One of Australia’s most prominent Jewish business leaders has called on the federal government to take stronger action against rising antisemitism, warning that failure to protect the country’s Jewish community carries serious moral and economic consequences.
In comments published by The Australian on Sunday, billionaire real estate developer and philanthropist Harry Triguboff said the government had fallen short in responding to escalating antisemitic incidents, particularly following the deadly attack on a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach in December.
“The government has not done enough to crack down on antisemitism,” Triguboff said. “Australia was once known as the least antisemitic country in the world. If Australia becomes antisemitic, people don’t want to do business here. That affects everyone, not only Jews.”
The December 14 attack at a communal Hanukkah event left 15 people dead, including an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor and a 10-year-old girl, sending shockwaves through Australia’s Jewish community and drawing international condemnation.
Triguboff described the attack as “terrible” and “unbelievable,” adding that it underscored the urgent need for stronger leadership and enforcement from authorities.
Born to Russian Jewish parents in China, Triguboff immigrated to Australia with his family in the aftermath of World War II. In 1963, he founded Meriton, which has since become Australia’s largest apartment developer. His personal net worth is estimated at $31.5 billion, making him one of the country’s wealthiest individuals.
Beyond business, Triguboff is widely known for his philanthropy and longstanding support for Jewish and communal causes, including the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM). His eldest daughter, Dr. Orna Triguboff, serves on CAM’s Advisory Board in Australia.
Yigal Nisell, Executive Director of CAM Australia, praised Triguboff for speaking out, saying his intervention highlighted a broader national responsibility.
“Mr. Triguboff’s powerful and timely message is one that needs to be heard,” Yigal Nisell said. “Standing up to antisemitism is not just a Jewish concern; it is a shared Australian responsibility. By speaking out, he is showing the moral leadership and courage that have been lacking in the government’s response to the spread of antisemitism in recent years.”
Nisell added that decisive action was now required at all levels of government to ensure the safety and future of Australia’s Jewish citizens.
“We hope this call will be heeded,” he said, “and that real, sustained action will follow.”