Royal Commission Examines Police Responses, Security Funding, and Antisemitism Concerns in Australia
NSW Police Deputy Commissioner David Hudson has rejected proposals to allow Jewish community groups to establish their own armed security at events, warning it could fuel accusations of favouritism and deepen societal divisions.The decision comes amid ongoing concerns over antisemitism and the need for coordinated security measures following the 2025 Bondi Beach massacre.
Hudson emphasized that existing police resources, including a new 24-hour armed response command with 225 officers and 28 intelligence analysts, are better suited to protect Jewish communities.
He acknowledged potential discrepancies in threat assessments between police and community groups like the Jewish Community Security Group (CSG), but stressed that police remain responsible for safeguarding all citizens under the Police Act.
The new armed response unit, set to deploy by October 2026, will collaborate with CSG during major events, integrating local intelligence into security planning.
Hudson also highlighted the importance of maintaining public trust in police impartiality, rejecting the notion that private armed groups could replace official security measures.The debate reflects broader tensions over balancing community safety, antisemitism, and the role of private security in public events.