ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF INDEX

MEMBERS 3 OUR PEOPLE 4 OUR SERVICES 4 PRESIDENT’S REPORT 5 GENERAL MANAGER'S REPORT 6 PEOPLE BEHIND THE ICV & CITY 7 ADVOCACY 8 9 HOSPITAL CHAPLAINCY 10-11 EMERGENCY ASSIST 11 ICV COMMUNITY LEADERS ANNUAL DINNER 2014 12 ICV STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS DINNER 12 BENDIGO ISLAMIC CENTRE EID DINNER 13 OFFICE FOR WOMEN 14 PASSION CAFÉ 14 YOUTH ENGAGEMENT 15-16 ROYAL HOSPITAL FRIDAY PRAYERS 16 MULTIFAITH - JCMA STRATEGIC PLANNING DAY 17 MULTIFAITH - JCMA RELIGION IN THE MEDIA 17 MULTIFAITH - JCMA SUPER SUNDAY SEMINAR 18 MULTIFAITH - HELEN HEATH FAREWELLS JCMA 19 MULTIFAITH - JOURNEY TO 19 MUSLIM LEADERSHIP PROGRAM 20 INDONESIA EXCHANGE PROGRAM 20 IMAMS STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY 21 IMAM’S TOUR OF THE IMA 21 EVENTS OF 2014 22 TREASURER'S REPORT 23

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 2 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 MEMBERS AFGHAN ISLAMIC SOCIETY ALBANIAN AUSTRALIAN ISLAMIC SOCIETY ALBANIAN MUSLIM SOCIETY OF AL-EHSAN CENTRE ARARAT ISLAMIC WELFARE ASSOCIATION ASWJ AUSTRALIA BANGLADESH ISLAMIC COUNCIL INC. AUSTRALIAN BOSNIAN ISLAMIC CENTRE DEER PARK AUSTRALIAN ISLAMIC MISSION AUSTRALIAN ISLAMIC SOCIAL ASSOCIATION (MILLI GORUS) AUSTRALIAN MUSLIM MEDIA AUSTRALIAN MUSLIM SOCIAL SERVICES AGENCY (AMSSA) BENDIGO ISLAMIC ASSOCIATION INC BENEVOLENCE AUSTRALIA BILALE ETHIOOPIAN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION VICTORIA BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA ISLAMIC SOCIETY CYPRUS TURKISH ISLAMIC COMMUNITY INC. DANDENONG TURKISH ISLAMIC CULTURAL SOCIETY DARUSSALAM SOCOETY EL SEDEAQ ISLAMIC SOCIETY ERITREAN ISLAMIC SOCIETY OF AUSTRALIA FEDERATION OF AUSTRALIAN MUSLIM STUDENTS AND YOUTH (FAMSY) GOULBURN VALLEY TURKISH ISLAMIC & CULTURAL SOCIETY HIRA HIYC IISCA IMAN INDONESIAN MUSLIM COMMUNITY OF VICTORIA (IMCV) ISLAMIC ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA ISLAMIC ASSOCIATION OF MONASH MOSQUE INC. ISLAMIC CALL SOCIETY OF AUSTRALIA ISLAMIC SOCIETY OF ALBURY-WODONGA ISLAMIC SOCIETY OF BALLARAT ISLAMIC SOCIETY OF MELBOURNE EASTERN REGION ISLAMIC SOCIETY OF VICTORIA - PRESTON MOSQUE MAAREFA GROUP MANO RIVER ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA MYCENTRE AND IISNA NEWPORT ISLAMIC SOCIETY UNITED MUSLIM MIGRANT ASSOCIATION UNITED SRI LANKAN MUSLIM ASSOCIATION IN AUSTRALIA (USMAA) WERRIBEE ISLAMIC CENTRE AFFILIATE MEMBERS ARKAN TOLEDO CARE WITH ME ISLAMIC WEEKEND SCHOOL MUSLIM LEGAL NETWORK

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 3 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 OUR PEOPLE OUR SERVICES

EXECUTIVES 1.CISP – Community Integration Support Program Nadeem Hussain P resident 2.City Mosque & Religious Services Mohamad Tabiaat Vice President 3.Emergency Assist Ghaith Krayem Secretary 4.Hospital Chaplaincy Eugenia Flynn T reasurer 5.MLP – Muslim Leadership Program Almir Colan Executive Member 6.Multifaith & Multicultural Engagement Ecehan B. Gulbayrak Executive Member 7.Muslim Connect – Post Release Rehabilitation Program Osama Saad Executive Member 8.NILS – No Interest Loan Scheme 9.Ofce for Women RETIRED EXECUTIVES 10.Ofce for Youth Maryum Chaudhry Vice President 11.Prison Chaplaincy Nazeem Hussain Executive Member 12. Iftar & Eid Prayers Mohamad Tabbaa Executive Member 13.Refugee & Asylum Seeker Support Sam Soueid Executive Member 14.Youth Engagement Program Monique Toohey Executive Member 15.Zakat

STAFF Nail Aykan General Manager Sumeyya Sener Kutlu Executive Assistant Bahriye Bol Communications Ofcer Cornelius Romein IT Administrator Rahil Khan Chaplaincy Co -ordinator Altaf Hussain Senior P rison Chaplain Sheikh Abdinur Weli ICV Imam Sheikh Mustafa Sarakibi ICV Imam & Prison Chaplain Ayman Zakat Ofcer Asma Siddiq NILS Ofcer Lina Ayoubi Hospital Chaplaincy Co-ordinator Anthony Vitale CISP P rogram Manager Remzi Unal CISP Liaison Ofcer Muhammad Hijazi Chaplaincy Yasemin Erbas-Dent ICV Emergency Assist Project Manager Esref Avda Muslim Connect Project Ofcer

RETIRED STAFF Nurbanu Emniyet Assistant General Manager Nur Shkembi Arts Ofcer Medine Nur Sahin W omen's Support Ofcer

