June 2025 by Al Wasat Magazine

Eid Mubarak

ARABIC & ENGLISH MAGAZINE

Editor in Chief: Fawaz Chawk

Creative Director: Omar Alhashemi

Editorial Secretary: Dr. Abdul M. Kamareddine

Layout: (OVISION)

Sydney: Monzer Gabr

Adelaide: Ahmed Zreika

Address:

Melbourne office:

171 Denton Ave, St. Albans, VIC 3021

Postal Address:

P.O.Box 5178, Cairnlea VIC 3023

Tel.: + 61 4 3020 4076

Sydney office:

10-28 Biloela St, Villawood NSW 2163

Tel.: + 61 4 9033 0623 Al Wasat Magazine

“TEDSTHETICS” TELLS ASPIRING CONTENT CREATORS TO CARVE A NICHE FIVE SIMPLE SIGNS THAT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE NEW TENANCY LAWS IN NSW: MAKING RENTING FAIRER AND STRENGTHENING TENANT PROTECTIONS

TOUGH TOBACCO LICENSING SCHEME TO START NEXT MONTH

KINDNESS TO PARENTS: MORE THAN JUST A DUTY

TWO TOO MANY DEATHS IN TWO WEEKS: A SAFETY REMINDER FOR WORKING WITH ELECTRICITY

MACHETE SALES BANNED

AUSTRALIA’S ISLAMIC FINANCE INDUSTRY LAUNCHES PEAK BODY

NEW SPORTS CENTRE TO INSPIRE THE NEXT BACHAR HOULI EMPOWERING WOMEN, ONE AT A TIME

By Shazma Gaffoor

Rachid Elmerkaoui, better known as Teddy or Tedsthetics, has practically trademarked the catch phrase ‘you can’t change my mind!’

From 45-second posts that go viral on TikTok to hilarious videos giving the lowdown on Melbourne suburbs, Elmerkaoui has made his mark with over a million followers across his socials.

His unapologetic takes on a wide range of topics from ‘drivers that don’t deserve their license’ to ‘ethnic snacks in Australia’ have been a hit online, locally and globally.

Despite a reputation as a funny man, Elmerkaoui doesn’t actually see himself as a comedian.

“I’m a content creator, then very loosely a comedian. I think Allah swt has put me on this earth to bring joy to people, so I create content to bring joy to people,” he said.

Elmerkaoui’s parents are both Moroccan, and like him his mum was born in Australia.

“My mum is fair-dinkum Aussie. She’s scarved but as soon as she opens her mouth, she sounds like the biggest bogan,” he said.

Elmerkaoui grew up in Carlton until the family decided to relocate to Morocco in 2000, living there for four years before returning to Melbourne’s north.

Making videos in high school kickstarted his love for media. He never quite imagined the hobby he enjoyed would become his livelihood years later.

Receiving his first paycheck was always a memorable experience, when a brand looked at his content and offered to pay him.

This was his “proof of concept”, giving him the reassurance to move on from his 9-to-5 job.

He soon realised the irregular pay meant that he had to be frugal with his money.

“The first three months were

“TEDSTHETICS” TELLS ASPIRING CONTENT CREATORS TO CARVE A NICHE

crazy. I was doing work and not getting paid. I still had rent and bills to pay. That was a really good lesson on how to live within my means,” he said.

He started making videos fulltime in 2022, juggling life as a father of two, a husband (at the time), and creating content for his growing audience.

Now separated, Elmerkaoui finds the balancing act isn’t all that different.

When he isn’t creating content he spends time with his daughters, and says he then puts in twice as much effort on the days he does work.

“As a single father, the days I am with the girls, there’s no money that someone could pay me to replace playing Roblox with my daughters or going out for a zaatar or sushi,” he said.

But the large following doesn’t

come without challenges. While Elmerkaoui’s material isn’t limited to any one community, he faces criticism from both Muslims as well as non-Muslims for posting content that is either “too religious” or “not religious enough”.

“I filter what I should take onboard as feedback,” he said.

His videos on Melbourne suburbs have always been a big hit, and fairly accurate according to several of his followers who are amazed at how precisely he characterises their neighbourhoods.

Elmerkaoui recorded his first suburb-related video about Gladstone Park Shopping Centre - an old, very basic shopping centre in a suburb with about 12,000 residents.

“I remember having half a million views in like 24 hours.

Over time we refined that idea and made it better and better and now it’s a staple.”

Before he picks a suburb, Elmerkaoui does a background check through his networks, scouring the internet, sussing out social media community groups, and reviewing the census.

He reviews his videos to ensure his two daughters could watch them someday.

“One day they’re going to grow up and they’ll look back at that content, so I want to keep it as clean and as halal as possible,” he said.

He finds ethnic or multicultural communities have a negative perception of making a living as a ‘creative’ and don’t take you seriously because of it.

“I’ve been doing this for 30 years and I’m here to stay and to prove to people that you can make an honest, halal living,” Elmerkaoui said.

Finding your niche in a hyper social media consuming world is tough. When aspiring kids approach Elmerkaoui saying they want to be “just like him”, he simply tells them to forge their own path.

His advice for aspiring content creators is to simply get started, then pick two platforms to focus on, and always show up for your audience; be it 10 or 10 million followers.

He routinely uploads his videos on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays for his eager viewers.

“I’ve got that relationship with my audience where I show up for them and they show up for me,” he said.

“Alhamdulillah, I wouldn’t want it any other way.”

Leaning into his roots, Elmerkaoui plans to host a culinary tour in Morocco someday, in a similar style as his suburb-related videos.

“And potentially something Moroccan here down the track, an authentic Moroccan experience,” Elmerkaoui said.

