Nothing Islamic about IS: Grand Mufti

Australian Imams say there's nothing Islamic about the murderous actions by the militant group Islamic State.

The phrase "Islamic State" refers to an era when Muslims, Christians and Jews lived together harmoniously, the Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) said.

But the militants had misappropriated the terminology for their own political and violent goals.

"Since the ISIS group was established we have been very clear about denouncing their lies and betrayal of our faith," said the Grand Mufti of Australia, Ibrahim Abu Mohammad, in a statement on Monday.

"These criminals are committing crimes against humanity and sins against God. Forced eviction, threats of execution and burning of places of worship including churches have no place in any faith."

However, ANIC does not support the federal government's decision to deploy a 600-strong military force to the United Arab Emirates to provide support for Kurdish and Iraq fighters battling IS.

It says there is a clear link between foreign wars and radicalisation back home.

Some 60 Australian national are fighting in Syria and Iraq and are being supported by an estimated 100 others at home.

ANIC wants the term "Islamic" to not be used when referring to IS, also known as ISIL, saying it serves only to give credence to the group's illegitimate claims of religious authority.

ANIC also warned Muslim Australians not to trust the internet and social media "as some material may have dangerous influences on vulnerable minds".

"Instead Muslims must get proper religious advice from knowledgeable, respected and qualified imams," it added.