A shocking arson attack on the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne is now being investigated as a potential terror incident, underscoring a troubling surge in antisemitism in Australia. The December 6 firebombing, one of several recent acts of hostility against Jewish communities, has left Australian Jews questioning government resolve to protect them.
Masked vandals targeted the non-Zionist synagogue while worshippers were present, forcing them to flee in fear. Yumi Friedman, one of the congregants, described hearing banging on the doors and seeing shattered glass. When police arrived, they initially treated the Jewish victims as suspects, ordering them to the ground before realizing their error. Friedman, who burned his hand trying to open the door, said the delay in police response and confusion added to the trauma.
This attack was not an isolated incident. In Sydney, a vehicle was torched and several buildings were vandalized with graffiti, including one that read “kill Israiel.” Such incidents are part of a broader pattern of antisemitic hate that has escalated dramatically since October 7, when conflict between Israel and Hamas reignited global tensions. According to a report by the Executive Council of Australian Jewry (ECAJ), antisemitic incidents in Australia surged by 316% in the past year, totaling over 2,000 cases.
Jewish community leaders and members have voiced frustration over the government’s response. Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patton classified the Melbourne firebombing as a likely terror attack but admitted authorities still do not understand the full motive. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, criticized for his delayed reaction, announced increased police operations to combat threats against Jewish Australians. Since 2022, the government has allocated $25 million to enhance security for Jewish institutions, yet many feel this falls short of what is needed.
The ECAJ penned an open letter to Albanese, stating that Australia’s identity as a “free, democratic and multicultural society is in peril.” They urged increased security funding, stronger enforcement of anti-harassment laws, and comprehensive antisemitism education. The letter highlighted the fear and anxiety felt by many Jewish Australians, who now question whether it is safe to display their faith publicly.
The rise in antisemitism has not gone unnoticed internationally. The Simon Wiesenthal Center issued a travel advisory on December 9, cautioning Jews to “exercise extreme caution” when visiting Australia. Rabbi Abraham Cooper from the center criticized Australian authorities for failing to counter persistent harassment and violence against Jews effectively.
Australia’s changing demographics and geopolitical stances may contribute to the rising intolerance. The Jewish population, comprising just 0.4% of Australians, remains significantly smaller than the Muslim population, which has grown to 3.2%. The country’s shifting attitude towards recognizing a Palestinian state has also drawn concerns from the Jewish community about its potential impact on antisemitism.
While police and government leaders promise action, the Jewish community’s calls for stronger protections and decisive responses continue. The ongoing threats underscore a pressing need for vigilance and support for religious freedom in Australia.