NEW TENANCY LAWS IN NSW: MAKING RENTING FAIRER AND STRENGTHENING TENANT PROTECTIONS

By Dr. Abul Jalaluddin

From 19 May 2025, New South Wales (NSW) abolished “no-grounds” evictions, meaning landlords must now provide a valid reason to terminate a lease. The new laws also make it easier for tenants to keep pets and ensure rent payments by bank transfer are fee-free. The other significant law changes commenced on 31 October 2024 include limiting rent increases to

Key Changes to Tenancy Laws in NSW

1. Abolishing No-Grounds Evictions

Landlords can no longer evict tenants without a valid reason, whether on periodic leases or at the end of fixedterm agreements. This reform addresses the long-standing power imbalance between landlords and renters. The NSW Government estimates that between 5,000 and 15,000 no-grounds evictions occurred annually prior to this change.

Acceptable grounds for ending a tenancy include:

• Tenant breach of agreement (the tenant is at default).

• Sale or proposed sale of the property with vacant possession.

• Major renovations, repairs, or demolition.

• The landlord or their immediate family moving into the property.

• The tenant’s ineligibility for affordable or transitional housing.

• The tenant is no longer a student in purpose-built student accommodation.

Notice periods for termination will range between 60 and 90 days for periodic and fixed term lease types.

2. Keeping a Pet

Tenants now have stronger rights to keep pets. A landlord can only refuse a pet request for specific reasons, such as:

• The property already houses four or more animals.

• The property is unsuitable for the type or size of the animal.

• It is highly likely the animal will cause damage exceeding the rental bond.

• The landlord resides at the property.

• Keeping the animal would breach other laws or strata rules.

• The tenant has not agreed to reasonable conditions for keeping the pet.

3. Rent Payment Options

Landlords and agents must provide tenants with the option

once per year for all lease types and preventing extra fees at the start of a tenancy, including fees for background checks and for preparing a tenancy agreement.

These reforms, introduced under the Residential Tenancies Act 2024, aim to create a more balanced rental market. Notably, the changes apply to both new and existing leases.

to pay rent via bank transfer without imposing any additional fees. Tenants may agree to alternative payment methods if both parties consent.

4. Limiting Rent Increases

Rent can now only be increased once every 12 months, regardless of the lease type. An exception exists for social housing, where increases due to rent rebate changes may occur more frequently.

5. No Extra Fees at Lease Commencement

Tenants and prospective tenants cannot be charged additional fees during the rental process. This includes:

• Fees for background or credit checks.

• Charges for preparing tenancy agreements.

Additional Proposals: A Landlord Register

Some tenancy advocates are calling for the introduction of a Landlord Register to publicly identify landlords with a history

of misconduct. Advocates argue that increased transparency would deter poor practices and help renters make informed choices.

Currently, Victoria is the only Australian state with such a system. The Victorian Rental Non-Compliance Register, introduced in March 2021 and maintained by Consumer Affairs Victoria, publicly lists landlords and agents found to have breached tenancy laws. It currently includes just 16 entries, highlighting possible underreporting or challenges with enforcement.

Conclusion

These changes mark a significant step forward in strengthening tenant rights and ensuring fairer rental practices in NSW. As the reforms take effect, ongoing oversight and potential complementary measures—such as a landlord register—could further support equitable rental outcomes across the state of NSW.

FIVE SIMPLE SIGNS THAT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE

Leukaemia Foundation

This World Blood Cancer Day (28 May), the Leukaemia Foundation is issuing an urgent national call: know the signs of blood cancer and act fast – a simple action that could save your life.

By 2035, blood cancer will be the leading cancer in both diagnosis, and mortality, among Australians.

Recognising the signs and symptoms of the disease can be the critical factor between surviving blood cancer or devastatingly, succumbing to it.

Blood cancer cannot be screened for, prevented, or predicted. The most powerful tool Australians have is early detection – and incredibly, it could increase your chance of survival by up to 40 per cent.

“For many Australians diagnosed with blood cancer,

including leukaemia, lymphoma, or myeloma, the timing of their diagnosis is everything,” said Leukaemia Foundation CEO Chris Tanti.

“Early detection often determines whether potentially life-saving treatment options are available, and how effective those treatments will be.

“We also know that survival rates can increase significantly the sooner a blood cancer diagnosis occurs – in fact, as much as 40 per cent – serving as a powerful reminder of how urgent timely action is.”

When caught early, blood cancer is more likely to be treatable and less life threatening with the benefits profound and wide-reaching.

Early blood cancer diagnosis can mean:

• More treatment options, including curative treatments like stem cell transplants

• Less aggressive and shorter treatment regimens

• A better quality of life for patients, with fewer complications and side effects

• Lower financial and emotional toll on patients and the healthcare system, including fewer hospital admissions

• Greater emotional wellbeing and a quicker return to daily life and normality

In contrast, when blood cancer is diagnosed at an advanced stage, patients often face longer, more intensive treatments, poorer health outcomes, and significantly higher psychological and financial burdens.

“For patients with lymphoma, for example, delays in diagnosis can more than double the length and intensity of treatment required,” Mr Tanti said.

“However, when caught early, patients may be eligible for less aggressive, shorter-duration therapies, which can reduce

hospital time, ease emotional distress, and improve both survival and recovery.”

The Leukaemia Foundation is calling on all Australians to be aware of the five key symptoms of blood cancer and act promptly:

• Fatigue that doesn’t go away

• Frequent or recurrent infections

• Unexplained bruising or bleeding

• Unexplained weight loss

• Swollen lymph nodes (usually painless)

The learn more about the signs and symptoms of blood cancer and the vital work of the Leukaemia Foundation’s public health campaign featuring The Blood Count, visit bloodcancer. org.au.

