Labor MP Josh Burns has told the royal commission into antisemitism and social cohesion that his non-Jewish partner, Victorian MP Georgie Purcell, faces antisemitic abuse because he is Jewish. Burns, who represents the federal seat of Macnamara, said that while he and his office receive thousands of abusive messages, Purcell is also targeted due to her association with him.
Abuse Includes Misogyny and Sexualised Threats
During his testimony, Burns detailed the nature of the abuse directed at Purcell, who is a member of the Victorian Parliament for the Animal Justice Party. 'She gets a layer of misogyny and a layer of sort of violent, sexualised comments on top of it as well,' he said. Burns emphasised that the abuse is directly linked to his Jewish identity, with perpetrators targeting Purcell as a way to attack him.
Context of Rising Antisemitism
The royal commission, established to investigate antisemitism and social cohesion in Australia, has heard from multiple witnesses about the surge in antisemitic incidents. Burns’ testimony comes amid heightened concerns following the Bondi beach terror attack and ongoing debates about religious tolerance. According to Burns, the abuse against Purcell exemplifies how antisemitism intersects with other forms of bigotry.
Impact on Political Families
Burns noted that the abuse has a significant impact on his family, including Purcell, who is not Jewish but is targeted because of her relationship with him. He called for greater awareness and action to protect political figures and their families from such harassment. The commission continues to hear evidence from community leaders and victims of antisemitic abuse.
