SMJFL Statement on the Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion

Recent media coverage and evidence provided to the Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion has again highlighted the deeply concerning experiences of Jewish junior footballers and families within community sport, including within the SMJFL.

The SMJFL is unequivocal in its position: antisemitism, vilification, abuse or discrimination of any kind has no place in our competition, on our grounds or in our football community.

Our purpose is to provide a safe, inclusive and positive environment for all children to participate in football. Every player deserves to take the field feeling safe, respected and supported, regardless of religion, culture or background. When this does not occur, it is taken extremely seriously by the league.

The SMJFL reiterates our clear and ongoing support for Ajax Junior Football Club, one of our long-standing and valued clubs, along with its players, officials, volunteers, families and broader community network. No club or child should bear the burden of confronting hateful behaviour or defending their right to belong. That responsibility rests with all of us.

As outlined at our recent Club Conference, the SMJFL has seen an increase in the frequency and severity of vilification-related incidents over the past two seasons, with antisemitic behaviour accounting for the majority of serious matters. In response, we have strengthened our governance and oversight, including the introduction of an updated Vilification Management Process and a clear zero-tolerance approach to such conduct.

However, policies alone are not enough.

Lasting change requires consistent leadership, education and accountability across the entire football community. The SMJFL remains committed to:

• Clear standards of behaviour for players, parents, officials and spectators

• Independent SMJFL-level intervention when vilification occurs

• Education, awareness and prevention, not just response

• Strong support for affected participants and clubs

• Shared responsibility for upholding our values

We ask all clubs to actively reinforce these expectations within your own environments: at training, on match day and within your club communities. Silence, minimisation or inaction in the face of antisemitic or discriminatory behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

Junior football should be about enjoyment, development, teamwork. No child should leave a game distressed or fearful.

The SMJFL remains steadfast in its commitment to an inclusive, respectful and safe competition for all. We will continue to work with clubs, community partners and relevant authorities to ensure our game reflects these values in practice, not just in principle.