Sydney. This wave of Islamophobia has left the Muslim community reeling, with many expressing fear and devastation. The incident has sparked a debate about the role of divisive rhetoric in politics and media, with concerns that it may be fueling anti-Muslim sentiment. Member for Bankstown Jihad Dib, a member of the Islamic community, expressed disappointment over the rise in hate incidents, particularly those targeting women. He called for bystanders to become upstanders, standing against hate and intolerance. The NSW Premier, Chris Minns, described the reports of heightened aggression as 'horrifying' and 'disgusting', emphasizing that racism will not be tolerated in the community.
