Addressing hundreds of mourners, Frydenberg, a member of the Jewish community, delivered a powerful message that echoed the sentiment of many: “We, as a Jewish community, have been abandoned and left alone by our government.” His words struck a chord with those gathered, reflecting a deep frustration with the current state of affairs.
Frydenberg didn’t mince words as he criticized the government’s handling of antisemitism. “Our governments have failed every Australian when it comes to fighting hate and antisemitism,” he asserted, pointing to what he perceives as a lack of decisive action and leadership.
He held the prime minister accountable, stating, “Our prime minister, our government, has allowed Australia to be radicalised on his watch.” This, Frydenberg argued, is a critical issue that demands immediate attention and responsibility from those in power.
His call to action was unequivocal: “It is time our prime minister accepted accountability for what has happened here and it’s time our leaders stood up and led at last.” The urgency in his voice highlighted the need for a stronger stand against hate-fueled actions.
Frydenberg expressed profound anger and sorrow, describing the recent attack as the “greatest stain on this nation.” His emotional address served not only as a moment of mourning but also as a stern warning. “I’m here to mourn, but I am also here to warn,” he declared, emphasizing the importance of addressing these issues head-on to prevent further tragedies.
“I’m here to mourn, but I am also here to warn,” he said.
“Unless our governments, federal and state, take urgent, unprecedented and strong action, as night follows day, we will be back grieving the loss of innocent life in another terrorist attack in our country.”
Frydenberg called for a royal commission into antisemitism, with his speech met with applause from onlookers.
He encouraged the government to “ban the hate preachers” following media reporting the linked one of the alleged shooters to an extremist preacher.
“The shooter, here, who did this, was linked to a factory of hate in Bankstown. How can that factory of hate be allowed to open its doors for one day more? I say no, I say never,” Frydenberg said.
— Miles Proust
