Australian Prime Minister Calls National Cabinet Meeting to Address Antisemitism After Childcare Centre Attack

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a national cabinet meeting scheduled for Tuesday afternoon, focusing on the rising concerns of antisemitism in the country. The decision follows a recent attack on a childcare center in Maroubra, Sydney, where antisemitic graffiti was discovered and the building was set ablaze.

Initially hesitant to convene such a meeting, Albanese acknowledged the urgency after facing pressure from opposition leaders and advocacy groups for a coordinated response to the apparent surge in anti-Jewish violence. Despite his previous comments regarding the need for action over meetings, he committed to discussing responses from national and state governments.

At the scene of the Maroubra attack, Albanese condemned the incident as a "hate crime" and an "act of vile, antisemitic violence," emphasizing that such events disrupt the multicultural fabric of Sydney. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns has pledged additional police resources to tackle these crimes and is open to strengthening the state's hate speech laws.

The announcement comes amid mounting criticism directed at the government for not doing enough to combat antisemitic sentiments and actions, with voices from both the opposition and community leaders demanding urgent, tangible measures. Albanese is expected to receive updates from law enforcement agencies during the meeting to address recent antisemitic incidents across Australia.