TOUGH TOBACCO LICENSING SCHEME TO START NEXT MONTH

The Allan Labor Government’s tobacco licensing scheme will begin next month to break the business model of organised crime – delivering boots on the ground to crack down on those breaking the law and backing the work of Victoria Police to disrupt the illicit tobacco trade.

Applications for licences will open from 1 July – giving retailers time to apply for a license ahead of boots on the ground enforcing from February 2026.

Backed by more than $46 million in the Victorian Budget 2025/26 – 14 licensing inspectors from the new regulator Tobacco Licensing Victoria will hit the streets to hold illegal operators to account – with the toughest penalties in the country in place for those breaking the law. Under the licensing scheme, any

person found to be selling illicit tobacco will face fines of up to $355,000 or up to 15 years in jail, while businesses will face fines of more than $1.7 million.

Inspectors will also support police with extra intelligence gathering in the fight against serious organised crime. It builds on the work of Victoria Police’s Taskforce Lunar, which has already seen more than 130 offenders arrested and more than $37 million worth of cash, vapes and illegal tobacco products seized.

Licences will only be granted to fit and proper people passing a strict test, with the regulator able to refuse a licence based on a person’s history or known associates.

Licensing fees will be lower than New South Wales and Tasmania – with initial licences valid for 17 months from when

enforcement begins in February 2026. The initial fee will be $1,176, to avoid businesses applying for a license twice in the same year. It will be $830 every year thereafter.

The regulator will have the power to cancel a licence and disqualify a person from applying for a licence. Victoria Police will also play a role in ensuring the suitability of licensees under the scheme and will have powers to impose further licence conditions – backed by more than $4.7 million in the Budget for this function.

This scheme will help protect legitimate businesses from being undercut by organised crime syndicates and prevent those with criminal affiliations from having anything to do with the legal tobacco trade.

Victoria Police’s search powers will be beefed up to make it

easier and quicker to raid, search and seize illicit products from a retailer suspected of having links to organised crime. For more information on the licensing scheme regulations visit vic.gov.au/tobaccolicensing.

Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Enver Erdogan said: “Our scheme has the toughest penalties in the country – to disrupt organised crime and support Victoria Police with intelligence gathering.”

Minister for Police Anthony Carbines said: “This will back the work of Victoria Police who are coming after crime lords. If you are doing the wrong thing and dealing in illegal tobacco, you will get caught and you will face the toughest penalties in Australia.”

KINDNESS TO PARENTS: MORE THAN JUST A DUTY

By Jamilah Samian | www.coolmumsuperdad.com

When was the last time you called or visited your parents out of concern for them, not to ask for something?

In our busy, noisy world, it’s easy to get caught up in our routines, deadlines, and devices. Days slip into weeks, and before we know it, we haven’t had a proper conversation with the people who raised us. Kids learn a lot by watching their parents. When parents show respect to their own parents (the grandparents), children see what respectful relationships look like. This teaches them how to treat elders and others kindly and respectfully.

Kindness to parents isn’t just a “nice-to-have”. It’s a big deal. In fact, it’s sacred. In Islam, being kind to your parents is so important that it comes right after worshipping God.

“And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment…” ~ (Al-Qur’an, Surah Al-Isra’:17:23) It’s in the little things. Saying “Thank you” even for things

they’ve been doing for years. Not interrupting when they’re telling that same old story… again. Being patient when they’re slow to pick up on new tech. Sometimes, it’s just showing up. Being present. Letting them know they matter.

But What If It’s Complicated?

Let’s be real—not every parent-child relationship is picture-perfect. Some of us have experienced distance, tension, even hurt. So what does kindness look like then? Here’s the thing: kindness doesn’t mean pretending nothing happened. It means choosing respect over resentment. It means setting healthy boundaries if needed, but still treating them with dignity. You can be kind and firm. You can forgive even if trust needs time to rebuild. Sometimes, kindness is just not speaking badly about them. Sometimes it’s making du’a (prayer) for them quietly, even if you can’t say much face-to-face.

The Things They Never Told You

If you’re a parent yourself, you get this: so much of what parents do goes unnoticed. The sleepless nights. The worries they never voiced. The sacrifices they never asked us to acknowledge. Our mothers and fathers gave us the best of what they had—even if it wasn’t perfect. They fed us before feeding themselves. They prayed for us when we didn’t even know how to pray.

If you’re a teen reading this, I get it. It’s not always easy. You might feel like your parents don’t understand you, or they’re too strict, or they don’t get your world. But think of it this way: every time you respond with kindness instead of sarcasm, every time you help out without being asked—you’re building your own character. You’re growing into someone who can carry love, patience, and maturity wherever you go.

If you’ve moved out, have your own family, or live far away, it’s even more important to be

intentional. A quick video call. A surprise visit. A shared meal. Don’t wait for Eid or a birthday. Every day is a chance to reconnect. And even if they’re no longer with us, we can honour their memory by making du’a for them, doing charity in their name, or simply living in a way they’d be proud of.

Kindness to parents isn’t just a checklist. It’s a mindset. A lifelong habit. A way of being. And here’s the best part: when we’re kind to our parents, we’re not just doing it for them. We’re doing it for ourselves, too. Because the way we treat our parents shapes who we are, and what kind of children we raise. So, before this day ends, take a moment. Call your mother. Visit your father. Say something kind. Do something small yet meaningful.

