Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from food and drink, among other physical needs, to purify the soul and practice self-discipline. The fast is broken each evening with a meal called “Iftar,” the pre-dawn meal before the fast begins is known as “Suhoor.”
The conclusion of Ramadan is marked by the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a festive holiday signifying the end of fasting and a time for communal prayers, feasting, and giving thanks. In 2025, Eid al-Fitr is anticipated to be celebrated on Monday, March 31, in Australia, depending on the sighting of the moon.
What day is Ramadan 2025 in Australia?
The Australia’s Ramadan Crescent Moon Sighting Committee has confirmed that Ramadan 2025 will begin on Saturday, March 1, following the sighting of the new crescent moon.
The beginning of Ramadan 2025
The Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) officially confirmed the start date based on the sighting of the new crescent moon. This aligns with the Islamic lunar calendar, which determines the beginning of Ramadan each year.
For Muslims in Australia, this marks the commencement of a month-long period of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection. During Ramadan, able-bodied Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset.
Prayer times for major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are available to help Muslims observe their daily fasting and prayer schedules throughout the holy month.
How many hours of fasting in Australia?
In Australia, during Ramadan 2025, the daily fasting duration varies depending on the city and its geographical location. Fasting begins at dawn (Fajr) and ends at sunset (Maghrib), resulting in different fasting hours across the country.
Sydney
- Start of Ramadan: On the first day of Ramadan, Fajr is at approximately 5:07 AM, and Maghrib is at 7:42 PM, resulting in a fasting duration of about 14 hours and 35 minutes.
- End of Ramadan: By the last day, Fajr is at approximately 5:42 AM, and Maghrib is at 6:54 PM, with a fasting duration of about 13 hours and 12 minutes.
Melbourne
- Start of Ramadan: Fajr is at approximately 5:33 AM, and Maghrib is at 8:00 PM, leading to a fasting duration of about 14 hours and 27 minutes.
- End of Ramadan: Fajr is at approximately 5:42 AM, and Maghrib is at 6:54 PM, resulting in a fasting duration of about 13 hours and 12 minutes.
Brisbane
- Start of Ramadan: Fajr is at approximately 4:13 AM, and Maghrib is at 6:28 PM, with a fasting duration of about 14 hours and 15 minutes.
- End of Ramadan: Fajr is at approximately 4:32 AM, and Maghrib is at 7:03 PM, resulting in a fasting duration of about 14 hours and 31 minutes.
Perth
- Start of Ramadan: Fajr is at approximately 4:32 AM, and Maghrib is at 7:03 PM, leading to a fasting duration of about 14 hours and 31 minutes.
- End of Ramadan: Fajr is at approximately 4:32 AM, and Maghrib is at 7:03 PM, resulting in a fasting duration of about 14 hours and 31 minutes.
These variations are due to Australia’s vast geographical expanse, causing differences in daylight hours between regions. As Ramadan progresses, the length of fasting each day may change slightly due to the shifting times of sunrise and sunset.
Muslims in Australia
Islam is the second-largest religion in Australia, with the 2021 Census reporting 813,392 individuals identifying as Muslim, comprising 3.2% of the national population.
Historical Background
Muslim presence in Australia dates back to the early 19th century. Between the 1860s and 1890s, a significant number of Central Asian camel drivers, commonly referred to as “Afghan cameleers,” arrived to assist in exploring and transporting goods across Australia’s arid interior.
Demographics and Diversity
Australia’s Muslim community is notably diverse, encompassing various ethnicities, cultures, languages, and traditions. This diversity reflects immigration patterns from regions such as the Middle East, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa. The majority of Australian Muslims adhere to Sunni Islam, with Shia and Ahmadiyya minorities also present.
Community and Institutions
The Australian Muslim community has established numerous mosques, Islamic schools, and organizations across the country. The Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC), founded in 1964, serves as an umbrella organization representing various Islamic groups and councils. Additionally, the Australian National Imams Council (ANIC), formed in 2006, appoints the Grand Mufti of Australia and provides religious guidance to the community.
Contributions to Society
Muslims in Australia contribute significantly across various sectors, including education, business, healthcare, culture, and social justice. Through active participation in interfaith dialogues and community initiatives, they promote inclusivity and social cohesion, enriching Australia’s multicultural landscape.
Did Saudi Arabia announce Ramadan 2025?
In Saudi Arabia, the Supreme Court officially announced that Saturday, March 1, will mark the first day of the holy month of Ramadan.
