The firebombing of the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne has brought widespread condemnation and deep concern about the rising threat of antisemitism in Australia.
This heinous act, carried out in the early hours of December 5, caused extensive damage to the synagogue, which has long been a central institution for Melbourne’s ultra Orthodox Jewish community. Three suspects are currently being sought, with authorities treating the attack as a likely act of terrorism fueled by hate and bigotry.
This tragedy follows a troubling rise in antisemitic incidents across Australia, with Jewish leaders warning that the government’s response to such threats has been insufficient. Critics argue that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s delayed visit to the site and the lack of immediate action from senior ministers highlight a failure to prioritize the safety of Jewish Australians.
The Simon Wiesenthal Center has even issued a travel advisory, warning Jewish visitors to exercise caution when traveling to Australia, citing inadequate measures to address growing hostility against Jewish communities.
Conservative commentators and centre-right political leaders have pointed out that recent foreign policy decisions, such as Australia’s vote on a UN resolution critical of Israel, may have emboldened antisemitic extremists.
This, coupled with what some see as a reactive rather than proactive approach to security, raises pressing questions about the government’s commitment to combating antisemitism. Jewish leaders and community members have called for immediate and robust measures to enhance security and prevent further attacks.
Peter Dutton and Pauline Hanson have actively engaged with the Australian Jewish community, particularly in response to recent incidents such as the firebombing of the Adass Israel Synagogue.
Peter Dutton has condemned the Albanese government for what he describes as “moral cowardice” in addressing antisemitism and has called for stronger deterrence measures and national discussions to combat this growing issue. He emphasized the need for law enforcement to impose severe consequences for antisemitic acts, such as those by protesters aiming to intimidate the Jewish community.
Additionally, Dutton has reassured Jewish Australians of his unwavering commitment to their safety, stating that their fears and concerns deserve immediate and decisive action
Pauline Hanson has also voiced her support for Jewish Australians by urging for firmer stances against antisemitism and advocating for greater protection of religious freedoms. Hanson has emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong and visible defense of minority communities targeted by hate crimes. Her public statements have reflected a broader demand for the government to prioritize the security of all Australians, including those facing heightened risks of violence or discrimination.
The attack on Adass Israel is not just a tragedy for the Jewish community but a warning for the broader society about the dangers of unchecked hatred. Many believe it is time for stronger leadership and decisive action to uphold Australia’s values of tolerance, safety, and respect for diversity.
Since the firebombing occurred, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has faced criticism for his insufficient support for the Jewish community amidst a sharp rise in antisemitic incidents. While Albanese condemned the attack and emphasized Australia’s commitment to tolerance, community leaders argue his government has been slow to implement tangible measures to address growing fears.
Critics, including myself, have highlighted a lack of proactive initiatives, such as enhanced security measures for Jewish institutions or clear-cut condemnations of antisemitic acts. Moreover, Albanese’s hesitance to unequivocally back Israel in international forums has further strained relations with the Jewish community, amplifying concerns of inadequate support during a critical time.
Sadly, Jewish Federal Labor MP’s such as Mark Dreyfus and Josh Burns have failed to respond with any real urgency or implemented proactive measures needed to address the root causes and escalating threats to Jewish communities in this country. The calls for more robust legislative and community-driven initiatives highlight a perceived gap between statements of condemnation and tangible action to safeguard Jewish Australians in the face of rising antisemitism.
There is only one real solution to all of this. Vote with your feet come the next election and support centre-right political parties who unequiocally support the Australian Jewish Community and the State of Israel.
2 thoughts on “ALP Inaction and Rising Antisemitism: A Prelude to the Synagogue Attack”
“The Simon Wiesenthal Centre has even issued a travel advisory, warning Jewish visitors to exercise caution when travelling to Australia, citing inadequate measures to address growing hostility against Jewish communities.”
Yes and how good is this, for the image of Australia as an enlightened democracy?
“Conservative commentators and centre-right political leaders, have pointed out that recent foreign policy decisions, such as Australia’s vote on a UN resolution critical of Israel, may have emboldened antisemitic extremists.”
One just can’t believe that a Coalition Australian Federal government would cast such a vote. This is similar to the dreaded Greens running the show in Canberra and it does not take much imagination, to think of what that would be like. The Americans are our strong military allies, without which we would need to create two more army divisions: 40,000 more soldiers. One does not snoot strong friends, which is what Albo and Wong and crew have done. Not that they give an Irish tinker’s toss, about what they have done.
“The attack on Adass Israel is not just a tragedy for the Jewish community but a warning for the broader society about the dangers of unchecked hatred..”
