Paul R. Bartrop examines Australia's government policy towards European Jews during the Holocaust, revealing the absence of a formal refugee policy until late 1938. Following the Evian Conference in July 1938, Interior Minister John McEwen announced a commitment to accept 15,000 refugees, yet bureaucratic resistance aimed to limit Jewish immigration despite these intentions. The book explores prevalent negative attitudes towards Jewish immigrants in Australia, reflected in media coverage and correspondence with the Department of the Interior. As World War II began, security concerns were manipulated to further exclude Jewish refugees, contradicting government statements condemning Nazi actions. Bartrop highlights the double standard applied to Jewish versus non-Jewish refugees, evidenced by the rejection of 90% of Jewish applications before the war. This disparity persisted during the war, with Australia claiming to halt foreign immigration while selectively accepting individuals deemed useful for the war effort. By incorporating the voices of Holocaust refugees and situating Australia's response within broader national and international contexts, Bartrop offers a unique Australian perspective on this tragic chapter in history.
Professor Paul R Bartrop Knihy
