One of Australia’s most prominent Jewish business leaders has urged the federal government to take more decisive action against antisemitism, warning that rising hostility towards Jews threatens both social cohesion and Australia’s international standing, reports The Jerusalem Post.
Speaking to The Australian, billionaire property developer and philanthropist Harry Triguboff said the government’s response to increasing antisemitic incidents had been inadequate, particularly following the deadly attack on a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach in December.
“The government has not done enough to crack down on antisemitism,” Triguboff said. Australia was once known as the least antisemitic country in the world. If Australia becomes antisemitic, people don’t want to do business here. That affects everyone, not only Jews.”
The attack on 14 December, which targeted a communal Hanukkah event, left 15 people dead, including an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor and a 10-year-old girl. The incident sent shockwaves through Australia’s Jewish community and drew international condemnation.
Triguboff described the attack as “terrible” and “unbelievable,” saying it highlighted the urgent need for more decisive leadership, better enforcement of existing laws, and improved security for Jewish institutions and events.
Born to Russian Jewish parents in China, Triguboff migrated to Australia with his family after the Second World War. In 1963, he founded Meriton, which has grown into Australia’s largest apartment development company. His personal wealth is estimated at approximately $31.5 billion.
Alongside his business career, Triguboff is widely recognised for his philanthropy and long-standing support for Jewish communal causes, including the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM). His eldest daughter, Dr Orna Triguboff, serves on CAM’s Advisory Board in Australia.
Yigal Nisell, Executive Director of CAM Australia, welcomed Triguboff’s public intervention, describing it as a necessary call for national responsibility.
“Mr Triguboff’s message is both powerful and timely,” Nisell said. “Standing up to antisemitism is not only a Jewish concern; it is a shared Australian responsibility. By speaking out, he is showing the moral leadership and courage that have been lacking in the government’s response to the spread of antisemitism in recent years.”
Nisell added that decisive and sustained action was now required at all levels of government to ensure the safety, confidence, and future of Australia’s Jewish community.
Photo credit: REUTERS/HOLLIE ADAMS
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