Ahpra and Special Envoy Work Together to Fight Islamophobia in Healthcare
16 Mar 2026
Ahpra says it is committed to ending all forms of racism and discrimination in Australia’s health workforce. The joint statement comes ahead of Mr Malik’s presentation to the United Nations on Australia’s efforts to address Islamophobia.
Appointed in 2024, the Special Envoy gives advice, raises awareness, and works with communities to combat anti-Muslim hate. His focus is on making sure Muslim Australians are safe, respected, and included.
Ahpra emphasises that everyone has the right to safe and fair healthcare. Islamophobia can stop people from practising their religion freely and create barriers to getting medical care. Ahpra supports the Special Envoy in working to remove Islamophobia and all forms of discrimination from the healthcare system.
“Combating Islamophobia requires systemic reform, not just words after the harm has happened. It needs accountability, support for victims, and policies that protect and include Muslim communities,” said Mr Malik.
Ahpra CEO Justin Untersteiner added, “Everyone deserves safe and respectful healthcare. Islamophobia can prevent people from seeking care and feeling safe at work – it can even put lives at risk. We stand with Mr Malik and will continue to learn from his work.”
https://www.ahpra.gov.au/
Source: Ahpra & Office of the Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia