Australian Police Investigate International Funding of Antisemitic Crimes

With the number of antisemitic crimes escalating in Australia, officials are investigating potential overseas funding and radicalisation, while a national response plan is being put in place.

 

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) have launched an investigation into whether antisemitic crimes perpetrated in Australia are being funded by overseas entities. This inquiry comes in light of numerous disturbing incidents, including a recent arson attack on a childcare centre in Sydney, which had been defaced with anti-Jewish graffiti. While no injuries occurred, the escalation of antisemitic sentiment has alarmed officials, prompting Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to call an emergency cabinet meeting to discuss the situation.

In a significant step, the government announced the establishment of a national database dedicated to tracking antisemitic incidents, a move aimed at enhancing awareness and facilitating better responses. The AFP has received over 166 reports of antisemitic crimes since December, when a taskforce specifically addressing these issues was set up. AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw indicated that investigators are exploring if local criminals are being financially supported by overseas individuals, particularly through cryptocurrencies, which complicate tracing efforts.

Furthermore, Kershaw revealed a focus on the possible involvement of youth in these crimes, with online radicalisation being a concern. While there are leads gathered through intelligence, he emphasized the need for concrete evidence before formal charges can be made. Notably, just last week, a Sydney resident was charged with making death threats against a Jewish organization, marking the first arrest by the taskforce known as Special Operation Avalite.

Prime Minister Albanese denounced the recent attack on the childcare centre in Maroubra, labeling it a "cowardly" act of hate. He characterized these antisemitic acts as not only crimes against the Jewish community but as an affront to the very fabric of Australian society. The Jewish Council of Australia echoed this sentiment, calling for urgent community dialogue and cooperation to foster understanding and combat prejudice.

Amid growing concerns, both New South Wales and Victoria are addressing the rising tide of antisemitic incidents, with taskforces leading investigations. Thus far, 36 individuals have been charged in New South Wales and an additional 70 in Victoria, where synagogues have also been targeted. The fight against antisemitism in Australia is heating up, as law enforcement agencies and community groups unite to address these alarming trends.