Representing Victoria’s Muslims for over 40 years

2011-12 ANNUAL REPORT INDEX

MEMBER SOCIETIES 2 EXECUTIVES AND STAFF 3 PRESIDENT’S REPORT 4 CURRENT SERVICES / PROJECTS 5 GENERAL MANAGER'S REPORT 6 LETTER FROM MINISTER 7 ICV OFFICE FOR WOMEN 8 YOUTH ENGAGEMENT 9-10 AUSTRALIA-INDONESIA MUSLIM EXCHANGE PROGRAMME 2011-2012 11-12 MEMO - MUSLIM EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ORGANISATION 13 ARTS 14 HOSPITAL CHAPLAINCY 15 NILS - NO INTEREST LOAN SCHEME: QARD HASSAN VICTORIA 16 MLP - MUSLIM LEADERSHIP PROGRAM 2011 17 PRISON CHAPLAINCY SERVICES 18-19 MUSLIM CONNECT - POST RELEASE REHABILITATION PROGRAM 20 MUSLIM MULTIMEDIA WORKSHOP 21 NEW MULTICULTURAL POLICY, THE PEOPLE OF AUSTRALIA 22 ICV MOSQUE TOURS & INFO SESSIONS: 10,000 STUDENTS 23 INTERFAITH 24 COMMUNITY INTEGRATION SUPPORT PROGRAM (CISP) 25 ENVIRONMENT PORTFOLIO 25 EID @ FLAGSTAFF 26 IFTAR @ ICV - 10,000 PEOPLE IN 30 DAYS 26 IMAX - JOURNEY TO MECCA – IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF IBN BATTUTA 27 COMMUNITY PRAYER VIGIL FOR PEOPLE IN SYRIA 27 AWARDS @ ICV 28 ZAKAT @ ICV 29 RELIGIOUS SERVICES 29 REFUGEE PORTFOLIO 30 WOMEN'S SUPPORT OFFICER 30 MULTI- FAITH 31 HAJJ 31 AN EVENING WITH: HON. JOE HOCKEY (MP) 31 PNG VISIT 32 VCC INFO ON ISLAM 32 PRAYER ROOMS 32 MEDIA 33 BENEVOLENCE CONVERT CARE 33 RMIT CHAPLAINCY 33 TREASURER’S REPORT 34-35 FINANCIAL STATEMENT 36-62

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 1 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 MEMBER SOCIETIES

Afghan Islamic Society Albanian Australian Islamic Society Ararat Islamic Welfare Association Arkan Toledo 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) Benevolence Australia Bendigo Islamic Association Inc. Bilale Ethioopian Community Association Victoria Bosnia Hercegovina Islamic Society Care With Me Cyprus Turkish Islamic Community Inc. Dandenong Turkish Islamic Cultural Society EHSAN (Aust Islamic Affairs & Human Capital Development Assoc) El Sedeaq Islamic Society End Homelessness Eritrean Islamic Society of Australia Federation of Australian Muslim Students and Youth (FAMSY) Goulburn Valley Turkish Islamic & Cultural Society HIRA IMAN Indonesian Muslim Community of Victoria (IMCV) Islamic Association of Australia Islamic Association of Monash Mosque Inc. Islamic Call Society of Australia Islamic Education and Welfare Assoc of Dandenong Islamic Guidance Society of Australia Islamic Practice and Dawah Circle Inc. Islamic Society of Albury-Wodonga Islamic Society of Ballarat Islamic Society of Geelong ISOMER - Islamic Society of Melbourne Eastern Region Islamic Society of Victoria - Preston Mosque Islamic Weekend School Maarefa Group Mano River Association of Victoria Minhaj Ul Quran Victoria Muslim Legal Network Newport Islamic Society Oromo Islamic Resource Centre United Muslim Migrant Association United Sri Lankan Muslim Association in Australia (USMAA) Werribee Islamic Centre

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 2 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 OUR EXECUTIVES

Ramzi Elsayed P resident Nadeem Hussain Vice President Sherene Hassan Secretary Nazeem Hussain T reasurer Maryum Chaudhry Executive Member Kazim Ates Executive Member Eugenia Flynn Executive Member Ghaith Krayem Executive Member

FORMER EXECUTIVES DURING THE 2011-12 YEAR

Hyder Gulam P resident Craig Dent Executive Member Mohamed Nur Executive Member Hisham Moustafa Executive Member

OUR STAFF

Nail Aykan General Manager Nurbanu Emniyet Executive Assistant Sumeyya Sener Kutlu Executive Assistant Bahriye Bol Communications Officer Abdiaziz Farrah CISP Social Worker Altaf Hussain P rison Chaplain Asma Siddiq NILS Program Coordinator Cornelius Romein IT Administrator Lina Ayoubi Hospital Chaplaincy Coordinator Mohammed El-leissy Youth Engagement Officer Mustafa Sarakibi P rison Chaplain Mustaque Ahmed Accounts Manager Nicole Sakellaridis CISP Program Officer Nur Shkembi Arts Officer Rahil Khan P rison Chaplaincy Coordinator Sarah Decaen P rison Chaplain Sheikh Abdinur Weli Religious Services Zaheer Syed Accounts Officer

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 3 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 PRESIDENT’S REPORT Organisation and community harmony has always been one of our key priority areas. In a sahih hadith, our Prophet Muhamed (PBUH) says that no people will go astray after they have been given guidance except those who engage in argumentation. Indeed, the most detested people in the sight of Allah SWT are those who engage in argumentation.

The Victorian Muslim community has a reputation for being one of the most united and Peace & blessing upon you all harmonious. This is a reputation recognised by not only the Muslims of Victoria but nationally All praise to God Almighty – Salutations, peace and even internationally. Victoria is in many and blessings on to our Prophet Muhammed ways a beacon of light and hope that despite (PBUH). our differences, we are still in a position to “co- operate in piety and virtue”. We thank God and It is with great pleasure to present the Annual ask that He protect this unity. It's a credit to all Report for the Islamic Council of Victoria Inc. for Victorian Muslims, Imams, community leaders the year ended June 30, 2012. and workers for their endeavour to make Victoria a place of harmony. The past 12 months has seen ICV continuing to build and grow. Any achievement is only by the Other highlights of the year include: grace of Allah SWT. - Completion of the top floor renovations The organisational aim of the ICV is "Muslims - Establishment of the Office for Women & for a better community". Muslims adding value related activities and benefit to both the Muslim and the wider - Ramadan Iftar & Tarawih program community respectively. This aim is based on - Eid prayer @ Flagstaff Gardens the words of our Prophet Muhamed (SAS) who said: Finally, I would like to also recognise our former president Br. Hyder Gulam for his efforts and "The best of people are those most beneficial to contribution in laying the foundations towards a the people". successful 2012 year.

The key word in this statement is "people". We ask the Almighty to keep us on the right path and sincere in all our efforts. During my time as President I have been blessed with an executive team, staff and volunteers of I ask your forgiveness for any shortcomings on fine individuals who are sincere, dedicated, behalf of myself and all in the ICV team. committed & hard working. They have truly In peace. embraced this prophetic tradition and their resolve, sacrifice and endeavour is a constant Ramzi Elsayed source of inspiration and encouragement in President often challenging circumstances. Nothing is more precious at ICV than its people. In this respect, I would also like to recognise ICV members, sponsors, funding partners and supporters.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 4 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 CURRENT SERVICES / PROJECTS

Arts Portfolio CISP – Community Integration Support Program Environmental Portfolio Government Advocacy Hall & Facilities Hire Hospital Chaplaincy Interfaith & Inter-Religious Dialogue Media Representation MEMO – Muslim Emergency Management Organisation MEP - Indonesian Exchange Program MLP – Muslim Leadership Program Mosque Tours & School Presentations Multicultural and Ethnic Communities Engagement Muslim Connect – Post Release Rehabilitation Program NILS – No Interest Loan Scheme OW – Office for Women Partnerships & Sponsorships of Community Events Prayer Facilities: Daily – Friday – Taraweeh Prison Chaplaincy Ramadan Iftar & Eid Prayers Refugee & Asylum Seeker Support Religious Services Short-term grant projects: workshops & training Women Support Officer Youth Engagement Social Services Zakat (local charity)

ICV WORKS WITH 12 MULTICULTURAL / MULTIFAITH-INTERFAITH BODIES

AIS – Australian Intercultural Society AMF – Australian Multicultural Foundation CMY – Centre for Multicultural Youth ECCV – Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria FCCV – Faith Communities Council of Victoria (Faith Victoria) JCCV – Jewish Communities Council of Victoria JCMA – Jews, Christians, Muslims Association LEAD - Localities Embracing & Accepting Diversity MAG (OMAC) Multifaith Advisory Group Northern Interfaith Intercultural Network PACMAC – Police and Community Multicultural Advisory Committee Vic Pol Multifaith Council

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 5 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 GENERAL MANAGER'S REPORT “We must become the change we want to see in our community”

Each year the Annual Report is I'd like to thank, acknowledge and congratulate our an opportunity to look back magnificent operations team; staff and volunteers for their on the achievements of the contribution during the year in making the wellbeing of previous year with an eye to our community their priority. Your ongoing commitment the road ahead. It is also a and hard work has ensured a very progressive year. chance to reflect on what we Ensuring the efficient introduction and implementation of stand for and how our the new programs and delivering of existing programs has numerous activities and been a big ask and I thank all of you for your services benefit not only the professionalism, support and dedication. Together, we V i c t o r i a i a n M u s l i m can look forward to another rewarding year for our communities but also wider Council and for our community. Australian society as a whole. I thank the ICV Executive Committee (Board) for their The 2011-12 year has been a year of change. It has been whole-hearted and genuine commitments to Victoria's a most challenging and rewarding year. The ICV Muslim community. It is through their collective aspirations managed over two-dozen services and undertaken over and energies that the ICV is able meet the expectations of 100 programs and activities throughout the year. It is many. The Executive Committee boasts a well-balanced heartening to look back over the year and to once again team of hardworking community-spirited & forward be able to celebrate all that has been achieved. There has thinking professionals able to anticipate and formulate been many highlights throughout the year; Launch of policies, strategies and relevant services. Zakat Fund, NILS Program, Hospital Chaplaincy, Office for Women, MEMP - Post Disaster Management Strategy, I also take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to our New Musullah (ground floor) at City Mosque, Eid in the former serving executives during the year; Craig Dent, Park, Top floor renovations & dedicated sisters prayer Mohamed Nur and Hisham Moustafa and in particular area. New offices at 7 Jeffcott St, NILS Most Innovative our immediate past president Hyder Gulam, who did a NILS Program Award, IMAX - Journey to Mecca: Ibn remarkable job during his presidency and I'm grateful for Battuta, Ramadan at Jeffcott Street: 10,000 young the opportunity to have served under his visionary Muslims broke fast and ICV Mosque Visits & Presentations stewardship. to around 10,000 students - to name a few. I especially wish to thank our retiring president Br Ramzi The year has seen many changes to existing services and Elsayed who has selflessly served the ICV and the Muslim operations, as we continue to improve our service delivery community for the past 8 years. I think I speak for many in to address the needs of our community, member societies the community and everyone here at the ICV who have and stakeholders. To ensure that we continue to meet had the pleasure of working with Ramzi. His passionate, members' needs, we implemented new organisational inclusive & altruistic commitment and whose unique structures that place additional emphasis on improved leadership style has been instrumental to ICV's positioning customer services, communication and more member to play an even stronger leadership role in our community. engagement with overhauls in Administration, Accounts, Religious Services and Caretaker (Building Maintenance) And I wish to in particular express my respect and services. admiration to our retiring secretary Sr Sherene Hassan who has made an incredible difference in the lives of The most amazing thing about the ICV and often many; caring, guiding, advocating, celebrating and independently noted is that the “ICV is the best kept secret strengthening our community as a whole. Over her 8 in town”, we provide so many important and tangibly years, Sherene has been a role model and inspiration to beneficial services yet many are not aware. Hence we so many. needed to better promote and communicate all we do more regularly and tap into new and emerging groups. And finally I would like to thank our member societies and many of our stakeholders, in particular OMAC (Office of The services the ICV delivers and activities undertaken are Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship) for their continuing a collective and collaborative effort of a family of support throughout the year. Our aspirations will best be approximately 40 people: executive, staff & volunteers. attained through collaboration across the whole of the And in order to highlight our achievements of the past community. year, we need to thank many people (past & present) who have worked so diligently and passionately to serve our I look forward to serving under the leadership of the new community - however space will not permit to list all. I pray executive team who will take the baton to new heights in for all who have moved on during the year to achieve the changing landscape of our society. bigger and better things and may Allah reward you for all your efforts and contributions to the ICV and grant you Nail Aykan further opportunities to serve the community in many other General Manager capacities.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 6 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 LETTER FROM MINISTER

