Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has used Holocaust Memorial Day to warn that antisemitism is on the rise in Australia and that Holocaust denial is increasing globally. Speaking to Melbourne radio station 3AW, he called on all good people to 'take on hate wherever we see it'.
Frydenberg noted that memories of the Holocaust are fading as survivors age, making education crucial. He cited antisemitic acts against children in Victorian schools, including children as young as five, and swastikas daubed on Jewish-owned businesses and even a theatre production of Anne Frank.
The treasurer highlighted historical revisionism, pointing to Iran's conference denying the Holocaust. He emphasised the need for Holocaust remembrance and education, as well as promoting tolerance and diversity to combat hate.
Frydenberg praised Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews for requiring high school students to study the Holocaust but suggested more nationwide action is needed. The Morrison government plans to establish a Holocaust museum in Canberra with the ACT government.
His comments come amid rising concern about rightwing extremism. The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation reported that far-right violent extremism now constitutes up to 40% of its counter-terrorism caseload, a significant increase. Asio has labelled it an 'enduring threat' that is 'real and growing', with the pandemic contributing to radicalisation due to increased time online.
A federal inquiry will investigate the rise of extremism in Australia, following a motion by Labor MP Anne Aly and agreement from Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton.
