Labor has accused the Coalition of politicizing the issue, emphasizing the need for national unity. If the Liberal-National Coalition wins the next federal election, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has announced plans to create a dedicated Anti-Semitism Taskforce. This task force, led by the Australian Federal Police (AFP), will involve various agencies such as ASIO, ACIC, AUSTRAC, ABF, and state police. The announcement follows the recent firebombing of Melbourne’s Adass Israel Synagogue on Nov. 6.
Dutton stated that stronger action and national leadership could have prevented such incidents and pledged to issue a new ministerial direction to the AFP to prioritize addressing anti-semitism. This includes reevaluating decisions on charges for offenses like doxxing, public displays of terrorist symbols, incitement, harassment, and related crimes since Oct. 7, 2023.
Additionally, Dutton proposed that the task force refer visa holders involved in anti-semitic acts for immediate cancellation and deportation. He also promised to provide the requested $32.5 million security funding for armed guards at Jewish schools and synagogues without conditions.
Labor’s Energy Minister Chris Bowen condemned the synagogue firebombing as “unspeakable” and emphasized the need for Australia to reject all forms of hate. He criticized the opposition for politicizing the issue and called for national unity. Bowen defended the government’s efforts in combating anti-semitism, highlighting the passage of the anti-doxxing bill among other legislative acts.
Federal and Victorian police are scheduled to meet to determine if the incident warrants an official terrorism declaration, which would grant additional policing powers. Could you please rephrase that?
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