THE Australian Health Practitioner Agency (Ahpra) and Australia's Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia, Mr Aftab Malik (pictured), have issued a joint statement on efforts to combat Islamophobia in healthcare.
It comes ahead of Malik's presentation to the United Nations on Australia's efforts to combat Islamophobia.
"Public safety is Ahpra's core priority and everyone has the right to safe, respectful and equitable healthcare," the regulator said in a statement.
"Acts of Islamophobia prevent Muslim Australians from freely practising their religion and culture and create unacceptable barriers to care.
"Ahpra stands with the Special Envoy in our shared commitment to eliminating Islamophobia, along with all forms of racism and discrimination, from Australia's healthcare systems."
As Special Envoy, Malik provides advice, promotes education and awareness, and engages stakeholders to address anti-Muslim sentiment.
He was appointed in 2024 for a three-year term, and his office - the Office of the Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia (OSECI) - is independent of government.
"Combating Islamophobia requires systemic reform, not just statements after the damage is done," Malik said.
"It requires accountability, protection for victims, and policies that proactively protect and include Muslim communities in Australia's social fabric."
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