Shari’a in everyday life in Sydney : an analysis of professionals and leaders dealing with Islamic Law

This article explores how Shari’a is conceptualised and experienced by 27 legal professionals and leaders in Sydney working with Muslims on legal issues. It analyses qualitative data on issues with regards to the experience of Muslims with Shari’a, on how it can be improved in Australia and on how compatible Shari’s is with the Australian legal system. It also discusses Shari’a tribunals and financial opportunity. While we do not find any convincing arguments to further implement Shari’a in Australia, we find that despite political objections Shari’a is a vital part of everyday life for observant Australian Muslims. We argue that the popular political debate around Shari’a is in critical need of more exposure to balanced Muslim voices that can be heard above the popular political resistance to any manifestation of Shari’a.