The federal government is under intense pressure to escalate its response to surging anti-Semitism in Australia, following a devastating attack at Bondi Beach last Sunday that left 15 innocent people dead.
Community Leaders Call for 'Fewer Words, More Action'
Speaking to Sunrise on Wednesday, Jewish Community Council of Victoria CEO Naomi Levin issued a powerful plea for concrete measures. She stressed that the community requires "fewer words and more actions" from leadership in the wake of such a crisis.
"We need laws to be enforced," Levin stated, urging for proposed gun reforms to be applied without delay. She pointed out a critical gap in the current approach: "We've strengthened laws both at a state and federal level but we haven't had the convictions that we want to see."
A 'Whole-of-Community' Response Needed
Levin emphasised that tackling the scourge of anti-Semitism cannot be left to government alone, demanding a "whole-of-community response." She outlined the pervasive nature of the problem, noting its rise in schools, universities, businesses, and trade unions.
"All of those places have been hotbeds of anti-Semitism in recent times," she said. "We need all leaders, not just government, to get behind this push and say enough is enough. Jewish people are Australians too. They are welcome, and they don't deserve this violence and these attacks that we're facing."
Government Efforts Deemed Insufficient
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, also appearing on Sunrise, outlined the government's ongoing efforts. He cited calling out hate speech, strengthening relevant laws, and working to implement the recommendations from the Segal Report on anti-Semitism.
However, Levin acknowledged these steps while criticising their pace and impact as inadequate. "Unfortunately, what we saw on Sunday night was our best is not enough," she declared, adding that the Jewish community has been warning of escalating danger for years.
She specifically criticised the slow rollout of recommendations from the Special Envoy for Antisemitism's report, noting the government has held the document for five months but has only acted on one or two of its suggestions.
The calls for decisive action come as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese repeatedly urges national unity. NSW Premier Chris Minns has described anti-Semitism as "cancerous" and asserted that "it has to be eradicated."