Jamilah Samian is the author of “Cool Mum Super Dad”, “Cool Boys Super Sons”, “Leadership In Parenting”, “Parenting Generation Y & Z”, “The Kindness Miracle”, “Raise Me Right” and “77 Power Parent Tips”. For more resources, visit www.coolmumsuperdad.com

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY ICOM STUDENTS

SIMULATE THE ACTIVITIES OF HAJJ

ICOM

last week at ICOM, students across both Primary and Secondary year levels embarked on the sacred journey of Hajj through a variety of engaging and spiritually enriching activities. The students took part in a more in-depth exploration of Hajj through guided simulations that brought the pilgrimage to life. Teachers explained each stage in detail, helping students understand the deeper meaning behind the rituals. As the fifth pillar of Islam, Hajj is one of the fundamental acts of worship that every Muslim must perform at least once in their lifetime, following in the steps of our beloved Prophet (PBUH).

A highlight of the week was the camel ride experience, offering our Year 2 to Year 12 students a glimpse into how the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) traveled. The week concluded with two special assemblies featuring a powerful re-enactment of the pilgrimage as chants of Eid echoed across the campus.

TWO TOO MANY DEATHS IN TWO WEEKS: A SAFETY REMINDER FOR WORKING WITH ELECTRICITY

SafeWork NSW

Inspectors are reminding employers and workers of the risks of working with or near electricity following a concerning number of fatalities and serious injuries. Electrocution is the second leading cause of traumatic fatalities in construction in NSW, whilst electric shock incidents can result in life-changing long-term recovery injuries for survivors.

In 2023, there were 60 workplace fatalities in NSW, five were in relation to contact with electricity. In the past two weeks, two people have died on NSW worksites relating to electrocutions:

• On 22 May 2025, a male worker was electrocuted while working on power lines in Randwick.

• On 3 June 2025, a male worker was also electrocuted while working on power heads in a holiday park on the South

Coast NSW.

Business owners must ensure workers working with electricity are properly trained, licencedand supervised to ensure workers are kept safe. Key actions to be taken to keep workers safe include:

• Ensure electrical risks associated with the design, construction, installation, protection, maintenance and testing of electrical equipment and electrical installations at a workplace are managed.

• ensure work on or around electricity is well planned, and that a safe work method statement (SWMS) is developed for high-risk construction work and is being followed.

• only licenced workers (with correct licence level) are carrying out electrical work.

• no live work is being undertaken (limited exceptions apply).

• extension and power tool leads are regularly inspected for any damage and testing and tagging is up to date for electrical items used in hostile operating environments where they are more exposed to damage.

• Residual Current Devices (RCDs) (safety switches) are in use.

• extension leads are on insulated stands or hooks to prevent damage and trip hazards.

• there is a safe distance from powerline and “no go” zones are observed.

[minimum of 3 metre separation, 4 metre separation - between scaffold and power lines].

Workers who have concerns about workplace health and safety can anonymously contact SafeWork on 13 10 50 or through the ‘Speak Up Save Lives’ website.

Business owners and workers

can access a range of resources on the SafeWork NSW website to help manage the risks of working with electricity by visiting:https://ww.safework. nsw.gov.au/azards-a-z/electraland-power

Head of SafeWork NSW Trent Curtin said:“Two deaths in two weeks is an absolute tragedy and my condolences are with the families, friends and colleagues of those who have sadly lost their lives.

“Electricity risks are well known. SafeWork NSW Inspectors will continue to take a zerotolerance response where they come across serious electrical risks such as working live and will issue penalty notices to businesses and, where necessary, to workers.

“Business owners must ensure their employees are undertaking safe work practices and always ensure workplaces are up to standard.” Trent Curtin said

tinaayyad.com.au

Authorised by Tina Ayyad MP, Shop 9, Wattle Grove Shopping Village, Village Way, Wattle Grove NSW 2173, funded using Parliamentary Entitlements (May 2025)

WATER SAFETY WHILE TRAVELLING OVERSEAS

Australians love to hit the beach or pool wherever they go. But even if you’re familiar with the water and are a strong swimmer, it’s important to remember how quickly things can go wrong.

Before you travel, do your research. Find out if there are any known risks related to swimming and water sports. Learn from the experiences of other travellers. Read our travel advice about where you’re going.

Read on to learn about:

• swimming in oceans, rivers and lakes

• pool safety

• boats, diving and water sports

• wildlife.

Swimming in oceans, rivers and lakes

Always take more care when swimming in unfamiliar ocean, lake or river waters. Avoid swimming alone, and don’t overestimate your swimming abilities. Even if you’re a strong swimmer, rip currents or other circumstances beyond your control can happen.

Find out what the conditions are before heading into the water. Remember that calm waters can be deceptive.

• Check for signs of rips and strong currents every time you swim.

• Ask the locals when and where it’s safe to swim, including if there is any dangerous wildlife like crocodiles.

• Be wary if you don’t see others swimming. Find out if there’s a reason.

• Look for warning signage and patrolled areas.

Don’t swim in rivers, lakes or oceans during or after severe weather. Rough, muddy waters can hide dangerous obstacles.

Pool safety

Australia has strict pool safety legislation. Other countries may not be as strict. Private villas, hotels and resort pools often don’t have safety fencing. Public pools may not be patrolled by lifeguards. If you’re travelling with children, be vigilant. Particularly if your accommodation opens directly onto a pool or pond.

Some hotels and private accommodation providers may have temporary pool fencing for hire. Ask when you book.

Boats, diving and water sports

If you plan to go boating, jet skiing, snorkeling or diving, choose your service provider carefully. Don’t compromise your safety to save money.

• Only use reputable businesses who comply with the safety regulations of the country you’re visiting.

• Read reviews from others who have used them.

• Look into their qualifications and safety policies, including first aid training.

