by Jodie Hoff
Executive Director
National Dialogue on Addressing Antisemitism in Australian Schools
On 17 March, I joined education leaders from across government and non-government sectors gathered at the NSW Department of Education for a national dialogue on addressing antisemitism in Australian schools. The conversation brought together educators, policymakers and community leaders to reflect on the responsibility schools carry in shaping safe, respectful and informed communities.
The dialogue sits within a broader national strategy led by the Australian Government and supported by the Antisemitism Education Taskforce, chaired by David Gonski. This work aligns with the UNESCO framework for Global Citizenship and Holocaust Education, which emphasises education as a foundation for human rights, social cohesion and peace.
Across the discussion there was shared recognition that schools are not only places where young people gain knowledge, but where they learn how to live well with others. As a panel member suggested, “In a time when divisions can be amplified in public discourse, forming students who can listen deeply, think critically and act with dignity is more important than ever.”
Independent School Associations in every state will keep schools informed of the progress being made with this work.
A pilot program is currently underway in 20 schools across New South Wales and Victoria, focusing on teacher training and practical classroom resources. The early feedback from this pilot is encouraging, and the insights shared during the Dialogue will help shape how the taskforce scale and roll-out this effort nationally. Trials in the other States and Territories will start later in the year. The outcomes from the trials will also inform the work of the Australian Government’s Antisemitism Education Taskforce and contribute to future curriculum and national school initiatives.