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 7 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 ICV OFFICE FOR WOMEN LEAD | CONNECT | SUPPORT | GROW The ICV Office for Women (OW) is a first for Australia with the Muslim peak body, Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV) dedicating a comprehensive portfolio and newly furnished multipurpose floor to women. OW signals great strides forward for the ICV 40 year legacy. The ICV represents Victoria's more than 150,000 Muslims, through its 47 member organisations located throughout metropolitan Melbourne and rural Victoria.

OW recognises this rich history and celebrates the contributions of Muslim women, past and present to the ever growing tapestry that is Victoria. Whether as professionals, homemakers, wives, mothers, sisters, daughters, students, volunteers, community and religious leaders; the OW ·OW President Maryum Chaudhry with OW Team at the Official Opening recognises the role of women in society. Highlights - Dream a little - Muslim women from various It is through this platform OW seeks to lead, connect, support and grow. organisations coming together envisioning the future. The OW team consists of individuals of diverse expertise, - The launch of Office for Women at the Muslim Eid experiences and expressions. The commonality is their passion Festival (Eid-ul-Adha) and mission of 'Muslim women for a better community.' - Women's Networking Day, 'Women & Leadership': Our Vision A celebration of local women making a difference Enrich Muslim women through engagement and support to in the area of politics, business, arts, human rights build a stronger community and spirituality.

Our Aims Special guest speakers included Heidi Victoria MP (Bayswater · Provide support and services for Muslim women in District), Hanifa Deen (Award Winning Author/ Sultana's Victoria Dream), Miriam Silva (General Manager of Elders), Saara · Recognise the great work organisations and women Sabbagh (Benevolence), Tasneem Chopra (Australian Muslim are already doing in the Muslim community Women's Centre for Human Rights). White Ribbon Interfaith · Identify gaps and build programs based on needs. Forum on Family Violence, Religious Leaders of Muslim, Christian and Jewish background with keynote speaker Programs Andrew O Keefe discussed how faith can assist to prevent Respectful Relationships: violence against women and children. · Promoting respectful relationships between genders, families and the broader community Respectful Relationships workshop, Religious & community · Raising awareness of and addressing social issues leaders discussed family issues occurring in the Muslim · Providing access to a Women's Support Officer and community with US guest speakers (Usama Canon) facilitating referral services. the forum. Official ICV Office for Women Launch, The Official Launch of OW and the newly completed refurbishments by the Health & Wellbeing: Hon. Nicholas Kotsiras MP, Minister for Multicultural Affairs · Hosting 'Bringing out the best in you' seminars to and Citizenship. The creation of the centralised space and further build confidence and capacity women's portfolio signals great strides forward for the ICV 40 · Engaging and promoting physical activity & sport for year legacy. Muslim women

Role Models, Rights & Responsibilities: "There certainly is a revival of Muslim women becoming more · Celebrating female role models of the past, present in touch with their faith and wanting to give back to the wider and future community " said Sherene Hassan. "It's a beginning of · Promoting Islamic principles, thought and something new for all of us" said Maryum Chaudhry. discussions.

Meet the Team The OW team consists of individuals of diverse expertise and experiences. The commonality is their passion and mission of ‘Muslim women for a better community.’

Maryum Chaudhry, Eugenia Flynn, Senem Eren, Nasya Bahfen, Aksen Ilhan, Rana Hussain, Sarah Malik, Tasnim Sammak, Jasmine Ouaida

·Minister for Multicultural Affairs Hon Nick Kotsiras officially opening the Top Floor of the ICV Building and launch of the OW

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 8 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 YOUTH ENGAGEMENT The ICV's Youth Engagement Team comprises of Two specialists in mental health and youth work a Muslim Youth worker as well as a project from RMIT University delivered the training. All coordinator from the Office of Multicultural participants were given accreditation after Affairs and Citizenship. completing the two day course.

The role of the Youth Engagement team is to UNITY CUP connect with young Muslims around Victoria, as well as have links with various established youth In March, the ICV team took part in the AFP's groups and organisations. We were able to annual Unity Cup held in Kensington. This is the source funding from the State government in fourth year we have been involved and were order to provide grants to these groups to run fortunate to have a strong team consisting of their own programs. Special emphasis was player’s from the ICV as well as from the given to programs that reduced social isolation Australian International Academy. In all we had and created pathways to education, close to 10 players. Sadly, we did not win the cup employment and the wider community. In the this year, but as always, have enjoyed last year we have provided over 15 grants with a participating in the event and the different combined total of $70,000. communities it brings together.

The Youth Engagement team is the ICV's frontline community service. It meets and supports thousands of young people every year and is actively seeking out new groups and people to engage with rather than waiting for them to make contact with the ICV first. Some of the youth organisations we worked with last year are: Preston Mosque, IISNA, AISA youth, Sareera youth, RISE, Muslim Unity and Youth Victoria.

ICV recognises the importance of being proactive about engaging with youth. Young The ICV Footy Team at the Unity Cup people are most at risk of isolation, unemployment and frustration. We also recognise that some non-Islamic agencies may ADVOCACY WORKSHOPS also have trouble connecting with Muslim young people, that's why we have created our own For the most part of this year, the ICV has been Youth Engagement Team to ensure that social running advocacy workshops. Late in 2011, we services that are delivered to young Muslims are brought together a steering committee made up culturally and religiously suitable. of 8 young members of different Islamic youth groups to help develop what an advocacy The ICV's Youth Engagement team has also training initiative might look like. delivered a number of programs directly that have been open to all young people to attend. This year we've run 6 different workshops. 3 in They are as follow: partnership with the Sydney based organisation “The Change Agency”, which specialise in MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID teaching groups how to advocate for themselves. We've also run 3 smaller workshops In May, the ICV held Mental Health First Aid with various speakers coming in to talk about Training for Muslim youth groups and how their community have succeeded in various community leaders that may work with young campaigns. We had the Asylum Seeker people at risk of mental illness. 12 groups Resource Centre, Darebin Climate Action attended. The training covered dealing with Group and High School for Coburg all come in depression, suicide, anxiety and psychosis. to talk about their experiences.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 9 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 YOUTH ENGAGEMENT YOUNG MUSLIMS AND THE MEDIA TRIP TO TURKEY CONFERENCE Between June and July 2012, Michael Stapleton Also in May, the ICV in partnership with the and Mohammed El-leissy had the opportunity to Multicultural Media Exchange hosted a two and undertake a month long internship in Turkey. a half day conference that brought young The program was organised by the Foundation Muslims face to face with the media. Notable of Science and Arts in Istanbul. 15 people from media personalities were in attendance around the world participated including people including George Negus, Jill Singer, Brett from Ukraine, Bosnia, Malaysia, Macedonia Mcleod from Chanel 9, John Masanauskas and Mohammed and Michael from Australia. from the Herald Sun as well as many others. Michael was placed at the Ülker head office, the largest maker of chocolate and biscuits in Over 70 young Muslims attended the event Turkey, while Mohammed was placed at the which also received notable media coverage of Istanbul Sehir University working with the its own on ABC nightly news and in The Age. As International Relations Department. Both a result of the conference, there have been a few Mohammed and Michael spent considerable young Muslims that now feel more confident time working in these respective organisations engaging with the media and have been quoted and being able to share their experience from in various stories that have been printed since Australia. then.

Mohammed El-Leissy & Michael Stapleton on the Bosphorus of Istanbul Mohammed El-Leissy with George Negus

MUSLIM MULTIMEDIA WORKSHOPS The trip was a great eye opener into personal, professional and spiritual lives of the Turkish people. Both were touched by the kind nature In February and again in July, the ICV held two and hospitality that was received. Michael was multimedia workshops. They were delivered by able to help advise Ülker on their environmental Ruebin AbuBakr from Blue Print Studios and practices sharing the skills he has built over covered everything from Film, Photography, many years with the ICV's environment Lighting, Audio and Editing. In total we had portfolio. Mohammed was able to help develop close to 30 young Muslims attend both different ways of helping the university engage workshops. and unite their international student population. As a result the attendees produced and filmed a Both feel the trip was one of the most enriching number of short films and clips relating to being Muslim in Australia and many have expressed experiences and are also excited about the interest in continuing with multimedia work. wealth of the experience that we can bring back to ICV.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 10 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 AUSTRALIA-INDONESIA MUSLIM EXCHANGE PROGRAMME 2011-2012

HIGHLIGHTS Canberra with the exception of the second group which also visited Shepparton. A media The Australia-Indonesia Muslim Exchange delegation from the Indonesian Journal of (MEP) has concluded the financial year with Strategic Review also accompanied the second again another successful programme. group to make coverage of the programme. Similarly, five Australian Muslim leaders visited The programme is supported by the Australia- Indonesia to coincide with MEP's 10th year Indonesia Institute (AII), which is part of the celebrations in Jakarta. Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade with the aim of building a greater understanding A major achievement includes the ongoing for Australians of mainstream Islam in success of the Melbourne visits which is the Indonesia and, for Indonesians, a greater heart of the programme. awareness of Australia's multicultural society. Indonesian participants provided positive Professor Julia Howell, AII Board Director; feedback on the diversity and richness of the Philip Knight, Programme Founder and Mila Melbourne leg. Sudarsono, National Project Director began the programme by participating in the short- The groups particularly enjoyed visits to listing and interview process in Jakarta and universities and schools, meetings with Melbourne. There were approximately 200 interfaith groups and meeting the Muslim artist Indonesian and 30 Australian applicants. community.

