Experiences of Australian Muslim Men in the Workplace: A Field Study of Employment Choices and Consequences

Abstract

The workplace is an important setting that affects the health of workers, their families, and the population as a whole.2 However, limited research is available on workers from various ethnic and minority groups. A significant ethno-religious minority is the Australian Muslim population.3 There has been little research regarding how Australian Muslims experience contemporary Australian society, including the workplace. This study examines the work experiences of Australian Muslim men in order to understand the various ways in which their health and wellbeing is affected by their work and the workplace. The study was guided by the interpretive qualitative approach with the primary data collection method being in-depth interviews supported by direct observation and review of material culture. The analysis suggests that managing work, family and religious obligations is the defining aspect of the experiences of Australian Muslim men in the workplace. Seeking to balance work, family and religious commitments significantly influences what type of occupations Muslim men work in, under what conditions and ultimately, their health. By investigating the work experiences of Australian Muslim men, the study has increased our understanding of the ways in which their wellbeing is affected by this key setting.