URGENT UPDATE: Former federal treasurer Josh Frydenberg delivered a powerful address at the Mount Sinai College Foundation event in Sydney on the night of October 17, 2023, urging immediate action against rising antisemitism in Australia. His remarks come amid escalating tensions following the events in the Middle East since October 7, which have intensified feelings of vulnerability within the Jewish community.
Frydenberg articulated the deep sense of conflict felt by many Australian Jews, stating, “We Jews have never seen in this country a conflict between our faith and our citizenship. Yet, over the last two years, we have been made to feel that there was a conflict.” His comments resonate with a community that has faced increasing hostility, both socially and politically.
During his speech, Frydenberg drew parallels to historical figures, quoting Vladimir Lenin: “Sometimes in decades, nothing happens, and sometimes in weeks, decades happen.” He emphasized the rapid changes experienced by the Jewish community, particularly as they have been targeted outside places of worship, including the Adass Israel synagogue in Melbourne and the East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation.
The former treasurer highlighted alarming incidents, such as the doxxing of over 600 Jewish creatives and protests in Melbourne’s Caulfield, a neighborhood with a significant Jewish population. Frydenberg stated, “Our campuses, which should be houses of learning, have become hotbeds of hate.” He called out leaders who fail to recognize the severity of the situation, arguing that the community is facing a fundamental breakdown of values.
Frydenberg did not shy away from addressing what he termed a profound leadership failure. “Our leaders, political and civil, have failed us,” he asserted, stressing that those in power have not stepped up to protect Australian values.
He concluded his remarks with a call for unity across the nation, saying, “We are not just in a fight against antisemitism; we are in a fight for Australia.” Frydenberg’s plea resonates deeply amid a growing sentiment among Australians who oppose the current climate of hate.
As tensions rise, this urgent message from Frydenberg urges Australians of all backgrounds to cooperate in defending the nation’s core values. The community is now looking for swift action and solidarity against hate, with Frydenberg’s address serving as a rallying cry for immediate change.
Stay tuned for further developments as this critical situation unfolds.
