Synagogue door set ablaze, restaurant targeted in recent instances of anti-Semitic violence in Australia
Australia has seen a significant increase in antisemitic attacks across major cities, particularly in the first half of 2025. The Jewish community has been profoundly affected, leading to increased fear, trauma, and a sense of insecurity.
Recent Events
The most recent incident occurred in Melbourne on July 4, when a synagogue in East Melbourne was targeted in an arson attack. The synagogue, occupied by about 20 people at the time, was miraculously unscathed, with no injuries reported [1][4][5]. Minutes before, masked protesters had harassed diners at an Israeli-owned restaurant in downtown Melbourne, breaking windows and chanting hostile slogans. One protester was arrested for hindering police [4].
Other notable incidents include a trailer filled with powergel explosives discovered in the Sydney suburb of Dural, alongside antisemitic material and a list of Jewish synagogues [2]. A childcare center near a synagogue in Maroubra was set on fire and spray-painted with antisemitic graffiti [2]. University campuses, notably the University of Sydney and the University of Melbourne, have witnessed anti-Israel demonstrations, harassment of Jewish faculty, and calls for the eradication of Israel by student groups [3].
Impacts on the Jewish Community
The Jewish community, numbering around 120,000, has reported heightened anxiety and trauma, with many feeling their safety is increasingly at risk [1][4][5]. Leaders have described the situation as making cities like Melbourne "stop being a safe place for Jews" following major attacks [4]. The surge in antisemitic incidents has resulted in over 2,000 reported incidents between October 2023 and September 2024—more than quadruple the previous year’s total [1].
Official Responses
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called a meeting of the National Cabinet, with the Australian Federal Police confirming investigations into whether foreign actors have paid local criminals to carry out attacks [2]. The incidents have led to major counterterrorism operations, with increased police presence and security measures around Jewish institutions [2].
Local and national authorities have strongly condemned the attacks. Melbourne Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece and Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan have emphasised the need for the community to stand against hate and support the Jewish population [4]. Political leaders have labeled the attacks as hate crimes and acts of antisemitism, calling for unity and vigilance [2][4].
The ECAJ (Executive Council of Australian Jewry) has urged the nation to condemn the "deplorable crimes" of the antisemitic attacks. Children and women were among the people present at the synagogue during the latest attack, underscoring the vulnerability of the community [4].
The situation remains tense as the community seeks reassurance and protection.
- The recent escalation of antisemitic incidents in Australia, including arson attacks on synagogues, harassment of restaurants, and attacks on university campuses, has raised concerns not just within the Jewish community but also in the broader world of politics and general news.
- Amidst the increasing crime-and-justice issues, the Jewish community in Australia, particularly in cities like Melbourne, fears for their safety and security, seeking support from both local and international authorities, as well as the world at large.
