Antisemitism

Senator Faruqi supported the motion but argued that antisemitism must be addressed alongside all other forms of racism, including Islamophobia and anti-Indigenous racism. Faruqi highlighted the Greens' long-standing advocacy for a national antiracism strategy and framework. Faruqi stated that tackling hate requires addressing its roots in colonisation and systemic racism. Faruqi urged the implementation of the existing antiracism roadmap to combat hatred effectively.

Senator O'Neill supported the motion, describing antisemitism as an ancient evil that has surged since the October 7 attacks. O'Neill emphasised the trauma experienced by the Jewish community and the need for united leadership to decry such behaviours. O'Neill committed to pouring resources into policing and supporting Special Operation Avalite to hunt down perpetrators. O'Neill affirmed that the government would ensure the full force of the law was applied to those responsible for the attacks.

Senator Paterson supported the motion but moved an amendment calling for mandatory minimum sentences for terrorism and the display of antisemitic symbols. Paterson argued that words were insufficient and that strong penalties were needed to deter attacks and send a clear signal. Paterson criticised the government for delaying action and failing to call a National Cabinet earlier to address the crisis. Paterson stated that mandatory minimums were necessary to ensure serious consequences for those behind the violence.

Senator Sheldon supported the motion, highlighting the fear experienced by Jewish families and the importance of unity in condemning hate. Sheldon noted that police and the Australian Federal Police had made arrests and were investigating the attacks. Sheldon argued against feeding paranoia and emphasised the need for the community to stand together against those seeking to create division. Sheldon cited support from other community leaders, including the Islamic Council of NSW, in opposing antisemitism.

Senator McKenzie supported the motion, arguing that antisemitism had become normalised in Australia since October 2023. McKenzie criticised the government for its delayed response and lack of strong leadership, noting that the Prime Minister had not prioritised the issue in recent meetings. McKenzie stated that the government's rhetoric had tacitly approved of the rise in hate, leading to increased fear within the Jewish community. McKenzie urged the government to take swift and serious action rather than offering platitudes.

Senator Thorpe supported the motion but moved an amendment to explicitly include racism in the condemnation, arguing that antisemitism is a form of white supremacy and racism. Thorpe criticised the Liberal Party for excluding the term racism from the original motion and called for a broader approach to tackling hate. Thorpe highlighted the long history of racism in Australia and the need for a human rights bill to protect all communities. Thorpe argued that failing to address racism in all its forms would allow hate to persist.

Senator Ruston supported the motion and the amendment proposed by Senator Paterson, arguing that the focus should remain on antisemitic intimidation and violence. Ruston stated that while the opposition condemned racism in all forms, the principal motion was specifically about antisemitism. Ruston indicated that the Liberal Party would not support Senator Thorpe's amendment to include racism, preferring to keep the motion focused on the immediate issue of antisemitism. Ruston affirmed the opposition's commitment to combating hate against the Jewish community.

Senator Gallagher explained the government's position against both amendments, stating that the motion was intended to unify the parliament. Gallagher argued that mandatory minimum sentences were not appropriate for this specific motion and that there were other forums to discuss sentencing. Gallagher noted that the Senate had previously passed motions condemning racism, so adding it to this motion was unnecessary. Gallagher emphasised that the government wanted to support the motion as originally circulated to show solidarity with the Jewish community.

Senator Shoebridge supported the motion but opposed the amendment for mandatory minimum sentences, arguing they were wrong in principle and removed judicial discretion. Shoebridge accused the coalition of deliberately introducing the amendment to create division and ensure a vote on the motion. Shoebridge stated that the Greens would always oppose mandatory minimums regardless of the subject matter. Shoebridge urged the coalition to withdraw the amendment to allow for unity in condemning antisemitism.