Australia is a diverse and multicultural country that welcomes visitors from all over the world, including Muslim travellers. With a growing Muslim population and a range of halal-friendly facilities and services, Australia is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique and enriching travel experience. See our halal food guides for dining options. Explore halal food in Australia for more information. Explore Muslim travelers for more information.

From stunning natural landscapes to vibrant cities, Australia offers a wealth of attractions and activities that cater to the needs and interests of Muslim travellers. Whether you are looking to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage, sample its delicious halal cuisine, or simply relax and unwind in a peaceful and welcoming environment, Australia has something for everyone.

Is Australia Muslim-Friendly?

Australia is moderately Muslim-friendly with growing infrastructure:

  • 813,000 Muslims: About 3.2% of population
  • Halal widely available: Especially in Sydney and Melbourne
  • 340+ mosques: Across major cities
  • Multicultural society: Accepting of diversity
  • Halal certification: AFIC, ICCV recognized bodies
  • Beautiful nature: Unique landscapes and wildlife

Australia offers good Muslim infrastructure in urban areas with world-class natural attractions.

Does Australia Have Halal Food?

Halal food is well-established in Australian cities:

Sydney:

  • Lakemba: Lebanese and Arab community hub
  • Auburn: Turkish and Afghan restaurants
  • Bankstown: Multicultural halal options
  • Surry Hills: Trendy halal cafes

Melbourne:

  • Brunswick: Turkish and Middle Eastern
  • Coburg: Large Muslim community
  • Broadmeadows: South Asian and Middle Eastern
  • CBD: Various halal restaurants

Brisbane:

  • Sunnybank: Asian halal options
  • Moorooka: African and Middle Eastern

Perth:

  • Mirrabooka: African and Middle Eastern community
  • CBD: Various halal restaurants

Australian halal specialties:

  • Halal snag (sausage sizzle)
  • Halal meat pies
  • Lebanese charcoal chicken
  • Halal kebabs nationwide
  • Supermarket halal sections (Coles, Woolworths)

What Is the Largest Mosque in Australia?

Lakemba Mosque (Sydney) is the largest:

  • Officially: Masjid Ali Bin Abi Taleb
  • Capacity for 5,000 worshippers
  • Located in Lakemba, Sydney’s Muslim heartland
  • Lebanese community center
  • Famous Ramadan night markets

Other significant mosques:

  • Auburn Gallipoli Mosque (Sydney): Turkish-style, iconic
  • Preston Mosque (Melbourne): Large community mosque
  • Islamic Council of Queensland Mosque (Brisbane): Major mosque
  • Perth Mosque: Historic, built 1905

Are There Many Muslims in Australia?

Australia has approximately 813,000 Muslims (3.2% of population):

  • Lebanese origin: Major community, especially in Sydney
  • Turkish origin: Established since 1960s
  • Afghan origin: Historical connection to camel drivers
  • Indonesian and Malaysian: Growing presence
  • Somali, Iraqi, Pakistani: Significant communities
  • Converts: Active community

Muslims concentrate in Sydney (largest), Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth.

Is Australia Safe for Muslims?

Australia is generally safe for Muslims:

Positives:

  • Multicultural policy since 1970s
  • Anti-discrimination laws
  • Welcoming society
  • Established Muslim communities
  • Halal easily accessible

Considerations:

  • Some anti-Muslim sentiment exists
  • Distance from other Muslim countries
  • Rural areas less diverse
  • Sun and beach culture (modesty planning needed)

Australia is safe and welcoming for Muslim travelers, particularly in multicultural cities.

Top Muslim-Friendly Destinations

Sydney

  • Lakemba: Muslim heartland, mosques, halal everywhere
  • Auburn: Turkish community
  • Opera House and Harbour: Iconic attractions
  • Bondi Beach: Modest swimwear available

Melbourne

  • Brunswick and Coburg: Muslim areas
  • Great Ocean Road: Stunning coastal drive
  • Laneway cafes: Halal options available
  • Cultural capital: Museums, galleries, street art

Gold Coast

  • Theme parks: Dreamworld, Sea World
  • Beaches: Beautiful coastline
  • Limited halal: Plan meals ahead

Uluru (Ayers Rock)

  • Sacred site: Stunning natural monument
  • Desert experience: Unique landscape
  • Very limited halal: Bring provisions

Practical Tips for Muslim Travelers

  1. Sydney and Melbourne best: Most halal options
  2. Lakemba in Sydney: Visit the Muslim heartland
  3. Woolworths/Coles: Supermarkets have halal sections
  4. Beach planning: Modest swimwear available
  5. Distances are vast: Australia is huge, plan transport
  6. UV protection: Australian sun is intense
  7. Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)
  8. Prayer times: Vary greatly north to south