How council-hosted Iftar dinners in Australia are helping tackle Islamophobia

(L-R) Rakhi Batavia from Melbourne's Yarra Council, Sydney community member Nadeem Ahmed, Councillor for Camden Council Abha Suri, and Mayor of Cumberland City Council Ola Hamed share how a shared plate during Ramadan helps dissolve stereotypes and biases in the community. Credit: Getty Images/Supplied by Rakhi Batavia, Nadeem Ahmed, Abha Suri, & Mayor Ola Hamed

As Australia marks the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, local councils across the country are hosting community Iftar dinners during Ramadan. Speaking with mayors, councillors and community members, this podcast explores how sharing the evening meal after fasting opens space for conversation and cultural exchange. Organisers say sitting together over food can quietly break down misconceptions, building trust and strengthening social cohesion in Australia’s diverse communities.

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Published 16 March 2026 10:44am

By Vrishali Jain

Presented by Vrishali Jain

Source: SBS

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As Australia marks the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, local councils across the country are hosting community Iftar dinners during Ramadan. Speaking with mayors, councillors and community members, this podcast explores how sharing the evening meal after fasting opens space for conversation and cultural exchange. Organisers say sitting together over food can quietly break down misconceptions, building trust and strengthening social cohesion in Australia’s diverse communities.

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