The NSW Police deputy commissioner has rejected calls to arm the Jewish Community Security Group (CSG), stating it could be perceived as favouritism. The royal commission into antisemitism heard arguments over security arrangements for the Jewish community.
NSW Police Position on Armed Security
Deputy Commissioner David Hudson told the royal commission that allowing certain groups to carry weapons would “further fracture relationships between different groups.” He emphasised that police are responsible for protecting all members of the community.
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Hudson proposed a “user pays” model where event organisers pay for police presence, rather than arming private security. This model was used at Westfield after a 2024 knife attack.
Community Security Group (CSG) Role
The CSG, led by security professionals and volunteers, monitors threats and provides security at Jewish events. Currently, guards can carry weapons at schools and synagogues but were unarmed at a Hanukah celebration in December.
Risk consultant Gavriel Schneider argued that the private security sector should be armed at open-air events, calling it a “valuable” measure.
Comparison of Security Approaches
| Approach | Description | Supporters |
|---|---|---|
| Arm CSG guards | Allow private security to carry firearms at Jewish events | Some community witnesses, Gavriel Schneider |
| User-pays police presence | Organisers pay for police officers at events | NSW Police Deputy Commissioner David Hudson |
| Current mixed system | Firearms allowed at schools/synagogues but not at open-air events | Status quo |
Key Takeaways
- NSW Police opposes arming private security groups due to social cohesion concerns
- Royal commission examines antisemitism and security gaps in Australia
- CSG currently unarmed at open-air events despite requests for change
- User-pays model suggested as alternative to private firearms
FAQ
Why does NSW Police oppose arming the Jewish security group?
Deputy Commissioner David Hudson said it would be seen as favouritism and could further fracture relations between community groups. Police believe they should be the only armed security force.
What is the Community Security Group (CSG)?
CSG is a security organisation led by professionals and volunteers that monitors threats to the Jewish community and provides security at Jewish events in Australia.
What alternative did NSW Police propose to arming private guards?
The police recommended a “user pays” model where event organisers or venues pay for police officers to provide security, as was done at Westfield after a knife attack.