Muslim Votes Matter is set to officially launch its national campaign.
The Melbourne event on Sunday is set to feature speeches and messages from community leaders on topics including the importance of voting, , and making informed political choices.
The group is seeking to amplify Australian Muslims’ democratic participation ahead of the next federal election, describing them as a valuable but underutilised asset.
“The Muslim community is the largest and one of the fastest-growing minority groups in Australia,” said Naser Alziyadat, a Muslim Votes Matter spokesperson, in a statement ahead of the event.
“Our collective voting bloc holds significant potential.”
Here’s what to know about the organisation, its goals, and who it supports.
What is Muslim Votes Matter?
Muslim Votes Matter describes itself as an independent, grassroots political organisation dedicated to “promoting the political engagement and voice of Australian Muslims”.
It is not a political party and is not running candidates in the next federal election. The group is expected to support candidates who align with its values.
According to Muslim Votes Matter, there are over 20 seats where the Muslim community collectively has the potential for a deciding vote.
The organisation says this puts the community in a “powerful position” to elevate those who bring the community’s issues to the forefront and oppose those who ignore or take them for granted.
Is the group connected to any politicians?
Muslim Votes Matter is not affiliated with any political party or external organisation, but prioritises the needs and aspirations of the Australian Muslim community.
The group expressed support for Senator Fatima Payman after she and voted in favour of a Greens motion calling for Australia to formally recognise a Palestinian state.
Payman was later suspended from Labor and saying she had felt “exiled” and that she had been left with “no choice”.
Muslim Votes Matter criticised the government over its handling of the situation and stance on the war in Gaza, and together with The Muslim Vote collective, began a push to remove Labor from seats with large Arab and Muslim populations.
At the time, adviser and barrister Mahmud Hawila, told SBS News the movement is “a well-funded campaign to punish Labor for being complicit in genocide”.
“We need politicians who will not back caucus and lobby groups over their own morals and their own community,” he said. “We need to start seeing some real representation.”
What are the goals of Muslim Votes Matter?
Muslim Votes Matter says its purpose is to “strengthen national unity and promote values-driven policy-making”
The group says it aims to be a reliable resource trusted by the community, enhance democratic participation for all Australians, and build a more inclusive society.
It says its mission and goals are based on conducting research, providing educational programs and resources, engaging with the community, and collaborating with community stakeholders.
According to its website, Muslim Groups Matter will advocate for policies and initiatives that resonate with the Australian Muslim community’s values and aspirations, and aim to shape legislation and outcomes that “ensure fairness and opportunity”.
