For Muslims, prayer (Salah) is one of the five pillars of islam and is observed at specific times throughout the day. When mosques are overcrowded or unavailable, some choose to pray in public areas. While these public prayers are a display of religious devotion, they have led to mixed reactions from the public.
Supporters argue that public prayer is a peaceful expression of religious freedom, which is a fundamental right in a multicultural country like Australia. However, critics, including some local residents and motorists, have expressed frustration over the traffic disruptions caused by such gatherings, raising concerns about public safety and the inconvenience caused to others.
In response, authorities have sometimes facilitated peaceful assembly, while also exploring ways to balance religious rights with public order, ensuring that such gatherings are conducted without significant disruptions.