30/01/2025 – Sydney
NIF Executive Director: “As a Sydney resident and a proud Jew, this is frankly terrifying. More must be done to stop this horrific rise in antisemitic threats.”
Responding to the news overnight of yet another planned antisemitic attack, New Israel Fund Australia (NIF) released the following statement:
The New Israel Fund Australia (NIF) condemns in the strongest terms, the shocking discovery of a caravan laden with explosives in Sydney, allegedly intended for an antisemitic attack. This disturbing escalation of antisemitic violence poses a grave threat to the safety and security of Jewish Australians and demands urgent action from all levels of government and law enforcement.
We welcome the swift response from NSW Police, the Australian Federal Police, and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation in investigating this incident and ensuring the perpetrators are held accountable. The potential for a mass casualty event is deeply alarming, and it is critical that every resource is dedicated to dismantling the networks that enable such extremist violence.
The rise in antisemitic attacks in Australia, including arson and vandalism targeting synagogues, must be met with a firm and coordinated response. Words of condemnation are not enough. We urge federal and state governments to redouble their efforts in protecting Jewish Australians and ensuring they can live in safety and without fear.
NIF Chair, Ric Benjamin warned: “The multicultural Australia that we cherish cannot allow hate and extremism to fester. Political leaders, law enforcement agencies, and civil society must work together to stamp out antisemitism and all forms of racism. We stand in solidarity with Jewish Australians and all communities targeted by hate and reaffirm our commitment to fostering a more just and inclusive society.”
Media contact:
Michael Chaitow (NIF), 0432 629 342
About Us
NIF Australia was formed in 2011 when Naomi Chazan, then-president of NIF Israel and the former deputy speaker of the Knesset, visited Australia. In the more than ten years since its formation, NIF Australia has raised over $5 million, distributing grants to important civil society organisations in Israel, and facilitating new conversations about Israel inside the Australian Jewish community. Our community promotes freedom, equality and social justice by funding Israeli nonprofits and fostering new discussions in the Australian Jewish community.