Australia Announces Ramadan 2026 Start Date

Australia has announced that Ramadan 1447H will begin on February 19, 2026, following confirmation by the Australian Fatwa Council based on astronomical calculations.

Grand Mufti of Australia Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohamad said consultations showed the new moon would appear after sunset on February 17 in Sydney and Perth, making it impossible for Ramadan to begin that evening.

Accordingly, the first night of Ramadan and Taraweeh prayers will be observed after Isha on February 18.

Commencement of The Holy Month of Ramadan I 1447H – 2026

Following extensive consultations with the Imams from the Australian Fatwa Council, the Grand Mufti of Australia, Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohamad wishes to make the following statement regarding the Holy Month of Ramadan 1447H -… pic.twitter.com/j41eixc8v4

— Australian National Imams Council (@ImamsCouncil) February 12, 2026

The Mufti urged Muslims to respect differing scholarly opinions and maintain unity while offering prayers for communities facing hardships worldwide, particularly in the Gaza Strip.

Meanwhile, the Australian National Imams Council continues to review local moon-sighting reports before issuing final confirmations, while communities prepare in advance through spiritual planning, work adjustments, and charitable arrangements such as Zakat and Zakat Al Fitr.

Religious leaders emphasized that early preparation helps families observe Ramadan in a focused and spiritually meaningful manner while remaining flexible pending official moon-sighting confirmations.