Waverley Council Mayor, Will Nemesh, has unveiled the council’s Model Antisemitism Strategy to delegates at the Mayors Summit Against Antisemitism on the Gold Coast this week.
The Mayor says the Australian-first strategy is a new resource to help councils across the country address antisemitism and strengthen community cohesion. It includes practical advice on strategy development and content that can be adapted to local contexts, he said.
The document draws on Waverley Council’s adopted Strategy to Combat Antisemitism, developed in consultation with local Jewish community representatives.
“Antisemitism is rising in many communities across Australia and as the level of government most connected to the community, councils have a big role to play,” Mayor Nemesh said.
“Developing a local antisemitism strategy supports broader council commitments to anti-racism, social cohesion and community safety.”
The Model makes it easier for councils to respond to antisemitism in their communities, he said.
“Councils are committed to diversity, safety and inclusion, but it is not always clear where to start when it comes to antisemitism. This Model helps councils to take action and show leadership in combating hate and promoting inclusion.”
The Strategy includes a comprehensive explanation of antisemitism, hate crimes and hate incidents, and provides guidance on how to develop locally-relevant initiatives.
View the 28-page Model Antisemitism Strategy here.
