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President Hugh de Kretser, Race Discrimination Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman, and Human Rights Commissioner Lorraine Finlay today condemned the suspected arson attack on the Adass Israel synagogue in the Melbourne suburb of Ripponlea.  

“This attack which targets a place of worship for the Jewish community is horrific. We condemn it in the strongest possible terms,” Commissioner Sivaraman said.

“We are deeply concerned that this destructive and violent act will cause fear and intimidation and exacerbate trauma for the Jewish community.  

“Antisemitism is abhorrent. It is a form of racism which has no place in Australia. This attack is the latest incident in a trend of significant rises in antisemitism.

“Everyone should feel safe to freely practice their faith, without fear of persecution, intimidation, violence or discrimination.

“Just last week the Commission launched our National Anti-Racism Framework which outlines a comprehensive approach for eliminating racism in Australia.

“This incident highlights the need for governments across the country to embrace the Framework’s recommendations so we can make Australia a more just, equitable and inclusive society where everyone can be safe, belong and thrive.

Victoria Police is investigating the attack and has indicated they believe the attack was intentional and targeted.

ENDS | Media contact: media@humanrights.gov.au or 0457 281 897 (calls only, no texts please)