Calling out leadership failures in the fight against antisemitism
'It is time to demand accountability. Enough is enough. Words of defence or appeasement are not what is needed now; decisive action is'
The rise of antisemitism in Australia has been both shocking and distressing. From the chilling scenes of Jewish Australians being advised to stay home during the October 9 Opera House protests to the horrifying arson attack on Melbourne’s Adass Israel Synagogue, the failure of leadership from the Albanese government is glaring and cannot be ignored. Equally troubling is the continued defence of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese by some voices within our community, voices that should instead be holding him accountable.
The support extended to Albanese from certain quarters within the Jewish community is misplaced and counterproductive. Whether well-intentioned or strategically motivated, this support ultimately provides the Prime Minister with a free pass for his inaction and undeserved praise. A leader’s true priorities are revealed through their actions—or lack thereof—and it is our responsibility to respond accordingly. Albanese’s consistent inaction, appeasement of radical voices, and failure to unequivocally support Israel or address the escalating tide of antisemitism speak volumes.
Referring to Albanese as a “decent bloke” or excusing his inaction as a product of domestic political pressures diminishes the gravity of what our community must demand. Such framing fails to convey the urgency of the situation and sends a dangerous signal: that inaction and complacency are acceptable, even as hatred and violence against Jewish Australians escalate. While no country is immune to antisemitism, that is no excuse for failing to demand better leadership.
By excusing Albanese’s failures, we risk normalising behaviours and outcomes that jeopardise the safety and dignity of our community. It is time to demand accountability. Enough is enough. Words of defence or appeasement are not what is needed now; decisive action is.
In stark contrast, David Ossip, President of the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, has exemplified courageous and principled leadership during these difficult weeks. By refusing to attend Prime Minister Albanese’s event at the Sydney Jewish Museum, Ossip sent an unambiguous message. Citing Albanese’s failures and Foreign Minister Penny Wong’s inflammatory rhetoric against Israel, Ossip demonstrated a steadfast commitment to holding leaders accountable. His refusal to share a platform with the Prime Minister underscores a critical truth: platitudes are no longer enough. Ossip’s leadership sets the standard for what our community needs—principled action and an unwavering willingness to speak out.
Unfortunately, the failures of Albanese’s government are not limited to his own inaction. Penny Wong and Tony Burke have compounded the problem. Wong’s relentless pursuit of policies critical of Israel and her public statements have strained Australia’s relationship with its most reliable ally in the Middle East. Meanwhile, Tony Burke’s participation in events aligned with radical anti-Israel sentiments emboldens groups that delegitimise Israel and foster antisemitism within Australia. Whether through negligence or intent, these actions undermine the safety of the Jewish community.
What message does it send when influential Jewish communal voices overlook or excuse these leadership failures? It signals that inaction is tolerable and that antisemitism—whether overt or subtle—can go unchallenged. That is not leadership, and it is not acceptable.
For decades, Jewish communal organisations have maintained dialogue with the government, regardless of who is in power. This relationship is essential for addressing critical issues such as security, education, and community well-being. However, there comes a point when maintaining dialogue tips into appeasement. That moment is now. The failures of Albanese, Wong, and Burke demand a recalibration of this relationship.
The Jewish community and its leadership must confront the reality of this government’s inaction and move forward with leaders who reflect our values. Leaders who stand unequivocally with Israel and confront antisemitism head-on, without excuses or political calculation.
To Prime Minister Albanese, Penny Wong, and Tony Burke: enough is enough. The Jewish community will not tolerate inaction. Words without deeds are insufficient. Ensuring the safety and security of Jewish Australians requires real leadership—leadership we will demand and insist upon.
Michael Gencher is the executive director of StandWithUs Australia.
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