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Wednesday, Feb 05, 2025

Rise in Antisemitic Incidents Sparks Concern in Australia

Rise in Antisemitic Incidents Sparks Concern in Australia

Jewish communities in Australia face an increase in antisemitic crimes amid global tensions.
Amanda, a Jewish Australian resident of 31 years, has expressed safety concerns after recent antisemitic incidents in the country.

A recent attack near the Maroubra Synagogue in Sydney's southeast, where antisemitic slogans were spray-painted on a childcare center, has further intensified these fears.

This incident is part of an increasing trend of antisemitic and Islamophobic acts reported since October 2023, according to Jewish and Muslim groups.

The Australian Council of Executive Jewry recorded 2,062 anti-Jewish incidents from October 2023 to September 2024, a significant rise from the 495 incidents the previous year.

Mirroring these concerns, the Islamophobia Register reported an increase from an average of three to nearly 18 reports per week following the conflict escalation in October 2023, representing a six-fold rise.

Government officials, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns, have condemned the recent attacks and are working towards strategic responses to tackle the surge in antisemitic activities.

The establishment of a national database to track hate crimes has been announced by the National Cabinet to better address this issue.

In response to a rising number of attacks, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke emphasized the proactive steps being undertaken, including appointing an antisemitism envoy.

Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies, including the Australian Federal Police, are investigating potential transnational influences on local antisemitic crimes.

Community leaders have been vocal about the growing threats, with figures like Rabbi Zalman Goldstein of the Maroubra Synagogue planning community gatherings focused on unity and resilience.

He and others acknowledge the resilience of the Jewish community and highlight the importance of solidarity across minority groups in these challenging times.

David Ossop, president of the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, has called for a national response proportionate to the seriousness of the crisis, stressing the need for cooperation among all levels of government.

Rabbi Jeffrey Kamins from the Emanuel Synagogue noted that while antisemitism is on the rise, it does not mirror the broader sentiment of Australian society, advocating for preventive and educational measures.

The response from local communities, supportive neighbors, and government officials indicates a collective desire to address and curb the trend of antisemitic activities.

However, concerns remain, underscoring the need for sustained and coordinated efforts to ensure the safety and inclusion of all communities across Australia.
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