‘Pivotal moment’: Funds being raised for Islamic ‘sanctuary’ in Melbourne’s north

Money is being raised for an Islamic “sanctuary” in Mickleham, which would include a mosque, Muslim schools, aged care and sports facilities.

There are plans for a multimillion dollar Muslim development in Melbourne's north.

Money is being raised for a mega Islamic “sanctuary” in Melbourne’s north, which plans show would include a mosque, Muslim schools, aged care and sports facilities.

Sheik Abu Hamza, also known as Samir Mohtadi, is leading fundraising through his charity IISNA WorldAid for the religious development on a 12-hectare site in Mickleham.

“We stand at a pivotal moment in our community’s history. The acquisition of 30+ acres in Mickleham isn’t just about land – it’s about securing our children’s future and establishing a legacy that will serve generations to come,” the ILLSNA (Islamic Information and Services Network of Australasia) website states.

“We’ve already secured half the required amount ($3.5 million), demonstrating our community’s commitment and capability. Now, we need just 1000 people to contribute $3,500 each to complete this historic project.”

Funds are flowing in for the proposed ‘sanctuary’.

The website notes that the strategic location of the Mickleham land “ensures accessibility for current and future generations” and “the opportunity to acquire such a significant space may not come again”.

“Every day we wait, property prices continue to rise. Your $3,500 contribution does more than help purchase land. It creates a foundation for our youth’s Islamic education and development.

Establishes a hub for community gathering and worship. Ensures our children have spaces to learn, play, and grow in their faith. Builds a legacy of continuous charity (Sadaqah Jariyah) for you or your loved ones,” it says.

Earlier this year the Herald Sun reported the prominent Victorian Muslim leader had called former Liberal leader Peter Dutton a “filthy human being” and warned he would “throw” him out of his mosque if he tried to visit in the lead up to the federal election.

In a rant posted to social media Samir Mohtadi ripped into Mr Dutton over his “pro-Zionist” stance amid the Israel-Hamas war.

The Islamic Information and Services Network of Australia’s Samir Mohtadi.

An image used to promote the plan.

“You’re not welcome here,” he said. “I’ll actually literally grab you and throw you out, you filthy human being.”

The religious leader, who also called Mr Dutton a “racist”, had previously posted radical videos calling for the eradication of Israel.

“We don’t want a two state solution,” he told his followers.

“There’s only one state, one state, which is the Islamic Palestinian state.

“We have to eliminate the terrorist Zionists.”

Originally published as ‘Pivotal moment’: Funds being raised for Islamic ‘sanctuary’ in Melbourne’s north