7am Albanese's plan to tackle anti-semitism
Dec 19, 2025
Veteran journalist Paul Bongiorno provides insight into the fallout from the Bondi terror attack, emphasizing the shock and grief felt by the Jewish community. He critiques the quick politicization of the tragedy, contrasting Albanese's call for unity with past leadership decisions, notably John Howard's handling of crises. Paul discusses Albanese's five-point plan to combat anti-Semitism, highlighting the delicate balance between free speech and hate laws. He calls for a more compassionate political discourse to support healing in the community.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Crisis Revealed Political Division
- The Bondi attack exposed deep political divisions rather than uniting leaders as expected.
- Paul Bongiorno says crisis revealed how modern politics often prioritises advantage over unity.
Susan Ley's Shift After Party Pressure
- Paul recounts Susan Ley's initial unifying statement after the attack and how party pressure forced a harder line.
- He says internal Liberal criticism pushed Ley to shift from support to blaming the government.
Howard's Past Leadership Versus Today
- John Howard's interventions were political and contrasted with his past crisis leadership at Port Arthur.
- Paul argues Howard's Port Arthur response showed decisive national leadership that current interventions lack.