Still ‘very volatile’ for Jews’ safety

By the Editorial Team · Friday, October 9, 2026

Australia’s Federal Police Commissioner Reece Kershaw warned that Jewish communities face ongoing safety risks amid rising antisemitism, evolving terror threats, and the increasing use of AI by organized crime. He highlighted that international conflicts and growing political extremism complicate domestic security efforts, with the AFP preparing to adapt as it awaits a forthcoming report from the national antisemitism royal commission.

Australia’s top law enforcement official has highlighted ongoing concerns about the safety of Jewish communities amid a volatile security environment marked by rising antisemitism and complex terror threats.

AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw, reflecting on his first year leading the Australian Federal Police, emphasized the evolving nature of criminal activities, pointing to the growing use of artificial intelligence by organized criminal networks. According to Kershaw, these networks are leveraging AI to expand their operations in scale, reach, and anonymity, with particular concern around the exploitation of children through online sexual abuse.

The commissioner also forecasted an increase in politically motivated targeting, citing a rising number of individuals harboring grievances against political figures. He lamented a decline in respectful public discourse, noting that extreme views have become more prevalent in recent years.

Islamic fundamentalism remains the primary terrorism threat facing Australia, Kershaw said, with local sympathies for groups such as Hamas persisting despite global conflicts. He specifically referenced the ongoing conflict involving Iran as a factor that adds complexity to domestic counterterrorism efforts. The intersecting international tensions contribute to a "volatile mixture," compounding risks attributable to foreign interference affecting security within Australia.

Addressing the threat of antisemitism, the commissioner described it as a sensitive and pressing issue that continues to challenge law enforcement. "Jews in particular are being targeted," he said, underscoring the ongoing risks faced by the Jewish community.

Kershaw also acknowledged that the forthcoming report from the national antisemitism royal commission is expected to generate debate and opposition in some quarters, though he personally does not anticipate resistance from the AFP itself.

Overall, the commissioner’s remarks illustrate a security landscape marked by heightened challenges spanning cyber-enabled crime, politically motivated hostility, and enduring radical terrorism threats. The AFP remains focused on adapting its capabilities to respond to these evolving risks while safeguarding vulnerable communities.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.