Meet Islamic leader Dr Munir Hussain, Wollongong’s 2024 Senior Citizen of the Year

The man named as "the backbone of the Islamic community in the Illawarra", Dr Munir Hussain, is Wollongong’s 2024 Senior Citizen of the Year. He was presented with the prestigious award by Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery at City Beach Function Centre on 19 January.

In a powerful nomination, Dr Hussain is described as "a role model for inclusivity, demonstrating respect, understanding and appreciation for all individuals, regardless of their background".

Now in his 80s, Dr Hussain has proudly led the local Muslim community for decades, exemplifying remarkable tenacity and resilience.

"He has been a catalyst for fostering cultural diversity, unity, and understanding in Wollongong," his nomination said.

"Dr Hussain has fearlessly advocated for marginalised communities, often facing resistance and opposition. He has stood up against discrimination, injustice, and inequality, displaying immense courage in addressing sensitive issues and advocating for the rights and well-being of those in need."

Through the Illawarra Refugee Support Group, Illawarra People for Peace and other affiliations, Dr Hussain organised dialogue sessions to encourage open conversations and understanding among diverse community groups. Over many years, he’s spoken passionately about the importance of women’s rights and equality.

During the 2023 referendum for The Voice to Parliament, Dr Hussain was a staunch supporter of the YES campaign, distributing information material in Arabic and organising speakers at the mosque to help raise awareness of the issues.

Among Dr Hussain’s many other achievements, he has worked closely with Neighbourhood Watch programs and the police to ensure he, and the broader Wollongong community, feel safe.

And as inflation soared in recent times, his efforts in helping organise free iftar meals in the Islamic month of Ramadan were widely appreciated. Similarly, his humanitarian efforts were felt further afield, when he organised food parcels for overseas students during the COVID-19 shutdown.

Dr Hussain’s nomination summed up a lifetime of giving and being a voice for the voiceless. "His commitment to promoting unity and understanding serves as a beacon for others striving for a more cohesive society."

In accepting his award, Dr Hussain thanked the City of Wollongong’s selection committee and promised to continue with his work in making Wollongong a proud, inclusive, multicultural city.

"I am humbled to have received this award," Dr Hussain said. "It has not only been an honour for me personally but also for the team of volunteers in our community who have supported me. Together we have achieved our goals. The award is for them as well.

"It gives me such happiness, great pleasure and honour, that after 45 years of community service my efforts have been recognised by the City of Wollongong. It is a wonderful feeling."

The City of Wollongong Awards are an opportunity to acknowledge the people and organisations who make our city a better place. Check out the full list of 2024 award recipients here and start thinking about nominations for next year…