Perth: Religious harmony in Australia is facing significant challenges as a surge of incidents targeting Christian beliefs emerges across the nation. A recent controversy in Melbourne has sparked outrage among the Christian community after a fast-food restaurant named Burgertory which has 17 outlets across Victoria has named its burgers after revered Christian prophets, angels, and saints, including Noah, Raphael, Joel, and Michael. Owned by Hash Tayeh, a known pro-Palestinian activist, the establishment has faced backlash for what many see as a provocative misuse of sacred names. Photo credits: Burgetory
Risen Jose, a Kerala youth from Perth, has initiated protests demanding an apology and the removal of the names, calling the practice deeply disrespectful and offensive to Christian values.
We urge all individuals who value religious respect and harmony to support the ongoing campaign calling for accountability from Burgertory and its owner, Hash Tayeh. The recent naming of burgers after sacred Christian figures has sparked outrage among the Christian community, with many viewing this as a deeply disrespectful and offensive act. We call for an official apology from Burgertory and a commitment to remove the offensive names from their menu. This petition represents an important step toward protecting the integrity of religious beliefs and ensuring that such acts of blasphemy are not normalised in public spaces.
Please click here to sign the petition
The controversy surrounding Burgertory is not an isolated incident. Australia has witnessed a troubling trend of anti-Christian acts that challenge the nation’s commitment to religious respect and harmony. In 2023, a controversial art exhibition in Sydney depicted distorted images of Jesus and the Virgin Mary, causing public outrage and protests from both Catholic and Protestant communities. Earlier this year, a comedy show in Brisbane openly mocked Christian practices, sparking criticism for its insensitivity. More recently, churches in Adelaide were vandalised with anti-Christian graffiti, leaving congregations feeling vulnerable as authorities failed to apprehend those responsible.
Adding to the growing tension, the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras has come under fire for a controversial image showing a prominent drag queen pointing a spear at a figure appearing to be dressed as Jesus. The image has drawn condemnation from Christian groups, with the Australian Christian Lobby calling for the event to be defunded. “NSW taxpayers and Sydney ratepayers are being forced to fund an event that promotes debauchery, sexual fetishes, and now — religious mockery and blasphemy,” the ACL stated. Cumberland Councillor Steve Christou echoed the sentiment, questioning why taxpayer money is funding festivals that openly mock religious beliefs, adding that similar portrayals of other religions would be deemed hate crimes.
Amid mounting concerns, community leaders and activists are urging the government to take decisive action to protect religious harmony and uphold respect for all faiths. They warn that allowing such blasphemous acts to continue without consequence could undermine Australia’s multicultural fabric and foster division. As calls grow for stronger regulations to prevent the misuse of sacred names and symbols, there is a renewed focus on reinforcing the nation's foundational commitment to mutual respect and religious freedom.