The Australian Fatwa Council has officially announced that Ramadan 1447AH will conclude on Thursday, March 19, with Friday, March 20 marking the first day of Eid al-Fitr and the beginning of Shawwal 1447AH in Australia.
The announcement was made after consultations with local and international moon observatories, taking into account detailed astronomical calculations regarding the new moon’s appearance, moonset timings, and visibility across Australia and surrounding regions.
🌙 EID Al-Fitr Statement for the Year 1447AH I 2026
— Australian National Imams Council (@ImamsCouncil) March 12, 2026
All praise is due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad.
We thank Allah (SWT) for giving us the ability to fast in the Month of Ramadan, the ability to worship him, and the ability to fulfil our… pic.twitter.com/kgI9vItsU7
According to the council, this method of determining the Islamic month is widely recognized by several global scholarly bodies and ensures an accurate and consistent start to Shawwal. The decision was also supported by the Australian National Imams Council, which works closely with Islamic scholars and community leaders across the country.
At the same time, the council acknowledged that some scholars and Imams may follow alternative moon sighting methods based on local observations. Community members have been encouraged to respect these differences and maintain unity within the Muslim community despite varying practices.
The Grand Mufti of Australia, Ibrahim Abu Mohamad, along with member Imams of the National Imams Council, extended warm Eid greetings to Muslims across Australia and around the world. They called on the community to celebrate the occasion with gratitude, compassion, and solidarity.
Religious leaders also urged Muslims to remember people suffering in conflict zones, especially in Gaza and Palestine, through prayers, charitable donations, and humanitarian support.
In addition, they encouraged Muslims in Australia to use the occasion of Eid to strengthen community ties by engaging with neighbours and friends, sharing the peaceful message and values of Islam.
The council reiterated that the date of Eid was determined through careful calculations related to the moon’s birth, visibility, and setting time, aligning with established global scholarly practices while respecting diversity of opinion within the Muslim community.
With the announcement, Muslims across Australia are now preparing to celebrate Eid Al Fitr with prayers, family gatherings, and acts of charity after completing the holy month of Ramadan.