Examine vehicles and equipment before using them. Ensure they’re properly maintained and safety gear is fitted correctly. Don’t use them if you’re not comfortable with their condition. Ask for a replacement or a refund. Check the weather forecast before going out onto the water. If bad weather is coming, postpone or cancel. Even if your tour

provider plans to go ahead with the activity.

Always wear a life jacket on a boat or jet ski.

Wildlife

Just like in Australia, other destinations can have dangerous wildlife in and around the water. Crocodiles and alligators are a risk to swimmers in many countries across Asia, the Pacific, Africa and the Americas. Hippos are a particular risk to boats in parts of Africa.

Before you travel, do some research about wildlife you need to be aware of.

While you’re away, follow the advice of local authorities and keep an eye out for signage warning of dangerous wildlife. But remember signs often won’t always be present, so ask the locals if there are swimming or boating spots you need to avoid. Read more

Read more advice about water safety from the Royal Life Saving Society Australia.

EidMubarak

Wishing you Eid-ul-Adha Mubarak. I hope your Eid is filled love and shared with family and friends.

We continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Palestine and all oppressed people around the world.

Senator Mehreen Faruqi Deputy Leader of the Greens

Eid Al-Adha

Wishing the Muslim Community in Australia and

SSI WELCOMES ESTABLISHMENT OF MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS OFFICE

Leading refugee resettlement and multicultural services provider SSI has welcomed the establishment of an Office of Multicultural Affairs, saying it is a strong signal the Albanese government is committed to strengthening support for a stronger multicultural Australia.

Australia is now more diverse – ethnically, linguistically, culturally – than ever with

the 2021 Census reporting that just under half the population are migrants or have a parent born overseas, and 5.5 million people (1 in 4 households) speak a language other than English in the home. A Federal Office of Multicultural Affairs overseen by a cabinet Minister is a logical step to address this demographic reality and the specialised responses needed to meet future challenges.

As the Mayor of Blacktown City, I would like to send my warmest wishes to all members of our City’s Muslim community during Eid Al-Adha.

Councillor Brad Bunting Mayor of

Working in partnership with community service organisations like SSI, the Office will play a vital role in delivering specialised services to newcomers and ensuring that policy and program settings are fit-forpurpose, co-designed and responsive to specific needs and local contexts.

Wishing you and your family a blessed Eid al-Adha! May this blessed occasion bring you peace, prosperity and joy.

For those whose family members or loved ones were honoured to perform the Hajj pilgrimage this year, I pray their journeys were safe, their prayers answered, and their efforts accepted.

Wishing the entire community a meaningful Eid filled with unity, compassion, and countless blessings.

- Mayor Ola Hamed –

The Allan Labor Government will use extraordinary powers to totally ban the sale of machetes on Wednesday.

Premier Jacinta Allan today joined Minister for Police Anthony Carbines and Minister for Consumer Affairs Nick Staikos to announce the unprecedented ban on machete sales.

The dangerous knives are coming off retail shelves now to dry up the machete market ahead of a legislated ban on machete possession coming into effect on September 1.

Interim sale ban on 28 May: Australia’s first total ban on machete sales

Commonwealth consumer law allows a state minister for consumer affairs to introduce an interim ban on the sale of certain consumer goods for a time-limited period.

\Using these powers, Victoria will ban the sale of machetes from 12:00 noon Wednesday, 28 May.

The interim machete sale ban will expire when it is superseded by the legislated prohibition on the sale and possession of machetes that will come into effect on 1 September. When the interim sale ban is declared on Wednesday, a supplier (e.g. a retailer) must not supply the banned item for sale or possess them with the intent to sell during the banned period.

The interim sale ban will cover machetes, which are broadly described as a cutting edge knife with a blade of more than 20 centimetres. The interim sale ban does not include knives primarily used in kitchens.

The purpose of the interim sale ban is to dry up the supply of these items as much as possible before the possession ban comes into place. A supplier who fails to comply with the ban may be found guilty of a criminal

Luba Grigorovitch MP Member for

Kororoit

Ph: 03 8361 7133

W: lubagrigorovitch.com.au

E: luba.grigorovitch@parliament.vic.gov.au

Shop 2, 11 Commercial Rd, Caroline Springs, 3023

MACHETE SALES BANNED

offence.

This is the toughest ban on the sale of machetes that has ever been attempted in Australia, and it is fair because of the ban on possession that will follow it.

There will be no exemptions to allow the sale of machetes during the interim sale ban – Australian consumer law doesn’t allow it. It is a total ban on sales.

This means some consumers who will be entitled to possess a machete with an exemption when machetes are prohibited will be denied the ability to buy them at all during the interim sale ban.

The Government acknowledges this will affect some legitimate users –but we are still proceeding with the interim sale ban to put community safety above all.

Retailers are advised to store excess stock in a safe location until the disposal, amnesty and exemption schemes for banned machetes starts alongside the prohibition coming into force on 1 September.

The Government thanks retailers for their attention to the interim sale ban, plus those who heeded the Premier’s call on 13 March to immediately stop placing orders on stock.

We recognise the interim sale ban affects your existing stock and sales – but we must get these knives off shelves, off streets, and out of our lives.

Prohibition on 1 September: Australia’s first ban on machete possession

A record number of knives were seized from Victorian streets in 2024. More must be done to keep people safe. That’s why the Control of Weapons Act was amended on 19 March to prohibit the sale or possession of machetes.

Machetes will be classified as a prohibited weapon from 1 September 2025.

There will be exemptions. If people wish to get a machete for an allowed purpose such as agriculture, they will need to apply for an exemption. Government is consulting with industry on the exemptions framework.

