Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday acknowledged shortcomings in tackling anti-Semitism days after a deadly terror attack on a Jewish festival in Sydney, vowing tougher action.
Speaking at the parliament in Canberra, Albanese said anyone in his position would regret not having done more and that the focus must now be on acting to prevent further incidents.
“Look, of course, more could have always been done. Governments aren’t perfect. I’m not perfect,” he said.
The prime minister announced “a package of legislative reforms to crack down on those who spread hate, division, and radicalisation” and said the government would also take a tougher stance under immigration law against people who spread hatred.
Albanese has faced criticism from Australia’s Jewish community, the opposition, and overseas figures, who have accused him of failing to do enough to protect Jewish Australians amid a rise in anti-Semitism in the country.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Albanese of fuelling anti-Semitism through his Middle East policy.
Australia formally recognised Palestine as a state in September, in line with the majority of United Nations member states.
On Sunday, two attackers opened fire on crowds celebrating the Jewish festival of Hanukkah at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, killing 15 people and wounding dozens.
Most of the victims were Jewish.
One of the attackers was shot dead by security forces, while the other, 24, was injured and later charged with 15 counts of murder and 40 counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent to murder.
Authorities say the attackers had links to the terrorist organisation Islamic State.
According to officials, several explosive devices and two homemade Islamic State flags were found in the 24-year-old’s car.