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 4 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Assalaamu alaykum wa Islam is our greatest blessing, and “living” it rahmatullahi wa everyday is in accordance with the Prophet barakatahu Muhammad's (sas) guidance. When practised completely, Islam benefits and enriches any society We praise God, we seek it touches. Given the current political climate, I His forgiveness, and suspect more of the ICV and Muslim community's send our peace and efforts will be on reaching out to the broader blessings on our beloved Victorian community to ensure Islam is properly Prophet understood. Muhammad (sas). The Executive Committee have done a fantastic job It is the Executive in difficult times, bringing great energy and Committee's (“Exco”) diversity of skills to the organisation and they pleasure to present the should be proud of their efforts. I thank them all, Annual Report for the Islamic Council of Victoria and any success, after Allah, is due to their hard Inc (“ICV”) for the year ended 30 June 2014. This work and vision. is the second and final year of the current Exco's two year term. As a team, we have been privileged On a separate note, it was pleasing to be able to to serve the community and we ask Allah to accept continue to improve many of the ICV's current and count our efforts as good deeds in our scale services and events, such as providing iftar for on the Day of Judgement. nearly 10,000 people over the course of Ramadan at the ICV's Jeffcott Street premises, our Hospital While the past 12 months saw us continue with our and Prison Chaplaincy services, and the ICV's strategy to increase the ICV's proactive Qard Hassan and Zakat programs, to name a few. workstreams, the immediate 6 months preceeding this report have been arguably the most I truly believe the ICV is blessed with the best challenging times our community has experienced group of staff and volunteers of any non-profit in a number of years. organisation in this state. This is no accident. As is so often the case, the culture for excellence is set Clearly our media and advocacy work has been from the top, and in our case ICV General significant in recent times, and the key planks to Manager Nail Aykan continues to raise the bar our strategy have been to: every year, doing an exceptional job in his role and leading our staff and volunteers with energy - push our state and federal politicians to show and inspiration. An organisation's strength is its true leadership by using responsible language and people, and this is certainly the case at ICV. uniting Australians of all faiths and cultures rather than dividing; I'd also like to thank the member societies for their - work with the media and other stakeholders to ongoing support of the ICV. It is due to their promote more responsible and balanced maturity and support that the Victorian Muslim journalism; community is often recognised as one of the most - encourage law enforcement to adequately harmonious and unified communities. It is your address all forms of extremism, including hate ongoing interest and support that makes ICV a based crime against Muslims; successful and relevant representative body. - encourage Australian Security policy makers to devote more of their energy and spending to We ask Allah to keep us sincere and on the right understand the underlying root causes of deemed path, and ask your forgiveness for any security threats to improve prevention. shortcomings.

Our vision statement “to foster and enable a Wassalaam vibrant Islamic community where Muslims enrich society through the values of Islam” is even more Nadeem Hussain relevant today. President

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 5 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 GENERAL MANAGER'S REPORT

Each year the Annual Hence I wish to take this opportunity to thank my Report is an opportunity to wonderful team of staff, across all our services, for look back on the they have individually and collectively served the achievements of the organisation with dedication and genuine previous year with an eye commitment. I wish to pay my personal gratitude to Sr to the road ahead. It is Nurbanu Emniyet (Assistant GM), Sr Sumeyya Kutlu also a chance to reflect on (Office Manager) and Sr Bahriye Bol what we stand for and (Communications Officer) and Ayman Islam (Zakat how our numerous Manager) for their devotion and personal support activities, both as a peak over many years. council and as a community as a whole, I also wish to highlight and acknowledge the many have helped to advance people who serve the ICV on a daily basis over many the values we aspire to. years, who by virtue of their humbleness tend to be oversighted, namely our Imams Sheikh Abdi Nur and The year brought many challenges and Sheikh Moustapha, our caretaker Br Mensur and our accomplishments, both for the ICV and for the IT Administrator & Friday collections Br Cornelius for Muslims communities in the state of Victoria. It has their tireless works. And not to forget our numerous been an exceptionally challenging and yet rewarding volunteers who continues to make incredible period. differences in people's lives. It is a privilege to work with such a passionate and dedicated group of people One of the key features of the 2013/14 period has who strive to better serve our community at every been our abilities to form, strengthen and broaden opportunity. our partnerships and strategic alliances with many important groups, to name a few; In particular I thank my president Nadeem Hussain for his leadership, adherence to Islamic principles and - The Victorian Board of Imams and ANIC unwavering commitment to the organisation - a - Al Wasat Newspaper president who has made an important and lasting - Diyanet (Turkish Ministry of Religious Affairs) contribution. I also thank our Executive Committee - OHPI - Online Hate Prevention Institute team for their support, community spirits, conviction and vigour throughout the term, both our current and These strategic partnerships give additional purpose, retired board members. I wish all retiring executives direction and cohesiveness to the myriad of activities well for the future and look forward to their continued that we carry out as the ICV. involvement with the ICV in many capacities in many years to come. Some of the highlights of the year; I want to express my sincere thanks to all the - Imams Study Tour to Turkey stakeholder organisations that have supported us - Bendigo Mosque Eid Dinner throughout the year and express my appreciation for - Country Mosque's via Friday Prayer collections their dedicated services. We are grateful for the - Multifaith activities ongoing core funding support of OMAC, which helps - Our traditional and annual Iftar@ICV the ICV continue to play its very important role in our multicultural society: community engagement Our service strengths lies in the fact that we have a generates better understandings which ultimately very diverse, well qualified and committed staff who leads to greater social harmony and cohesion which work together as a team to deliver on our priorities we pride ourselves in the state of Victoria. and serve our communities to the best of our abilities. I look forward to the next year with great anticipation As a community based organisation established to as I know it will be another period of growth and serve our community's needs, our administration team maturation as an organisation. With a new Board and in particular plays a vital role in service delivery hence new leadership I am confident the next year will be the Office staffs are to be congratulated for their another one of development and broadening of our energetic and responsive efforts to deliver upon the services. professional levels of customer service sought by our membership. We are most privileged to have a Nail Aykan dedicated team of staff who continually strives to General Manager improve all aspects of our operations and community services.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 6 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 PEOPLE BEHIND THE ICV & CITY MOSQUE

