A controversial Muslim community leader has said violence towards women should be a "last resort".

President of the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils Keysar Trad appeared on Sky News last night when host Andrew Bolt brought up domestic violence.

The presenter quoted from the Koran, saying "It is permissible for him (husbands) to beat her (the wife) light with his hands".

"Violence is a last resort," Trad responded.

"Before you even consider using your hand before you consider any act of violence have you checked box number one, which is counselling. Have you checked box number two?

"What does does counselling entail? Maybe next time you should bring her a bunch of flowers. Maybe you next time you should bring her a box of chocolates. Maybe next time you should take her out for a dinner."

Bolt interjected to say "and beat her, if she still doesn't see sense beat her, that's what this says".

Trad responded that a "good person would never get to that step because the first step would eliminate the problem".

Trad has long been a controversial figure in the Islamic community, and has made multiple statements espousing the benefits of polygamy.