I visited the Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea to meet with community members and survey the damage left behind by this sickening anti-Semitic attack.
I have come to the community to say the Victorian Premier, the Victorian Government and the Victorian people stand with you.
Victorians have your back.
We condemn this act of cowardice, hate and fear.
We condemn violence, hate and anti-Semitism.
In this state, in this country, you have the right to practice your religion – to go to shule, pray openly, and be proud of who you are, and not have to look over your shoulder.
These are my immediate, short-term steps in response to this incident.
Funding and support for Adass Israel
The Adass Israel congregation will need time to understand the impacts of the damage.
I have offered whatever support the congregation needs to temporarily relocate services, rebuild, and move forward.
It will be a big community effort, but let it start today.
My Government will put $100,000 in the collection box for that rebuild – to kick it off.
And my officials will be working with Adass Israel to help facilitate any temporary relocations that are required to keep it running. I will keep the community updated as these discussions continue.
Security infrastructure funding
This week, Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt will also announce almost $1 million in Jewish Community security infrastructure grants.
Successful recipients of these grants include Yeshivah shule in St Kilda East, St Kilda shule, South Caulfield shule and a dozen other organisations.
Increased Police Presence
I have spoken to the Chief Commissioner throughout the day.
This weekend, there will be additional police presence around synagogues, around places of significance such as schools – and public meeting places like local shopping centres.
This will take the form of increased patrolling and officers on the street talking to the community.
That will continue this weekend and into next week.
Meanwhile, the police investigation into the attack is ongoing.
Every available resource will be deployed to find these criminals who tried to tear a community apart.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or who has footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000(opens in a new window) or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au(opens in a new window)
Changing the law
Beyond these immediate actions, it is clear we need a change of the law and a change of the culture.
It must be easier for police to charge people who whip up hatred against their fellow Victorian on the basis of their religion.
We have a Bill in Parliament right now to do just that.
The Anti-Vilification and Social Cohesion Bill is all about keeping Victorians safe and keeping Victorians united.
The Bill introduces new criminal offences for serious vilification, such as inciting hatred or threatening physical harm against someone because of who they are or what faith they follow
I thank the Jewish Community for helping contribute to this Bill.
Whoever you are, whatever faith you follow, wherever you’re from and whoever you love – everyone deserves to be safe in our state, free of hate.