Sumeyya Kutlu – Ofce Manager Nurbanu Emniyet - Assistant General Manager

Sheikh Abdi Nur Weli – Imam Sheikh Moustapha Sarakibi - Imam

Mensur Cosic – Caretaker Cornelius Romein – IT Administrator & Friday Donations

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 7 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 ADVOCACY

The Advocacy portfolio has the responsibility for of changes to the Security legislation. Some of these responding to, and proactively dealing with, those proposals were foreshadowed and allowed ample issues that directly impact Muslims and the Islamic time for feedback and submissions while others have community in Victoria. The main areas that are been introduced with haste and very little opportunity dealt with under this area include Government laws for public input. & policies, the actions of other community groups and the media. The ICV has been, and continues to be opposed to the foreshadowed changes. The government has failed Over the last 12 months the ICV has had to deal to provide any real objective evidence to support the with an increasing focus on our community. This need for such drastic laws that take away has included: fundamental civil rights of all Australians. Some of the laws will have a disproportionate impact on the - The Gaza conict Muslim community. With many of the new laws - Planning issues – including the Bendigo Mosque relying on Ministerial discretion there is real concern - The rise of ISIL and its impact on the local for the way in which these laws, if enacted, will apply. community - Government changes to the National Security Islamophobia Legislation - Increasing levels of Islamophobia There has been a distinct and noticeable rise in - The focus on local Anti-Terror activities Islamophobia in this country in recent times. This has - Renewed calls for bans on Muslim clothing manifested itself in a number of ways including: - The rise of local right wing groups and political parties - Campaigns against and Islamic Centres that rely on racist rhetoric and outright lies and Member societies would be aware of much of the misinformation. above activity however it is appropriate to highlight - Calls from Politicians for the banning of the Niqab. a few of these as they have signalled the beginning - Anti- Halal certication campaigns of a new phase of the ICV's Advocacy strategy. - The whole “Team Australia” rhetoric.

Over the past year, and the last 6 months in The ICV has been at the forefront of ghting against particular, the ICV has taken a much stronger these insidious actions throughout the last 12 months. stance on key issues of importance to our community. This represents a shift from an It is unlikely that the pressure on the Muslim approach of being a 'minority' community seeking community will ease in the near future and will in fact accommodation to one whereby we embrace our become more severe. As the government continues fundamental connection with this country and the to broaden the security legislation and reduce the rights that all citizens have. amount of evidence required for conviction we expect there to be more raids and more members of the Gaza community charged with offences that are not illegal at the moment. With every such incident the rhetoric The Israeli attack on Gaza through May/August 2014 of terrorism will become louder and the pressure on once again highlighted the imbalanced approach to our community will become worse. this issue by western nations and the Australian Government. The ICV does not accept the arguments How we respond to these matters will pose the of self defence or proportionality put forward by the greatest challenge for the ICV in the foreseeable supporters of Israel and will continue to stand against future. We must continue to distance ourselves from this oppression of the Palestinian people. the actions of a few on the international scene while taking principles positions on those matters that will National Security Legislation become increasingly important for generations of young Muslims coming to terms with their place in 2014 has seen the government put forward a number Australian society.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 8 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 ZAKAT

The ICV Zakat Program successfully continues with helping members of the community overcome their unfortunate circumstances. The Muslim community, via ICV, have provided nancial support to over 170 families during the past year. The ICV is truly grateful for the generous donations received by community members and their continual support in alleviating distress of local families within Victoria. Over the past year, the generous contributions received have had an incredible impact to our newly arrived members whom have been assisted in achieving self-sufciency and independence. Below are some of the cases that have been attended to by the ICV Zakat Team:

Verily charity is only for the poor and needy, and

the collectors (appointed to collect the Zakat), and a priority, as it will allow her to pick her child up “those whose“ hearts would be softened, to free the captives, for those in debt, those struggling on the from school and gain some independence. A path of Allah, and the way farer. It is a duty requested amount is needed to help pay for her imposed by Allah, and Allah is All-Knowing, All- driver's license and drivers test. The sister's doctor Wise. At-Tawbah:60 has suggested she see a specialist in order to investigate a medical problem and she will need Case #1 assistance to help pay the medical bills. The ICV The family of four arrived in Australia from Iran. Zakat Team has supported the sister to pay for her After their arrival, they were granted asylum and driving lessons and test and medical bills. placed in community detention. Under their visa, Please consider contributing part of your Zakat to the entire family is prohibited from accessing local Muslims through the ICV Zakat Fund. Please Centrelink and is in need of nancial support. As enquire further at the ICV Ofce (03 9328 2067) or winter approaches, the family is in need of new simply transfer funds. clothing, and these costs are stretching the family's limited resources. The ICV Zakat Team has Commonwealth Bank Australia supported the family in purchasing warm clothing. BSB: 063 122 Account Number: 10 701 107 Case #2 The sister is from Afghanistan and arrived in May Allah (swt) accept your generosity and increase Australia with her husband and two children. The your bounties. family sought asylum in Australia as they were struggling as refugees in Iran. The family is HOW CAN I HELP? struggling to pay their bills and as a result refrain from using a heater at home. To keep their children 1. Make dua for your brothers and sisters less warm, they eat, sleep and literally live in one room fortunate than you, and for those who are seeking because they cannot afford to keep them warm in to help them. their rooms. The ICV Zakat Team has supported the sister to pay for her outstanding utility bills. 2. Pay your zakat through Zakat @ ICV, and encourage others to do the same. Pay in person at the ICV ofce, or directly into the zakat bank Case #3 account. The sister has been living in Australian for two years on a refugee visa. She is a single mother who has 3. If you come across any cases which you think been studying English as part of a program in order may be eligible to receive zakat, please inform us at to become employable. Getting a driver's license is [email protected]

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 9 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 HOSPITAL CHAPLAINCY

This year ICV Hospital Chaplaincy have extended its wings to new horizons, being involved in training Imams, entering new hospitals, engaging with new partnerships, participating in international platforms.

