Waverley Council announces groundbreaking antisemitism strategy
Waverley Council in Sydney’s eastern suburbs is set to make history by endorsing and adopting Australia’s first Local Government Strategy to Combat Antisemitism tomorrow, Tuesday.
This landmark initiative, led by the Mayor of Waverley, Cr Will Nemesh, aims to address rising antisemitism and promote social cohesion in one of Sydney’s most culturally diverse areas.
A First for Local Government in Australia
The proposed strategy comes at a critical time when antisemitism is on the rise both globally and locally. According to the Executive Summary of the report, the 7 October 2023 attacks in Israel led to an alarming surge in antisemitic incidents worldwide, prompting Waverley Council to take decisive action.
“This is an issue that extends beyond Waverley. Our goal is to set a precedent so that other councils across Australia follow suit,” said Cr Will Nemesh. “By adopting this strategy, we are not only standing in solidarity with our Jewish community but reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity, respect, and safety for all.”
The Waverley Strategy to Combat Antisemitism is designed to be a blueprint that other councils can adopt and adapt to their local contexts.
Sydney mayors at Bondi Beach. Waverley mayor William Nemesh is in the centre.
Key Objectives of the Strategy
The Strategy to Combat Antisemitism outlines several actionable steps, including:
- Community Education & Awareness – Public programs, cultural initiatives, and engagement with Jewish history.
- Policy & Enforcement – Strengthening reporting mechanisms, rapid responses to antisemitic incidents, and working with law enforcement.
- Social Cohesion Initiatives – Encouraging interfaith and intercultural dialogue through council-supported events.
- Enhanced Support Services – Partnerships with organisations like the Sydney Jewish Museum and NSW Jewish Board of Deputies to address antisemitism in schools and workplaces.
- Increased Surveillance & Security – Working closely with NSW Police to protect Jewish institutions and communities.
A Legacy of Leadership in Social Cohesion
The adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism in 2021 laid the groundwork for Waverley’s ongoing commitment to tackling hate. This latest initiative follows the Mayoral Roundtable on Social Cohesion, hosted in February 2025, which brought together 20 Mayors and Deputy Mayors from across Sydney to discuss ways local governments can combat extremism and discrimination.
Why Waverley?
Home to one of the largest Jewish populations in Australia, Waverley has long been a hub for Jewish culture, business, and education. Judaism is the second-largest religion in the area, representing 16% of the total population, over 11,000 residents. The presence of Jewish schools, synagogues, and events like the Sydney Jewish Writers Festival underscores the deep roots of the Jewish community in the region.
However, Waverley has not been immune to antisemitic incidents. The Council’s strategy cites a 300% increase in antisemitic attacks between October 2023 and September 2024, reinforcing the urgency of proactive intervention.
A Call to Action for Other Councils
Cr Nemesh has made it clear that Waverley’s efforts must not exist in isolation. “We want this to be the start of a nationwide movement. Our work doesn’t end with adoption; it begins with implementation and advocacy,” he said.
As part of this push, the strategy proposes:
- Training for Councillors and staff at the Sydney Jewish Museum.
- Encouraging local schools to participate in antisemitism awareness programs.
- Developing partnerships with state and federal authorities to expand resources for combating hate.
Challenges and Next Steps
The strategy acknowledges potential financial and logistical hurdles, stating that some initiatives will require external funding and grants. However, many actions can be implemented within existing council budgets or in partnership with external organisations.
Once adopted, the strategy will be reviewed every four years, with the next revision scheduled for March 2029.
A National Milestone
If passed, this strategy will mark a milestone for Australian local government, setting a precedent for councils nationwide to take proactive steps in tackling antisemitism and fostering social cohesion.
“This is about ensuring Waverley remains a place where everyone, regardless of faith or background—feels safe, valued, and respected,” said Cr Nemesh.
The Council’s decision on March 18 will not only shape Waverley’s future but could redefine local government’s role in combating antisemitism across Australia.
