Muslim women—particularly those who wear the hijab—have been subjected to a surge in Islamophobic incidents following the December 14 terrorist attack at Bondi Beach, according to reports from news agencies and community organizations.

The Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) reported an almost 200 percent increase in anti-Muslim hate incidents since the attack, with 62 cases documented during this period. Reported incidents include hijabs being forcibly removed, women being egged or spat on, and acts of vandalism targeting mosques and Islamic centers.

ANIC Senior Advisor Bilal Rauf stated that a significant portion of the abuse has been directed at Muslim women, contributing to heightened fear and distress within the community. He emphasized the serious social and psychological impact these incidents have had, particularly on women who are visibly identifiable as Muslim.

Several political and community leaders have strongly condemned the attacks. Among them, New South Wales Premier Chris Minns and Member of Parliament Jihad Dib described the incidents as “horrifying,” “disgusting,” and wholly unacceptable. Authorities have confirmed that they are closely monitoring the situation and have urged the public to report all hate-related crimes.

Observers and community advocates have linked the rise in Islamophobia to divisive rhetoric in certain political and media circles, warning that such discourse risks deepening social divisions and inflaming community tensions.