Training Volunteers Two training sessions have been organized and achieved this year each with participation of more than 18 trainees.

First language specic training was successfully ACCESS Ministries Cross Cultural Training completed in March. The numbers swelled to over 21 participants mainly Turkish Imams and Education other active members of the Turkish community Education this year have been expanded to who preferred to be trained in the Turkish many hospitals. Invitations were always greeted Language. with acceptance and enthusiasm. We have visited and presented at the Royal Children's Hospital, Peter Mac, Epworth, Western and Eastern health as well as in Multifaith forums and platforms. Education was about caring for Muslim patients, death and dying and other Muslim-patient-centric topics.

One of the highlights of this year's education was the participation of the ICV in a Multifaith Chaplaincy project sponsored by VMC and adopted by the then HCCVI now Spiritual Health Victoria: Day of Immersion program. Ours was on 19th February with 19 non-Muslim Training of Turkish Imams participants. The Islamic Day of Immersion Partnerships and associations and started with the rst prayer of the day (fajr - just participations before 6am) until 4.30 pm that afternoon. It This year more partnerships was achieved with introduced Islamic beliefs, history of Pastoral different organizations as well as diplomatic care in Islam and then visits to the Ottoman ones a strong partnership was established with Nursing Home , the Australian Islamic Academy, the Turkish Consulate, Religion For Peace, The the “Albanian Mosque” in Carlton ending at the Interfaith Centre of Melbourne, the Budhist Islamic Australian Museum. council of Victoria and many others.

Also engagements and participation was established with the centre for Culture Ethnicity and Health, the Catholic HIV/AIDS ministry and the Multicultural Health and Support Services (MHSS) in a HIV/AIDS local Forum and Awareness exercise which resulted in working Hand-in-Hand with spiritual representatives of different faiths in order to prevent HIV transmission in migrants and refugee communities and reducing the stigma associated with it. Day of Immersion

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 10 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 HOSPITAL CHAPLAINCY EMERGENCY ASSIST

This year ICV Hospital Chaplaincy have The ICV Emergency Assist Program (EA) previously extended its wings to new horizons, being the Muslim Emergency Management Organisation involved in training Imams, entering new [MEMO] was launched in 2011 to provide hospitals, engaging with new partnerships, emergency management and disaster support participating in international platforms. assistance to the Muslim community by the Muslim community.

Training Volunteers The Emergency Assist Program has been developing Two training sessions have been organized and two main capabilities; a disaster response plan to achieved this year each with participation of assist emergency services and affected Muslim more than 18 trainees. communities in times of disaster, and; preparing the Muslim community through information, First language specic training was successfully communication and capacity building. completed in March. The numbers swelled to Critical to the concept of resilience is the over 21 participants mainly Turkish Imams and empowerment of and ownership by communities. other active members of the Turkish community The majority of Victorian Muslims come from who preferred to be trained in the Turkish culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) Language. backgrounds that can face language and socio- economic disadvantage. Transferring risk information to these groups is challenging, while the inherent Partnerships and associations and strengths of their resources, resourcefulness and participations networks are under-utilised.

This program aims to build resilience in Victorian communities by engaging established Muslim community networks in the provision of emergency management information and personal support services.

In the next year the program aims to: - Build skills resilience in more vulnerable Muslim communities to empower them to positively respond to disasters and reduce risk through community awareness, consultation and education - Empower Muslim volunteers to contribute to the important role that community has to support and collaborate with emergency services to enhance This year more partnerships was achieved with Victoria's capacity to prepare for, withstand and different organizations as well as diplomatic recover from disasters ones a strong partnership was established with - Develop strong networks across sectors and regions the Turkish Consulate, Religion For Peace, The to share information about risks and emergency Interfaith Centre of Melbourne, the Budhist management council of Victoria and many others. - Recruit, train, develop and retain volunteers to respond to disasters through the VCCEM Personal Support Worker program Also engagements and participation was - Focus on hazards such as urban edge grassres established with the centre for Culture Ethnicity and storms to test the efcacy of the volunteer and Health, the Catholic HIV/AIDS ministry and networks. the Multicultural Health and Support Services (MHSS) in a HIV/AIDS local Forum and To contact ICVEA, you can call the ICV Ofce (03) 9328 2067, Twitter: @icvassist and email Awareness exercise which resulted in working [email protected] Hand-in-Hand with spiritual representatives of different faiths in order to prevent HIV transmission in migrants and refugee communities and reducing the stigma associated with it.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 11 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 ICV COMMUNITY LEADERS ANNUAL DINNER 2014

The Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV) held its Annual Community Leaders Dinner on Thursday, June 19 2014 at Laila Receptions in Brunswick. A total of 140 community leaders and representatives of member societies with this year's theme being “Success and Responsibilities”

Keynote guest speaker were Mathew Guy, Minister for Multicultural Affairs & Citizenship and Telmo Languiller, Shadow Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Opposition and ICV President Nadeem Hussain addressing the guests Multicultural Affairs. Br Mohamed Mohideen from Monash Mosque also spoke about their recent experiences in Mosque planning approval from City Council and how to be better engage with neighbors and wider society.

Nadeem Hussain, ICV President gave the welcome address and then approached some 30 member society representative & spokespersons on the oor via the roving mike. Minister for Multiculturalism Matthew Guy Nail Aykan, ICV GM spoke regarding Prison Chaplaincy and presented a life time award to Sheikh Salih Dogan from Emir Sultan Mosque (Dandenong) for his 10 years of voluntary prison chaplaincy services.

We thank the sponsors of the evening were MCCA – Muslim Community Co-operative of Australia and Human Appeal International for their support. The ICV Executive and all staff & volunteers look forward to better serving the community and its member societies Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism Telmo Languiller

ICV STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS DINNER The Islamic Council of Victoria hosted a staff, volunteers and members dinner on Wednesday, March 26 at Sar Restaurant in Coburg to celebrate ICV's success thus far.