To get these weapons off the streets safely, an amnesty will run from 1 September to 30 November 2025. During that time, people will be able to safely dispose of their knives without committing a crime. They will be able to do this using secure bins in safe locations at

outdoor areas at select police stations. These bins will start opening on 1 September.

Machetes can be broadly described as a cutting edge knife with a blade of more than 20 centimetres. Government has been consulting on this definition, with kitchen knives not intended to be included.

Prohibited weapons are the most strictly regulated in Victoria. They are not controlled. They are banned. Penalties of 2 years imprisonment or a fine of over $47,000 for being caught in possession will apply.

The prohibition comes on top of Australia’s toughest bail laws – which include tougher bail tests for many serious and high-risk offences like knife crimes – plus a huge expansion of random knife search powers.

Premier Jacinta Allan said: “In Victoria, community safety comes first. We must never let places we meet become places we fear.”

“I hate these knives, and I will keep introducing as many laws as it takes to get them off our streets, out of our shops and out of our lives.”

Minister for Police Anthony Carbines said: “We introduced Australia’s toughest bail laws, we’re toughening bail for knife crimes and expanding random knife search powers – now we’re ordering machetes off shelves and banning their possession.”

“The community shouldn’t have to deal with these weapons in their shopping centres. Neither should our police.”

Minister for Consumer Affairs Nick Staikos said: “Consumer affairs is all about keeping people safe. We’re going to use our consumer powers to do just that.” “We know it is disruptive to the retailers who are carrying stock. Victorians will thank them for working with us to get this done.”

NEW SPORTS CENTRE TO INSPIRE THE NEXT BACHAR HOULI

The Allan Labor Government is ready to welcome the next generation of sports stars in Victoria with the construction of a new world-class sports and education centre.

Premier Jacinta Allan and Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll have announced funding of $6 million for the Aspire Sports Centre, which will convert the Coburg Moreland Bowls Club site into a permanent home for the Bachar Houli Foundation and the fastgrowing Islamic College of Sport.

The Islamic College of Sport will offer a unique and focused program for Muslim students who are seeking a combination of a high-performance sports environments, a choice of education offering an inclusive and active place where both Muslim and non-Muslim Victorians can connect through sport.

The project will have a new main school campus including 12 new flexible use classrooms, a breakout area for students, staff administrative facilities, separate toilet facilities

for staff and students, and dedicated access to sports facilities such as a high-performance gym, two indoor courts and brand new changerooms.

Outside of school hours, the facility will be used by local community and sporting clubs, with a focus on enabling Muslim women and girls’ participation in sport by providing a culturally safe and welcoming space. This will include having dedicated times and spaces for all women’s sport, recreation activities and programs.

The Bachar Houli Foundation has a long history of building connection through mentorship and sport in

the Victorian community. The Foundation’s school will support 76 students in Year 11 and 12 through their VCE studies and with this important investment will expand across Years 7 to 10 in the coming years.

The investment comes as part of the Labor Government’s $30 million commitment to build and upgrade Islamic schools, as part of a fund to improve low-fee nongovernment schools.

The Labor Government has established a $450 million fund in partnership with the Non-Government School sector to upgrade and build new nongovernment schools across Victoria.

Premier Jacinta Allan said: “The work of Bachar Houli and the Foundation goes beyond sport, it’s about inspiring the next generation of community leaders.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll said: “We are investing in the next generation of elite athletes and building a space where Victorians can learn and grow in a world class environment. Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence said:“This new centre will be a major boost for local sports clubs with a focus on providing Muslim women and girls with culturally safe facilities to get involved in the sports they love.”

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt said: “This new centre is about creating opportunities for young Victorians from all backgrounds – fostering inclusion, celebrating diversity and bringing communities together through the power of sport.”

Member for Pascoe Vale Anthony Cianflone said:“I am so thrilled to welcome the next generation of Muslim sporting stars once the Aspire Sports Centre opens its doors here in Coburg.”

Bachar Houli Foundation founder Bachar Houli said: “The Aspire Sports Centre will also stand as a beacon of opportunity for women in sport, while furthering the Foundation’s mission to provide elite pathways for people in our community.”

“It will be a welcoming, safe, and supportive space—one that’s inclusive, thriving, and culturally diverse, offering a place for the community to connect through sport.”

“We are incredibly grateful for this contribution and cannot wait to be up and running.” Bachar Houli said.

AUSTRALIA’S ISLAMIC FINANCE

INDUSTRY

LAUNCHES PEAK BODY

Australia’s Islamic finance industry has today announced the formation and launch of a dedicated industry peak body – Islamic Finance and Investments Association.

Launched in Sydney on Wednesday 4 June 2025 the Islamic Finance and Investments Association (IFIA) will be the collective voice of Australia’s fast growing Islamic finance industry, and will establish, promote and support a strong, trusted and competitive Islamic banking, finance and investments sector in Australia which conforms to Shariah. It will seek to provide leadership to deliver Shariah compliant standards for the industry

and community.

IFIA, CEO Chaaban Omran said, “one of our main goals is to advocate for the industry and prevent Australian regulations from hindering progress. We will work closely with government and regulators to represent our members while prioritising both industry standards and client and member interests.

“Given the changing landscape in both regulation and structure, as an industry, we believe the time is right to form a dedicated peak body to focus solely on matters related to Islamic finance and the 1 million strong Muslim community in Australia that it aims to serve.”

