Reflecting on Leadership and Accountability in the Face of Antisemitism

As we reflect on the last 15 months, we are confronted with a painful truth: the rise of antisemitism in Australia has reached unprecedented levels, and it’s time to ask ourselves—have our actions or inactions, contributed to this crisis?

In his article in the Australian Jewish News “If We Had Our Time Again,” Michael Scott, Founder of the 2023 Foundation, draws on the wisdom of Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning, urging us to examine our responses to the unfolding crisis through the lens of hindsight. Frankl’s advice, "Live as if you were living for the second time and as though you had acted wrongly the first time," calls on us to reflect deeply on our choices.

The events over the past year, including the horrific Hamas attack on Israel and the subsequent rise in antisemitic incidents, have left the Jewish community in Australia grappling with violence and fear. From the disturbing events surrounding the October 9, 2023, protest at the Sydney Opera House to the firebombing of a Melbourne synagogue, these incidents underscore a larger crisis—one in which antisemitism is allowed to thrive, unchecked, in some areas of society.

Scott highlights the need for decisive leadership in times of crisis. He suggests that accountability should not be just about symbolic gestures, but about taking meaningful, tangible actions to restore trust. He posits that had leaders acted swiftly and decisively in October 2023, the situation might have been different. A quick and firm condemnation of the antisemitic violence by both political leaders and law enforcement could have sent a clear message that such acts would not be tolerated. Instead, a lack of swift accountability allowed the crisis to escalate, leaving the Jewish community feeling vulnerable and betrayed.

Scott also critiques the broader political environment, pointing to troubling alliances between leftist academics, unions, and some politicians that have fostered an environment where antisemitism has been allowed to flourish. The silence of some major media outlets, including the ABC, on the rise of antisemitism in Australia has only further emboldened those seeking to harm the Jewish community. This inaction has allowed the “boiled frog syndrome” to take hold, where the dangers of antisemitism are ignored until it’s too late.

The responsibility to combat hate is not only the responsibility of Jewish Australians but of all Australians who value justice and safety. Now more than ever, decisive leadership is essential to restore security, trust, and safety for everyone in our nation. As Scott concludes, the time for reflection is now, and we must act before it’s too late.

Let us take this moment to reflect on the past, learn from it, and choose a different path for the future—one where justice, accountability, and a commitment to peace guide our actions.