Local leaders in Perth's City of Stirling have moved to reinforce security and publicly reaffirm their support for Western Australia's Jewish population in the wake of the horrific terrorist attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney on Sunday.
Community Solidarity and Police Response
More than 3200 Jewish residents call the City of Stirling home, constituting over half of the state's total Jewish community. While no specific intelligence points to a heightened threat in Perth, WA Police have initiated Operation Dalewood in direct response to the attack and growing concerns about antisemitism.
This operation will see an increased police presence at Jewish community locations, along with sustained high-visibility patrols across metropolitan areas. Stirling Mayor Mark Irwin stated the city stands firmly united with its Jewish residents during this difficult time.
"The City of Stirling stands in solidarity with our Jewish community after the sickening terror attack at Bondi Beach on Sunday," Mr Irwin said. "Our thoughts are with everyone affected."
Leaders Condemn Hatred, Vow Support
In a powerful symbol of mourning, flags at the Stirling Civic Centre were flown at half-mast on Monday. Mayor Irwin described the attack as "an act of hatred that is irreconcilable with our values and way of life."
He acknowledged that many in the tightly-knit Jewish communities of suburbs like Dianella, Yokine, and Menora may feel particularly vulnerable. The City has consequently stepped up its own community safety patrols, aligning with the WA Police response.
Frank Paolino, the State MP for Mount Lawley, which encompasses several suburbs with a strong Jewish presence, joined other senior figures including Premier Roger Cook and Police Commissioner Col Blanch for a critical round-table meeting with community leaders on Monday.
The meeting was held at the JHUB Maccabi Community Centre in Yokine. "Let me be clear, there is no place for hatred, violence, or antisemitism in Australia or in our world," Mr Paolino declared. "Our community will not be divided by hate."
A Pledge to Rise Above
Prominent local Rabbi Marcus Solomon, who also serves as a Justice on the Supreme Court of WA, attended the meeting. He delivered a resolute message about his identity and resolve.
"I am Australian through and through, and I love this country," Rabbi Solomon stated. "I'm not going to change my behaviour because of these people."
Mayor Irwin emphasised that the response must be one of unity, not division. "Australians of all races and religions have a right to feel safe and welcome in our community, so let us stand together in rejecting all forms of discrimination and violence," he said.
The collective response from local government, state MPs, and law enforcement underscores a committed effort to ensure the safety and support of one of Perth's most significant cultural communities following a national tragedy.
