Glen Eira steps up antisemitism fight

The City of Glen Eira has put in place a broad range of measures aimed at keeping Jewish residents safe.

Mayor Simone Zmood said the safety of Jewish residents is a clear priority. “We have been deeply concerned by the impact antisemitism has had on people in our community, particularly the fear and distress experienced by Jewish residents,” she said.

“Antisemitism, racism and hate have no place in Glen Eira. The safety and wellbeing of the Jewish community is a clear council priority.”

Glen Eira, which encompasses suburbs including Caulfield, St Kilda East and Carnegie that are home to a large proportion of Melbourne’s Jewish population, was the first Victorian council to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism in 2022.

In February last year the council established a Social Cohesion Taskforce bringing together Victoria Police, Jewish organisations, faith communities, youth representatives and academics. It monitors emerging tensions, advises on immediate responses and co-designs prevention initiatives.