Australian applications out of Victoria THE MELBOURNE TEAM increased from last year with an increase of applicants from Sydney, Perth and Canberra. The Australia-Indonesia Muslim Exchange The increase of non-Victorian applicants is tied Programme would not be possible without the to Rachel Small, AII and Mila Sudarsono's team who work tirelessly to ensure the success outreach visit to Sydney to increase awareness of this nation-wide project and wishes to o f t h e p r o g r a m m e a m o n g M u s l i m acknowledge the following people from the organisations. Melbourne Team:

Unlike previous years, the programme this Dr Eeqbal Hassim, Melbourne Coordinator year of ten Indonesian Muslim leaders was Maryum Chaudhry, Executive Committee divided among two mix-gendered groups of Member, Islamic Council of Victoria Nail five participants. Aykan, General Manager, Islamic Council of Victoria Wawan Hermawan, Indonesian The groups visited Melbourne, Sydney and Media Visit Liaison

Indonesian MEP Group. First day in Melbourne with Dr Eeqbal Hassim Spanish/Moroccan Dinner with Muslim Artists and Musicians

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 11 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 AUSTRALIA-INDONESIA MUSLIM EXCHANGE PROGRAMME 2011-2012 2012 marks the 10th year of the Australia-Indonesia Institute The aim of the Melbourne leg of the exchange program was to Muslim Exchange Program (MEP) and ICV's involvement in this provide the Indonesian delegates with a cultural experience; in important bilateral initiative between Australia and Indonesia. particular, what it means to be Muslim in Melbourne. Although all From 23-28 April, the first batch of 5 Indonesian delegates took of the delegates were educators and expressed their desire to part in the Melbourne leg of the program, before proceeding to further their postgraduate studies in Melbourne, education was Canberra and then to Sydney to complete the rest of their 2-week only one aspect of their overall experience. During the program, Australian visit. From 11-16 June, another 5 delegates from the delegates received a taste of: Indonesian went through a similar program. The delegates were: • Interfaith and intercultural dialogue (via a session with 23-28 April Dr Hassim, an intercultural educator; an evening with Joe Hockey MP who spoke about diversity; meeting with • Mr Muslich (Lecturer and Head of Dormitory, Jewish Christian Muslim Association representatives; Sampoerna Academy, Malang) visit to the Immigration Museum; visit to Centre for • Mr Husni Mubarrak (Lecturer, Ar-Raniry State Institute Dialogue, La Trobe University; meeting with Hass Dellal of Islamic Studies, Aceh) of the Australian Multicultural Foundation; meeting with • Mr Muhammad Latif Fauzi (Lecturer, State Institute of Prof Ismail Albayrak at the Australian Catholic Islamic Studies, Jogjakarta) University; visiting the Migrant Resource Centre in • Ms Irma Wahyuni (Educator, Darunnajah Islamic Dandenong; and observing a Shabbat service at Boarding School and State Institute of Islamic Studies Temple Beth Israel) Syarif Hidayatullah) • The organisation of Muslims in Melbourne (via a • Ms Rizki Damayanti (Head of International Relations, meeting with Nail Aykan, ICV General Manager; and a Paramadina University, Jakarta) dinner with ICV Board Members) • Media engagement (via a visit to ABC Radio Australia 11-16 June for interviews on the Indonesian and English language programs) · Ms Eneng Elis Aisah (English Language teacher, Negeri • Education (via meeting prominent Indonesian/Islamic Ciranjang; Permanent Lecturer STIT Nurul Hikmah experts such as Prof Tim Lindsey, Prof Abdullah Saeed Foundation, Cianjur) and Dr Michael Ewing of the University of Melbourne; · Mr M. Nursaid Ali Rido (Lecturer and Program Head of Prof Greg Barton of Monash University; meeting the Quranic Sciences and Interpretation, Faculty of Sharia, Bridge (Indonesia) School Partnerships team at the Asia Quranic Sciences University, Wonosobo) Education Foundation; and visiting the Australian · Mr Ahmad Zainal Abidin (Lecturer, State Islamic International Academy and Korowa Anglican Girls' College, Tulungagung, East Java) School) · Mr Muhammad Adam (Chief of Non-Academic • Art (via a dinner with the Islamic Museum of Australia Curriculum Development, Ruhul Islam Education and meeting concurrently with Muslim artists; and Foundation, Islamic Modern Boarding School, Aceh) visiting the 'Love and Devotion: from Persia and Beyond' · Ms Lusia Efriani (Entrepreneur, Coconut Shell exhibition at the State Library of Australia) Production ARAN5) • Australia-Indonesia sociopolitical relations (via a meeting with Daniel Andrews, leader of the opposition, The 11-16 June visit included a media representative, Pak Tony at the State Parliament of Victoria; and having dinner from the Indonesian Journal of Strategic Review, who was with members of the Indonesian Consulate General accompanied by Ms Angky Septiana, Public Affairs Section, Melbourne and MEP Alumni) Australian Embassy Jakarta, Mila Sudarsono and Mr Wawan Hermawan. The delegates also went sightseeing within the Melbourne CBD, visited the Melbourne Zoo, and went shopping at the Queen This year, the ICV coordinated the program in-house, contracting Victoria Market. Overall, the program was a success – the Dr Eeqbal Hassim as Project Coordinator, who worked with ICV delegates as well the people and organisations involved have all Board Member and portfolio head of the MEP, Maryum expressed their desire for continued involvement and/or further Chaudhry. Dr Hassim received administrative from the ICV collaboration. through Nury Emniyet, Sumeyya Sener and Yasmin Hassen. Faza Fauzi, alumnus of the Muslim Leadership Program, and Struan Jones played an important role as host/guide to the Indonesian delegates for part of their visit.

Australian MEP Group with Cultural Attache, Australian Embassy Jakarta Meeting with the Islamic Council of Victoria and Board of Imams

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 12 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 MEMO - MUSLIM EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ORGANISATION

Victorians are not without adversities in the form of disasters Community notice – MEMO Plan 1300 884 873 and community crises. Thank God, we live in a country where the emergency services are leaders in emergency For disasters or significant incidents requiring support from management. Nevertheless, each person and the community Muslim representatives contact the MEMO Plan Duty Officer - as a whole has a part to play to prepare for, prevent, respond 1300 884 873 and recover from these trials. As a result of the specific threats, needs and strengths of the MEMO Plan does not replace the emergency services. In the Muslim community, MEMO (Muslim Emergency Management event of an emergency call 000 first. Organisation) was launched by the Islamic Council of Victoria, the Federal Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) The MEMO Plan refers to MEMO's emergency response and and the Victorian Office of Multiculturalism and Citizenship in disaster recovery capability. The key element of the MEMO October 2011. Plan is the Crisis Management Team (CMT) made up of a handful of dedicated volunteers. In the event of a disaster or MEMO is the acronym given to our emergency management significant incident requiring support from Muslim program which aims to assist the Victorian Muslim community representatives, the CMT will coordinate response and be a resilient one in the face of disasters or emergencies. Our recovery activities whilst liaising with emergency services and motto is Resilient Muslims, a Stronger Victoria. the community. MEMO has two main areas: The first is the MEMO Plan, which includes a team of dedicated volunteers who, in the event of a Depending on the situation, MEMO Plan activities could major incident or disaster that affects the Muslim community, include: will activate to support the emergency services and those • provision of advice and support to the affected. The team is designed to respond to serious incidents emergency services that require support from Muslim representatives. The team's • sourcing and coordination of immediate or role is to support the emergency services, such as the fire supplementary needs for affected Muslims brigade or police, and compliment other recovery agencies • coordination of support resources, such as such as the Red Cross to ensure the needs of our community are volunteers met. • provision of personal support workers to assist affected people The strategy for MEMO Plan also includes developing or • translation services engaging support services such as Personal Support, volunteer • coordination of advisory services to assist support and translation services, that can be called upon the affected Muslims manage the recovery process event of a disaster or emergency. • provision of effective stakeholder and public MEMO's second area of activities is focussed on community communication education and helping members of our communities understand how to prepare for and respond to disasters. For The MEMO Plan is activated when a Duty Officer or Team more information on both these areas, please visit our website Leader makes the decision after receiving a call on the at www.memo.org.au . MEMO Plan number (1300 884 873) or being notified by Some of our achievements in 2011-12 include: one of Victoria's emergency services.

· MEMO Launch in October 2011. A disaster or serious incident is a natural or man made event · Development of two guides: Emergency Management (deliberate or accidental) that 'causes widespread human, Plan for Community Organisations and Families. material, economic or environmental losses which exceed the ability of the affected community to cope using its own · Development of the MEMO Plan and MEMO Plan resources'. For MEMO, it is where Muslim representatives are Team. needed to help in the response and recovery phase following · Facilitation of a scenario exercise for the MEMO Plan such an event. For smaller events, where there is no injury to Team. people, or where Muslim representatives are not required, there is no need to call MEMO Plan. However, if you are · Crisis Communications workshop. unsure, please feel free to call the MEMO Plan Duty Officer. · Relationship building with Victorian emergency service organisations. For 'hate crimes' that do not require MEMO Plan, we encourage people to register the incident with the Muslim · MEMO representation on Emergency Management Legal Network: Panel Discussion and workshops on Diversity and www.muslimlegalnetwork.com/victoria/report-an-incident Resilience. Upcoming activities in 2012-13 include: Examples of incidents that may activate the MEMO Plan · Launch of the MEMO Recovery Support Program and include (but are not limited to): MEMO Member Program • natural disasters • any serious accident, incident or emergency that · MEMO Plan Team training and scenario exercise results in multiple fatalities and/or serious injuries · Community engagement and education. or requires support from Muslim representatives • A serious bomb threat or mass To find out more, express an interest in being a part of or to demonstration/civil unrest become a supporter and MEMO Member email [email protected]

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 13 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 ARTS

The ICV Arts Portfolio was the - The fourth annual You Am I: An exhibition of first such initiative in Australia contemporary Muslim artists. i n r e g a r d s t o t h e representation, advocacy and - The arts symposium at Melbourne University presentation of visual arts in featuring international artist Salma Arastu, relation to the Australian indigenous soprano Deborah Cheetham and curator Muslim community. Using the Clare Williamson. arts as a medium for social engagement, awareness and - The ICV also facilitated and sponsored Echoes of the interaction is a positive way in Middle East – a recent performance at the State which the Muslim community Library of Victoria. can express itself and grow. The contribution of Muslim artists, - A community mural The Persian Rug – led by artist Nur Shkembi – ICV Arts Officer writers, poets, film makers, Anisa Sharif now hangs in the stairwell of the ICV photographers and performance artists to the cultural and intellectual landscape of Australia is crucial in the making of a - Owning Racism: Can we Talk – symposium at the multicultural society and needs the continual support of the Immigration Museum. community. In the last 12 months the ICV Arts Portfolio has provided specialised knowledge and support as well as artistic The ICV is pleased to announce the internationally renowned input for many Melbourne based and interstate arts and calligraffiti artist El Seed will be producing a public mural in the culture events, including: CBD. The positive impact for our community of engaging youth from various cultural and faith backgrounds as well as having - The Blake Prize education book and gallery talks The a beautiful Islamic inspired artwork present in the heart of Melbourne Muslim Festival held at the Melbourne Melbourne, is exciting to say the least. This project is in Town Hall. collaboration with the City of Melbourne, Signal and OMAC.

