Jews can live freely and proudly
“While we are fortunate there have been no significant incidents or threats in Victoria, we are committed to providing a visible police presence within the Jewish community..."
Jews in Melbourne have been reassured that their security is being handled professionally.
CSG Victoria CEO Justin Kagan said his team have regular joint meetings with Victoria Police.
“I have had meetings with the Police Commissioner and the Police Minister and can say security for Jews in this state is a top priority for them. We cooperate well with police, who understand our needs at this time very well,” he said.
“CSG also have our own security measures in place, including patrols and monitoring. Obviously we can’t go into details of how we’re handling security, but we have people and resources and are absolutely determined to keep our community safe.”
Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Regional Operations, Neil Paterson, said police know that the Jewish community is understandably concerned about the conflict in the Middle East and the potential impact here in Victoria.
“While we are fortunate there have been no significant incidents or threats in Victoria, we are committed to providing a visible police presence within the Jewish community so that people can be confident about their safety.”
The Deputy Commissioner said this includes additional patrols around schools, synagogues and other Jewish facilities alongside partners such as CSG.
“I have also personally met with a number of senior Jewish community members to listen to their concerns and provide assurance around state-wide police activities,” he said.
Kagan says the most important thing Victorian Jews need to do is to go about their lives freely and proudly.
“We live in a state where Jews can live Jewish lives freely and we should continue that way. Obviously there is some tension at the moment, but everything is being done to keep people safe,” he said.
He says the number of people who have downloaded the JEAP app for mobile phones over the past two weeks has doubled.
“It’s a two-way tool. It lets us put out alerts and statements and it lets people contact us, Hatzolah or the police if there is an emergency or if you see something suspicious,” he said.
CSG advises Jewish community members to call 000 first in an emergency.
Report antisemitic incidents to CSG Victoria either by calling 1300 000 274, or via the JEAP app.
comments