A minor party contesting the federal election concedes its policy of banning the Islamic burka could provoke a backlash against Muslim-Australians.
The Victorian-based Rise Up Australia Party launched its election campaign today.
The party says the full Islamic veil promotes the segregation of Muslim-Australians.
Controversial Christian pastor Daniel Nalliah leads the party, and says he expects a backlash against the policy.
Mr Nalliah had a racial vilification charge against him overturned in 2006, and is challenging the construction of a Melbourne mosque.
“I would be possibly provoking some level of anti-Islamic views and I’m not afraid to do that, because the fear and intimidation carried out by this community has to stop,” Mr Nalliah said.
“We love the Muslims, but we don’t approve of some datings of the Quran.”
Rise-Up says it is confident of winning two Senate seats at the election.
“We will get a very good primary vote because of the feedback we have got,” Mr Nalliah said.
“Also, we are going on a massive advertising campaign, so the message in the next month will be all across the country.
“Rise Up Australia Party, to keep Australia Australian, is a major force to be thought about.”