Coalition Plans to Include Anti-Semitism Content in Citizenship Test if Elected

If the Coalition wins power, they plan to include content about anti-Semitism in the Australian Citizenship test as part of a package of measures to address the ongoing issue, according to Shadow Immigration Minister Dan Tehan.

Tehan made these remarks during an online forum hosted by the Australian Jewish Association (AJA) in response to a series of anti-Semitic incidents following the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel. These incidents included arson attacks and the firebombing of a synagogue.

He stated, “We will establish a judicial inquiry into campus anti-Semitism and deliver $32.5 million in security funding as requested by the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, without any conditions. This funding will include resources for armed guards at schools and synagogues, unlike the current government, which only provides funding for unarmed guards.”

Tehan also announced, “We will introduce a specific section on anti-Semitism in the Australian Citizenship Test and develop an education module on the topic. Additionally, we will allocate an extra $7.5 million over three years to Crimestoppers to enhance its operations and protect more Australians.”

Tehan also mentioned the formation of a new taskforce, led by the Australian Federal Police, to combat individuals involved with terrorist organizations like Hamas, the Palestinian Liberation Front, and Hezbollah.

In light of recent events, such as Australians attending the funeral of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Lebanon, Tehan emphasized the need to take strong action against those supporting designated terror groups like Hezbollah.

Crime to be Focus of Next Campaign

In discussing the upcoming federal election, Tehan criticized Victoria’s bail laws and highlighted the impact of young repeat offenders being released back into the community too soon.

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