Key Takeaways
- Mark Dreyfus, former attorney general, advocates for restrictions on protests near Jewish institutions.
- He cites a high court decision that upheld similar laws outside abortion clinics.
- The move aims to reduce distress and anxiety at synagogues and Jewish schools.
Former Australian Attorney General Mark Dreyfus has called for the implementation of protest bans near synagogues and Jewish schools, drawing parallels with existing restrictions on protests outside abortion clinics. In a statement made during an antisemitism royal commission hearing, Dreyfus cited a 2019 high court decision that upheld safe access zone laws in Victoria and Tasmania, which prohibit demonstrations within 150 metres of such facilities.
Dreyfus argued that similar measures could be effective in reducing the distress and anxiety experienced by members of the Jewish community. 'We need to consider whether we can apply some of these principles to protect people from antisemitic abuse,' he stated, emphasizing the need for proactive legislation to safeguard communities against harassment.
The former Labor backbencher highlighted his personal experience during the royal commission, where he was labeled a 'genocidal Zionist' by some participants. This incident underscored the severity of the issue and the potential impact of such measures on community safety and well-being. Dreyfus stressed that the proposed bans would not infringe upon legitimate protest rights but rather aim to create safe spaces for Jewish individuals.
In his remarks, Dreyfus noted that the high court decision had been successful in protecting women's access to abortion services while maintaining public order. He suggested that a similar approach could be beneficial in addressing antisemitic abuse and ensuring the security of Jewish institutions. 'The principles behind these laws can be adapted to protect other vulnerable communities,' he explained, advocating for a balanced approach that respects freedom of speech while safeguarding community safety.
Dreyfus's call for action comes at a time when incidents of antisemitism have been on the rise in Australia and around the world. The royal commission has been investigating various forms of hate crimes and discrimination against Jewish communities, with Dreyfus's proposal being one of several recommendations aimed at mitigating these issues.
While the implementation of such laws would require legislative changes, Dreyfus believes that they could significantly reduce the incidence of antisemitic abuse. 'The goal is to create a more inclusive and respectful society where everyone feels safe,' he said, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts between government bodies and community leaders in addressing this pressing issue.
The proposal has garnered attention from various stakeholders within the Jewish community and broader public sphere. Some have welcomed Dreyfus's initiative as a step towards greater protection, while others remain cautious about potential infringements on free speech. Nevertheless, the ex-attorney general remains optimistic that his recommendations will be taken seriously by policymakers.
'We need to consider whether we can apply some of these principles to protect people from antisemitic abuse.'
Mark Dreyfus, former Attorney General, Ex-Attorney General
