Where the $32m will go
The federal government has pledged $32.5 million to te Jewish community (https://www.jwire.com.au/pm-personally-believes-synagogue-attack-was-terrorism/). How it will be spent.
These additional funds will support the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, in collaboration with Community Security Groups and the National Council for Jewish Community Security, to address risks faced by the Jewish community in light of the increase in antisemitism in Australia.
The new funding will enhance security resources for Jewish schools, pre-schools and other communal facilities used by the Jewish community through:
risk and threat assessments
critical incident planning
minor security infrastructure works including the installation or upgrade of security camera systems, access controls, security lighting, fences and gates, detection and alarm systems
security monitoring
security guidance and training
crisis management support and coordination, and
security guard services.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said: “The Jewish community has made an extraordinary contribution to the strength and success of our nation, over generations.
This grant of $32.5 million will enable the community to provide support and security on the basis of priorities established by the community themselves.
Antisemitism is disgraceful, and I unequivocally condemn it in all its forms. Every Australian has the right to be proud of who they are and to feel welcome, safe and supported in Australia.”
Attorney General Mark Dreyfus added: “There is no higher priority than community safety for the Albanese Government. Antisemitism has no place in Australia. We all have a responsibility to fight against it. This announcement builds on previous support for the Jewish community, including funding for increased security, criminalising doxxing and banning the Nazi salute and hate symbols.”
Jeremy Leibler, President of the Zionist Federation of Australia commented: “The Zionist Federation of Australia welcomes the Government’s commitment yesterday for additional security funding for the Jewish community.
We also welcome the Coalition’s announcement today on a range of measures to combat the scourge of Jew-hate in Australia.
It is profoundly sad that these measures are even required in Australia in 2024; twelve months of unchecked incitement, violence, and hate on our streets has allowed us to get to this place.”
