History of Islam in Western Australia
The Nexus between Muslims and WA begins with the early Imperial Policy in the
early 1800's when the European Muslims Migrated from Albania, Greece, Kosovar,
Bulgaria etc.
However, the earliest Muslim contact with Australia and WA in particular goes
back to 850 CE when Arab navigators mapped the coast line of Western and Northern
Australia.
The first large scale migration took place in 1887 when Afghan Camel handlers
were invited by the Colonial Secretary. The first group arrived in Fremantle
on SS Abergeldine on Sept. 28, 1887.
Muslim ventures such as Mirdosh Khan & Co. established camel transport and
carrying operation in the colony of W.A. These early pioneers were instrumental
in the opening up and development of the Goldfields and other remote areas of
W.A.
Subsequently Muslims from other parts of the world were arriving (Malay, Greek,
Indian, Afghan, etc.) in late 1800s.
more information
Western Australian Muslim Historical Society
wamhs@hotmail.com
A History of Islam in Australia
Islam in WA Today
Islam in Australia is growing up fast. There is an appreciable conversion rate
generally. Islam is Australis's second biggest religion. Muslims are estimated
to be over 300,000. Govt. census 1996 shows 12,583 Muslims in W.A. However conservative
Muslim estimate put the number over 15,000 counting the fact that some do not
for various reasons declare their religion on Govt. forms. Most of these Muslims
arrived post War, particularly in 1960s and 1970s. The main ones are Malays,
Arabs, Turks, Yugoslavs, Indians, Pakistanis, Afghans, South Africans, Somalians,
Burmese and Bosnians.
In 1975/76, The Islamic Council of Western Australia was formed to co-ordinate
the Islamic activity in the state. Islamic societies are generally affiliated
with ICWA. Each state has an Islamic Council which jointly forms the Australian
Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) headoffice in Sydney.
In WA, 4 full time Muslim primary and 1 high school (in 2000) fulfill the Muslim's
secular and religious needs. All schools are recognized by the Australian Government
and follow the Govt. curricula, offering strong and supportive environment to
learn the Islamic values.
Muslims like the followers of other faiths, enjoy full religious freedom in
Australia. Tabligh Jamaats frequently visit Perth and other towns to call people
back to basics. Women groups are fairly active and organise many useful programmes
for families and children. Classes for the new Muslims are held at various places.
The Holy Quran and other Islamic books are easily available in every Mosque.
Halal meat/food and Muslim burial facilities are also available. Hospitals in
WA must provide Halal food whenever requested. Non-Muslims interested to know
more about Muslims or the Islamic way of life can get FREE material through
the Australian Muslim Information and Education Service. AMIES is a non-profit
and non-political social welfare organisation. Besides providing obligation
free material on Islam, it organises seminars, training workshops, Islamic tours
and multifaith meetings. Limited social work service is also available for the
needy clients. Request for free literature and other queries may be directed
to:
Br. AHMAD ISMAILJEE Tel: 92280092
a_ismailjee@yahoo.com
or write to the Co-ordinator, AMIES P O Box 1180 CLOVERDALE, WA 6105.