Sunshine Coast MP condemns Nazi vandalism amid worsening antisemitism crisis

Sunshine Coast Liberal MP Andrew Wallace has sounded the alarm over what he describes as an intensifying antisemitism crisis across Australia, after his election signage was defaced with Nazi symbols in a series of targeted acts over the weekend.

Wallace, the federal Member for Fisher and Deputy Chair of Parliament’s Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security, confirmed that several of his campaign signs were vandalised with the banned Nazi Hakenkreuz, prompting widespread condemnation and calls for stronger national leadership on antisemitism. As chair of the Australia-Israel Allies Caucus and a long-time advocate against hate speech, Mr Wallace has previously spearheaded legislative efforts to criminalise the Nazi salute and other hate symbols.

“I have never seen antisemitism as widespread and prevalent on the Sunshine Coast as we are experiencing today,” Wallace told the Sunshine Valley Gazette. “Online and on our streets, we are confronting an antisemitism crisis – and it’s only getting worse.”

The veteran MP, who has represented the region since 2016, said the Sunshine Coast has historically been a welcoming and respectful community, but the disturbing rise in antisemitic activity signals a turning point that should concern all Australians.

“This virulent antisemitism threatens the safety and character of our community,” Wallace said in a public statement. “It demanded strong leadership 18 months ago, when terror apologists converged on the steps of the Sydney Opera House. It demanded strong leadership four months ago, when the Adass Israel Synagogue was firebombed, in scenes reminiscent of Kristallnacht.”

The incident has drawn a prompt response from Jewish leaders. Jason Steinberg, President of the Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies, condemned the act in the strongest terms.

“This vile act of vandalism is a stark reminder that antisemitism and extremism remain a threat in Queensland,” Steinberg told J-Wire. “Andrew Wallace has consistently stood against antisemitism and is always working for his local community. Defacing an election poster with a Nazi swastika – the symbol of pure evil – is not just an attack on him but an attack on Queensland’s social cohesion and core Australian values. We must stand united against hate in all its forms.”

Wallace urged the public to take action by reporting antisemitic incidents to the police and calling out hate speech whenever they see it. “It’s time for Australians to stand up, speak up, and show up for the Jewish community,” Wallace said.

Wallace confirmed he has reported the defacement of his signs to Queensland Police and called for swift justice. “This is beyond the pale and an affront to the dignity of Jewish Australians who have a right to live their lives in peace,” Wallace stated. “We are better than this.”