You Am I: An exhibition of Australian MuslimArtists 2012

J O U R N E Y S O F L O V E T H R O U G H T H E A R T S Devotion: from Persia and beyond - Statel Library of Victoria) and Alia Gabres (Melbourne based spoken word poet and co Where: Yasuko Hiraoka Myer Room Director of the Centre for Poetics and Justice) Level 1, Sidney Myer Asia Centre Moderator: Susan Carland University of Melbourne, Parkville Reflect upon the universal topic of love as explored through the When: Saturday April 21 - 11am - 2pm - Doors open 10.30am various mediums of the arts and uniquely presented by each of our guest speakers. From Rumi, Hafiz and Shakespeare to Guest speakers: Salma Arastu (international contemporary Indigenous contemporary performance; we invite you to join in artist) Deborah Cheetham (Renowned Yorta Yorta - Indigenous this wondrous journey. Presentations followed by a facilitated soprano and composer) Clare Williamson (co curator Love and panel discussion and Q&A.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 14 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 HOSPITAL CHAPLAINCY The Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV) values The demand ranged from: spiritual care as a significant element of the healing process. All patients have a right to access · straight pastoral care support in hospitals, the spiritual resources and practices of their age care and even home care to particular religion. · educational forums · interfaith Seminars and panellist roles During a hospital stay, a friendly visit from a · Overviews about Islam/Muslims member of the Muslim Community can provide · Caring for Muslim patients information effective continuity of care and make a vital sessions contribution to patients' wellbeing. So too, access · Death, dying and moaning from an to spiritual resources such as sacred texts, Prayer Islamic perspective Rooms, and meals in accord with religious beliefs · Training new Muslim volunteers in Pastoral can provide vital support to patients during times Care. of illness. · Building stronger ties and bridges between ICV and Different hospitals: Northern To this end, ICV encourages a program of regular Hospital, Royal Children Hospital, hospital visiting by trained Muslim Pastoral Epworth Hospital, St Vincent Hospital Volunteers who are authorised by ICV. Western Hospital, Austin Hospital and Royal Melbourne Hospital and The Royal Objectives: Women Hospital.

· Enhance the care of patients by increasing The role also encompassed: their access to spiritual resources. · Provide links for patients with the Muslim · Celebratory support to young refugees Community during a stay in hospital. and their families in Eidul Adha 2011 as · Recruit, train, authorise and coordinate well unaccompanied young Refugees in Eidul Fitr 2012 Muslim Pastoral Volunteers for provision of high · Supporting prisoners in mental Hospitals quality pastoral care of Muslim patients in such as ForensiCare. healthcare facilities (hospitals, rehabilitation, · Establishing ties with regional chaplaincy aged care, palliative care etc). centres such as Bendigo. · Establishing a tradition of providing Eid Since the inception of the position of Hospital celebration cards, sweets and soft toys to Chaplaincy Coordinator role, at ICV on the first Muslim hospital patients. day of Ramadan/August 2011, the trust, demand and respect from health service providers have ICV is proud to have supported the training of the skyrocketed. first official Muslim Hospital Chaplain for the duration of 20 weeks, in which sister Lina Ayoubi has received accreditation in Clinical Pastoral Education 1 at the Austin Hospital on the 26th of June 2012.

Graduation Ceremony for ICV Hospital Chaplains volunteers after completion · Little Malak at the Royal Children Hospital of the course coordinated and conducted by ICV May-July 2012 Reading Ramadan Moon in the sacred spiritual space

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 15 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 NILS - NO INTEREST LOAN SCHEME: QARD HASSAN VICTORIA

Many Australian Muslims, particularly the newly - Loans have been handed out to applicants arrived communities, are socially and from 25 different nationalities highlighting economically marginalised. According to the the penetration of the program into the 2006 Australian census, the age-specific many diverse communities in Victoria. unemployment rates for Australian Muslims were - The Loan purpose has been as diverse as two to four times higher than those of non-Muslim funeral expenses to helping fund a trip to Australians. Hajj!

These indicators point towards economic Building links with other social services QH NILS disadvantage in the Australian Muslim regularly provides referrals as required to StepUP community. To respond to this growing problem programs, ICV's Zakat (Charity), emergency relief the Qard Hassan No Interest Loans Scheme (QH providers, financial counsellors and refugee NILS) was created in partnership with the Good specific services. shepherd Youth and Family Service (GSYF), National Australian Bank (NAB) and the Islamic Since the launch the QH NILS program has gone Council of Victoria (ICV) from strength to strength in terms of marketing opportunities having a presence at some of the Officially launched in September, 2011 and led major Muslim festivals, schools, mosques and tirelessly by Asma Siddiq and a team of universities. Some of the highlights include: volunteers. The QH NILS program has steadily been averaging around 10 loans a month and to - La Trobe University uses QH/NILS as a date has helped close to 118 families gain access case study in their Master of Islamic to essential household items and services through Banking and Finance course. the provision of around $100,000 in capital. - Al-Wasat newspaper published an article The QH NILS scheme services a cross-section of on the program in the October, 2011 the Victorian Muslim Communities as well as the edition. wider community. Whether it be refugees, asylum seekers, international students or single parents QH NILS prides itself on providing a financial - Radio interview promoting the service was helping hand for those that most need it. given to Yasmin Sayed the director of Urdu Program SBS Radio service, Melbourne. Interesting statistics:

- 78% of the loan seekers are between the This was capped off when the program won the age of 25 to 54 years of age most Innovative NILS program award at the - The majority of the clients are single National NILS Award Conference earlier in this divorced women year in Sydney beating out a large number of other NILS programs. - Course fees makes up the most popular loan purpose at around 20%

Official launch of QH NILS on 17th September, 2011 with the team Asthma Siddiq – NILS Co-ordinator a-warded the Most Innovative NILS Program at the National NILS Conference in Sydney - 7 June 2012

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 16 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 MLP - MUSLIM LEADERSHIP PROGRAM 2011

The Muslim Leadership Program, a successful layers of Australian Society. They included visits to leadership training and civic education program federal parliament, where the group was hosted by the jointly organized and hosted by the Centre for federal member for Calwell, Ms Varia Vamvakinou. Dialogue at La Trobe University and the Islamic Participants also visited the Department of Foreign Council of Victoria, ran for the fifth year in 2011. The Affairs and Trade as well as foreign diplomats program has been supported by the Victorian state accredited in Canberra. His Excellency Mr Ali Al- government's Department of Premier and Cabinet, the Nuaimi hosted the group for dinner with five other Australia-Malaysia Institute, the Australia-Thailand Arab ambassadors for a spirited discussion of events Institute and the Regional Communities Outreach unfolding across the Arab world. The study tour of Program at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Sydney included discussions with the national media Trade in Canberra. The MLP 2011 saw a number of as well as visits to local Muslim organizations. The critical innovations, including expansion of the program was completed with a graduation ceremony program to include participants from New South at Victorian State Parliament, attended by Ms Maria Wales and Singapore, made possible by successful Vamvakinou, MP and Mr Frank Macquire, MP as well grant applications to the federal Department of as senior representatives from the Islamic Council of Attorney General and the Islamic Religious Council of Victoria and La Trobe University. Singapore. The ICV also strengthened its commitment to the program and put together three intensive and The Muslim Leadership Program is a critical very well-received full-day programs. The MLP was component part of the broad-based relationship also shortened to seven weeks and was co-convened, between the Centre for Dialogue and the Islamic for the first time, by a Muslim staff at the Centre for Council of Victoria. The MLP 2012 is currently being Dialogue, Dr Sven Alexander Schottmann. As Mr Larry prepared by a steering committee comprising Marshall, the convener of all previous leadership representatives of both the Centre for Dialogue and programs, has left La Trobe University, Dr Schottmann the ICV. This year's program will offer a panoramic will be the sole convener for the MLP2012, for which view of the intellectual, political and cultural preparations are already well underway. challenges facing Muslim communities around the Asia-Pacific. It will provide a comprehensive More than two hundred applications were received for introduction to the wide range of avenues that exist for the twenty-two places available last year. This large individuals and organisations, in particular in Victoria, volume, as well as the outstanding quality of to engage with the diverse communities of fellow- applicants, made the selection process quite difficult. Muslims, with other faith-based communities and with In the end, a selection committee comprising staff of the larger society. The changes to the Muslim the ICV and the Centre for Dialogue chose eight Leadership Program over the past two years mean that impressive Victorian representing undergraduate it is much more strongly focused on civic education. students, postgraduate students, civil servants and Through facilitating contact with community leaders, early career professionals. The program began in the politicians, businessmen and women, artists, opinion- first week of September and was completed by the end makers and academics, it will equip participants with of October. The study tours to Sydney, Canberra and an intimate understanding of how they can contribute Melbourne were carefully planned with local most effectively to the reshaping, reforming and knowledge and an overall concept of introducing the revitalisation of society. participants to people of influence across different

Group visiting ABC Studios in Ultimo, Sydney Graduation Ceremony in Parliament House

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 17 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 PRISON CHAPLAINCY SERVICES

Vision Statement by the prisoner (within the duty of care framework). Prison Chaplaincy Service's vision is to assist Muslim · We assist prisoners to build a sense of prisoners in the State of Victoria to rediscover or remain community while on the inside. in the joy of Islam while in custody. · We see partnership and networking as vitally important for the full rehabilitation of the Mission Statement offenders. · We recognize that chaplaincy involves Prison Chaplaincy Service's mission is to: creativity, experimentation and making · Provide an excellent and holistic chaplaincy mistakes, and see that process as service to Victorian Muslims in state custody necessary and healthy. and to their immediate families · We are committed to putting prisoners' during and after incarceration. wellbeing first, above programs and structures. · Offer quality spiritual support, religious · We seek to experience the joy of Islam in our counselling and advocacy for those we are lives daily and to live a 'halal lifestyle' as responsible for. examples for others to follow. · Assist correctional staff, at all levels, to be · We are committed to learning how to be the aware of religious and cultural issues facing best chaplains we can be. Muslim prisoners and highlight how certain prison procedures may impact on Objectives prisoners during custody. · Inform the general Muslim community of issues Prison Chaplaincy Services is committed to; facing Muslim prisoners and how they can · Providing Islamic religious, spiritual and assist them during and after custody. limited cultural support and services to Muslim prisoners. These include the Team Members daily, weekly and festival ceremonies; · Educating and training Muslim prisoners and · Mr. Altaf Hussain- Senior Prison Chaplain prison management about Islamic beliefs, · Sheikh Moustapha Sarakibi – Prison Chaplain practises, values, and traditions; & Imam at Hume Islamic Youth Centre · Providing counselling and spiritual care to · Sheikh Mehmet Salih Dogan - Imam at King short and long-term prisoners; Sultan Masjid · Advising prison management and other · Hafiz Abdelhay (www.ibnmasood.com.au) – relevant service providers on traditions Prison Chaplain pertaining to the culture of Muslims and on · Ms Sarah Decaen – Female Prison Chaplain matters of contention; · Ms Hussain – Female Prison Chaplain · Implementing programs to assist the spiritual · Mr. Mohammad Ali Hijazi – Prison Chaplain development of the prisoner; · Mohammed Abdul Rashid – Prison Chaplain · Dealing with crises where Muslim prisoners are · Mr. Mohammed Ali – Prison Chaplain involved; · Mr. Muhammad Khalid – Prison Chaplain · Providing support to family and friends of · Mr. Rahil Khan – ICV Project Manager/Prison prisoners; Chaplain Coordinator · Advocating for Muslim prisoners on religious, spiritual and some cultural matters; Central Values · Providing a limited range post-release support; · Encouraging prisoners to undergo · To be the prisoner's mentor. rehabilitation programs that address their · To help prisoners grow and reach their full offending behaviour. human potential – spiritually, creatively, in · Representing Muslim prisoners and the ICV at relationships and in community. Chaplain Advisory Committee and other · We are grace orientated - we provide relevant meetings with statutory bodies. chaplaincy services out of a response to almighty ALLAH's love, concern and mercy. Principles and Practise · We are forgiving and non-judgmental - we also are keenly aware of our own shortcomings and The ICV has a working knowledge of local and general nature to rebel against Almighty ALLAH. prison operating procedures, of the structure of the · We empathise and listen deeply to prisoners. corrections system within Victoria, of prisoner concerns We challenge unhealthy behaviour and and issues, of the culture among prisoners and prison attitudes when necessary. management. · We respect confidential information disclosed

