Published on 19 August 2025

Statement from Mayor Simone Zmood on disturbing incident in Bentleigh

I was deeply disturbed to hear about the recent antisemitic incident at a hair salon in Bentleigh. There is absolutely no place for hatred, racism or discrimination of any kind in our community.

To our Jewish community in Glen Eira — I want you to know that I see you, I hear you, and I stand with you.

Antisemitism is on the rise, both here and more broadly, and that is something we must all take seriously. Everyone in Glen Eira deserves to feel safe, welcome and respected — no matter their background or beliefs.

Glen Eira was the first council in Victoria to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism. That decision was not just symbolic — it continues to guide how we respond to antisemitism in a meaningful way.

I will continue to work with local authorities and community leaders to ensure incidents like this are addressed and that our commitment to an inclusive, respectful community remains strong.

There is no place for hate in Glen Eira.

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