Victorian Premier announces Anti-Hate Taskforce

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has announced the formation of a new Anti-Hate Taskforce following the arrest of an alleged perpetrator in the East Melbourne synagogue fire attack.

Jewish community organisations have welcomed the initiative as a necessary response to escalating antisemitism.

The taskforce will hold its first meeting this week and include representatives from government, Victoria Police and the Lord Mayor of Melbourne, with Jewish community representatives invited to participate.

“Where LEAH [Local Escalation and Help group] focuses on problem-solving at a local community level, the Anti-Hate Taskforce will look at the bigger picture across our city and state,” Allan said.

The Zionist Federation of Australia and Zionism Victoria have endorsed the government’s announcement, stating that strong action from leaders was overdue.