Melbourne Nursery Faces Backlash Over Antisemitic Job Rejection

A nursery in Melbourne is under fire after a Jewish job applicant received a rejection message containing alleged antisemitic remarks. The incident, which has sparked protests and public outrage, has led to an official apology from the nursery’s management.

The controversy erupted when a 24-year-old Israeli jobseeker, who has chosen to remain anonymous, received a rejection text from The Garden of Eden Nursery in Albert Park. According to the Herald Sun, the message included a statement from co-owner Brett Dahan suggesting the position was filled by “someone with a semblance of humanity” and urging her to leave Australia shortly after her arrival. The text concluded with a politically charged statement that many found deeply offensive.

In her response to the rejection, the applicant expressed her shock and disappointment. “I came to Australia believing it was a fair and welcoming country,” she stated. “But reading those words—so full of hostility—was heartbreaking.” This sentiment resonates with many in the Jewish community, which has voiced strong condemnation of the remarks.

The backlash has been swift. Activists organized a protest outside the nursery, citing the message as a blatant act of discrimination. Under Australia’s Equal Opportunity Act, discrimination based on nationality during hiring processes is illegal, prompting calls for accountability from multiple quarters.

In the aftermath of the incident, The Garden of Eden Nursery released a public apology on Sunday. The statement, issued by the twin brothers who run the business, emphasized their disapproval of the message sent by a staff member and expressed regret over the incident. “We are deeply upset and disappointed by the content of the message, which in no way reflects the values, standards, or spirit of our business,” the nursery stated, adding that they are addressing the matter internally.

Despite the apology, some community leaders are calling for more substantial actions. Dr. Dvir Abramovich, Chairman of Australia’s Anti-Defamation Commission, criticized the response as insufficient. He emphasized that the apology should extend directly to the applicant, asserting that the message was a deliberate act meant to “humiliate and degrade.” He argued that simply blaming a staff member and promising to handle it internally does not equate to true accountability.

The nursery has not provided further comments to the media following the backlash. The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding antisemitism and discrimination in the workplace, prompting discussions about the need for greater awareness and sensitivity in hiring practices across Australia.

As protests continue, many are left wondering how such incidents can be prevented in the future and what measures will be taken to ensure a more inclusive and respectful environment for all individuals, regardless of their background.