Police 'reservations' about expanding powers of Jewish security groups

The head of New South Wales Police's counterterrorism operations has voiced significant concerns regarding the potential expansion of powers for private Jewish security organizations. Deputy Commissioner David Hudson stated he held "considerable reservations" about such a move during testimony before the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion. This commission is investigating the events surrounding the terror attack on December 14, 2025, in Bondi, which claimed 15 lives during a Hanukkah celebration. Hudson explained that isolating specific community groups for enhanced law enforcement privileges is problematic, as it can create division and friction. He noted that while Jewish security volunteers were present during the attack, they were unarmed. The commission also heard that the Jewish security group CSG NSW had requested a continuous police presence for the Hanukkah event, but NSW Police cited resource limitations. The NSW Premier had previously suggested arming CSG NSW would be considered, a step not taken before. The commission's public hearings have concluded, with subsequent evidence to be heard behind closed doors to protect national security and ongoing legal proceedings related to the attack.

“

Isolating a particular group for additional powers within our community is problematic.