‘Disturbing parallels’: Holocaust survivors president says exclusion of Jews from public life similar to Nazi Germany
Summary
The president of the Australian Association of Jewish Holocaust Survivors and Descendants, George Foster, said there are worrying similarities between rising antisemitism in Australia and the atmosphere in Nazi Germany, though Australia’s institutions differ. The antisemitism royal commission heard about a rise in attacks on Jewish schools, synagogues, and businesses since October 2023, including violent incidents and protests using antisemitic language.Key Facts
- George Foster said Australia is not becoming like 1930s Germany but noted “disturbing parallels” in social attitudes against Jews.
- There has been an increase in antisemitic incidents in Australia since October 2023.
- A protest near Sydney Opera House used offensive antisemitic chants like “Where’s the Jews?” and “Fuck the Jews.”
- Jewish community sites, including synagogues and schools, have faced attacks such as arson and vandalism.
- An arson attack on the Adass Israel synagogue in December 2024 was allegedly directed by the Iranian government, according to ASIO (Australia’s security intelligence agency).
- Security costs for Jewish schools in Melbourne have increased, and some schools now charge extra security fees to parents.
- The royal commission is examining security measures for the Jewish community and the government’s response to antisemitism.
- Some Jewish Australians have left the country to live in Israel due to safety concerns.
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