Mark Speakman NSW
Leader of the Opposition
Mark Coure
Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism
Kellie Sloane
Member for Vaucluse
The NSW Opposition has condemned the vile and hateful rally by the National Socialist Network outside NSW Parliament, where 67 men dressed in black stood under a banner calling to “abolish the Jewish lobby” and shouted antisemitic abuse.
This event was not legitimate free speech but a calculated act of hate that must be investigated for breach of Section 93ZAA of the Crimes Act 1900.
Opposition Leader Mark Speakman said seeing 67 black-shirt men outside the NSW Parliament, surrounding an “Abolish the Jewish Lobby” banner and shouting hate , was a new low in intimidating, and instilling fear in, our Jewish community.
“There must be zero tolerance. The time for warnings is over,” Mr Speakman said.
“Chris Minns told us that the disgraceful antisemitic scenes we saw on the steps of the Opera House would never be tolerated again. The Premier, the Police Minister and the Police Commissioner must explain how, on their watch, something as vile and coded as calling for “abolishing” a “Jewish lobby” has been allowed to occur outside the cradle of democracy in NSW. The symbolism is appalling.”
Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism Mark Coure said what happened on Macquarie Street was disgraceful.
“Hate speech is a crime. The Jewish community and every Australian deserve to see those laws enforced, not ignored,” Mr Coure said.
Member for Vaucluse Kellie Sloane said our Jewish community should never have to live with fear.
“These men do not represent New South Wales or Australia. They represent hate, and it has no place here,” Ms Sloane said.
New South Wales must not be intimidated by men in black attempting to divide communities. The laws exist to protect peace, not to shelter hate.
There is no excuse and no time to waste. Those responsible must be held accountable.