Islamic Society of the ACT president Abdul Hakim said he was "very disappointed" the gunmen had resorted to violence to demonstrate their disapproval of the publication's depictions of the Prophet Muhammad.

"We don't endorse it, certainly, we condemn it," he said.

Mocking or depicting Muhammad in a derogatory way can offend people of the Islamic faith because the prophet is deeply loved and regarded as perfect.

The Koran is also against the depiction of humans and animals in places of worship.

The French magazine gained notoriety in 2006 when it reprinted cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed that caused fury across the Muslim world.

Although Muslim people were offended by negative depictions of prophets in the media, Mr Hakim said violence was not the answer but the material should be treated with sensitivity.

"The media is very important in democratic society and freedom of the press" he said.

"At the same time, the media is required to be as careful as possible, especially with sensitive issues like this."

Three masked gunmen wielding assault rifles stormed the offices of Charlie Hebdo in Paris on Wednesday, January 7.

They killed 12 and injured 11 more, four of them critically.

It's thought to be France's deadliest terrorist attack in decades.

Mr Hakim said the attack by a few did not reflect the actions or intentions of the broader Muslim community and it would be a difficult time for French Muslim people.

"The general population of Muslims in France or Europe or Australia, they're a peaceful people," he said.

"It is very difficult, particularly on the Muslim population. The majority are peaceful people."