Australia Investigates Foreign Links in Rising Anti-Semitic Attacks

Federal and state authorities are responding to a wave of anti-Semitic crimes, including a childcare center arson, with expanded investigations and legislative reforms.

Australian Federal Police (AFP) is investigating potential foreign funding, including cryptocurrency payments, behind anti-Semitic attacks targeting Jewish communities in Sydney and Melbourne.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese convened a snap National Cabinet meeting following an arson attack on a childcare center in Maroubra, which also featured anti-Semitic graffiti.
NSW Premier Chris Minns has pledged stronger action, including doubling the number of detectives investigating hate crimes and proposing new laws to protect places of worship.
Israel's Deputy Foreign Minister criticized the Albanese government for perceived inaction, linking its UN voting record to emboldening anti-Semitic sentiment, a claim Albanese refuted as politicizing the issue.
Authorities have launched multiple operations, including AFP’s Special Operation Avalite and NSW Police’s Strike Force Pearl, to address over 100 reports of anti-Semitic crimes and prosecute offenders.