The ‘I’ll ride with you’ hashtag began during the Sydney siege, when an islamist extremist held cafe customers and workers hostage for over 16 hours.

Fearing that there would be a backlash against muslims due to the incident, Australians from across the country began tweeting their solidarity with their religious neighbours - offering to travel with them if they were scared to go alone.

Hundreds offered up their travel plans so that anyone going the same way could tag along with them, without fear of being attacked or abused.

The movement has been commended across the world for its compassionate approach to national tragedy.

‘Mad respect to Australia as they know how to combat terrorism without hate & others to blame,’ wrote one user.

‘Guys and girls of Australia, I love you, you are the best. With love, and support, all the way from Turkey #illridewithyou,’ read another message.

Another muslim posted a picture of herself with the message: ‘Thanks for looking after my sisters.’

The Twitter user Sir Tessa started the trend by writing on December 15: ‘If you reg take the #373 bus b/w Coogee/MartinPl, wear religious attire, & don’t feel safe alone: I’ll ride with you. @me for schedule.’

‘I don’t think that offer is specific to Sydney, or even Australia. It would do well in many spaces,’ wrote the user.