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20/07/2026

The Faith Communities Council of Victoria has issued the following statement in response to the desecration of Islamic graves at Maddingley General Cemetery in Bacchus Marsh Victoria:

The Faith Communities Council of Victoria is deeply saddened by the reported desecration of Islamic graves at Maddingley General Cemetery in Bacchus Marsh Victoria.

An attack on a place of burial is more than damage to property. It is a violation of memory, dignity, and the sacred bonds that connect families across generations. We stand in solidarity with the Muslim community and all those affected by this distressing act.

No person should fear because of their faith. No community should have to wonder whether its sacred places, traditions, or loved ones are safe from hatred, intimidation, or violence.

Across Australia, we are witnessing a disturbing rise in religious hatred and intolerance. Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and all forms of religious vilification undermine the trust that enables people of different beliefs to live together with mutual respect. They weaken the social fabric that has long been one of Victoria's greatest strengths.

Our diverse faith communities are united by a shared conviction that every human life possesses inherent dignity. While our beliefs may differ, we stand together in rejecting hatred, violence, discrimination, and the dehumanisation of any person or community.

We encourage all Victorians to reject narratives that seek to divide us. The answer to fear is not suspicion, and the answer to hatred is not silence. It is respectful encounter, courageous solidarity, and a renewed commitment to the wellbeing of every member of our community.

The Faith Communities Council of Victoria calls upon governments, community leaders, faith communities, and all people of goodwill to continue working together to strengthen social cohesion, protect freedom of religion and belief, and ensure that every person can practise their faith, honour their loved ones, and participate fully in our shared civic life without fear.

 At times such as these, it is especially important that we refuse to allow acts of hatred to define who we are. Instead, let us reaffirm our shared commitment to compassion, justice, and the equal dignity of every person.

Kind regards,

Rev Sandy Boyce

Chair of Faith Communities Council of Victoria (FCCV)
M: 0499 726 213
E: exec@faithvictoria.org.au
W: www.faithvictoria.org.au

Faith Communities Council of Victoria (FCCV) is comprised of the following peak bodies: Baha'i Community of Victoria, Brahma Kumaris Australia, Buddhist Council of Victoria, Hindu Council of Australia (Victoria), Islamic Council of Victoria, Jain Council of Victoria, Jewish Community Council of Victoria, Sikh Interfaith Council of Victoria and Victorian Council of Churches.