In addition to being led

by mainstream product issuers and practitioners who are regulated by compliance frameworks and have Shariah compliant boards and certifications, IFIA will initially be focused on:

• advocating for stamp duty and taxation changes to challenge conventional standards set by the regulators in order to align these with Islamic banking and finance requirements, and inform members of existing and proposed legislation and regulations;

• provide training and education opportunities for member organisations and the broader community;

• informing Australians and key stakeholder groups about the role and

value of Islamic finance; and

• seeking opportunities for the industry to further contribute to the community.

“Islamic finance plays an essential role in the global economy, operating in over 50 countries worldwide and valued to be worth more than $4 trillion by 2026. It is essential that it becomes an accessible and sustainable option for all Australians.

“Through IFIA, we intend to strengthen our engagement and relationships with our stakeholders, including consumers, their representatives, policymakers and regulators, to ensure we deeply understand their views,” said IFIA Chairman, Prof Talal Yassine AM.

“The Islamic Finance and Investments Association will be the progressive voice of Islamic finance in Australia, focusing on

what is important to consumers and making continuous improvements to meet those expectations. IFIA will also look to foster and strengthen the knowledge and understanding of Australians on the ethical nature of Islamic finance and the benefits and value it can provide,” Mr Yassine said.

The following organisations are foundation members of IFIA:

• Salaam

• Islamic Co-operative Finance Australia (ICFAL)

• Ijarah Finance

• Benchmark Capital

• Islamic Money Australia

• Awqaf Australia.

To explore the range of corporate and individual IFIA membership categories, visit https:// www.ifia.org.au/ membership

Eid Mubarak Eid Mubarak

May this Eid renew our commitment to justice, unity and standing up for what is right. From my family to yours, Eid Mubarak, and may Allah (SWT)

MUBARAK

Eid

Eid Al-Adha is a blessed

Whilst

EMPOWERING WOMEN, ONE AT A TIME

By Shazma Gaffoor

Force De Fem is a highly anticipated event attended by a diverse array of female entrepreneurs and aspiring businesswomen - a networking space created for women to support other startups.

Founded in 2021 by entrepreneur and mum of five, Mariam El Houli, designed these events for women from all walks of life, religion, and those simply looking for a second chance at life.

“When I was a small business, I couldn’t find working spaces for women that supported other startups, to not only network but also learn something,” El Houli said.

After struggling to find skincare products for her sensitive skin at an affordable price, El Houli started her own organic handmade skincare business from scratch called Eve’s Skin.

As a literature graduate, she wrote her first novel called The Olive Tree, describing it as being a love letter to the Palestinian people.

The fiction fetched multiple awards, including winning gold at the New York Big Book Awards last month.

El Houli established Wattle Tree Production last year and directed her first short film, Yeshka, a story ‘exploring the effects of intergenerational trauma’.

To add to her list of growing and glowing titles, El Houli is also a well-established international speaker. And most recently, she became an ambassador for Salaam Super.

“I really think business helps you live outside the box. It’s not a 9-to-5 and you can be around your kids,” she said.

The culmination of all her businesses circles back to Force De Fem; where she tries to give back by bringing together and supporting small businesses.

“We want to get the community to network together. We get stalls and support new startups by purchasing or sharing their products or services,” El Houli said.

“And we have amazing speakers as well.”

Behind the glitz and glamour is tremendous effort poured into these highly sought after events.

“Not only is it financially consuming, but it is also timeconsuming liaising with all the stall holders, speakers, and trying to make it into a theme,” she said.

Force de Fem hosted their annual networking event in April this year at La Belle Venues in Melbourne’s north.

“This year’s theme was Alice in Wonderland because anything is possible if you can dream of it,” El Houli said.

The sold-out event was a roaring success with nearly 140 patrons in attendance.

“People attending this year were from different walks of life. From authors to businesses to lawyers. We had such a big mix of women,” she said.

During the humanitarian segment, more than $17,000 was raised within an hour for the Muslims Around The World (MATW) Project.

“This year we also did Force De Fem in Qatar, and then we brought it back to Melbourne,” El Houli said.

“I think something like this really unites us and brings the community of amazing strong women together.”

Force De Fem is indeed a force to be reckoned with, and El Houli is no exception.

Mariam El Houli

ICCV

ISLAMIC CO-ORDINATING COUNCIL OF VICTORIA

Helping Australian businesses export halal products to over 140 countries

ICCV is the largest Halal certification organisation in Australia servicing clients locally and internationally.

ICCV is responsible for the certification, monitoring, and supervision of Halal food for the domestic market as well as the export market.

Clients cover a range of sectors including abattoirs, food processing businesses, transportation and cold storage operators.

We are the largest halal certification body in Australia. Professional, experienced and trusted.

We monitor the certified businesses for compliance of halal requirements.

We provide a means for direct supervision in house for quality assurance.

We work with abattoirs to get and keep their halal certification.

ACCREDITED MARKETS

ICCV is specifically accredited within these Muslim majority countries.

Our certification is approved for all halal importing countries.

We provide full turnkey solution for FGMs to get halal.

Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Brunei, Oman, Kingdom of Bahrain,Tunisia,Yemen, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Kuwait, Libya, Qatar, Afghanistan, Albania, Bangladesh, Bosnia, Iran, Kosova, Morocco, Maldives.

We provide logistics companies for cold room and transport to get halal.

Our certificate is approved in countries that now require halal certificate if goods have halal stamps:

Canada, South Korea, China, European Union (EU), New Zealand, Russia Federation, Sri Lanka, United Kingdom, United States of America (USA).

PERSECUTION OF THE ENEMIES OF GENOCIDE

By Bilal Cleland dunk1689@gmail.com

The ALP does intend to recognise Palestine at some time, according to its stated policy and it proclaims on its website amongst its achievements is: “Joined the international community in supporting peace and security in the Middle East, calling for a ceasefire, the release of hostages and protection of civilians under international law.”

