Press Release – 2 March 2026

Press Release – 2 March 2026

Calls for Protection of Religious Freedoms Under Section 116 of the Australian Constitution

The Muslim Legal Network WA has called on the Australian Government, as well as State and Territory Governments, to uphold and protect the constitutional right to freedom of religion as guaranteed under Section 116 of the Australian Constitution.

In light of recent international events and the reported killing of Iran’s head of state, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, MLNWA emphasises that peaceful prayer gatherings and commemorative religious events held by members of the Shi’a Muslim community are expressions of grief and faith — not acts that warrant condemnation or criminalisation.

For many Shi’a Muslims in Australia and around the world, Ayatollah Khamenei was not only a political figure but also one of the most senior religious leaders. His passing has caused deep sadness within the community, and prayer services held in remembrance reflect religious devotion and mourning practices.

MLNWA stresses that attempts to target or criminalise peaceful religious gatherings represent a broader threat to fundamental democratic principles. Freedom of religion is a cornerstone of Australia’s democracy, protecting the right of all individuals — regardless of faith — to practise their religion in a manner they deem appropriate.

The organisation calls on leaders at all levels of government to reaffirm their commitment to constitutional protections and to ensure that no community is unfairly targeted for exercising lawful religious expression

DOWNLOAD THE PRESS