Australia’s Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia has condemned an alleged incident of verbal abuse directed at a 13-year-old Muslim girl on a Sydney bus, describing the reported comments as unacceptable and calling for stronger efforts to ensure the safety of Muslim students using public transport.
The incident allegedly occurred last week when a 50-year-old man directed offensive remarks toward Muslim passengers, including school-aged girls wearing hijabs. According to reports, the man allegedly referred to one girl as an “immigrant mutt” and a “terrorist,” while also making other threatening and abusive comments.
The 13-year-old girl, identified as Janna, said the confrontation began after she intervened on behalf of another Muslim girl who was allegedly being photographed without her consent. Janna claimed she spoke up after noticing the man’s behavior toward the other passenger.
Videos obtained by media outlets reportedly show the man making hostile remarks toward Muslim women on the bus. Among the alleged statements was a comment directed at another girl in which he said, “I can’t wait until they kill all of you.”
New South Wales Police said the man was arrested at a home in Greenacre on Tuesday afternoon and was subsequently charged in connection with the incident.
In the aftermath of the alleged abuse, the Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia called for greater action to protect Muslim schoolchildren and invited Transport for NSW to work with his office on measures aimed at improving safety for passengers, particularly young people who wear religious attire.
Transport for NSW confirmed it was aware of the incident, which was reportedly brought to its attention by the bus driver after it occurred. A spokesperson said the agency was committed to maintaining a safe public transport network and welcomed engagement with the envoy’s office.
The department also noted that it continues to work closely with transport operators, police, and community stakeholders to respond to safety concerns and support passengers across the network.Videos obtained by media outlets reportedly show the man making hostile remarks toward Muslim women on the bus. Among the alleged statements was a comment directed at another girl in which he said, “I can’t wait until they kill all of you.”
New South Wales Police said the man was arrested at a home in Greenacre on Tuesday afternoon and was subsequently charged in connection with the incident.
In the aftermath of the alleged abuse, the Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia called for greater action to protect Muslim schoolchildren and invited Transport for NSW to work with his office on measures aimed at improving safety for passengers, particularly young people who wear religious attire.
Transport for NSW confirmed it was aware of the incident, which was reportedly brought to its attention by the bus driver after it occurred. A spokesperson said the agency was committed to maintaining a safe public transport network and welcomed engagement with the envoy’s office.
The department also noted that it continues to work closely with transport operators, police, and community stakeholders to respond to safety concerns and support passengers across the network.
The incident has sparked broader discussions about community safety, discrimination, and the experiences of visibly identifiable religious minorities in public spaces. Community leaders have emphasized the importance of respectful behaviour, inclusivity, and ensuring that all passengers feel safe when travelling on public transport.
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