The report proposes a sweeping set of reforms across education, public institutions, online spaces, media and immigration to “push (antisemitism) to the margins of society."
“The plan is an overarching one covering many areas where urgent action is needed,” Segal said in a news conference on Thursday. “We have seen cars being torched, synagogues being torched, individual Jews harassed and attacked. That is completely unacceptable.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government welcomed the plan and would consider Segal’s recommendations.
“There's a number of things that can be implemented quickly,” he said. “There are a number of things that will require work over a period of time.”
“This is something that government needs to work with civil society on at all levels.”
The report singled out universities as a central focus of reform, warning antisemitism had become “ingrained and normalized” in the sector.
It recommended universities face a “report card” system that assessed whether their campuses were safe for Jewish students and staff.
It said universities that failed to act on antisemitism should have funding withheld, and grants to researchers or academics should also be terminated if they engaged in antisemitic conduct or hate speech.
Universities Australia, which represents the country's 39 universities, said it would work with its members to consider the recommendations.
"Academic freedom and freedom of expression are core to the university mission, but they must be exercised with responsibility and never as a cover for hate or harassment," said CEO Luke Sheehy.
In February, Universities Australia's members agreed to adopt a new definition of antisemitism after consultation with Segal.
The report also said funding for cultural bodies and festivals should be cut if they promoted or failed to address antisemitism.
It also called for visa applicants to be screened for antisemitic affiliations. “Non-citizens involved in antisemitism should face visa cancellation and removal from Australia,” it said.
