Julian Leeser, MP, Calls on Government to Increase Focus on Anti-Semitism Envoy
Prominent federal Jewish MP, Member for Berowra Julian Leeser, shared with The Epoch Times that he believes it is important to investigate foreign funding of education institutions.
Leeser urged the Albanese government to pay attention to their special envoy to combat anti-Semitism, Jillian Segal. It was Segal’s urging that prompted Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to convene a meeting of the national cabinet to address a series of anti-Semitic attacks in January, including incidents in Sydney and Melbourne.
In discussing the issue, Leeser highlighted the importance of listening to and acting upon the insights of Jillian Segal, particularly in response to his own Bill for a judicial inquiry into anti-Semitism on campuses. He emphasized the significance of conducting a judicial inquiry to address these matters effectively.
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As part of addressing concerns regarding foreign funding potentially fueling anti-Semitism, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton pledged $35 million for the reconstruction of the Adass Israel Synagogue in response to the Labor government’s $30 million commitment.
Potential Foreign Funding Inflames Anti-Semitism
Last year, there were reports of significant foreign funding reaching universities in the U.S., raising concerns about anti-Semitic sentiment being inflamed on campuses. This included billions of dollars from American taxpayers and autocratic Middle Eastern regimes towards universities, with ties to fostering anti-Semitic atmospheres.
Leeser’s Private Members Bill aims to investigate foreign funding in Australian universities, specifically focusing on addressing issues related to anti-Semitism or anti-Israel sentiments. He highlighted the importance of this inquiry in ensuring that all students, including Israeli students, are treated fairly without prejudice.
He emphasized the need for stronger actions to combat anti-Semitism on campuses, citing instances of anti-Semitic acts targeted at staff and students.
Stronger Action Still Needed on Campuses
Before the Albanese government took action against escalating anti-Semitism in Australia, the President of the Australian Jewish Association, David Adler, expressed disappointment in the government’s response. He criticized the lack of action and highlighted the hostility towards Israel and the Jewish community from the current federal government.
