Standing Firm Against the Rising Tide of Antisemitism
This is deeply troubling, not just for the Jewish community, but for all Australians who value the principles of equality, respect, and human dignity.
Antisemitism has no place in Australia.
As a nation, we pride ourselves on being one of the most multicultural, diverse, and inclusive societies in the world.
This is a cornerstone of our identity, and yet, in recent times – particularly since the October 7 terrorist attacks – we have seen a disturbing rise in antisemitic incidents in our country and here in Melbourne.
This is deeply troubling, not just for the Jewish community, but for all Australians who value the principles of equality, respect, and human dignity.
As Lord Mayor of Melbourne, I feel compelled to speak out.
Antisemitism is not just a problem for the Jewish people – it is a problem for all of us.
Hatred, discrimination, and bigotry towards any group erodes the social fabric of our society and undermines the very values that make our society strong.
Melbourne is proudly home to the largest Jewish community in Australia, and the largest per capita number of Holocaust survivors outside of Israel.
Holocaust survivors and their families have built thriving lives here, contributing enormously to the character and prosperity of our city.
But I am acutely aware of how deeply unsettling it must be for this community to witness the rise of antisemitism – whether it manifests itself through public displays of hate or antisemitic graffiti that has been all too prominent.
Seeing symbols of hatred in public spaces can bring back painful memories for Holocaust survivors and their families.
As well as other members of the Jewish community, and it is something no person should have to endure.
That’s why the City of Melbourne has implemented a one-hour removal policy for antisemitic graffiti.
We are committed to removing these vile symbols of hate as quickly as possible to ensure that public spaces remain safe and welcoming for all.
This is part of our broader effort to combat antisemitism and all forms of hatred in our city, and we will continue to do everything in our power to keep Melbourne a place of tolerance and inclusion.
Recent protests in Melbourne’s streets concerning the conflict in Gaza have highlighted another complex issue: the risk of importing international conflicts into our local suburbs.
While Australians have the right to peacefully protest, it is crucial that we do not allow tensions from foreign conflicts to spill over into our communities, causing division and inflaming hatred.
We must recognise that targeting the Jewish community or protesting at synagogues about the actions of a government overseas is fundamentally antisemitic.
Such acts not only misplace blame but also perpetuate harmful stereotypes and cause undue distress to Jewish Australians who are not responsible for the actions of foreign governments.
Protests should aim to foster dialogue and change, not sow division or intimidate minority communities.
In Melbourne and in Australia, we must strive to keep our streets free from hate and ensure that our debates, no matter how passionate, are respectful and inclusive of all groups and all religions.
In standing against antisemitism, we stand for the kind of society we want Australia to be – one where diversity is celebrated, where people of all backgrounds and faiths are free to live without fear of persecution, and where the values of fairness, decency, and equality are paramount.
Melbourne is a city that thrives on its diversity. It is our strength.
When one group is targeted, it is not just an attack on that group – it is an attack on the values we all hold dear.
It is important to acknowledge that the Jewish community cannot be expected to fight this battle alone.
All of us – regardless of our religion, ethnicity, or background – must stand in solidarity with the Jewish community and reject the forces of hatred and division.
As Lord Mayor, I will continue to work with Melbourne’s Jewish community and other faith and cultural groups to promote inclusion and counter the forces of hatred.
The City of Melbourne is committed to fostering an environment where everyone feels safe and respected, regardless of their background.
This is not just a moral obligation – it is a responsibility we all share as citizens of this great city.
Let us not be bystanders in the face of this pernicious form of racism.
Instead, let us lead by example, standing together in defence of the values that unite us.
Together, we can ensure that Melbourne – and indeed all of Australia – remains a place where diversity is celebrated, where hate is confronted, and where every individual is treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
Nick Reece is the Lord Mayor of Melbourne
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