Over the past 6 years, organisations such as the AIS have strived to implement strategic activities assisting in the integration of migrant communities with the mainstream. Notable changes in the mindset and behaviour of the minority groups that have been touched by the efforts of interfaith/Intercultural dialogue organisations have been evident.

However, the support of mainstream community and Government Offices is paramount in the success of integration exercises. Minority communities must be the recipients of encouragement and motivation in order to enable them to feel secure and comfortable about extending beyond their long established and limiting comfort zones.

Recent remarks by the Prime Minister isolating selective minority groups and questioning their efforts towards skills in the English language are extremely discouraging and can nullify the courage instilling efforts by dialogue groups for integration. We certainly do agree that a grasp of the English language should be evident in all Australian citizens; however this is an issue that applies to all migrant communities, not just Muslims as was singled out by the Prime Minister. Issues such as language and terrorism are national concerns and hence affect the whole of the nation and not individual groups. A national resolution is the only logical path to resolve these issues and no favours are being done by further isolating communities that are presenting deprived of the most important human need, the need to belong.

We urge government offices to path the way for mainstream adherence towards embracing our multifaith/multicultural society and establishing logical and practical holistic solutions to be employed by all Australians.

Kind Regards