It is hard not to conclude that the type of hatred poured out against Israel and “Zios,” at the speech sessions during the pro-“Palestinian” Sunday marches/demos at the heart of our capital cities, have fuelled “a certain atmosphere” which is very negative for Australian Jewry. This atmosphere of hate is now affecting businesses in the heart of Melbourne, eg. Chinatown. Indeed, Chinatown is now reported to be experiencing very adverse effects vis-à-vis Sunday trade, to the alarm of Melb City Council. Tens of thousands of suburban Aussies are now reluctant to go into the CBD on Sundays.
One prompt response by Premier Allan in Vic, having benefited from the views of our antisem envoy Jillian Segal, has been to legislate further against hatred, this coming February. The anti-Israel crews who lobbied to stop an envoy being appointed, then lobbied against Segal holding the post, are very aware of the ramifications of tighter laws, one notices! One would not be surprised if there were a great outpouring of hatred, as a sort of “last hurrah” before the laws come in. Already, The Other are expressing bitter resentment over the imminent new laws, which can be added to by Parliament, if later deemed necessary.
See below, “Clementine Ford speech”, for the calibre of discourse from the notorious Clemmie Ford, on Dec 15th, 2023.
CLEMENTINE FORD. SPEECH BEFORE VIC STATE LIBRARY , MELB. SUNDAY DEC 15TH 2024.
“we have also seen the immense power of Palestinians. Their resistance has mobilised millions of people across the world, rallying us to stand up against the forces of evil, that shield themselves behind words like ‘policy’, ‘freedom’ and ‘peace.’”
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“Sadly, Jewish Federal Labor MP’s such as Mark Dreyfus and Josh Burns have failed to respond with any real urgency or implemented proactive measures, needed to address the root causes and escalating threats to Jewish communities in this country.”
One’s confidence is not boosted, by the tidings that Josh Burn’s partner, a member of Parliament as a member of the Animal Rights party, is allegedly virulently anti-Israel and anti-Zionist. Also that Mark Dreyfus insists that his staff refer to him as “Attorney-General” rather than “Boss” or “Mark”. I never thought that such a terrific guy would develop such hauteur and become so puffed up, having achieved certain powers.
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Dear Leaders of the Jewish Communities in Melbourne and Sydney,
Over the history of the Australian Federation, Jewish citizens of Australia have made exceptional contributions to Australian society. As a peaceful and quiet community, they have excelled across numerous fields, including business, the economy, law, politics, the arts, and literature.
Australia has been good to the Jewish people, fostering an environment where a small community of 116,000 has thrived. In return, this community has disproportionately positively impacted the nation’s history and culture, embracing the egalitarian and respectful spirit that defines Australia.
However, since October 7 last year, the landscape has shifted alarmingly. Antisemitic attacks and incidents in Melbourne and Sydney have become more frequent and brazen. The Federal Labor Government has been a passive observer, its silence bordering on complicity, as vicious public demonstrations have targeted the Jewish community with slogans like, “Burn the Jews,” “Cut the Jews out,” and “F…k the Jews.” Such hateful rhetoric has no place in a civilised society and represents a direct threat to the safety and dignity of Australian Jews.
In a democratic society, hatred and hate speech against any group should be unequivocally condemned and made unlawful. Yet, the Government’s failure to act decisively reflects a reckless disregard for the safety and welfare of the Jewish community—a community that has been integral to Australia’s fabric.
As leaders of the Jewish communities in Melbourne and Sydney, I urge you to do more. The current government’s passive stance demands our community’s strong, united response. It is your responsibility to hold the Government accountable and to push for measures that outlaw such crude and vulgar displays of hate.
The complicity of Prime Minister Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong in remaining silent is deeply troubling. Their inaction emboldens those who seek to harm the Jewish community and legitimises extremist ideologies. Strong advocacy is required to press the Government into action to protect all Australians from racism and hatred.
History teaches us the consequences of unchecked antisemitism—from the Holocaust to pogroms, the Spanish Inquisition, and beyond. Australia must not follow that path. The mantra “Never Again” must resonate loudly, and action must be taken to ensure it holds true in this country.
Antisemitism, or racism against any group, should never be legitimised under the guise of political expediency. Every child should feel safe wearing their school uniform, and no parent should fear for their children’s safety when attending Jewish schools or synagogues.
I call on you, as leaders, to act with urgency and strength. Make submissions to the Government and lawmakers demanding the protection of the Jewish community. Use your platforms to uphold the values of peace, respect, and law.
Do not wait for matters to worsen—history has shown the tragic cost of inaction. Be vigilant, proactive, and resolute in safeguarding Australia’s Jewish community.
Yours sincerely,
Joseph Poznanski
Peace, Respect, and Law