Inside politics: Was Albanese’s response to the synagogue attack really that bad?
Dec 12, 2024
auto_awesome
David Crowe, Chief Political Correspondent, and Paul Sakkal, Political Correspondent, dissect the political chaos following the firebombing of the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne. They analyze Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's controversial response to the anti-Semitic attacks and the political ramifications, questioning his leadership capabilities. The discussion also touches on opposition leader Peter Dutton's tactics and the criticism he faces for lacking bipartisanship. Additionally, they explore upcoming government childcare policy changes aimed at universal access.
Prime Minister Albanese's delayed response to the synagogue attack raised concerns about his leadership and commitment to combating anti-Semitism.
Labor's new childcare policy aims to support families by providing subsidies, reflecting the government's dedication to addressing key social issues despite current political turmoil.
Deep dives
Anti-Semitic Attacks Prompt Outrage
Recent anti-Semitic attacks in Melbourne, including the firebombing of the Adas Israel Synagogue, have caused nationwide outrage and significant political fallout. The attack has been classified as terrorism, highlighting its ideological motivations, and has drawn the attention of both Victorian and Federal counter-terrorism teams. This incident not only produced a strong condemnation from political leaders across the spectrum but also raised questions about the adequacy of their responses. The timing of the Prime Minister's activities during this crisis, particularly his attendance at social events, has contributed to criticisms regarding his leadership and urgency in addressing anti-Semitism.
Political Responses and Blame Game
Following the synagogue attack, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's response faced scrutiny for being too delayed or insufficiently robust, especially amid criticism from opposition leader Peter Dutton and others. Albanese's condemnation arrived swiftly but was overshadowed by his scheduled commitments in Perth, including social activities that some viewed as inappropriate given the circumstances. The opposition seized this moment to portray the Prime Minister as weak and out of touch, exacerbated by the ongoing debates regarding Labor's positioning on Israel. The interplay between local violence and international political narratives has created a challenging atmosphere for Albanese, as he attempts to project authority and unity in the face of rising anti-Semitism.
Childcare Policy Amidst Political Turmoil
In the midst of these political controversies, the government unveiled a significant childcare policy that aims to provide support to families by subsidizing child care for up to three days a week. This policy, which eliminates the activity test requirement, will allow even high-earning families access to childcare subsidies, marking a progressive step towards more universal childcare in Australia. The initiative, backed by economic recommendations, is designed to boost workforce participation and address the rising costs of family care. While the policy announcement may have been somewhat overshadowed by current events, it reflects Labor's commitment to addressing critical family issues ahead of forthcoming elections.
This week was dominated by the appalling anti-Semitic attack on the Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea in Melbourne’s south-east. There followed more attacks in Sydney - A car was torched in the Eastern suburbs, where there is a strong Jewish community, and houses there were graffitied with anti-Israel slogans.
The violence was followed by political conflict. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was accused of not doing enough to quell anti-Semitism and make Jewish Australians safe. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton was accused of politicising the whole issue.
So could the PM have handled the week better? And what did his handling of the firebombing tell us about his powers of leadership? Will Dutton get any blowback for his lack of bipartisanship over the issue?
Plus, Peter Dutton’s rejection of the Aboriginal flag, and Labor’s childcare policy.
Joining Jacqueline Maley to discuss is chief political correspondent David Crowe and political correspondent Paul Sakkal.