On Sunday, a tragic attack at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach in Sydney left at least 16 people dead. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese labeled it an act of antisemitic terrorism. This violence comes amid a rise in antisemitism in Australia, heightened by tensions from the conflict in Gaza. Local Jewish groups have expressed frustration over a perceived lack of support from the government.
According to a report from Tel Aviv University, in 2024, Australia and Italy saw significant increases in antisemitic incidents, even as global attacks slightly declined. Australia reported 1,713 cases, showing a concerning trend in a country that historically prided itself on being a safe haven for Jews.
Uriya Shavit, who oversees the report, highlighted a shift in public attitudes toward antisemitism in Australia. “This was once one of the safest places for Jews,” he said, noting that many in the community are questioning their future there. His comments reflect a growing concern over the normalization of hateful rhetoric against Jews.
Rabbi Eli Schlanger, an event organizer and member of the Chabad community, was among those killed. Chabad, known for its outreach and public events, has a significant presence in Australia, with leaders traveling worldwide to promote Jewish traditions. Their menorah lighting ceremonies have drawn large crowds in previous years, making the attack particularly poignant.
The Executive Council of Australian Jewry called for immediate action from government leaders, urging them to take a strong stance against antisemitism. “We need decisive leadership and action now,” they stated, echoing the sentiment of many in the Jewish community who fear for their safety.
Recent incidents in Sydney and Melbourne, where most of Australia’s Jewish population resides, have intensified scrutiny on the government’s response to antisemitism. In August, Albanese accused Iran of being behind antisemitic attacks in Australia. This raised more questions after the Bondi Beach attack, as connections to these claims remain unclear.
Historically, antisemitism has been a global issue. A study conducted by the Pew Research Center in 2023 found that 29% of people across various countries believe antisemitism is a big problem in their countries. This statistic suggests that the feeling of vulnerability within Jewish communities is not unique to Australia but part of a broader trend.
In the past, Jews in Australia lived in relative safety, supported by a culture of tolerance. However, societal shifts, along with a lack of robust government response, have left many feeling exposed. The focus now is on finding a way to restore that sense of security.
As communities reflect on the events at Bondi Beach, many are calling for stronger measures to ensure safety and condemn antisemitism in all its forms.
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