Security stretched to its limits

The Royal Commission on Monday heard evidence from CSG NSW and CSG Victoria personnel, and from Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies president Jason Steinberg, about surging and more targeted antisemitic activity, and a volunteer-based security network stretched to almost breaking point.

Witness ACO, a senior CSG Victoria leader, said antisemitic incidents had grown “exponentially” since October 7, 2023, with national volunteer hours rising from 62,749 in 2023 to 113,712 in 2025 – worth roughly the equivalent of $9 million at commercial guard rates.

CSG’s budget had “pretty much tripled”, yet remained largely reliant on community donations.

“There should not be this financial burden on being Jewish today,” ACO said, warning the model was “unfathomable” to sustain without ongoing government funding.

Unlike in NSW, Victoria lacks a formalised policing framework for the Jewish High Holy Days, although ACO agreed one “would be very well received”.