Australian Muslims have been warned to be extra vigilant following the "terrorist" shooting massacre of worshippers in New Zealand.
The 49 deaths at two mosques in Christchurch are the horrific consequence of hate, Muslims Australia president Rateb Jneid said on Friday.
"This act of terror on innocent worshippers is an atrocity and we grieve with the victims and their families," Dr Jneid said in a statement.
One shooter has been identified as Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, from Grafton in NSW.
NSW Police moved to assure the public "there is no ongoing or specific threat to any mosque or place of worship in Sydney or across NSW".
"However, police have increased patrols and senior officers have also reached out to community and religious leaders across the state to provide support and reassurance," a spokesperson said in a statement.
Dr Jneid argues the New Zealand massacre is a product of ever-increasing Islamophobia and marginalisation of Muslims.
He said the atrocity was a reminder to all concerned, including political leaders and media commentators, "of the horrific consequences that an atmosphere of hate and division can lead to".
He urged all governments to give extra attention to the rise of anti-Muslim sentiment and extremism.
Dr Jneid also encouraged all mosques and places of worship in Australia to be extra vigilant - and for members of the Muslim community to be particularly mindful of their safety in the coming days.
Queensland Police commissioner Ian Stewart said people should be alert to their surroundings without being alarmed.
He said police have told the multi-faith and multicultural communities in Queensland they will do everything they can to ensure their safety, even though they know there is no credible threat at this time in the state.
"It's very important that people know they can go about their daily business, go about their prayers, go about their religious services without any fear," he said.
"We also know that at times like these there is heightened concern in certain communities for backlash, for comment, for perhaps even assaults to occur."
Mosques across Victoria have planned a community open day for this Sunday and were keen for them to go ahead, Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam said.
She encouraged people to go and support the Muslim communities, while also maintaining vigilance, with more police also planned to be patrolling close by.
Australian Associated Press
