Primary school sparks debate for allowing Muslim students to leave assembly during Advance Australia Fair

A primary school has been slammed for permitting Muslim students to leave assembly when the Australian national anthem is played.

Students at Cranbourne Carlisle Primary School, south of Melbourne were allowed to leave the hall in order to observe a religious month of mourning.

However the call has sparked a furious response from parents and politicians who said the move was ‘disgusting’ as they felt all Australians should feel proud to sing the anthem.

Lorraine McCurdy has two grandchildren at the school.

She said she ‘saw red’ when 30-40 students left the assembly during the anthem.

“A teacher came forward and said all those who feel it's against their culture may leave the room,” she said.

“I felt 'you don't walk out on my national anthem'.”

Independent senator for Tasmania Jacqui Lambie also shared her surprise at the decision.

“I find these schools that are allowing this to happen disgusting,” she said.

School principal Cheryl Irving defended the decision.

She said Shi'a Muslims do not participate in joyful events, including listening to music or singing, during Muharram.

The religious event marks the death of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Muhammad.

In a statement, Ms Irving said: “Our school is an inclusive and supportive environment for all of our students”.

“Cranbourne Carlisle Primary School supports all its staff and students in their religious and cultural observances.”

“Muharram is a Shi'a cultural observation marking the death of Imam Hussein. This year it falls between Tuesday 13 October and Thursday 12 November.”

“During this time Shi'a do not participate in joyful events, including listening to music or singing, as it is a period of mourning.

“Prior to last week's Years 2-6 assembly, in respect of this religious observance, students were given the opportunity to leave the hall before music was played.

“The students then re-joined the assembly at the conclusion of the music.”

The minister for Multicultural Affairs, Robin Scott said schools often catered to the beliefs of religious and non-religious students as part of normal practice.

“We are aware that this is a time of religious observance and singing the anthem has never been an issue for these students before.”