Yesterday, the Australian Federal Police confirmed that the incident in January in which a caravan was found with explosives was part of a 'fabricated terrorism plot' orchestrated by organised crime. This comes as other antisemitic incidents have also been linked to organised crime and foreign actors.

These incidents have caused fear and panic amongst many in the Jewish community and broader public. 

Politicians, journalists, and community leaders, including the Government’s antisemitism envoy, have sought to falsely connect these incidents to anti-war Palestine protests, universities, writers festivals and the arts. 

The Jewish Council reiterates the multiple warnings we have made to politicians, media and community leaders to act responsibly, avoid knee-jerk responses, and not to weaponise fears within the Jewish community.

Sarah Schwartz, Executive Officer, Jewish Council of Australia:

'Yesterday’s statement from the AFP should prompt reflection from every politician, journalist and community leader who has sought to manipulate and weaponise fears within the Jewish community. The attempt to link these events to the support of Palestinians — whether at protests, universities, conferences or writers festivals — has been irresponsible and dangerous.

'It is now clear that individuals are seeking to exploit the Jewish community, and the broader public’s concern about antisemitism. Disinformation and irresponsible reporting is providing a permissive environment for these malicious acts. We restate our calls for politicians to act responsibly and stop using the Jewish community as political footballs to push divisive agendas.

'Those who have used these attacks to spread Islamophobia and anti-Palestinian racism should be ashamed of themselves for exploiting the Jewish community to push bigotry and hatred, and attempt to silence legitimate criticism of Israel.

'The Jewish Council remains committed to advocating for a society where diversity is celebrated, where all individuals and communities can live without fear of discrimination or violence, and where injustice is called out, at home and abroad.'

To arrange an interview email jewishcouncil@jewishcouncil.com.au or SMS 0493 970 412.