Australia’s National Cabinet has announced an antisemitic incident database to tackle the rising wave of hate crimes targeting the Jewish community. The move comes after a kindergarten in Sydney was vandalized and set on fire, sparking widespread condemnation.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the attack as “cowardly” and vowed to take strong action against antisemitism. He announced the creation of a national database to track antisemitic incidents and coordinate responses. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns has also proposed legislative reforms to address vandalism.
The Australian government has allocated significant funding for Jewish site security measures, with an additional $57 million AUD since October 7. The National Cabinet meeting also highlighted programs aimed at combating antisemitism, including a ban on Nazi symbols and increased support for the Adass Israel Synagogue and Only About Children Maroubra to rebuild.
The move comes after nearly 180 individuals have been arrested in connection with antisemitic incidents since October 7. Strike Force Pearl has charged 36 people with antisemitic-related offenses, while Victoria’s Operation Park has made 70 arrests related to antisemitic incidents. The Australian Federal Police Avalite Special Operation Task Force was also formed in response to the rising threat of antisemitism.
The NSW Jewish Board of Deputies warned that the attack on the kindergarten was “intended to harass and intimidate” the Jewish community, calling for urgent action against domestic terrorism.
Source: https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-838588