1 week Ago
Peter Dutton has promised that an elected Coalition federal government would match an existing $8.5 million commitment by the NSW Government to the Sydney Jewish Museum (SJM). The pledge was announced during his visit to the museum on Tuesday, accompanied by Senator James Paterson, Liberal Candidate for Wentworth Ro Knox, and Berowra MP Julian Leeser.
The major refurbishment and expansion project at the SJM’s Darlinghurst site will include a Centre of Jewish Life and Tolerance, and an upgrade of the Holocaust exhibition area. Set for completion in 2027, it will enable the museum to accommodate nearly twice as many visitors annually by 2032. Dutton said, “Firstly, thank you to the survivors and to the volunteers here at the museum – people who convey their stories and provide an opportunity for young minds to hear a balanced version of history, and an understanding of the past tragedies, and what we can learn from those”.
“It seems, for many, that has been lost, so the work of the museum becomes even more important.” Dutton said he hoped that by making this announcement now, that the government would match the Coalition’s promise, “so that regardless of the outcome at the next federal election, there is a commitment to this project becoming a reality.” “Young Australians .
. . whatever their religion, belief, or none at all, will walk away from this historic, monumental place, with a more informed perspective – one that will allow them to join the fight against antisemitism, which we must all commit and recommit ourselves to today.
“There is a huge opportunity for us in this country – a sliding doors moment I think – to stare down the antisemitism.” “We need to make sure that it provides us with the resolve to make sure that better days are ahead, that children can feel safe, that armed guards are no longer required at places of worship, at synagogues, or at [Jewish] schools.” Paterson, Knox, and Dutton all emphasised how that, at a time in which there has been hateful protests, vandalism and harassment, and a surge in reported antisemitic incidents of more than 700 per cent since October 7 last year, “The urgent need for education is clear, and this investment [in the SJM] will be crucial in helping foster greater understanding, and ensuring we stand firmly against division and hate”.
They added, the museum’s major upgrade project will also focus on celebrating “the extensive contributions Jewish Australians have made in areas including art, science, commerce, culture, food, and film”..
