In a powerful address following the recent tragic events affecting Australian Jewish communities, Labor MP Mark Dreyfus, a former attorney-general, expressed the urgent need to confront the rising antisemitism across the nation. Appearing on ABC radio, Dreyfus remarked on the profound grief sweeping through the Jewish community in Australia and acknowledged the understandable anger stemming from violent attacks, including the recent massacre. He emphasized that blame is not a productive response and called for collaborative efforts to combat antisemitism. “We can and should do more. We’ve got to do everything that we can,” he stated, highlighting imminent announcements from the federal government aimed at addressing these issues.
Dreyfus’s comments echoed the sentiments of former Treasurer Josh Frydenberg, the highest-ranking Jewish cabinet minister in Australia’s history. Unburdened by his political career, Frydenberg served as a voice of urgency, warning that the hard-won legacy of Jewish integration in Australia is at risk. His remarks carry significant weight, given his personal connection to the community and the history of successful integration of Jewish refugees in Australia.
Arriving at Bondi Beach to pay his respects, Frydenberg had intended to deliver brief remarks but ultimately found himself delivering a heartfelt condemnation of the current political climate. Citing a need for leaders to confront uncomfortable truths, he remarked that leadership in politics is crucial and can be a matter of life and death. “What the events of October 7th and its aftermath here in Australia have underlined to me […] is that leadership or the lack of leadership really matters,” he asserted, stressing that complacency in leadership can have dire consequences.
Frydenberg’s perspective on the impact of political discourse has triggered discussions among lawmakers regarding accountability and leadership in times of crisis. While some have critiqued his approach as overly harsh, history often judges leaders who mistake restraint for virtue when critical foundations are threatened.
The political landscape surrounding these discussions has led to speculation regarding Frydenberg’s potential return to parliament. With pre-elections set in Victoria following the state election, the timeline for any decision remains uncertain. As events unfold, it remains clear that both Dreyfus and Frydenberg represent a call for decisive leadership and action during a time when it is desperately needed.
Overall, the conversation emerging from these events underscores the significance of unity and proactive measures against rising antisemitism, fostering hope for a stronger, more inclusive Australia.