'Police every day': How school is different for Jewish Australian kids

At Jewish schools across Australia, the daily routine includes a police presence that has become an accepted norm. Principal Linda Emms of Emanuel School in Sydney described the situation as both heartwarming and deeply troubling. She noted that students greet police officers with fist bumps and friendly greetings, yet the necessity of such measures reflects a broader societal concern. The Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion heard testimony from Jewish school leaders who emphasized the emotional and financial toll of maintaining heightened security. In May 2024, an antisemitic graffiti attack occurred at Melbourne’s Mount Scopus Memorial College, underscoring the urgency of security measures. Principal Dan Sztrajt estimated that 10 to 15 percent of his work hours are dedicated to security, significantly impacting the school’s operations. He expressed frustration over the opportunity cost of focusing so heavily on safety, noting that this detracts from educational initiatives and student engagement. Parents bear the brunt of these expenses through annual security levies, which have surged by up to 250 percent since the Hamas attacks on Israel in October 2023. Government funding covers roughly 30 percent of the costs associated with school security, leaving the remaining burden on parents. Some families pay more than $1,000 annually for these levies, creating a financial strain. Principals warn that escalating costs could lead to a decline in enrollment, as some parents may opt for alternative schooling options. At Emanuel School, Ms. Emms highlighted the financial sacrifices made by families who choose Jewish education, emphasizing that many remain committed due to a sense of belonging and cultural identity. Tyson Wodak, president of Bialik College in Melbourne, shared concerns about the psychological effects of living in a secure environment. He noted that his children, like many others, internalize the idea that their lives are fundamentally different from those of non-Jewish peers. This perception can foster a sense of separation from the wider Australian community, raising questions about the long-term social implications of such measures. The Australian Council of Jewish Schools (ACJS) reported that 18 Jewish schools collectively spent $58 million on security between 2022 and 2025. Stephen Rothman from the ACJS remarked that the notion of “being Jewish” often comes with a hefty price tag, with resources typically allocated to security rather than other educational programs. He urged the government to provide more substantial support, arguing that Jewish schools should not be solely responsible for meeting these costs. Federal Education Minister Jason Clare did not respond directly to inquiries, though his office referenced additional security funding granted following the Bondi terror attack. This year’s budget includes a $124 million allocation over three years to the Executive Council of Australian Jewry (ECAJ), aimed at enhancing security measures, including at Jewish schools. While this represents a step toward addressing the issue, many argue that further action is necessary to ensure equitable support and reduce the financial burden on families. The Alice Springs (Mparntwe) Education Declaration, signed by all education ministers in 2019, outlines principles guiding efforts to create inclusive education systems. Despite these commitments, Jewish schools continue to face unique challenges, highlighting the ongoing disparity in resource distribution and the urgent need for comprehensive policy reforms. As discussions around security and funding persist, the experiences of Jewish students and families serve as a poignant reminder of the complex interplay between safety, identity, and societal inclusion.