Prime Minister and Foreign Minister defend Labor’s focus on unity, while the opposition presses for stronger actions against growing anti-Semitism.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pledged full support to the Australian Federal Police (AFP) in their investigation of two New South Wales health workers, who threatened to refuse treatment to Israeli patients.
The incident, which has sparked widespread outrage, has dominated national political discussions.
In his response to mounting pressure, Albanese condemned the actions of the health workers, describing their comments as “driven by hate” and “disgusting.”
“It is very clear to me that these people have committed crimes, and they should face the full force of the law,” Albanese said, confirming that the individuals involved had been stood down, and the case had been referred to New South Wales Police for a criminal investigation.
The Prime Minister also stated that he had personally spoken with the AFP Commissioner and offered any assistance required in the investigation.
Heated Debate in Parliament
The controversy has led to significant political debate, with the opposition demanding swift action on anti-Semitism in Australia.
Liberal MP Julian Leeser highlighted the growing issue of harassment faced by Jewish Australians over the last 15 months since the October 7 Hamas attacks.
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In the Senate, Foreign Minister Penny Wong also condemned the actions of the health workers.
“We are a nation that prides itself on being welcoming and respectful of people from all faiths and all cultural backgrounds,” Wong said. “The comments are inconsistent with who we are as a country.”
While Senator Michaelia Cash called for a National Cabinet meeting to address the issue, Wong did not commit to this, reiterating that the government had been in regular contact with state and territory leaders regarding the issue of anti-Semitism.
“We know that Jewish Australians have been targeted,” she said.
“People in this country have a right not only to be safe but to feel safe, and we all have a role to play in ensuring that.”
Wong Turns Tables on Coalition, Defends Labor’s Focus on Unity
The debate intensified when Attorney General Mark Dreyfus criticised the Coalition for politicising the matter.
“I do not need the Leader of the Opposition or any of those opposite to tell me what anti-Semitism is or how seriously I should take it,” he said on Feb. 10.
Liberal MP Michael Sukkar, the Manager of Opposition Business, interjected and insisted that Dreyfus withdraw his comments.
The exchange highlighted the mounting tension between the government and the opposition on how to address the rising anti-Semitism in the country.