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 18 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 PRISON CHAPLAINCY SERVICES Chaplains who are of good standing with the Muslim literature, calendars, prayer mats, beads, etc. community, with sound knowledge of Islamic beliefs and · Assistance for prisoners to maintain practises and with experience in delivering social and relationships with their families welfare related services are recruited into the program. · Advocacy on religious matters · Muslim awareness training for prison staff Chaplains regularly meet with the prisoners on an · A referral service to other relevant support individual and collective basis to identify the agencies characteristics, beliefs and values of the prisoner. They listen to the prisoner and walk with the prisoner through What Chaplains cannot provide their journey into and sometimes out of the corrections environment. A personal development plan is Given our restraints and the contractual guidelines we developed for each prisoner and their progress work within, it is with regret that PCS cannot provide: evaluated regularly. · Financial assistance to prisoners and their families Chaplains regularly brief programs and prison staff of · Banking, material aid and property support significant religious events and offer information on the · Involvement in domestic and child access nature of the services to be conducted. Where possible, disputes Friday congregational prayers and the two Eid prayers · Legal advice and court assistance are offered in prisons. · Cultural requests of a non-religious nature

Chaplains also provide literature, audio and visual Statistics Year 2011 - 12 material to support the religious and spiritual development of the prisoner. These items are also · More than 700 chaplain visits in 13 prisons in donated to prison libraries. Victoria; · 80,000kms plus distances travelled; Whilst the program recognises the necessity to maintain · 425 adult Muslim male prisoners confidentiality between the prisoner and chaplain, it is accommodated in 11 prisons; recognised that a chaplains duty of care includes · 20 adult Muslim female prisoners forwarding any information that presents a security risk accommodated in 2 prisons; (e.g. self harm, threats to harm others, escape plans and · Increase: 21% increase 2010-11, up from bomb threats, etc) to appropriate prison staff. usual 15% annual increase; · 12 authorised chaplains & khateebs; A clear line of protocol is established between the · First time Correction Victoria allowed taraweeh chaplain and each prison. This would typically include prayer in a jamat, Hafiz Abdelhay from programs managers, operations managers and in (www.ibnmasood.com.au) lead some cases the general manager. Matters of common taraweeh prayer in a medium security prison at concern across the prison are be advocated through the Castlemaine; Chaplains Advisory Committee to Corrections Victoria · Celebrated Ramadan EID BBQ in all the prisons Executive at regular meetings or through other formal and in low security prisons with family & friends. channels of correspondence. Chaplains are expected to stay aware of changes to local and global prison Future Plans procedures, management and policy. Chaplaincy programs are constantly being developed Almighty ALLAH willing, Prison Chaplaincy Services to deal with issues around a) the role of the individual in plans to expand into the following areas of concern to life, b) the rights and responsibilities of an individual to help meet the short fall of Muslim involvement: the Creator, to oneself, to other citizens and to civil · Drug and alcohol programs, including society, c) education, work, training and personal counselling and referral services and a finance, d) mental strength and e) living a 'halal' lifestyle methadone and needle exchange program. free from criminal activity. · Post-release emergency housing. · Employment programs for prisoners exiting Partnerships with the Department of Justice, other custody. chaplaincy providers and the broader Muslim · Chaplaincy services for adolescence in juvenile community are vitally important for the smooth custody and post-release centres. operation of the program and for the full rehabilitation · Mental health services. of the offenders. · Support program for victims of crime. · Community mentor program. What chaplains can provide

· Religious advice and counselling. · Facilitation of worship services and religious festivals · Religious articles, such as Qur'ans, mainstream

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 19 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 MUSLIM CONNECT - POST RELEASE REHABILITATION PROGRAM

Vision Statement Links with the Support Services: Muslim Connect Service's vision is to assist Muslim To determine the types of services that the client required, prisoners in the State of Victoria to rediscover or remain in the program workers Mr Moustapha Sarakibi, Ms Sarah the joy of Islam inside or outside of custody. Decaen & Ms Lina Ayoubi worked closely with these services; o St Vincent de Paul housing; Mission Statement o Department of Human Services Office of · To provide an integrated program for Housing; incarcerated clients and their families. o ACSO; · To assist with their ongoing holistic wellbeing by o Salvation Army; providing for their needs and support progress. o Adult Services; o Crisis Accommodation; Team Members o VACRO; · Sheikh Moustapha Sarakibi – Prison Chaplain & o Islamic Information Services Network Australia Imam at Hume Islamic Youth Centre (IISNA); · Ms Lina Ayoubi – Professional Counselor - MC o Hume Islamic Youth Centre; family caseworker o Linkout; · Mr. Rahil Khan – ICV Project Manager/Muslim o Indigo; Connect Coordinator o Western Region Health Care; Objectives o Aboriginal Health Service; The Muslim Connect (MC) is being implemented by Islamic o South East Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Council of Victoria to assist with the unique and Program; specialized reintegration issues of the Muslim offenders. o OZNAM house and One of the principal objectives of MC was to provide o Odyssey house. “mentoring to Muslim offenders to help them stoping their reoffending behaviour”. MC case workers also liaised with the Muslim Chaplain and Imams who are providing mentoring to some of MC Currently MC has 27 prisoners participating in the clients. program, after identification process, a number of individual and group meetings were held between Muslim MC family caseworker prisoners and MC staff. The program social workers also –focus on supporting women, children and parents of meet with the post/pre release clients and their family Muslim Connect participants. So far we were able to living in the community. provide and support the following… · Moral support: continuous availability and Currently MC workers is assisting about 16 clients by accessibility for the MC clients 'families though supporting them with a range of practical reintegration phone calls and regular visits needs, building up new community connections, and, at · Community involvements, free invitations to times, providing them transport to important community festivals and events. appointments for their wellbeing. MC is also offering · Community Events Awareness, regular updates appropriate referrals to the support services for the clients of functions and events that are happening in the and their families and providing some family support community. through mediation and reconciliation.MC also liaise and · Supporting independence and work of members work closely with the other support services to refer its of the Muslim Connect Clients 'families by clients for the appropriate services. connecting them to job and employment opportunities within the community. Improving Client's Social Skills: · Spiritual support: Giving spiritual pastoral care to To improve the cognitive thinking of the clients the Muslim Connect clients' families and facilitating program social workers conducted the counselling access to Islamic lectures, conferences and sessions with MC clients. The following topics were providing Islamic books DVD's to help them with covered under this activity their spiritual journey. · Cognitive focusing, and · Food and groceries: preparing and delivering · Correcting misconceptions parcels of food to certain Muslim Connect Clients' These sessions helps the clients in understanding the families with apparent dire need for support. consequences of their offensive behaviour which helped · Approaching Islamic schools to facilitate easy those avoiding crimes. access to enrolment of children's of Muslim Connect Clients in weekday and weekend schooling.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 20 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 MUSLIM MULTIMEDIA WORKSHOP

Executive Summary AUDIO RECORDING TRAINING PROGRAM Audio/Film Production for Muslim Youth Engagement & Training was an initiative by the Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV) and the Office of Attorney-General's Department with an objective to encourage disadvantaged and disengaged Muslim youth to participate in creative development projects with key Muslim community leaders that will enable them to express their views in a creative positive form through audio and film making. Starts 23rd January 2012 FILMMAKING & PRODUCTION Team Members TRAINING PROGRAM · Mr. Reuben Abubaker - Professional Film Maker, BluePrint Studios. · Mr. Ahmed Sabra - Professional Photographer, Lahza preserving moments, · Mr Mohammad Elleissy - Muslim Youth Worker · Mr. Rahil Khan – ICV Project Manager Starts 9th April 2012

Objectives The main goal of this project is to · develop programs targeting disadvantaged and disengaged Muslim youth that address issues of identity, sense of belonging and cultural isolation, which can be factors leading to violent extremism; · develop educational resources by industries leading Muslim professional that promote interfaith/intercultural understanding and provide individuals with the knowledge and skills to challenge and debate violent extremist ideologies, especially in schools and higher education institutions, through arts and technology · Key activities of Audio/Film Production Training: o Research o Script writing o Basic Camera Operation o Basic Sound o Basic lighting o Learn interview techniques o Filming the documentary o Editing the project

An intensive workshop was held where Professional Film Maker explained the creative role of the film maker in all aspects of the production & vision and to maintain the same vision for the whole project.

For example how to interpret a script, how characters are developed, and how and why creative directing choices are made. Trainer also demonstrates how they manage casting, rehearsal techniques, screen performances and how they work with actors from diverse backgrounds to elicit memorable performances.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 21 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 NEW MULTICULTURAL POLICY, THE PEOPLE OF AUSTRALIA

In February 2011, The Australian Government announced organisations and the media play in addressing Australia's new multicultural policy, The People of Australia, racism? which reaffirms the importance of a culturally diverse and o How can we involve young people in addressing socially cohesive nation. racism? o Can you give examples of strategies that you have A key component of this policy is the establishment of a seen used or been part of that have been national partnership to develop and implement a National successful in preventing or reducing racism? Why Anti-Racism Strategy for Australia. were they effective? o What tools or resources do we have at the The Australian Human Rights Commission has been asked community level which could be better utilised in by the Australian Government to lead the development and the fight against racism? delivery of this strategy. o How could these experiences be shared to help promote good practice? (For example: a best This involves consultations with non-government practice website, clearing house, seeding funding organisations and community leaders. A discussion paper for pilot programs, changing criteria for has also been launched seeking community views. Government grants programs?)

On Friday the 30th March 2012, a community consultation Objective 3: Empower communities and individuals to take was held in Broadmeadows and was well attended by a action to prevent and reduce racism and seek redress when diverse group of people including the Honourable Mr Frank it occurs Maguire MP (Member for Broadmeadows) and Dr Helen o What strategies or approaches can be used to help Szoke Race Discrimination Commissioner. individuals and communities who experience racism to speak up or take action? If you have Sherene Hassan, secretary of the Islamic Council of Victoria experienced racism, what would have helped you (ICV) also attended the community consultation as part of to speak up or take action? ICV's ongoing commitment to counter discrimination in o What strategies or approaches can be used to help Victoria. bystanders address racism where and when it occurs? “The reality is that many members in our community are victims of racial or religious vilification. Sadly many fail to report these incidents and simply do not know that to vilify an individual on the basis of their religion or race is a crime.”

