Bystander Intervention Workshops countering Islamophobia in NSW

The Australian Intercultural Society (AIS), in partnership with Polykala, has just wrapped seven powerful bystander intervention training sessions across metro Sydney and the impact has been immediate.

Funded by the Department of Home Affairs, the national program gives participants practical tools to respond to incidents of Islamophobia and racial/religious discrimination safely and effectively. The half-day workshops blend interactive activities, open conversations, and role-plays, creating a safe space to explore real-world situations and build confidence to act.

Attendees have come from all walks of life, including representatives from Local Councils, NSW Police, NSW Department of Education, Universities, Community organisations, youth services, legal services and more reflecting the program’s broad reach and importance across sectors.

Participants described the Sydney sessions as “fantastic and engaging”, “open and safe”, and “very relevant to the current climate of racism and Islamophobia.” They praised the mix of theory and practice, with many valuing the chance to “try out different ways of intervening” and “hear diverse perspectives”. One attendee summed it up succinctly by saying it “So valuable & transformative!”

The program doesn’t just build individual skills, it fosters stronger community connections, encourages dialogue, and helps create safer public spaces for everyone.

Together, we’re standing up to discrimination and standing stronger as a community.

Next sessions will be in Melbourne during October and November 2025, followed by Adelaide and Brisbane in 2026. ⭐ To register click here.⭐ 

📷 View Photos Here

🎤 Testimony from participants