More than 40 staff, volunteers and representatives from member societies attended the function which reected on the successes of projects and community initiatives over the year. including the ICV board, to show appreciation ICV president Nadeem Hussain said the event to all those involved in building a stronger provided the opportunity for attendees, Islamic community in Victoria.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 12 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 BENDIGO ISLAMIC CENTRE EID DINNER

The Islamic Council of Victoria proudly helped organised the rst ever Bendigo Islamic Centre Eid Dinner held in Bendigo on Saturday 23rd August 2014, under the theme of “Celebrating Cultural Diversity and Promoting Social Harmony” and say a genuine “Thank You” for all those who came out in support of the local Muslim communities rights for a place of worship.

Approx. 260 attended the Eid Dinner which was a most wonderful opportunity with members of both the Muslim and non-Muslim communi...ties Nail Aykan, ICV GM and both locals of Bendigo and guests from Melbourne coming together and with a total of 15 guest speakers representing different groups and communities proved why Bendigo is such a “prosperous multicultural community of people living together in peace and freedom”.

Sheikh Rabie Baytie (Quranic Opening), Dr Shaker Issa (President of BIC), Aunty Lynn (Aboriginal Elder), Cr. Barry Lyons (Mayor of Bendigo Council), Chin Tan (VMC), Amanda Miller MP (Representing the Minister for Multiculturalism), Jacinta Allan MP (Representing Dr Shaker Issa, President of Bendigo Islamic Centre the Leader of the Opposition, Telmo Languiller MP (Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Opposition and Multicultural Affairs), Sen. Richard Di Natale (Greens Senator for Victoria), Ghaith Krayem (ICV), Dr Michael Langdon (Bendigo Hospital CEO & Liberal Candidate for Bendigo), Robert Stephenson (La Trobe Uni Bendigo), Fr. Andrew Fewings (Interfaith Community), Margot Spalding (Business Community) and Dr Seyed Sheriffdeen (AIM – Australian Islamic Mission). Plus Entertainment from the Saman and Pencak Silat Groups. Ghaith Krayem, ICV Secretary A quote from the night “as citizens of Bendigo we have a commitment to various values and institutions. These include parliamentary democracy, equality before law, freedom of the individual, freedom of speech and religion, equality between men and women, equality of opportunity for all. Citizenship also brings civil and social rights, the right to express our cultural heritage and beliefs, coupled with a responsibility to accept the rights of others to express their heritage and beliefs”.

Amanda Miller, MP - Representing the Minister for Multiculturalism

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 13 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 OFFICE FOR WOMEN RESPECTFUL RELATIONSHIPS- PASSION CAFÉ WHITE RIBBON DAY

Islamic Council of Victoria coupled up with national social justice law rm Maurice Blackburn in support of White Ribbon Day on Monday, November 25 to promote "Respectful Relationships" within the community.

The event, held at Melbourne Museum, aimed to promote awareness and respectful relationships The ICV's Passion Café series launched on Tuesday, among sexes, families, workplaces and the March 8 in a friendly inclusive environment where broader community. women from all backgrounds attended to listen to impressive and motivational women speakers. A screening of a promotional video "Community Voices" was also showcased on the night. Speakers shared their motivations and strategies to get out of bed, feel connected with the community ICV Secretary Ghaith Krayem delivered a moving and what they nd deep meaning in. speech about the importance of women's rights in Islam. More than 30 women attended the program, which was established by ICV Ofce for Women (OW) and "I am a father of four daughter and it's important the Victorian Multicultural Commission [VMC] along to me how they are treated," he said. ...with Nasihah Consulting. Guest speakers included Nasihah Consulting's Program coordinator Yasemin Erbas-Dent said the Monique Toohey and InTouch Multicultural event was successful and benecial not only for the Centre against Family Violence Faye Spiteri. participants but also the speakers.

The community building event also ran a silent "Everybody walked away having learnt something auction which raised funds for White Ribbon. new.”

To watch Community Voices which includes Speaker Monique Toohey said, "When I wake a with representatives from; Australian Multicultural a smile on my face after running an event, I know it Foundation, African Think Tank, Victoria Police, was a great event.” Rugby Union, Victorian Multicultural Commission, Commission for Children and One participants said, “I knew we would be Young People, Islamic Museum of Victoria, Care listening to some amazing speakers, but the session With Me, Benevolence Australia and other click was beyond what I expected, thank you” on the image above. A special thank you to winning lm director Reuben Streets (Blueprints Other speakers included; Tasneem Chopra, Manelle Studio) and Rashid Alshakshir (Youth Victoria) in Chaqk, Umber Rind, Ruath Youseff and Serene the production of this video. Teffaha.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 14 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 YOUTH ENGAGEMENT YOUTH CAMP-1

The ICV as part of its Youth Engagement project organised a 'Youth Camp” during the Anzac Day long weekend by its young Imam Sheikh Moustapha Sarakibi.

15 young Muslims between the ages of 12 to 20 of various ethnicities who were accompanied by adult mentors, travelled to Buckland Valley located in Northern rural Victoria and camped out in its Alpine forest.

They had spent the three nights engaging in various activities and adopting new skills, this The camping initiative had proven to be an included setting up the campsite, preparing meals, outstanding success in bringing together both the learning survival techniques and long bush walks. youth and the community leaders, creating a Sheikh Moustapha had engaged closely with the platform to discuss important matters and help youth and addressed many of their concerns in a understand and share each others common relaxed and casual manner over a warm cup of concerns, hence learning to work together for a tea around the camp re. better community.

YOUTH CAMP-2 A group of 16 Muslim youths from various African backgrounds travelled to the Edmund Rice Centre in Wemberley to take part in a two day retreat organised by ICV Youth Engagement Ofcer Wael Mohamed as part of the ICV's Youth Engagement Program, over the weekend of the 28th-29th of June 2014.

The camp focused on Leadership & Empowerment by connecting the three age groups together; 14-16 year olds, 18-20 year olds and 25-30 year olds.

