Ingrid STITT (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Multicultural Affairs) (12:27): It was my pleasure on Friday night to attend an iftar hosted by the Board of Imams Victoria in Hoppers Crossing. Over the course of Ramadan I have had the absolute pleasure of attending many iftars right across the community. At each event the importance of community, mutual understanding and respect has been evident for all to see, and iftars like this bring people of all backgrounds together in a moment of unity, which does reflect the core Islamic values of generosity and hospitality. On Friday the conversation centred on combating Islamophobia right across our community, and I know that the newly passed anti-vilification laws will be welcomed by the community. Islamophobic incidents have risen sharply in recent times. It is hate that goes against the very fibre of the proudly diverse multicultural state that we all live in. It is why we are working in partnership with organisations like the board of imams, the Muslim Welfare Trust and the Islamic Council of Victoria to ensure that our Muslim community feel safe, valued and respected. I am proud that our government has supported the board of imams to host iftar dinners right across Melbourne, bringing together Muslims and non-Muslims alike throughout Ramadan. On behalf of the Allan government I want to wish Victoria’s Muslim community a happy Eid al-Fitr and thank each and every member of the community for the significant contribution they make to our state. Eid Mubarak.