Chair of the Community Relations Commission (CRC) Mr Vic Alhadeff has resigned having served the position for only eight months.
Mr Alhadef’s predecessor for the job Mr Stepan Kerkyasharian who is now the NSW Anti Racial Discriminations Commissioner served as CRC Chair for a record 25 years
Mr. Alhadef said,“It is with considerable regret that I have decided to resign from my position as Chair of the NSW Community Relations Commission.
“I have chosen to do so in the interests of the CRC and its important work in fostering social harmony within our society. It is clear that a briefing paper issued under my name inadvertently caused offence to some, and this is greatly regretted. While this was unintended, and despite the backing of numerous community leaders who acknowledged my record of goodwill, the reaction from some has become a distraction to the work of the CRC and the role of the chair,” Mr Alhadef said.
“Throughout my tenure at the CRC and for decades prior, I have committed myself to building bridges and to intercultural harmony, and I intend to continue this work as a representative of the Jewish community,” Mr Alhadef said.
“I thank the Government, Premier and Minister Victor Dominello for their unwavering support throughout my role as chair. It is a position I valued highly and I also thank the leaders of the many communities with whom I have engaged, as well as the commissioners, CEO and staff,” Mr Alhadef said.
“We share a common interest in working towards an enriched and tolerant society and I commend them for their commitment to this goal.” Mr Alhadef added.