The time spent created the opportunity for stories of individuals who had chosen such path's groups to begin to bond and become comfortable and the methods that such individuals had with each other, and not only engage in fun become susceptible to. activities, but also use the knowledge and experience available to share with The importance on self-development, having each other. good work ethic and preparing oneself to be determined in achieving successful paths were Sessions on personal experiences of the role discussed and the denition of a professional. models were the highlights of the camp. The group of 16 gathered insight from successful Balancing your time, between your education, journeys of the role-models. sports interest, friends and peers and the importance of taking opportunities that come your Sessions touching on drugs abuse from with-in the way and utilising your skills to your best ability. African Muslim community and reections on

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 15 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 YOUTH ENGAGEMENT ROYAL MELBOURNE HOSPITAL YOUTH CAMP-3 FRIDAY PRAYERS The Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV), via its Chaplaincy Services, is proud to announce the ofcial commencement of Friday Prayers at the Royal Melbourne Hospital (also attached to the Women's Hospital) in the Sacred Space area.

The Royal Melbourne Hospital currently offers a prayer room and wudu facilities dedicated to Muslims (staff, patients and visitors). As of this Friday, September 27 2013, the hospital will provide Juma prayers at 1.15pm in the larger general room wh...ich can accommodate 40 to A group of 17 Muslim and non-Muslim youths from 50 people, with the other Muslim room various African backgrounds travelled to Mt Eliza to dedicated totally to sisters. take part in a two day educational retreat organised by ICV Youth Engagement Ofcer Mukhtar Mohammed which was held at the YMCA camp Manyung over the weekend of the 14th-16th of June 2014

Participants came from various African backgrounds, united by their common concern about the alarming rate of growth of Crystal Methamphetamine, aka Ice, use in their communities . The 17 youth, aged between the ages of 19 to 37, took part in leadership and drug education workshops over the weekend, to increase their knowledge of Ice and other drugs and build their capacity to act as peer educators in their respective communities. ICV GM Nail Aykan with Sheikh Mustafa Kisa and Mr David Glenister, RMH

The camp was facilitated by four YMCA volunteers Sheikh Mustafa Kisa (pictured) will volunteer who created a fun learning environment by organising fun games and reactive activities which included a late with a roster of other supporting Imams night gathering around a camp re where the peer throughout the year. We thank Mr David educators shared personal stories, songs in their Glenister (pictured) the Coordinator of Pastoral native languages and also spoken word poetry. Care, Chaplaincy and Education at the Royal Melbourne Hospital for his support along with The camp was an opportunity for participants to Sr Lina Ayoubi (ICV Hospital Chaplaincy learn from each other's different faiths and cultures and also share experiences on how different Services Co-ordinator) and Br Saban Han cultures deal with substance abuse. This was also an (senior veteran volunteer) for their dedication opportunity for the Youth Advocacy Support Service and perseverance in facilitating this important to learn how to best accommodate people from new service. ethnic backgrounds.

Other Hospitals have also expressed interest The camp has successfully created a strongly bonded group of young people who have a passion for the ICV to lead Friday prayers at their and drive to lead the wave of change in their local facilities and hence if any Imams wish to communities, the group plans to engage young express interest and volunteer, please contact people through social media and sports and the ICV recreational activities to provide an alternative to drug use for their peers.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 16 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 MULTIFAITH JCMA STRATEGIC PLANNING DAY JCMA RELIGION IN THE MEDIA

The Jewish Christian Muslim Association (JCMA) The Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV), Victorian Strategic Planning Day was held at the Islamic Council of Churches (VCC) and the Jewish Council of Victoria on Sunday, November 10 Community Council of Victoria (JCCV) 2013. partnered with The Jewish Christian Muslim Association of Australia (JCMA) to host Leaders from the Jewish Community Council of inaugural “Religion in the Media” event on Victoria (JCCV), Victorian Council of Churches Sunday, October 7 2013. (VCC), Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV), JCMA staff as well as members from the community The forum was held at Richmond Town Hall came together to discuss, prioritize and with more than 100 attendees. This year's implement valuable goals for JCMA initiatives. topic was “Religion in the Media” in which a number of experienced panelists, currently The focus of this Strategic Planning afternoon working in media, came together ...to discuss explored the ways... in which JCMA can more effectively involve and engage those from the the prospects of developing positive actions Islamic faith in all aspects of JCMA's programs, that would assist both faiths and the media activities and events. from perpetuating harmful and negative stereotypes of religion. ICV would like to thank Sir James Gobbo for running the session, JCMA's Executive Ofcer Panelists included; Michael Gawenda - Helen Heath and JCMA's President Sheikh Riad (Senior Research Fellow at University of Galil for attending and participating, ICV Vice Melbourne's Centre for Advanced Journalism) President Sr. Maryum Chaudhry, ICV Executive and Dr Nasya Bahfen - (Coordinator - Member Sr. Ecehan Gulbayrak and ICV JCMA Masters in Journalism, UNSW & Senior liaison ofcer Br Ayman Islam for hosting the lecturer in the Journalism and Media Centre event. at the University of ). The forum was moderated by guest speaker ICV looks forward to working closer with JCMA in Margaret Coffey (ABC Radio National). order to achieve set goals from the meeting.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 17 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 MULTIFAITH JCMA SUPER SUNDAY SEMINAR

The Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV), The Victorian Muslim attendees than both Jewish and Christian Council of Churches (VCC) and the Jewish participants. Community Council of Victoria (JCCV) partnered up with The Jewish Christian Muslim Association Event co-organiser Sr Ecehan Gulbayrak said, of Australia (JCMA) to host the annual JCMA “This is, in part, due to the ICV's dedication to its Winter Conference on Sunday, August 18 2013. Multifaith/Interfaith platform, and also due to Muslim speakers - Dr. Nasya Bahfen, Br. Ramzi The JCMA Super Sunday Seminar was held at Elsayed, Dr. Senem Eren and volunteers. May Mary MacKillop Hall, Dallas. This year's topic was Allah bless them all for their time and effort.” “SORRY IS THE HARDEST WORD.” The history of the relationship between the three faiths; Judaism, Christianity ...and Islam, was the topic of discussion – along with the exploration of the need for apology and healing memories.

