Recently, I attended the 2025 Australian Mayors Summit Against Antisemitism, held on the Gold Coast, chaired by Mayor Tom Tate, and hosted by the Combat Antisemitism Movement. The event attracted over 250 mayors and councillors from across Australia – from Melbourne to Mount Isa, with speakers including mayors, politicians, a Holocaust survivor, and former extremists, all discussing the concerning rise of antisemitism.
The summit underscored a vital point: local government isn’t on the sidelines in the fight against antisemitism. Councils are often on the frontlines, shaping the spaces where communities learn, gather, and live.
Why Antisemitism Must Concern Christians
Antisemitism is more than just a political or cultural problem. It is a profoundly spiritual matter. The Psalms provides an encouragement to pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6).
When Jewish communities are targeted, it’s not just an attack on them but also on the core values of freedom, human dignity, and neighbourly love that form the foundation of society.
Holocaust survivor Suzi Smeed, who has dedicated her life to teaching the lesson of “never again,” and October 7 – Nova Music Festival survivor, Natalie Sanandaji, both reminded summit delegates that hatred, when unchecked, leads to atrocities and destruction. Their testimonies clearly showed what history has already taught us: antisemitism is a toxin that damages every person, and the community it infects.
The Role of Local Councils
Local councils are well-positioned to respond. They manage the public spaces, libraries, and community programs where intolerance either grows or is challenged. They set the tone for civic life.
Waverley Council in Sydney, with a Jewish population of around 16%, recently launched Australia’s first Local Government Strategy to Combat Antisemitism. Glen Eira Council in Melbourne, with a Jewish population exceeding 17%, was the first Victorian council to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism in 2022.
These measures offer practical frameworks for identifying and responding to antisemitism—and act as models for other councils across Australia.
The Power of Truth
The summit served as a reminder of the power of truth. Jeff Schoep, once the leader of America’s largest neo-Nazi organisation, and Mubin Shaikh, a former Islamic jihadist, both testified that hatred can be unlearned and that redemption is achievable. Their journeys reflect the Gospel truth that no one is beyond God’s grace. This is why Christians must be active in civic life—not only to oppose evil but also to demonstrate hope, forgiveness, and reconciliation.
Engaging: Never Again Means Action Now
The summit underscored the pressing need for Christians to engage more actively with local government. Councils may seem like the lowest tier of government, but they hold significant influence over community culture.
I want to encourage my fellow Christians not only to discuss strategies with their councillors to combat antisemitism, but also to prayerfully consider whether God is calling them to serve in local government themselves. When believers enter civic leadership, they bring a commitment to truth, justice, and the protection of the vulnerable.
The phrase “never again” is more than a slogan—it is a duty. Christians need to play our part in guiding these decisions, both as advocates and as leaders.
In Jeremiah 29:7, God commands His people in exile to “seek the welfare of the city.” Today, that means ensuring Jewish Australians—and all minorities—can live and worship freely, without fear. It also means ensuring our councils can set the moral tone that protects freedom of religion, strengthens families, and defends the values we hold dear.
I believe antisemitism tests our moral courage. For me, as a Christian, the moment to act is now:
- engage your council
- speak out for your neighbours
- consider standing for public office
Together, with Jesus’ help, we can make sure hatred has no place in our communities.
