In a disturbing act of vandalism, a Jewish area in Sydney was attacked overnight with a stolen car set on fire and antisemitic slurs spray-painted on nearby walls. This incident has sparked a swift response from authorities, who have emphasized that antisemitism has no place in Australia’s diverse society. The attack took place in the eastern suburb of Woollahra, adding to a string of recent antisemitic incidents in Sydney. The incident also follows an arson attack at the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne and an increasing number of similar acts. The string of attacks has led authorities to launch Operation Avalite, a special task force focused on combating antisemitism. The initiative also involves increased patrols around Jewish sites, including synagogues and schools, to ensure community safety. State Premier Chris Minns, joined by New South Wales Police Commissioner and Jewish community leaders, condemned the act as a “deliberate attack” meant to instill fear in the local Jewish community. Minns assured Israel’s Ambassador to Australia, Amir Maimon, that authorities are taking the matter seriously. He emphasized that the majority of New South Wales residents are “horrified” by the attack and expressed strong support for Israel as Australia’s ally. In response to the rising antisemitism, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also condemned the attack. He stated that such behavior has no place in Australia and emphasized that this is not a political act, but an attack on fellow Australians. He stressed that Australians seek peace and coexistence, rejecting the abhorrent criminal behavior displayed in these attacks. The surge in antisemitic incidents in Australia has been linked to growing tensions over Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Since the October 7 attack by Hamas, which led to the deaths of more than 1,200 Israelis and the kidnapping of 250 people, the Israeli military has conducted extensive bombing campaigns in Gaza.
In response, Australian streets have witnessed pro-Palestinian rallies, often accompanied by antisemitic rhetoric. The Jewish community has experienced increased incidents of hate, including previous attacks in Woollahra, where cars were damaged and buildings were defaced with graffiti. Alex Ryvchin, co-CEO of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry (ECAJ), remarked that the latest attack was “completely predictable.” He criticized the authorities for not taking more effective action following earlier incidents. According to Ryvchin, the situation had escalated from online hatred and flag burning to physical violence, creating a climate of fear within the Jewish community. While additional police presence around Jewish sites is welcomed, Ryvchin pointed out that it’s not the long-term solution.
The Jewish community does not want more security measures like fences and guards, as these only increase feelings of vulnerability. Instead, Ryvchin advocated for a broader educational approach to combat hatred and promote understanding of the harmful effects of antisemitism on society. In a positive step toward long-term change, Albanese announced a $5.4 million investment to redevelop the Sydney Jewish Museum. This initiative aims to foster greater understanding of Jewish culture and highlight the contributions of Jewish Australians to the country, promoting tolerance and reducing prejudice.