Sacred texts, liturgy and rituals were discussed and how they aim to encourage forgiveness, reconciliation and peacemaking, as individuals and as members of a broader community. The event also provided an opportunity for personal engagement with a panel and concluded with prayers for each faith.

Guest speakers and panelists included; Uniting Church Minister Rev. Dr Coralie Ling, senior lecturer in the Journalism and Media Centre at the UNSW Dr. Nasya Bahfen, Master of Education from the American Jewish University (Los Angeles) Tzipi Boroda, former ICV president Ramzi Elsayed, parish Priest Rev Dr John Dupuche, Rabbi of Kew Hebrew Congregation Rabbi Stephen Boroda, president of JCMA Imam Riad Galil OAM, Rabbi at the Leo Baeck Centre since 2003 Rabbi Jonathan Keren-Black, retired medical scientist Rev Dr Merrill Kitchen, counselling psychologist Dr Senem Eren and Pallottine Brother Br. Lindsay Rust.

ICV executive assistant and event organiser Sr Nurbanu Emniyet said, “The program was a great success with more than 80 attendees. The ICV looks forward to running more multi-faith and interfaith activities in the near future.”

The ICV would like to thank all those who were involved with the preparation and implementation of the 2013 JCMA Super Sunday Seminar. Their hard work and dedication helped to attract a record number of Muslims to the event. This year, for the rst time in JCMA history, there were more

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 18 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 MULTIFAITH HELEN HEATH FAREWELLS JCMA JOURNEY TO JERUSALEM

Nurbanu Emniyet, JCMA Muslim Rep with Helen Health The Jewish Christian Muslim Association Sheikh Riad Galil OAM (West Heidelberg Mosque in Melbourne), Rabbi Adam Stein (Kehilat Nitzan (JCMA) farewelled JCMA's Executive Ofcer Synagogue in Caulled) and Rev. Dr John Dupuche Health Health at the Cardinal Knox Centre, on (Catholic Priest, Ricketts Point) led an Australian multi- Tuesday 17th of June, 2014. Leaders from the faith Abrahamic group on a 'Joint Journey to Jewish Community Council of Victoria (JCCV), Jerusalem' in May 2014. The group consisted of twelve Victorian Council of Churches (VCC), Islamic people, four from each of the three Abrahamic faiths, Council of Victoria (ICV), JCMA staff as well as comprising clergy and lay people, men and women. members from the community came together to celebrate the achievements accomplished by Br Hyder Gulam, ex-ICV President alongside Br Kemal Brkic and Sr Ruath Yousuff joined Sheikh Riad Galil to Helen. Jerusalem with the interfaith group. The purpose of the trip was to visit each other's sacred places in Sr Nurbanu Emniyet, ICV Assistant Manager Jerusalem, to study texts from our sacred writings, to and ICV representative at the JCMA formally discuss points of agreement and disagreement, and so presented Helen with a Certicate of sense the religious experience that is proper to our Appreciation plaque and a gift from the Muslim faiths. In short, the group truly 'met' in the City which is community thanking her for her tireless and sacred to all three traditions. sincere efforts during her tenure. The ICV looks Br Hyder says “personally, I was very excited about this forward to keeping in personal touch with trip, the dates of which coincided with Isra Miraj and Helen, a true friend of the Muslim community. also the Pope's visit to Jerusalem. Mashallah, we visited each other's Holy sites in this blessed city, and heard The Islamic Council of Victoria Executive and from each other why the sites are signicant from the Management would like to thank JCMA's other's perspective. The list of places of religious and outgoing Executive Ofcer Helen Heath for all historical signicance is really quite amazing, such as: Al Aqsa Mosque, Dome of the Rock, the her support and collaboration during her time Muslim/Jewish/Christian Quarters, Mount of Olives, at JCMA. ICV would also like to welcome the the Western Wall, Tomb of Mary, Sisters of Sion new JCMA Executive Ofcer Ginette Everest to Convent 'Ecce Homo', Dolorosa, the Holy Sepulcher, her new role and look forward to working the Cenacle, Bethlehem, Al Quds and Hebrew closely with her. University”.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 19 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 MUSLIM LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

The Muslim Leadership Program 2013, jointly organised by the Centre for Dialogue at and the Islamic Council of Victoria, had a total of 12 participants; in which 10 were from Melbourne and two from South East Asia. This prestigious civic education program took place between October 6 to November 3, 2013.

The Islamic Council of Victoria hosted an exciting session on Saturday, October 12 covering the youth engagement and the prospects of leading positive... changes within This year's MLP participants who have already the community and wider society. been inaugurated as the seventh batch of the MLP, owes great thanks to the convenors and After an insightful session with youth leaders, organisers. Dr. Sven Schottmann from La Trobe ICV conducted a panel discussion with University's Centre for Dialogue, alongside Ms. respected Imams and Sheikhs within the Nurbanu Emniyet (ICV Assistant Manager), community. Namely, Sheikh Abdinur Weli (ICV have worked tirelessly in organising the nal Head Imam), Sheikh Mohamad Nawas (Board program to be the most memorable one for of Imams PR and Virgin Mary Mosque Imam) the twelve participants, whom two were from and Sheikh Moustapha Sarakibi (HIYC Imam & Malaysia. ICV Prison Chaplain) with Dr Sven Schottmann (La Trobe University) as the moderator of the This year's participants, as with every other panel discussion. The topic of discussion was year, were diverse in ages, cultural around the importance of having local Imams backgrounds and professional backgrounds. and the challenges that exist with Imams We congratulate MLP Class of 2013 for educated abroad. successfully completing this rigorous and thought-provoking program with enthusiasm, Overall the session allowed MLP participants to and hope to see their efforts fruition into network with youth groups within Victoria and positive action for the community in the near promoted the importance of dialogue within future insha'Allah. religious community leaders.

