The Australian Labor Party (ALP) is grappling with significant criticism over its response to antisemitism in the wake of the tragic mass shooting at Bondi Beach, which claimed the life of a 10-year-old girl named Matilda. The incident has intensified scrutiny of the party’s relationship with the Jewish community, revealing deep-seated grievances that have been building for years.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has come under fire for his delayed response to the growing crisis. In the immediate aftermath of the Bondi killings, which occurred on October 7, 2023, Albanese called for unity and support for the Jewish community. Yet many believe his words lacked the urgency and sincerity required to address the profound grief and fear felt by Australian Jews.
Critics, including Peter Wertheim, co-chief executive of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, have characterized the ALP’s approach as a form of “moral paralysis.” Wertheim, whose father survived Auschwitz, has maintained a relationship with Albanese dating back to a joint campaign against the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions Movement. Despite this connection, he expressed doubts about the Prime Minister’s commitment to eradicating antisemitism, stating, “Nobody does. In his own mind, he is emotionally committed to that. But I think he is struggling.”
Community Reaction and Political Fallout
The reaction from the Jewish community has been one of profound disappointment and anger. The father of Matilda openly criticized Albanese, stating, “He failed Matilda.” This sentiment reflects a broader perception among Jewish Australians that both federal and state Labor governments have not sufficiently addressed the normalization of hate speech and antisemitism.
Former Victorian Minister Phil Dalidakis echoed this concern, noting a prevalent feeling within the Jewish community that Labor has not done enough in recent months to counteract the rising tide of antisemitic sentiment. The sense of vulnerability was palpable during Hanukkah celebrations following the Bondi attacks, as community members gathered for vigils to mourn the victims.
In Melbourne, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan sought to demonstrate solidarity with the Jewish community by attending a service at the Caulfield Shule. However, her presence was met with jeers, underscoring a growing rift between Labor officials and the Jewish community. This public rejection signaled deep-seated frustration with the party’s handling of antisemitism.
Policy Changes and Future Challenges
In response to the crisis, Allan and her government have implemented measures aimed at combating hate speech and antisemitism, including outlawing the display of symbols associated with terrorist groups and strengthening anti-hate laws. Meanwhile, Albanese has acknowledged that his government could have done more prior to the Bondi shootings. On the Thursday following the incident, he adopted recommendations from his special envoy Jillian Segal aimed at addressing antisemitism.
Albanese announced plans for new legislation to target hate speech and hate preachers, with David Gonksi to lead a task force focused on antisemitism in universities. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke will also have increased authority to deny visas to individuals expressing hatred toward Jews.
Despite these commitments, skepticism remains about the effectiveness of such measures. Many in the Jewish community are calling for decisive action rather than mere statements. As Rabbi Ben Elton recently proclaimed, the time for evasion is over, emphasizing that hateful rhetoric and demonization must cease.
The Bondi tragedy has illuminated a critical juncture for the ALP as it seeks to restore trust within the Jewish community. With ongoing investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident, the party faces a significant challenge in addressing the root causes of antisemitism while fostering an inclusive environment for all Australians.
As the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of the Bondi shootings, the need for effective leadership and action against antisemitism has never been more urgent. The future of Labor’s relationship with the Jewish community may depend on its ability to confront these issues head-on.
