MEDIA STATEMENT
Council of Orthodox Synagogues of Victoria (COSV)
3 October 2025
The Council of Orthodox Synagogues of Victoria (COSV) expresses its deep outrage and concern following the disturbing attack on a synagogue in Manchester during Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Such an act of hate, targeting worshippers during sacred prayer, is an assault not only on the Jewish community but on the core values of a civilised society.
This attack is a stark reminder that antisemitism remains a clear and present danger—not only abroad, but here in Australia. We urge political leaders—Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and their respective governments—to take decisive action now to protect Jewish communities. Support must not come as a response to tragedy. It must be proactive, consistent, and unambiguous. Our safety should not require a casualty to be taken seriously.
We extend our deepest thanks to our Community Security Group (CSG) for their tireless and professional service in protecting our synagogues, schools, and communal spaces. Your presence during this High Holy Day period, as always, has been both reassuring and vital.
As we enter the festival of Sukkot—a time of joy, reflection, and vulnerability—we offer warm greetings to the Victorian Jewish community and to our brothers and sisters around the world:
Chag Sameach. May your Sukkot be filled with peace, strength, and unity.
Mark L. Cohen
President
On behalf of the Board of the Council of Orthodox Synagogues of Victoria (COSV)