INDONESIA EXCHANGE PROGRAM The Islamic Council of Victoria hosted ve international guests from Indonesia as part of the Australia-Indonesia Muslim Exchange Program (MEP)

The program builds bridges between Indonesia and Australia and offer exciting opportunities for young leaders in the Australian Muslim community to travel to Indonesia. Over the two- week program participants learn about the rich heritage of Islam in Indonesia, visit some of the largest Muslim organisations and schools in the world, meet prominent scholars, and make

ICV General Manager Nail Aykan with the 2014 delegation at the ICV valuable contacts in Indonesian Muslim society.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 20 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 IMAMS STUDY TOUR TO TURKEY

The Imams Study Tour, an initiative of the ICV, was a pilot project of a delegation of Australian Imams visiting Turkey and hosted by the Diyanet (Turkish Ministry of Religious Affairs) for 10 days during the periods of 13 May 2014 to 23 May 2014. A total of 15 Australian Muslims with 10 Imams and 5 community reps from a cross section of the community participated..

Br Nail Aykan, ICV General Manager lead the delegation, with the support of the ICV head

Imam Sheikh Abdi Nur and ICV Vice President Diyanet President Prof Mehmet Gormez with Australian delegation Mohamad Tabiaat. The project was also supported by the Victorian Board of Imams and courses (9 months), 2) Secondary Islamic ANIC (Australian National Imams Council) Colleges (Imam Hatip), 3) Ilahiyat (University which was represented by Sh Nawas Saleem. School of Theology) and 4) Post Grad and Mufti institutions. We also visited around a dozen The initial aim of the program was to assist in institutions dedicated to research, sciences, building bridges between the local Turkish- history, publications & foundations. We met and Muslim communities and the wider multicultural were hosted by many regional Mufti's and to top Muslim communities in particular the Imams; it off were formally hosted by the president of for better cultural understandings, learning of the Diyanet Prof Mehmet Gormez. each other's religious education standards and general community engagement. The broader The tour was an incredible success. There were aims of the tour was to learn more about how many highlights. We met and were inspired by the Turkish Diyanet provides religious so many wonderful and sincere people. The education, its structures & resources, key feeling was mutual where our Istanbul host educational institutions and a general (assistant Mufti) commented that “we have understanding of Turkish culture, history and hosted many groups from all over the world social dynamics. however we have never met such a group as yours. The fact that there is so much diversity in The ten days included a total of 4 cities; Istanbul your group says that something must be unique (5 days), Bursa (2 days), Ankara (1 day) and about Australia and Australian Muslims”. Konya (2 days). We visited over 20 educational centres; 1) elementary short-course Quranic

IMAM’S TOUR OF IMA The Islamic Council of Victoria facilitated a VIP tour of the new Islamic Museum of Australia (IMA) for imams and sheiks from the Board of Imams Victoria (BOIV)

The VIP tour took place on Thursday, February 6 2014 with more than 20 attendees. Sheikhs and imams extended their gratitude for the tour, highlighting the importance of such an important initiative here in Melbourne.

The $10 million Islamic Museum of Australia will opened its doors 3rd March 2014.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 21 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 EVENTS OF 2014

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 22 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-14 TREASURER'S REPORT

The Islamic Council of Victoria has enjoyed Further, in keeping with these Islamic another year of financial success, with three responsibilities, the Islamic Council of Victoria main areas of work for the Treasurer: corrected previous financial management practices and this year recorded no revenue as - Compliance of professional standards of 'interest received'. Likewise, in keeping with reporting and governance. best practice, the Islamic Council of Victoria - Careful management of the Islamic Council recorded no 'bad debts written off'. of Victoria's expenditure. - Maintenance of a steady revenue stream that Also reflected in the attached financial report, complies with our Islamic and community is the good work that the Islamic Council of responsibilities. Victoria does to assist new Muslim communities to further establish themselves. As reflected in our attached 2013/14 financial Support was gathered, and then passed on to, reports, the Islamic Council of Victoria decided the newly arrived Burmese Muslim community, to remove duplication in staffing and double- the majority of which are refugees and asylum handling of bookkeeping tasks, by engaging seekers. Similarly, our rural sisters and the services of MC Accounts. I would like to brothers were remembered and communities thank MC Accounts for assisting the ICV to such as the Bendigo Muslim community were increase its professional standards in supported. accounting practices, whilst providing us with a discounted rate on bookkeeping fees. In conclusion, as the outgoing Treasurer of the Islamic Council of Victoria, I would like to take Careful management of ICV's project grants the opportunity to thank our General Manager by General Manager, Nail Aykan, saw staffing Nail Aykan and our accountants MC Accounts matched with funds through employee and for their hard work and support given to contractor expenditure, which increased to ensure the strong financial management of $403,196 in the 2013/14 financial year. ICV. I would also like to extend my gratitude to Concurrently, there was a very significant my fellow Board Members at the Islamic decrease in project expenses to $107,947, Council of Victoria, who have applied due due to careful financial management. 2014 diligence in their study of the monthly financial also saw the capital works from 2012/13 reports. realised as assets held by the Islamic Council of Victoria. This, in addition to a reduction in Lastly, I would like to thank the Muslim project grants, contributed to our overall profit communities of Victoria for entrusting me with being recorded as $22,048 at the end of the the great responsibility of ensuring the 2013/14 financial year. financial management of ICV. I have taken this responsibility seriously and would ask that you The reduction in project grants reflected the forgive me for any wrongdoing or error I have conclusion of specific projects in the 2013/14 made during my time at the Islamic Council of Financial Year and a refocus of the Islamic Victoria. Council of Victoria on 'core business' – our chaplaincy programs, advocacy work and No As-salam-alaikum, Interest Loans Scheme program. These Eugenia Flynn programs are of paramount importance to the Treasurer Muslim communities of Victoria and the ICV's refocus on such programs has reflected how seriously we take our Islamic and community responsibilities.

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