It did not join the UK, France and Canada in threatening sanctions against the genocidal regime. It did not cut off trade with it like Spain.

Meanwhile in Australia we see numerous cases of the persecution of opponents of the Gaza genocide and supporters of Palestinian statehood.

The hypocrisy was highlighted by the courage of Senator Payman who crossed the floor to vote with Greens in support of the stated policy of the ALP, recognition of Palestine. Since then, she has founded Australia’s Voice to represent the unrepresented, thus attracting the venom of the old white colonists and their racist collaborators.

We have a variety of cases of persecution of high-profile truth tellers on the Palestinian genocide, usually attacked with War on Terror rhetoric,

despite a high level of public opposition to the offences Israel is committing.

Persecution After October 7

A shock was given to us all when Usman Khwardja was banned from writing “All Lives are Equal” on his shoes for a Test Match in December 2023. The ICC the international cricket body thought it was too political.

The influence of the Israeli lobby making such a statement appear to be a threat to them indicated what was to follow.

Antoinette Latouf sacked from the ABC also in December 2023 for a re-Tweet of an article on Gaza. She stated after her court case against the corporation, that the “rot and the systemic racism at the ABC” has been exposed” after her unlawful termination. Her high profile resulted in plenty of filth on social media as well as overwhelming support.

The ABC spent over a million dollars fighting her case.

In April 2024 Khaled Sabsabi, the Lebanese Australian artist dumped as Australia’s representative at the 2026 Venice Biennale by Creative Australia the Commonwealth Arts body, was devastated

“The next day, two key players in Australia’s Venice participation, Creative Australia’s head of visual arts, Mikala Tai, and project manager Tahmina Maskinyar resigned”. His support for political figures in the Palestine confrontation was the offence, not his art.

The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) has admitted it made an “error” in cancelling an acclaimed pianist’s performance August 2014.

Jason Gilham’s crime?

Playing a piece by composer Connor D’Netto, which was dedicated to the journalists of Gaza.

This led to an independent review of MSO’s policies.

Another case of persecution in Queensland again with a government funded award had immediate repercussions.

LNP state arts minister, JohnPaul Langbroek, said: “It is my firm view and direction under Section 23 of the Libraries Act 1988, and I am sure the view

of most Queenslanders, that Ms Wyld should not receive the award in a Queensland Government or State Library of Queensland venue.” [2 April 2025 ABC News]

“At least four judges for the Queensland literary awards have resigned over the past 24 hours, protesting against the State Library of Queensland’s decision to withdraw a prestigious $15,000 fellowship from First Nations writer Karen Wyld over comments she made last year about the Gaza conflict.”

Then there is the case of Hash Tayem, outspoken opponent of genocide and Israeli atrocities on the West Bank.

His Burgertory premisses in Caulfield were firebombed in November 2023. It was not a hate crime according to police. Then his home was attacked.

No shrinking violet, Mr Tayem “unleashed a furious rant at police and accused them of downplaying the firebombing of his house and of ‘protecting’ the perpetrator.”

“A Molotov cocktail was thrown at Mr Tayeh’s Melbourne house in the early hours of April 19 following the prominent proPalestinian activist leading a rally demanding the Israeli Ambassador’s expulsion from Australia.” [10 Dec 2024 Daily Mail]

Then in March he was charged with insulting words spoken at a rally in May last year.

“Outside court on Tuesday,

Tayeh said “standing up for innocent men, women and children who are slaughtered in cold blood is not controversial”. [29 April 2025 Guardian]

A 79-year-old was arrested outside the court for chanting the words of the accused “All Zionists are terrorists”.

What Is Genocide?

Until the cowardice of the politicians in the democracies was confronted by the high degree of organisation of the Israel lobby, it was assumed that all of the civilised world was opposed to genocide.

To deny the genocide of Europe’s Jewish population is illegal in many countries and

utilized as a last resort. Genocide is directed against a national group as an entity and the attack on individuals is only secondary to the annihilation of the national group to which they belong. [Center for Constitutional Rights]

Perhaps the reluctance of so many Western governments, including our own, to fight genocide is the great power the American Israel Public Affairs Committee holds over the US political process.

Candidates running for primaries who are independent on the matter of Israel are subjected to floods of money to their more flexible opponents.

Congressional members who speak out against the Israeli lobby are targeted, vilified and

beyond the pale in most others.

The definition from 1944 is not just a matter of mass slaughter but involves much more.

Jewish Polish legal scholar, Raphael Lemkin, wrote: “the term does not necessarily signify mass killings”.

He explained:

More often [genocide] refers to a coordinated plan aimed at destruction of the essential foundations of the life of national groups so that these groups wither and die like plants that have suffered a blight.

The end may be accomplished by the forced disintegration of political and social institutions, of the culture of the people, of their language, their national feelings and their religion.

It may be accomplished by wiping out all basis of personal security, liberty, health and dignity.

When these means fail the machine gun can always be

politically eradicated where possible.

AIPAC functions like the Iranian Council of Guardians which vets candidates for office on their loyalty to the Iranian system. In the US it is loyalty to Israel which is the test.

The Washington Report on Middle East Affairs has a running commentary on the degree of corruption involved.

As our Deputy Prime Minister, “factional assassin” according to Fred Husic, the minister dumped for his views on Palestine, has described him, shows almost daily our subservience to the Orange Emperor.

Our subservience is not in our national interest and with the Trumpist chaos, could be disastrously harmful.

It is already threatening freedom of political activity in the interests of a settler colonial protectorate of Washington.

The author is a prominent Australian Muslim scholar and activist.