The Muslim chaplain of Charles Sturt University (CSU), Dr Recep Dogan, has condemned the siege in Martin Place, Sydney, that ended in tragedy early today.

"I condemn the gunman and his evil act, and give my condolences to the families who lost their beloved ones in the tragic incident in Sydney," Dr Dogan said.

Dr Recep Dogan is a prominent Muslim scholar, author and respected community activist. He is a lecturer in traditional Islamic studies at the CSU Centre for Islamic Studies and Culture, as well as Muslim Chaplain of CSU. Read more about him here.

"Yesterday we sadly learned that two hostages were killed, and I share the sorrow of all Australian people," Dr Dogan said. "I give my condolences to their families, and apologise for the crimes that was done in the name of Islam.

"I emphasise, first of all, that Islam never allows any terrorist activity or violence. Therefore, a terrorist cannot be a Muslim nor a Muslim a terrorist. Indeed, terrorists do not belong to any religion, for the essence of belief is love and peace.

"Using Islamic symbols in terrorist activities is a great insult to all Muslims and a tremendous injustice to the religion itself.

"Once again, a terrorist has blackened the bright face of Islam with his evil act and violence.

"Muslims are part of the Australian community and they are together with the Australian people against all kind of violence. They like to offer any kind of help that the legal authorities would request."