In an extraordinary personal censure, Australia’s Jewish community effectively denied Anthony Albanese the role of being the nation’s chief public mourner in this week of national tragedy.
In such circumstances, a prime minister would normally attend the funerals of the victims, especially those of a rabbi and a ten-year-old child. But Albanese knew he was not wanted, and indeed might receive a hostile reception. Contrast the warmth of feeling for New South Wales Premier Chris Minns, who was at both services.
The prime minister made much of his contact more privately. He visited the home of a rabbi, where there were direct relatives of two people who’d been killed and people with children who had been wounded. There was some frank discussion. He spoke to others, in long conversations, by phone.
