The Sydney Jewish Museum has secured $5.2 million from the NSW and federal governments for a new Centre for Education Against Antisemitism.
The museum said each government would contribute $2.6 million towards redevelopment work, including new galleries examining contemporary antisemitism.
The NSW contribution was announced last month as part of an $8.3 million support package for the Jewish and Bondi communities following the Bondi Beach terrorist attack. The NSW Government said the museum funding would support redevelopment and additional exhibitions aimed at building awareness and social cohesion.
Museum president Greg Shand said the funding recognised the national importance of its education programs.
“Given the Sydney Jewish Museum’s role as a leading educator on social cohesion and anti-racism, we have prioritised our focus on the rise in antisemitism in Australia since October 2023,” Shand said.
“Support of this nature by both levels of governments reflects a strong endorsement of the national importance of our work.”
The project will convert the museum’s basement into new exhibition areas as part of its broader redevelopment. Building approval has been granted, and construction is under way.
NSW Premier Chris Minns said the government was investing in programs aimed at confronting antisemitism as well as supporting community safety.
“The scourge of antisemitism in our community must be eradicated, so we’re not just investing in community safety support but also in programs that tackle antisemitism,” Minns said.
The museum is also working on a separate national initiative to provide antisemitism education and training for adults.
Shand said the museum would help develop and deliver the programs.
“This initiative will significantly extend our reach, deepen our impact and enable us to contribute to a coordinated national response to antisemitism,” he said.
The museum has made a confidential submission to the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion outlining the financial, operational and psychological effects of rising antisemitism on its staff and volunteers.