Antisemitism in Australia: Holocaust Survivor Warns of Nazi Paral 2026

Holocaust survivors president George Foster warned of antisemitism in Australia during his testimony at the antisemitism royal commission, drawing disturbing parallels to the social climate of Nazi Germany. The Australian Association of Jewish Holocaust Survivors and Descendants leader spoke in Melbourne about the exclusion of Jews from public life and the normalization of hateful rhetoric.

Disturbing Parallels to Nazi Germany

Foster, who was born in Hungary to Holocaust survivors after World War II, told the commission he did not believe Australia was "becoming another Germany in the 1930s" due to its democratic institutions and legal system. However, he pointed to several unsettling similarities, including the exclusion of Jews from parts of public life, the normalization of antisemitic language, and dehumanizing descriptions of Jews.

The Rise of Antisemitic Incidents Since October 2023

Since the Hamas attacks on Israel on 7 October 2023, antisemitic incidents have surged across Australia. Community leaders from synagogues and Jewish schools described a climate of fear, with some Jewish Australians choosing to relocate to Israel. Foster recalled being shocked by a protest at the Sydney Opera House where chants including "Where's the Jews?" and "Fuck the Jews" were heard, later confirmed by New South Wales police.

Key Takeaways from the Royal Commission Testimony

• Antisemitism is rising in Australia, with increased attacks on Jewish schools, synagogues, and businesses.
• The fear of displaying Jewish identity publicly has become widespread.
• Conspiracy theories and antisemitic tropes are resurging in public discourse.
• Some Jewish Australians are emigrating to Israel due to safety concerns.
• The royal commission is examining security arrangements for the Jewish community.

Comparison: Australia Today vs. 1930s Germany

Foster emphasized that while the Australian situation is not identical, the social atmosphere contains dangerous patterns that must be addressed proactively.

Community Leaders Call for Action

Synagogue presidents and school principals testified about heightened security measures, including armed guards and reinforced facilities. They urged the commission to recommend stronger laws against hate speech and better protection for Jewish institutions. The fifth block of hearings is specifically focused on security arrangements for the Jewish community.

FAQ

The testimony underscores the urgent need for action. As Foster concluded, "I never thought I would see such a thing in this country." The royal commission's findings are expected later this year.