Sydney Muslim leaders left *disappointed* by meeting with Attorney-General George Brandis (ABC)

ABC Hany Amer, a spokesman for 15 Muslim and community groups, said they were "disappointed" by a Sydney meeting with Attorney-General George Brandis.

Muslim leaders say they have been left disappointed by a meeting with Attorney-General George Brandis to discuss proposed anti-terror laws in Sydney.

Attendees said they were frustrated that Senator Brandis showed up almost an hour late, leaving them just 30 minutes to review the draft legislation and offer feedback.

Hany Amer, a spokesman for 15 Muslim and community groups, said the meeting "proved to be disappointing".

"Despite our better judgement and facing considerable pressure to disengage, we attended in the hope of being proven wrong," he said.

The proposed legislation, aimed at stopping Australians participating in foreign wars, would make it an offence to visit certain areas dominated by terrorists without justification.

The attendees included representatives from the Office of the Grand Mufti, Australian National Imams Council, Islamic Council of NSW and others.

Senior officials from ASIO, the Australian Federal Police, NSW Police and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade also attended.

Mr Amer said the proposed legislation dealt with complex issues that required "measured and thorough examination of research".

"We were given 30 minutes to review and consider the draft legislation despite the Attorney-General's assurance that draft laws would be provided to Muslim representatives with sufficient time for review," he said.

"I think under all circumstances, that's not sufficient."

Anti-terror laws not targeting Muslims: Brandis

Senator Brandis declined to comment after meeting, but he told the group the laws were not targeting Muslims.

Mr Amer said the proposed measures would affect all Australians' rights and freedoms.

"Australian Muslims unequivocally share the same concerns as the wider Australian public for the safety and security of our nation," he said.

"However, this should not come at the cost of our core values, freedoms and civil liberties afforded to all Australians."

Attendees said Senator Brandis indicated more further consultation would be considered, but he may not be present.

A similar meeting will be held in Melbourne next week.

http://au.news.yahoo.com/a/-/latest/24853227/sydney-muslim-leaders-left-disappointed-by-meeting-with-attorney-general-george-brandis/