The ICV urges the Muslim community to get involved in this worthwhile initiative by completing the electronic survey at: www.humanrights.gov.au/antiracism/survey.html

Individuals can also make a submission by answering the following questions:

Objective 1: Create awareness of racism and how it affects individuals and the broader community o What can we learn from how Australia has dealt with racism in the past? What achievements should Sherene Hassan we build on? What mistakes should we learn from? o What information would be useful to include in a campaign to prevent and reduce racism? o How could we better acknowledge the contributions to Australia of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and culturally and linguistically diverse communities?

Objective 2: Identify, promote and build on good practice initiatives to prevent and reduce racism o What are the priority areas in which we should be addressing racism (for example: employment, education, sport, the media, cyber-racism?) o What measures should governments at all levels take to address racism? o What role can business, the arts, sporting "Understanding Islam" at the Friendship Force Annual Conference organisations, community groups, service to an audience of approx 300 on Sat Feb 11th 2012

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 22 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 ICV MOSQUE TOURS & INFO SESSIONS: 10,000 STUDENTS

The ICV has been as busy as ever conducting mosque In addition to school groups, ICV continues to provide tours and information sessions on Islam to groups information sessions to staff at a number of suburban across Victoria. In the last 12 months alone, over 120 hospitals, cadet journalists at the Herald Sun, service talks were given to an audience of approximately providers in the City of Darebin and many more. 10,000. These sessions provide an outline of the teachings of Islam and aim to dispel many of the The ICV would like to acknowledge the support given by negative misconceptions associated with Islam and Reem Hakem, Reeham Hakem, Saara Sabbagh and Muslims Jasmine Ouiada. Br Ibrahim Delal (Cyprus Turkish Islamic Society) , Br Suleyman Sahingoz (Emir Sultan Most of these groups have been students from schools mosque) as well as committee members from Australian such as Xavier College, PLC (Presbyterian Ladies Albanian Islamic Society mosque have also provided College) and University High, to name a few. School great assistance and support. groups have also travelled all the way from Albury- Wodnga and Torquay to attend a session on Islam.

An excerpt of some of the positive feedback given:

“We really appreciated coming and learning about your religion. Everything you said inspired us and moved us. Your morals were incredible and we were so impressed. You had us fully engaged throughout the whole talk and we enjoyed every minute of it. The whole experience was a huge eye opener; we got to see such a new perspective on things.”

Allison, Maya and Natalie

Yr 9 students PLC Avila College

“Dear Sherene,

"I have been thinking of you over the past few days and praying for you and the Islamic community of Victoria and Australia, given all the unrest that has been reported in the news. Please be assured of our prayerful support at what must be a very difficult time. It has been good to hear your voice of calm leadership in the media flurry, but it must be distressing for you, so I pray for your continued strength.

I am also writing to express my thanks for your wonderful presentation to our students last week. It has been a fantastic experience for them, and once again we are grateful for the way in which you so generously give of St James College East Bentleigh your time and your experience, to help our students to come to a better understanding of Islam and of life for the Australian Muslim community.

Our staff who accompanied the students to the mosque mentioned to me the project of financing new dome windows for the building project of the Emir Sultan Mosque. As a College we would like very much to make a $350 donation to finance one of these windows, in appreciation of our past involvement with the mosque and as a gesture of friendship, and I would like to know how we can go about forwarding our donation for this cause.”

School Principal Excursion to mosque

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 23 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 INTERFAITH

2012 has been a significant year for the interfaith work of the ICV. It has been the Muslim community's turn to hold the presidency of the Jewish Christian Muslim Association of Australia (JCMA), and this role has been very ably fulfilled by brother Riad Galil, who's tireless work in the area of interfaith has been recognised by the award of an OAM last year. Sister Samah Mougharbel has also taken on the role of treasurer, which has been very much appreciated.

Now in its 10th year, JCMA plays an important role in creating space for members of the Abrahamic faiths to interact with each other, as well as reach out together to the broader community. Ramiz Elsayed, JCMA Winter Conference Attendees Ian Smith and Nina Basset, as presidents, respectively, of the ICV, the VCC and the JCCV met together in July to discuss ways to deepen the level of significantly to the very gradual building of ties of understanding and dialogue between our three trust and friendship (personal and professional) that communities, and to discuss issues of common must undo decades and centuries of inherited concern. The public debate on religious education in hatreds and suspicions… [Participants] confronted a schools has been a particularly hot topic this year, number of contentious issues within and between the and while each community has made its own three faiths with intellectual and emotional honesty, representations on the issue, JCMA has also as well as a great enthusiasm to learn from one continued it's pioneering work in schools, another and to attempt to understand one another demonstrating the common ground shared by all better.” three Abrahamic faiths, as well as their unique identities. If you'd like to be involved as a presenter in As faith convenor, Sven also highlighted three core the JCMA schools program, please contact sister principles for interfaith dialogue: Rose Bogarts, the JCMA schools coordinator via · Respect for one another, especially the [email protected]. courage it takes to engage in dialogue. · Respect for each other's scriptures and Two JCMA conferences were held during the year: traditions of interpretation the Women's Conference and the annual Winter · Focus on personal experience and local Conference. The Women's Conference arranged its issues, while maintaining an apolitical programme to allow for single day attendance this stance on international conflicts. year, which made it much more accessible to those who have commitments during the week, enabling Which is not to say that politics is a taboo topic in more Muslim women to attend than in previous interfaith. Sven concludes, “There are major local years. The success of this idea was carried across to issues such as the debates over refugees and asylum the Winter Conference, and as one of the seekers, protection of human rights, corruption, particpants in the one day group, I was impressed unscrupulous development, environmental with how deep we got into dialogue in a short space degradation, all of which have distinct political of time. dimensions. To these political questions, Jews, Christians and Muslims can bring profound ethical, Another highlight of the Winter Conference was a moral and, indeed, 'prophetic' insights.” short presentation by the kids of two families attending. The children told the stories of some of Thanks to all who have participated in ICVs interfaith the prophets from their own tradition, and had activities this year, with special recognition to brother worked together in preparing their presentations. Rafiq Clarkson, who has taken on many roles in the Surely this builds great hope for the future. interfaith portfolio this year. May we always be conscious of Allah's guidance to us in Surah 49:13 Dr Sven Schottmann was the Muslim faith convenor that we are “made into nations and tribes, that ye this year. In reflecting on the conference, Sven says, may know each other (not that ye may despise (each “The winter conferences have contributed other)”.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 24 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 COMMUNITY INTEGRATION ENVIRONMENT PORTFOLIO SUPPORT PROGRAM (CISP) The Community Integration Support Program (CISP) 2011-12 was the Environment Portfolio's first year has commenced its third year of operations. The of operation. The Portfolio was established in program is currently running at capacity, with a total of recognition of the Muslim obligation to act as a 15 participants engaged in the program across the responsible custodian of one's natural correctional system (prisons / community corrections environments. Consequently, the Portfolio hopes to services). The program continues to employ a full time increase the community's understanding of, senior social worker and a religious coordinator / engagement with, and action on, contemporary Imam. In addition to this, CISP utilises the services of a range of Imam from across the community. environmental issues. It also hopes to support leaders in better incorporating environmental With respect to service delivery, over the last 12 awareness into their activities, and by doing so, months, the program has made a number of setting an example for the wider community to modifications to program requirements. Through follow. these modifications, the program has been able to more appropriately meet the participants Vital relationships have been formed, and reintegration needs. Modifications to the program conversations initiated with various Muslim have meant that the program is now able to offer communities around Melbourne. This process is social support to those participants who are essential in establishing a better understanding of incarcerated, yet not ready to be released. Mentor their needs in relation to environmental issues. support is also offered on a weekly basis, which allows Relationships were also formed with some key the program to ensure that participants religious organisations, including Environment Victoria, the needs are being appropriately addressed. Moreland Energy Foundation (MEFL) and In addition to this, the program has made changes to Melbourne City Council. the format of the Lecture Series (prison based) and the LOD Forum (community based). As these forums are During Ramadan 2012, the Portfolio conducted an designed to provide individuals with knowledge on assessment of current iftar practices at the ICV. Islamic issues, and opportunities to engage in open Some changes were trialled this year and were discussions on relevant matters, changes to these accompanied by the production of communication forums were imperative. As such, the Lecture Series is material on how to green Ramadan and Eid. now implemented across Port Phillip Prison and HMP Observations gathered will substantially inform Loddon, on a monthly basis. Each lecture is facilitated plans to make future events at the ICV more by a different Imam, with the lectures open to all sustainable. They will also inform strategies to Muslim prisoners to attend. In regards to the LOD approaching and collaborating with other Mosques Forum, changes to the format have allowed for and Muslim organisations, in order to assist them additional Imams to attend, as well as guest speakers (where appropriate). This allows the program to with their own efforts to conduct and host more provide offenders with a variety of information and sustainable events and activities. views from respected scholars / professionals, on issues relevant to their reintegration. In July 2012, the ICV Environment Portfolio hosted training sessions administered by Environment At present, process are underway to ensure that the Victoria, for Muslim community leaders, to conduct program continues to develop and improve in workshops with their communities on climate meeting the needs of participants. A new component change, the carbon price and energy efficiency. of the program - psychological assessment and Leaders shared what they learnt in both small and support - is currently being scoped, as it is intended large groups; in Mosques, community halls and that the program provides are more holistic approach homes. The scheme was successful in giving to reintegration support. Additionally, the program is communities the opportunity to learn about, think also working together with Melbourne University (National Centre of Islamic Studies), to develop a about, and discuss these issues. resource manual that can be used as part of the prison based Lecture Series. Responses from the initial programs have been extremely positive from all stakeholders - especially Finally, given the programs progress and current the community - highlighting the clear need for this developments, CISP management is working closely new portfolio. The Portfolio is currently building on with program stakeholders to seek further these early experiences to map out and plan what opportunities for funding beyond the third year of promises to be an exciting and groundbreaking operations. journey ahead.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 25 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 EID @ FLAGSTAFF

The ICV successfully held its first outdoor Eid Prayers for The South East Asian and Saudi communities loved the Eid al Fitr on Wednesday 31 August 2011 and Eid al outdoor atmosphere so much that they made the most of Adha on Sunday 6th November 2011 at Flagstaff the opportunity and continued to celebrate Eid in the Gardens (across the road from the City Mosque) garden afterwards.

Alhamdulillah a very uplifting event with a real The ICV wishes to thank Melbourne City Council for their multicultural Muslim gathering, with a record turnout support. with approx. 2000 people (1500 brothers / 500 sisters).

