Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles has publicly acknowledged that the Australian government must intensify its efforts to combat anti-Semitism, stating the Jewish community's sense of safety has been profoundly damaged. His comments follow Sunday night's terror attack at Bondi, which he described as having anti-Semitism "at the heart" of the incident.
A Shattered Sense of Security
Speaking on the Sunrise program with hosts Nat Barr and Matt Shirvington, Marles did not shy away from the gravity of the situation. "On Sunday night, people's sense of security was shattered in the Jewish community and more broadly," he stated. The Deputy Prime Minister went further, recognising a long-standing issue, adding, "I also know that, for Jewish Australians, there's a sense that they've not felt secure for a long time."
During the interview, Barr challenged the government's response, pointing to a perceived "disconnect" between community leaders who feel failed and official denouncements of hate. Marles defended the government's record, citing specific legislative actions. "We have criminalised more forms of hate speech than any government. We've criminalised the Nazi salute. We've criminalised doxing," he said.
Government Actions and Promised Acceleration
Marles outlined steps already taken, including commissioning and beginning to implement the Segal Report, which addresses anti-Semitism. He also highlighted work with universities to improve safety for Jewish students. However, when pressed on whether the report's recommendations needed to be fast-tracked, Marles agreed more urgency was required.
"We are putting it in practice, but we do need to do more, and we will do more," he committed. "This is not something which is solved overnight." He framed the Bondi attack not merely as an assault on the Jewish community but as "an attack on our way of life," emphasising the importance of national unity in the face of terror.
Review and Resolve for the Future
In the wake of the attack, the Deputy Prime Minister promised a comprehensive security review. "No stone will be left unturned" in efforts to prevent future tragedies, he assured the public. Marles concluded by reiterating the fundamental Australian values at stake, condemning the anti-Semitic violence as "fundamentally un-Australian."
The government now faces increased pressure to translate its condemnations and existing laws into tangible, accelerated actions that restore a sense of security for Jewish Australians and uphold the nation's commitment to social cohesion.
