Sussan Ley, the Leader of the Opposition, has called on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to reconvene Parliament before Christmas. The aim is to expedite legislative measures designed to combat anti-Semitism and enhance security for Jewish Australians. During a press conference on December 18, 2023, Ley expressed concern over the safety of Jewish Australians, stating, “Jewish Australians and Australians do not feel safe, and we should not rest until we have done everything in our power to keep them safe.”
Ley outlined a series of proposals, including a move to amend the Australian Citizenship Act. This amendment would empower courts to revoke the citizenship of dual nationals involved in a wider array of terrorism-related activities. Such activities would encompass overseas military-style training and hate crimes as defined under the Criminal Code. According to Ley, this legislation would provide a legal framework for the deportation of individuals identified as radical extremists or affiliates of terrorist organizations.
In addition to citizenship reforms, Ley urged immediate action through a ministerial directive. This directive would halt visa approvals for individuals from areas controlled by terrorist organizations unless authorities can verify their identities through enhanced security and character assessments. The Coalition also intends to abolish the current policy allowing self-managed returns for individuals, particularly women associated with ISIS. They propose legislation that would criminalize any assistance provided for repatriating those who traveled to conflict zones without official permission.
Ley noted that last October, two Australian women and four children returned from Syria’s al-Hawl camp via Lebanon, using embassy-issued passports. It is estimated that more than 40 Australians remain in detention camps in Syria. Previous efforts by the former Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil to present a repatriation proposal to cabinet were halted due to potential political backlash.
Legislative Measures Against Anti-Semitism
The Coalition has also pledged to support recommendations from the Special Anti-Semitism Envoy, Jillian Segal. This includes proposals to establish the envoy as a statutory office, ensuring it is backed by legislation. Ley is advocating for the immigration minister to have the authority to deny visas to individuals exhibiting anti-Semitic behavior or engaging in hateful rhetoric, specifically targeting those within the arts community.
Further, the Coalition plans to introduce “no-funding triggers” aimed at canceling or blocking public funding for initiatives or organizations linked to anti-Semitic activities. These measures would be applicable under various legislative frameworks, including the Creative Australia Act 2023 and the Commonwealth Grants Rules.
Ley highlighted the concerns raised by Jewish students regarding anti-Semitism on university campuses. As a response, the Coalition is proposing amendments to the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency Act 2011, which would make the combat against anti-Semitism a condition for institutional registration. Additionally, school curricula will be reviewed to enhance education on Jewish history, identity, and culture, promising comprehensive teachings on anti-Semitism and the Holocaust.
The push for these legislative changes reflects a broader commitment by the Coalition to enhance security and foster a more inclusive society, particularly for Jewish Australians. As discussions unfold, the prospect of a Parliament recall to address these pressing issues remains a focal point for Ley and her party.
