What is CSG, the Jewish security group the premier wants armed more heavily?
Chris Minns says his government is looking to provide the body’s personnel with access to weapons when patrolling public events.
The Community Security Group has provided security services to the Jewish community for decades. After the Bondi shooting on a Hanukkah celebration killed 15 people, the government says it is considering giving the group more access to weapons.
Here’s what you need to know.
Community Security Group personnel can carry weapons to guard schools and synagogues. Credit: Michael Howard
What is the Community Security Group?
CSG employees and volunteers monitor threats to the Jewish community and provide security services at schools, synagogues and public events. It issues security advice and offers training services.
CSG NSW was founded in 1997 and is run by the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies. Last year, it recorded 1044 antisemitic incidents.
The group has, in previous years, sent members to security courses conducted in Israel.
Who funds it?
CSG is funded by the Council for Jewish Community Security, a not-for-profit operating in NSW, Victoria, Western Australia and Queensland.
The council received $8.9 million in donations in 2023-24 and it spent $8.6 million on security in the same year. The council has also received state and federal grants to provide CCTV coverage and a security operations centre for CSG.
Flowers left in tribute at Bondi Pavilion. Credit: George Chan/Getty Images
Does CSG hold a security licence?
Yes. CSG holds the highest-level master licence, which allows it to provide more than 50 security personnel. The security licensing system is administered by NSW Police.
Can personnel carry weapons at the moment?
Yes. CSG personnel may carry pistols when performing security duties at schools and synagogues. However, the group’s licence does not permit them to carry weapons at public events.
