Australia’s First Takaful

We can't keep waiting: building the financial institutions we need

Why Australian Muslims need to build their own financial institutions, and how everyday people can be part of it.

3 min read

Worshippers gathered for Eid prayer at Lakemba Mosque in Sydney

Eid prayer at Lakemba Mosque. Photo: Dnalyensid, CC BY-SA 3.0

We cannot keep waiting for someone else to build what we need.

Many of us want financial services that reflect our values and organisations that understand our families. Making those services available takes people willing to establish them, use them where they are suitable and hold them to high standards.

We can build on the work already being done and take responsibility for what comes next.

Taking the Initiative

An unmet need does not automatically lead to a new service. Someone has to understand the problem, bring capable people together and do the work of creating a practical response.

We cannot base our community's future on the hope that someone else will make our needs their priority.

Professional advisers, established organisations and potential partners can all play valuable roles. The initiative to explain what we need, pursue ideas and keep the work moving is ours to take.

What Does Building an Institution Take?

A launch is only the beginning. An institution needs capable people, clear responsibilities and services that people find useful enough to keep using.

It also needs the patience to improve. Every question answered, problem resolved and commitment honoured helps build confidence over time.

The aim is to create something the next generation can rely on and build upon. That means thinking beyond the first launch or the people who started it.

Institutions Must Earn Our Trust

In Qur'an 4:58, Allah commands the fulfilment of trusts and fairness in judgement. For us, this is a reminder that serving a community carries responsibility.

An organisation asking for support should explain what it offers, how it works and what people can reasonably expect.

At Najmaa, our responsibility is to earn confidence through the way we operate: welcoming questions, providing clear information and taking concerns seriously. People should feel able to ask difficult questions and make informed decisions.

Turning Shared Values Into Practical Action

Qur'an 5:2 encourages cooperation in goodness and righteousness. We can apply that principle through practical choices, according to our circumstances.

Take time to understand. Learn how an institution works, what it offers and whether it meets a need in your life.

Bring useful skills. People with experience in technology, finance, education or community service can consider where their knowledge could contribute.

Participate thoughtfully. Compare available services and consider their suitability, quality and affordability. Choosing a service that meets your needs can help sustain the organisation delivering it.

Help it improve. Share constructive feedback and ask questions. A useful suggestion can help an organisation understand a problem and respond more effectively.

Najmaa Is One Step in That Direction

Najmaa was established to put the principles of Takaful into practice through a discretionary mutual. It is our contribution to the wider ambition of creating institutions that reflect our values and serve practical needs.

People considering Najmaa should be able to learn about the model, understand the protection and decide whether it suits them. Our responsibility is to make that information clear and put our principles into practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What standards should community institutions meet?

People should expect clear information, competent service and accountability. An institution's community purpose should be reflected in how it treats people, manages its responsibilities and responds when concerns are raised.

How can I help if I am not ready to become a Najmaa member?

You can learn about Takaful, ask questions, share accurate information or offer constructive feedback. If relevant opportunities arise, professional skills and experience can also make a contribution. Participation should fit your circumstances.

Can community institutions work with established organisations?

Yes. Suitable partnerships can bring expertise and resources that help an institution develop. Clear responsibilities and shared expectations help keep the focus on the people being served.

What We Do Next Matters

The institutions we hope our children will inherit begin with the decisions we make now. Each of us can take a useful step, whether through learning, contributing skills or choosing services that meet our needs.

Explore Najmaa Vehicle Protection, read our key documents and consider whether the arrangement suits your needs.

What we need tomorrow starts with what we do today.

Takaful. Protection with Purpose.

Important Information

Protection is arranged by Najmaa Group Pty Ltd (AFSL 527623) and issued by Najmaa Mutual Limited. Protection is not insurance and is provided at the discretion of Najmaa Mutual Limited. Any advice is general advice only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Please read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement, Financial Services Guide and Target Market Determination and consider whether the product is appropriate for you.

Protection with purpose

Get a Shariah-compliant car protection quote in a few minutes.

Get a quote