Jewish House launches resilience program amid rising antisemitism
Rabbi Mendel Kastel says 'Unbreakable' was developed in response to growing concern about the emotional toll of antisemitism
Jewish House has launched Unbreakable, a new self-guided online resilience program supporting Jewish adults facing antisemitism, alongside NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper and Multicultural NSW CEO Joseph La Posta.
The program, hosted on Jewish House’s Navigating Antisemitism platform, provides practical, evidence-based tools to help people manage anxiety and emotional stress while staying grounded in dignity, agency and Jewish identity.
Jewish House CEO Rabbi Mendel Kastel said Unbreakable was developed in response to growing concern about the emotional toll of antisemitism, particularly following the Bondi Beach attack.
In the week following the Bondi attack, visits to Jewish House’s Navigating Antisemitism platform increased by 2000 per cent, with overall traffic up 175 per cent and a marked rise in calls from people experiencing acute distress.
“Since October 2023, many Jewish Australians have been living with a heightened sense of vulnerability,” Rabbi Kastel said. “Antisemitism has moved from something abstract to something deeply personal. It is experienced at work, online, in social spaces and in moments where people should feel safe.
“In the wake of the traumatic incident in Bondi, communities need more than reassurance. They need tools for support. Unbreakable is about giving people practical ways to steady themselves, regain their agency, and carry on with courage.”
The program is structured around three core pillars: Empowered (maintaining agency by focusing on what individuals can control), Realistic (managing thoughts and emotions using cognitive tools) and Positive (cultivating realistic optimism and strengthening social support).
Each module includes guided reflections and practical exercises designed for everyday life. Participants can complete the program flexibly and confidentially, with clear pathways to additional support if needed.
Unbreakable was originally developed by The Wellness Institute, a US-based organisation led by Rabbi Zalman Abraham. Jewish House partnered with the institute to adapt and deliver the program for Australian audiences.
Kamper said the Minns Labor Government was committed to supporting the Jewish community each step of the way.
“Jewish House has long been a pillar of its local community and at the forefront of tackling antisemitism, and we were proud to support its important new Unbreakable initiative, which builds resilience and provides support around the clock for people facing hatred,” Kamper said.
Coordinator-general for Bondi support Joseph La Posta said no-one knew better than the Jewish community themselves what support they needed right now.
“Jewish House has helped the community navigate life’s challenges with strength, support and a renewed sense of hope for more than 40 years. The organisation is perfectly positioned to deliver a service that — unfortunately — is needed now more than ever,” La Posta said.
Rabbi Kastel said antisemitism affected more than physical safety.
“It affects how people think, feel and move through the world. Unbreakable is about protecting mental wellbeing. It gives people practical tools to respond with calm rather than fear, and to remain connected to their Jewish identity and community, even in difficult times,” he said.
The program is accessible at navigatingantisemitism.org.au/unbreakable-intro/