The brother of a survivor from the recent terrorist attack in Sydney has criticized Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for not attending the funerals of the victims, calling it “utterly shameful” and demanding his resignation. The attack, which occurred during the Chanukah by the Sea event at Bondi Beach, left 15 people dead and 40 injured, marking the most severe gun violence in Australia since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre.
Yaakov Super, 24, was among the injured and remains hospitalized in Sydney, having just emerged from the intensive care unit. His brother, Rabbi Mendel Super, expressed the Jewish community’s frustration over the government’s perceived lack of support and visibility following the tragedy.
Community Outrage and Government Response
Rabbi Super’s remarks underscore a broader sentiment within the Jewish community, which feels neglected by the government’s response. “There is so much anger and frustration that representatives of the government are nowhere to be seen,” he stated. The absence of the prime minister at the funerals of the victims, including that of 10-year-old Matilda, has been particularly contentious.
Prime Minister Albanese defended his actions, stating he would not attend funerals without invitations but emphasized his private meetings with victims’ families to respect their wishes. Despite this, Rabbi Super insists that the prime minister’s presence would have been a significant gesture of solidarity.
Legal Reforms and Addressing Antisemitism
In the wake of the attack, the Australian government has proposed legal reforms aimed at curbing hate speech and targeting radical preachers. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke announced plans to “shift the threshold” for hate speech laws, granting new powers to cancel or refuse visas based on antisemitism.
“We have no time for organisations where their mission is to hate Australia and to hate fellow Australians,” said Minister Burke.
These reforms come amid criticism that existing laws have not been effectively utilized to combat radical ideologies. Rabbi Super argues that the government had the tools to address these threats but failed to act decisively, which he believes contributed to the attack.
Historical Context and Future Implications
The Sydney attack has drawn comparisons to past incidents of mass violence in Australia, reigniting debates over national security and community safety. The Port Arthur massacre, which led to significant gun law reforms, serves as a historical benchmark for the current situation.
Prime Minister Albanese acknowledged the need for improvement in addressing antisemitism, admitting, “Of course more could have always been done. Governments aren’t perfect. I’m not perfect.” The proposed legal changes aim to strengthen the government’s ability to respond to hate speech and prevent future attacks.
As the community continues to mourn, the calls for political accountability and effective action against hate-driven violence grow louder. The government’s response in the coming weeks will be crucial in restoring public confidence and ensuring the safety of all Australians.
Rabbi Super’s call for the prime minister’s resignation reflects a deep-seated concern for the security of Jewish Australians. “If the prime minister cannot guarantee the security and the safety of Jewish Australians, if he’s not willing to deal with the elements and the radical ideologies that foment this hate, then the prime minister needs to step down,” he concluded.