IFTAR @ ICV - 10,000 PEOPLE IN 30 DAYS

Now as an annual tradition the ICV provided a The atmosphere was simply wonderful. Following Iftar, complimentary Iftar every night at the Jeffcott St City there was the Taraweeh Prayer lead by Sheikh Osama, Mosque during Ramadan in August 2011. one of the most popular Quranic reciters in town. During the last ten days, the ICV also offered Sahoor meals Ramadan is the month of blessings. What a wonderful which lead into Fajr prayer. Alhamdulillah the mosque opportunity to offer Iftar to an average of 300 brothers & was abuzz with Dua and barakah sisters every night throughout the month of Ramadan. Whilst the majority of us have families and get invited to We thank all those brothers & sisters and Muslim numerous private and community iftar's, we must not businesses who have financially & voluntarily supported overlook a relatively large population of students the Iftar – may Allah reward them all for their generosity (predominantly single brothers without families) who and energies. live-in-and-around the City. Approximately 10,000 people will have shared Iftar together at the ICV.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 26 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 IMAX - JOURNEY TO MECCA – IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF IBN BATTUTA

IMAX Melbourne Museum in conjunction with the Islamic Council of Victoria and the Al-Ghazzali Centre launched an exclusive VIP screening of Journey To Mecca – In The Footsteps of Ibn Battuta on Friday 2nd September 2011. It was a packed screening with 400 Muslim community members and leaders. The Event was the initiative of ICV Executive Craig Dent.

This dramatic IMAX documentary tells the amazing story of famed 14th century Moroccan traveller, Ibn Battuta, as he sets out in 1325 from his native Tangier on an epic journey to Mecca and his first Hajj. Battuta's perilous journey resonates with adventure while presenting an unforgettable picture of Islamic civilization during the 14th century and includes a close up look at the contemporary Hajj.

The IMAX Team: Lynn Lawrence, Richard Morrison and Natasha Duckett, with Nail Aykan (ICV GM), Craig Dent (ICV Executive) and Afroz Ali (Al Ghazzali)

COMMUNITY PRAYER VIGIL FOR PEOPLE IN SYRIA The lslamic Council of Victoria organised a community prayer vigil for people in Syria on Saturday 31 March 2012 at Broadmeadows Civic Plaza - Hume Global Learning Centre.

ICV President Mr. Ramzi Elsayed said “this vigil is a collective opportunity for Australian Muslims and the broader community to show their concern and support for the people of Syria, and to pray for a peaceful resolution. Local scholars and speakers will collectively partake in asking God to end the oppression and hardship being endured by many”.

“Many community members feel a sense of powerlessness with regards to suffering of the people of Syria. The vigil is supported by many organisations and will be an opportunity to come together and humbly call upon our Lord for His divine intervention and mercy. Communal prayer is one of the most powerful forms of prayer that can change destiny and overcome tyranny and oppression”

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 27 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 AWARDS @ ICV ICV ANNUAL END-OF-YEAR MEMBER'S DINNER - 10TH DECEMBER 2011

Executive of the Year Award – 2011

1 October 2011

In recognition of excellence and appreciation of invaluable services to the ICV and Victoria's Muslim Community

Hyder Gulam receiving an Oriental Plaque Award for services to the ICV as President in 2011 Sherene Hassan Secretary of ICV

SQNLDR (ret) Hyder Gulam FRCNA President

ICV Islamic Council of Victoria

Representing Victoria's Muslims for over 40 Years!

Craig Dent receiving an Certificate of Appreciation for his services as an Executive

Aziz Cooper receiving an Life Time Award for 10 years service as Muslim Prison Chaplain Guests and Community Leaders at the Dinner ICV ANNUAL PRE-RAMADAN MEMBER'S DINNER - 10TH JULY 2012

Office for Women Male Ambassadors Keynote Speaker Sarah De Caen His Eminence the Mufti of Australia Chaplain of the Year Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohammed presented by Rahil Khan

Awards – Art Portfolio Issam Nabulsi Dr Aladin Zayegh Anisa Sheriff Desypher Hospital Chaplaincy presented by Ramzi Elsayed presented by Ramzi Elsayed

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 28 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 ZAKAT @ ICV RELIGIOUS SERVICES This past year has been another successful year for the The religious services of the ICV closely works with ICV Zakat program. We have been able to help over 50 and contributes significantly to the services delivered different individuals and families in Melbourne. Our by the organisation in general. In particular, imam, Sheikh Abdinur, has worked hard to administer religious services delivers the mass congregation payments and provide the necessary scholarly prayers such as the two weekly Friday Prayers and oversight, with most of the cases falling into the two Eid prayers every year. categories of "miskeen" (needy) and "gharimeen" (those in debt). The Eid prayers in the Flagstaff Gardens attracted Below are some of the cases that have come to the ICV two thousand Muslims. Since the two Friday prayers Zakat program. Names have been changed for privacy were introduced at the City Mosque, the religious reasons. affairs with assistance of the admin team has coordinated and delivered more than one hundred Case Study 1 Friday prayers a year. Aminah and Ali arrived in Australia recently, seeking asylum. They were in desperate need of emergency The ICV is the first point of contact for many Muslims financial assistance to meet their basic daily expenses to have their marriages or “Nikahs” solemnised. The such as transport, medicine, and rent. Due to their visa religious services solemnise at least on marriage or a class, they do not receive any government welfare nikah a week. Marriage celebrancy includes assistance nor are they allowed to work. Zakat@ICV information and advice about various matters was able to provide short term aid to cover their basic related to Islamic marriages. needs.

Case Study 2 The Religious service hosts in participates in the Zainab is a mother of two school-age daughters. She Family Arbitration committee of the Board of Imams originally came to Australia on a humanitarian visa. Victoria who meets weekly to discuss on average four Her husband comes and goes, has been violent with family disputes every week. In addition the religious her, and does not provide any financial support. While services responds to hundreds of enquiries about she is on a disability pension, she cannot drive, speak marriage and divorce related matters. English, or work, and is not able to access any financial or material aid to assist with uniforms, books, These types of enquiries are usually 24/7: anytime & transport, or bills for her daughters. Zakat@ICV was any day. Responding to such enquiries and concerns able to assist by covering rent payments for a short term tends to be the most consuming part of an imams to assist with her financial pressures that were causing job. her great distress.

Case Study 3 Since the Zakat fund was established a year ago, Uthman has recently arrived from Afghanistan, has a many Muslims accessed it to deal with their urgent disability and mental illness, and not currently eligible financial needs. The religious services worked with for any government welfare. When Zakat@ICV other service providers, Muslims and others, to assist relieved him from his immediate financial distress, local Muslims. This included establishing the policies despite his disability and illness he immediately asked and procedures, interviewing clients and follow ups how he could help the Muslim community here in and giving away tens of thousands of dollars. Victoria. The ICV imam is member of the Board of Imams Victoria and Australian National Imams Council. As a result, the imam attended the BOIV meeting monthly meetings and ANIC activities as required. The ICV imam represented BOIV and ANIC in the last meeting with the Attorney General.

In addition to all the above, the religious services assisted other service providers or individuals in providing advice and information. It also assisted Muslims with a variety of general and trivial issues like choosing baby names or big decisions like buying a house or establishing a business.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 29 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 REFUGEE PORTFOLIO WOMEN'S SUPPORT OFFICER

Our aim is to assist refugees with the release and transition from The Women's Support Officer (WSO) role has been detention centres to the community. Majority of the Refugees are of brought about through the newly established Office of Muslim background - from places such as Iraq, Iran and Afghanistan. This is an issue affecting all Australian's and as a peak Women under the ICV. The role of the WSO is to support body it is important for ICV to play a role in addressing this Muslim Women of Victoria through humanitarian crisis. We are looking to outreach to the Shia community, to ensure the cultural & religious identity of refugee's are maintained. · Facilitating engagement within the community We aim to · Welfare Support and referral • Support newly arrived Muslim refugees in Victoria to feel · Counseling a sense of belonging and to develop social networks. • Promote community connectedness · Establishment of Women's Programs • Foster social participation & inclusion • Engender self-sufficiency & independence These services are available to Muslim Women of all Raising awareness & Community engagement ages, and circumstances. • Raising the general awareness/plight of Refugees in the Muslim community • Lobbying the government & advocating on behalf of The Women's Support Officer is responsible for the Muslim Refugees development and provision of a range of women's • Organisation of Family BBQ's & community events • Promoting / Communicating other bodies Refugee programs that cater for women from diverse Islamic and events/seminars CALD communities. • Social and community engagement services such as Ramadan programs, Eid Festivals, youth sports programs and women's forums. Key Responsibilities and Duties: • Visit detention centres eg) Maribyrnong Cultural & Religious Identity - To support the ongoing involvement and participation • Ramadan programs & celebrations • Connecting to cultural group & mosques of women in the development of women's programs, • Providing classes, advices, copies of religious books, special events and local women's networks. prayer mats etc - To plan, develop and deliver women's services, collect • Khutbah's at detention centres data and maintain records of contact attendance, Networks & Referrals • Consultation with service providers i.e DIAC, Red Cross, demographic information, income/expenditure and to RISE, Asylum Seeker Resource Centre evaluate programs and services to women including • Linking to existing community resources assisting in the preparation of reports both internally for • Referrals to — Muslim Doctors, Legal advice, Location of local ICV Management and externally for referral by the Mosques, halal butcher, VEOHRC and discrimination etc funding body (if required) — A range of information / relevant contacts - To promote a positive image of Islamic women by Support Services • Financial support developing, in collaboration, with other service — Zakat (financial support) providers, a range of programs and activities that — Short term No Interest Loans (NILS – Qard Hassan) strengthen Islamic women's connection to family and • Employment / work experience their community. • Community housing / accommodation - To actively participate in local women's network that The ICV has taken a proactive role in aiming to assist asylum advocate on women's needs and which raise awareness seekers and refugees in Australia. Through an important between members and within the sector and community partnership with RISE Refugee (the first refugee and asylum seeker aid and advocacy organisation in Australia run by refugees, asylum of: emerging women's issues: strategies for and evidence seekers and ex-detainees), the ICV has been able to provide of better practice; and of the services available to or financial assistance to refugees and asylum seekers in need. These required by Islamic women. funds have come primarily from the ICV Zakat Fund when applicable, but from other sources when the applicant is not a - To undertake or assist with research that identifies Muslim. The ICV recognises that it has a long way to go in women's needs contributing to the development activities understanding the complex issues surrounding refugee support for Islamic women. service provision, and as such – it deeply values the relationship and goodwill shared with RISE Refugee. Furthermore, ICV - To provide information about, and referral to Treasurer – Nazeem Hussain was this year appointed one of two of services/organisation that assist women with: housing, the Patrons of RISE Refugee, which further cements the ICV's resolve domestic violence, mental health, settlement support, to making refugee and asylum advocacy and assistance a key marriage related issue, alcohol and drug use; child care, priority for the ICV and the Muslim community more broadly. identity; education, employment and training pathways; Further information about RISE Refugee can be found at and income support. www.riserefugee.org

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 30 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 MULTI-FAITH

The inaugural Mulqueen Forum at Bendigo Health, Pastoral JEWISH FAITH: The Hon. Howard Nathan. Q.C. Care Services - June 13th 2012 President of Kehillah S'dot Zahav. Former President of Temple Beth Israel. A Shaliach Tzibbur. The Implication for healthcare of religious beliefs and practices: Diet & Death - From the faith perspective of: Indigenous BUDDHIST FAITH : Venerable Ashin Mooonieinda A Karen Spirituality: speaking Buddhist Monk of the Therevada tradition. A Islamic Teachings - Buddhist Belief - Jewish Faith spokesperson for the Karen community of Bendigo.

