The planning of a new Islamic school triggers outrage among non-Muslim residents. A protest rally against the project attracts thousands from all social backgrounds. They are brought together by their wish to see Muslims leave their town. 'No-one wants them here, they're all filthy grubs', one man shouts. For the anti-Muslim crowd, being a Muslim and an Australian at the same time, is not possible.

This hostility has impacted on the way young Australian Muslims feel about their country. Most of them are children of immigrants who have never set foot in their parents' country. Subjected to abuse because of their origins, yet disconnected from their parents' culture, they are left wondering about where they belong.

Youth workers and prominent figures in the Muslim community worry about the growing divide. They warn us that we're 'going to see a generation of young people who have so much hatred and so much anger and so much frustration within them; and when that happens you are basically on dangerous ground'. Rejection and isolation are the perfect breeding ground for extremism, and ultimately, terrorism.

Many young Muslims of 'Middle Eastern appearance' have reported being unfairly targeted by the police and security agencies. Australia's tough stance on terrorism has led to an aggressive approach, which alienates an entire community. One specialist warns of pockets of growing Muslim radicalisation in Australia's big cities, the result of young people feeling under siege from police and the wider public. He fears this could morph into an agenda for violent change.

The police are becoming aware of the issue and more effort is now being geared towards improving communication. The aim is to include Muslims, not ostracize them. In their overwhelming majority, young Muslims just want to be proud of their identity, both as Muslims and as Australians. But is this possible? This crowd won't hear it: 'We don't want them... F**k them all, get rid of them all...'