The Islamic Museum of Australia (IMA) unveiled plans for its next chapter at the Annual Gala Dinner, held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday 18 October 2025.
IMA Founder Moustafa Fahour OAM announced the development of a new Community Centre, to be built on the same street as the existing Museum in Thornbury, Melbourne.
Describing the project, Mr Fahour said the centre will be a place for learning, dialogue and connection.
“The Community Centre further expands the Museum’s mission of sharing the beauty of Islam through arts and culture,” he added.
IMA has engaged Cox Architecture to design the new facility, which will include a 300-seat function hall with a commercial kitchen, a library, and dedicated art workshop rooms.
Other highlights from the Gala Dinner included a stirring keynote address by former IBF featherweight titleholder Billy Dib, and performances by Jafra Dabke, Heba Tayeh, and students from the Australian International Academy.
Among the 400+ guests were IMA Chairperson Azmeena Hussain OAM, Patrons Ahmed Fahour AO and Dr Hass Dellal AO, along with Essendon Football Club player Saad El-Hawli and UFC fighter Kaan Ofli.
The event, supported by La Trobe University, Human Appeal Australia and Arada, raised funds for the new Community Centre.
A pair of gloves signed by Billy Dib was also auctioned for $30,000, with proceeds donated to Human Appeal Australia’s Gaza Appeal.
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