The implication for healthcare of religious beliefs and practices: Diet & Death was chosen for the inaugural forum as there are various practical considerations that can aid the patient's spiritual journey during their hospital stay. There are particular dietary matters that are integral to religious belief which can be addressed by food services and medical treatment. The four speakers only represent a sample but the knowledge we gain can assist recognizing the need to invite patients to have input into their own care. Death is the inevitable outcome of birth. Religious belief is central to feelings regarding preparation for death, the after-life and the grieving process. Religious practise is often clearly defined and involves a circle beyond the hospital. The presenters demonstrate the diversity and importance of Ms Lina Ayoubi, Hospital Chaplaincy Co-ordinator spirituality and ritual at the time of death. Yet, individuals and families seek to fulfil the religious requirements in differing ways. Addressing death and diet from a religious/faith "The Rabbi, The Priest and The Imam...... An Interfaith Discussion" perspective requires some background to the traditions. The presenters have been time restricted and thus could only refer to the fundamentals of their faiths.

Presenters on the day: INDIGENOUS SPIRITUALITY: Mr Joseph Day. A staff member of Njernda Aboriginal Corporation. A provider of services to Aboriginal people in Echuca and a Christian Pastor.

ISLAMIC FAITH: Ms Lina Ayoubi Hospital Chaplaincy Co-ordinator at Islamic Council of Victoria providing chaplaincy services to Muslim hospital patients With Nadeem Hussain, Father Hans Christiansen & Rabbi Avrohom Jacks HAJJ

Hajj expo for Sunday 17 July 2011

Presentations on the virtues of Hajj, visa requirements, medical advice pre, Quarantine services and Expo from all the major Hajj travel operators to compare products, and get the right information and value in the one location.

AN EVENING WITH: HON. JOE HOCKEY (MP) 26 April 2012

A keynote address by Hon. Joe Hockey followed by an open Q & A public forum on the topic 'FUTURE OF AUSTRALIAN DIVERSITY’

A unique opportunity to engage with the Shadow Treasurer to hear his views on diversity and ask questions that are important to you as an Australian Muslim citizen.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 31 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 PNG VISIT

On the 29th January 2012 ICV board members Maryum Chaudhry and Sherene Hassan, along with Sarah Decaen, Tasneem Chopra, Heba Ibrahim and Saara Sabbagh met with Br Mohamed Jiffry,

President of the Islamic Society of Papua New Guinea. During the meeting Br Mohamed raised concerns regarding the welfare of Muslim women in Papua New Guinea. He stated there are over 2800 new converts to Islam, approximately 40% are women.

The Islamic society of PNG is struggling to meet the needs of these women and the possibility of sending a group from Melbourne to provide educational and spiritual guidance was discussed.

VCC INFO ON ISLAM Presentation to VCC Emergencies Ministry on basic Islamic awareness session at the ICV on Wednesday 30th May 2011. Presenters: Br Hisham Mustafa - MEMO, Br M Elleissy, Dr Senem Eren.

Presenters: Br Hisham Mustafa, Br Mohammed Elleissy & Dr Senem Eren.

PRAYER ROOMS During the year the ICV was ICV are also currently working with involved with the advising and two major shopping centres, in the implementing a number of public northern and south eastern suburbs space prayer rooms. In April 2012, respectively, on prayer rooms they are ICV representatives worked both looking to implement. inspected prayer room facilities with AFL representatives at Etihad We hope these will be finalized and Stadium and the Melbourne Cricket be announced in the next financial Ground. Their locations are: year.

The ICV is also on the advisory MCG Prayer Room, Level B1, M30 committee for new prayer rooms at Ponsford Stand, Near St Johns First the new Peter Mac Hospital and Aid Room, City End of the ground proposed new Multi-Faith Centre in Docklands Etihad Stadium Prayer Room , Level 3, near Aisle 8, Waterfront end of stadium

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 32 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 MEDIA BENEVOLENCE CONVERT CARE

The Islamic Council of Victoria provided media The past 12 months has been a busy and productive representation for the Muslim community across all one for Convert Care. During this time, Saara Sabbagh media platforms, including print, radio and television. travelled to Ta'leef Collective in San Francisco to Our two media spokespeople, Sherene Hassan complete the final part of the "Mu'allif Program", which (Secretary) and Nazeem Hussain (Treasurer) is designed to train workers in optimal care and support spearheaded this portfolio by participating in countless of converts and people considering becoming Muslim. press interviews in print, radio and television media as We have run "how to pray" workshops, "introduction to well as writing opinion pieces in major newspapers on Islam" workshops, "the place of the Prophet and issues of concern and relevance to Muslims living in spiritual refinement" workshops, and "Ramadan Victoria and Australia. preparation" workshops all for converts, Muslim reconnecting with their faith, and people seriously Furthermore, on several occasions, the ICV lodged interested in becoming Muslim. We have continued our complaints with journalists and media outlets in relation one-on-one counselling and support services for to inaccurate or unethical reporting. In most cases the converts, the majority of whom are young women, journalist and media outlet corrected this reporting, and through phone, in person, and skype video sessions. subsequently made marked improvements in the way they report on Muslims. Where necessary, we have connected converts with additional support services within the Muslim The ICV appreciates the platform it is often afforded, community to receive financial help, extra spiritual and has aimed to use this privilege to advocate for guidance from imams and professional counselling. causes which are virtuous, regardless as to whether they We have had dedicated convert nights at the popular directly concern the Muslim community in Victoria. This Benevolence Community Dinners, where a panel of is the ICV philosophy broadly, but in relation to media, converts with very different experiences shared with the this has meant our spokespeople have advocated for wider Muslim community about their journeys, more equitable asylum seeker policy, as well as directly difficulties and hopes in an effort to educate the wider challenging racist and discriminatory discourses and Muslim community about the little-known struggles policies concerning migrants, Indigenous Australians converts face and how best to support them. We have and international students. ordered and provided numerous kits for new Muslims with specially selected texts and materials to assist them in their early days as Muslims (such as accessible english translations of the Qur'an, seerahs, prayer cloths and mats, etc). We also ran a term of "Sunday night Sessions" where Shaykh Hamza Yusuf's book "Purification of the Heart" was discussed in a setting specifically designed to be welcoming to converts and RMIT CHAPLAINCY Muslim reconnecting with their faith.

Br Mohammad Ali Hijazi was professionally appointed We have scheduled an afternoon tea for the family and as RMIT Chaplaincy earlier in the year, whereby ICV friends of converts in November, as a welcoming place is auspice to the Universities services to the Muslim for the non-Muslim loved ones of converts to come and students & staff. ask questions and meet other Muslims. We are also in the process of establishing a buddy system for converts (inshaAllah to be launched early next year) where each Some of these achievements to date are: person that comes through Convert Care will be paired with a Muslim who will commit to assisting them and  Leading Juma Prayers every Friday regularly checking in with them. This is done to mitigate  Representation at RMIT Chaplaincy meetings against the complaint many converts have made of  Communicating of news & information flow being excitedly embraced upon conversion, only to be  Adhering to Multi‐faith policies of the ignored shortly afterwards. This is also done to spread university the workload away from the small team at Convert Care who simply cannot keep up with the large demand  Co‐ordination of guest sheikhs from across of people coming through their (metaphorical) doors. Melbourne for diversity & inclusivity We also have plans to consolidate and streamline our  Mentoring students and fostering a healthy convert database in 2013, and approach imams to relationship with all other groups work with us in a more official capacity to assist convert  Embrace students from all faiths and build women with marriage troubles (which sadly forms a better understandings and relationships large part of our support base. amongst all.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 33 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 TREASURER’S REPORT

Year Ending 30 June 2012

I have great pleasure in presenting the Treasurer's Report for the financial year ended 30 June 2012.

This year has seen a substantial increase in services provided to the community by the Islamic Council of Victoria. This has driven a significant increase in both revenues and expenditure.

Careful management of expenses and a diligent adherence to budgets has achieved revenues of $1,311,446 over the year, which represents an increase of $466,244 from the prior year. Commensurate expediture increase resulted in an net operating surplus of $92,628 over the period, which is consistent with the prior year result.

As with prior years, we have striven to ensure that there is a consistent reinvestment of operating surplus funds into new and existing services, which continue to meet our community's changing and diverse needs. Additionally, the ICV made significant improvements to the City Mosque premises, including complete refurbishments of the second floor, as well as substantial improvements to the ground and first floors ($231,794). Substantial capital expenditure was also made in improving the ICV's office fixtures, fittings and equipment ($45792).

The major financial results are summarised below:

Full financial details are contained in the Financial Statements which follow, available to all members as given to all AGM attendees. The Financial Statements, as presented, have been audited by Taxline Group Pty Ltd.

Consistent with prior years, Travel and Conference & Seminar expenses predominately relate to expenses incurred for the Indonesian Exchange program that the ICV runs on behalf of the Australia/Indonesia Institute and not to travel undertaken by executive or staff members. Interest received also relates to a successful remission from the Australian Taxation Office of past interest applied for late lodgment of previous BAS statements and late payment of associated tax liabilities.

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 34 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12 TREASURER’S REPORT

As I outlined in the prior year's Treasurer's Report, the ICV expected operating activities to increase this year, in part due to the escalation of the Prison Chaplaincy – Post Release Program (“CISP”), our Youth Engagement office and the ICV Qard Hassan No Interest Loan Scheme. We have seen this increase in operating activities and we expect that there will be further growth in FY13 given the range of new projects commencing, and other projects seeking to grow.

Moreover, there was a significant increase in the total amount of grants received of $402,965. This owes primarily to the increasing priority that the CISP Program has within the organisation, as well as an increase in the NILS Program.

The marked increase in donations received throughout the year point to specific programs the ICV supported including the Syria and Somalia appeals, as well as the increasing activity with the ICV Zakat Fund.

The Executive Committee remains committed to implementing the most cost effective measures and practices in the running of the ICV, in order to ensure that the maximum amount of funds raised and provided for from various sources is able to be utilised in services directly benefiting our broad community.

I would like to thank Mr Zaheer Syed and Mr Mustaque Ahmed for their efforts in maintaining current book keeping in line with accepted accounting standards and for providing support when required. I wish to acknowledge the diligent contribution of the staff of ICV for the conscientious manner in which the financial affairs have been managed, and all the assistance they have provided me.

Our General Manager Nail Aykan has performed prudently and methodically in his control over the activities of the ICV to ensure that budgeted expectations are met, and in many cases – exceeded.

Furthermore, I would like to thank the President and the Executive Committee for their support and guidance over the year. I am grateful to be given the opportunity to work with people who truly inspire me. Alhamdulillah.

I hold myself accountable to Allah (swt) and to my community for this responsibility, and ask for your prayers and forgiveness for my shortcomings.

Wassalamu alaikum

Nazeem Hussain Treasurer

ISLAMIC COUNCIL OF VICTORIA 35 ANNUAL REPORT 2011­12