A local council in western Sydney has taken decisive action to close an Islamic centre allegedly operating illegally and linked to a controversial religious figure. The City of Canterbury Bankstown has issued a formal directive ordering the immediate cessation of activities at the Al Madina centre in Bankstown.
Council Cites Unauthorised Use of Building
The council's action, issued late on Monday, targets Wisam Haddad, also known as Abu Ousayd. Authorities allege the building on Kitchener Parade was never approved for use as a prayer hall. A review of records dating back to 1970 found the premises only had recent approval to operate as a medical centre.
A spokesperson for the council stated that recent surveillance provided strong suspicion the site was being used contrary to its approved purpose. "We have issued the cease use notices which will be effective immediately," the spokesperson said. "There are no compromises, and we will be taking further action if they don't comply."
Connection to Bondi Attack Scrutiny
The centre and Haddad have been under increased scrutiny since the Bondi Junction mass stabbing in April. Media reports have alleged that the attacker, Joel Cauchi, was influenced by a Dawah preaching movement associated with Haddad. However, a lawyer for Haddad has previously stated he "vehemently denies any knowledge of or involvement in the shootings".
Representatives for the Al Madina centre have asserted that Haddad is no longer involved in its management. In a Facebook post on 15 December, the Al Madina Group stated it had taken over from previous tenants and that Haddad's involvement was limited to occasional guest speaking.
Premier Supports and Previous Enforcement Action
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns publicly supported the council's move, praising the "decisive action" of Mayor Bilal El-Hayek. "This is an important change not just for that community but for New South Wales," Minns said on Tuesday.
This is not the first enforcement action against properties linked to Haddad. The council also issued a 'cease use' order for a building on Eldon Street in Georges Hall in December 2023. That property, approved only as a gym, was allegedly being used for prayer meetings.
The council emphasised its role is strictly to ensure premises are used according to their planning approval, not to monitor preaching content. Non-compliance with the new order can result in significant fines: a $3,000 penalty for an individual or $6,000 for a corporation.
Council surveillance of the Al Madina centre began in May after media reports but initially found insufficient evidence. Ongoing monitoring has now provided what the council deems photographic proof of unauthorised use.
