Australia Plans University Funding Cuts Over Rising Antisemitism

Australia's special envoy on antisemitism, Jillian Segal, has proposed a comprehensive plan to combat rising antisemitism, including cutting funding to universities and cultural institutions that fail to act against antisemitism or engage in hate speech. The plan, prompted by a sharp increase in antisemitic incidents since Israel's war in Gaza began in 2023, recommends a 'report card' system to assess university campuses' safety for Jewish students and staff, alongside potential funding termination for non-compliance. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has welcomed the report and indicated that some recommendations could be implemented quickly, while emphasizing that legitimate criticism of Israel's government is not antisemitism if expressed respectfully. The plan also calls for screening visa applicants and non-citizens for extremist views, banning AI tools from spreading Jewish hatred, and monitoring media coverage to counter misinformation. Segal highlighted that antisemitism has become ingrained in academia and cultural spaces, warning that young Australians are exposed to disinformation about Jews. Albanese stressed the need for a long-term, collaborative approach involving various levels of government and civil society to effectively address antisemitism in Australia.