We have agency – let’s use it!
Every Australian has a crucial role to play in ensuring that hatred finds no refuge in our nation
Hatred thrives in silence, and today, antisemitism is testing the resolve of Australia’s moral compass. It’s time to break the silence and take a stand for our Jewish community under siege.
Diaspora Jews have consistently demonstrated exceptional skill in advocating for others, but now is the time for Australians to step up and help a community under siege. In Australia, Jewish communities have championed causes such as Indigenous rights and equity under the law with notable success. Prominent Jewish Australians like Ron Castan AM QC, a leading barrister and human rights advocate, played a pivotal role in the landmark Mabo case, which recognised Indigenous land rights and fundamentally reshaped Australian legal and social frameworks.
Similarly, Sir Isaac Isaacs, Australia’s first Jewish Governor-General, was a steadfast advocate for national unity and justice, with a legacy that includes a commitment to Indigenous recognition and equity under the law. These significant contributions to broader societal causes highlight a commendable ethos of service. However, they stand in stark contrast to the community’s apparent struggle to defend itself against the rising tide of antisemitism.
What Is Antisemitism? It Is Criminal Abuse
Antisemitism is more than hatred—it is criminal abuse, and it must be treated as such. The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) defines antisemitism as “a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews.” This includes acts targeting Jewish individuals, institutions, or property, as well as Holocaust denial, demonisation of Israel, or holding Jews collectively responsible for Israel’s actions.
Natan Sharansky’s “3D Test” provides further clarity: antisemitism is present in criticism of Israel that delegitimises its right to exist, demonises it with unfounded accusations, or applies double standards not used for other nations. This framework highlights the nuanced and insidious ways antisemitism infiltrates public discourse.
In Australia, antisemitism has escalated from rhetoric to violence. On December 5, 2024, as I wrote “The Baying Mob” for The Australian Jewish News, recounting fears inside The Great Synagogue in Sydney the previous night while protesters raged outside, another synagogue—Melbourne’s Adass Israel—was soon thereafter attacked. These incidents reflect a dangerous trend of unchecked hatred trending towards terrorism.
Advocacy From Early Allies
Advocacy for Israel and Jewish communities in Australia has found strong and diverse allies among influential non-Jewish Australians. Nova Peris, an Indigenous leader and former senator, has publicly denounced antisemitism, advocating for solidarity against hatred and drawing parallels between the histories of Jewish and Indigenous resilience. Warren Mundine, a prominent Indigenous Australian politician and commentator, has consistently supported Israel, recognising its democratic values and shared challenges in combating extremism.
Gemma Tognini, a columnist and media personality, has used her platform to call out antisemitism and highlight the need for Australians to stand with Jewish communities against rising prejudice. Chris Mitchell, a respected journalist and former editor-in-chief of The Australian, has been vocal in exposing media biases against Israel and advocating for balanced reporting on Middle Eastern conflicts.
Mark Leach, an Anglican pastor, has fostered interfaith understanding by actively engaging with Jewish leaders and advocating for Israel’s right to self-determination. Erin Molan, a prominent media personality and advocate, has lent her voice to combatting hatred and bigotry, including antisemitism, using her platform to champion inclusivity and call for accountability in public discourse.
These individuals exemplify a growing chorus of Australians standing up for justice, democracy, and the rights of Jewish communities. But their voices need your support as antisemitism is not just a Jewish issue—it is an Australian one.
What to Do if You Witness Antisemitism
If you see antisemitic abuse, take the following steps:
- Ensure Safety: Help remove our Jewish friends from danger and call 000 for immediate threats.
- Document and Report the Incident: Record evidence, including photographs, screenshots, or written accounts. Note the time, location, and witnesses. Report the incident to police and anti-discrimination bodies.
- Follow Up: Keep records of correspondence and demand regular updates on your reporting. If dissatisfied, escalate concerns to your local MP or media outlets.
Beyond reporting incidents, participate in fostering interfaith dialogues, attending community events, and promoting educational initiatives about Jewish history and culture.
It Is Time for Non-Jewish Australians to Take a Stand
Standing against antisemitism is not merely an act of solidarity—it is a defence of the core values that underpin Australian democracy: fairness, tolerance, and mutual respect. The alarming rise of antisemitism today bears an unsettling resemblance to the trends of the early 20th century, where widespread indifference and inaction led to catastrophic consequences.
Whether by speaking out, offering support, or holding institutions and elected officials accountable for protecting all citizens, every Australian has a crucial role to play in ensuring that hatred finds no refuge in our nation. Together, we can uphold the principles of justice, equality, and unity that define the very best of Australia—because history has shown that when one community is targeted, the very fabric of society is at risk.
Colonel Michael Scott CSC has served for thirty years as a professional soldier with the Australian Defence Force. He is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the 2023 Foundation, a nascent global charity dedicated to minimising harm, combatting antisemitism, and fostering peaceful coexistence. Following the November 2024 Amsterdam pogrom—an event that underscored the global nature of antisemitic violence beyond the Middle East—he has taken a more active role in the information war over narratives shaping public perception.
The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and are not associated with the Australian Defence Force or the Commonwealth government of Australia.
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