01/23/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/22/2025 23:25
Thursday, 23 January 2025 04:06:42 PM
Issued on behalf of all Australian Police Commissioners
All Australian Police Commissioners met yesterday (Wednesday 22 January 2025) to discuss the recent rise in antisemitism and prejudice-motivated and hate crime incidents in some communities.
Of significance was the agreement to establish a dedicated antisemitism coordination group comprised of a Deputy Commissioner from each jurisdiction. This will work to consolidate existing joint arrangements and ensure a specific formal forum for collaboration on this issue.
The group will meet monthly to share information and intelligence and, where appropriate, use existing national arrangements to assist with both active investigations and proactive operations that may transcend state borders. While each agency is well equipped to deal with matters in their jurisdiction, the sharing of intelligence and information is invaluable and Australian agencies have used this approach for many years with great success.
Commissioners discussed the unique role police play in making the diverse communities of Australia feel safe through high visibility policing, direct community engagement and robust investigations. Commissioners agreed there has never been a greater need for law enforcement agencies to focus on the core role of policing - to reduce crime and the fear of crime, and to ensure community safety and that all communities feel safe. This is the foundation Australian policing is built on.
Ongoing engagement with the Jewish community, as well as the many diverse communities that call Australia home, will continue to be prioritised by all jurisdictions.
Commissioners strongly denounce antisemitism and condemn prejudice-motivated and hate crimes of any kind, which threaten the unique cultural fabric of Australia.