In response to a rise in antisemitic incidents in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, former NSW Police fraud squad inspector Michael Gerondis has stepped up security around his Vaucluse home.
Although not Jewish, Gerondis has installed additional security cameras and motion sensors in visible locations to deter hate-driven attacks.
“As long as it’s obvious that there are cameras, it’s a deterrent. It’s become essential with the attacks,” he said.
His actions come after a series of antisemitic incidents, including the recent attack on the Only About Children childcare centre in Maroubra, where the building was set ablaze and defaced with the words “F— the Jews.”
Gerondis criticised the federal government’s slow response to the rising threat, saying this was one reason he felt compelled to act.
“There’s a high percentage of Jews here. It’s random, but they’re still sending a message of hate so no one is safe,” Gerondis said.
The Community Security Group (CSG) has also increased security measures, including a 24/7 operations centre and additional patrols.
Gerondis praised the federal government’s recent actions but emphasised the need for faster responses to protect communities from such hate crimes.
Source: AFR.
