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Battle to bring former principal back to Australia to face child sex abuse charges


There’s been a push to bring a former Melbourne school principal accused of child sex abuse home from Jerusalem to face court.

Malka Leifer, 51, claims she’s too mentally ill to be extradited or remain behind bars.

She’s wanted in Australia on 74 charges.

On Monday night, a judge in Jerusalem denied her bail until her case finishes. She didn’t make an appearance.

Malka Leifer in Jerusalem District Court in February 2018. She’s a former Melbourne principal wanted in Australia on 74 charges of child sex abuse. Source: Getty Images
Malka Leifer in Jerusalem District Court in February 2018. She’s a former Melbourne principal wanted in Australia on 74 charges of child sex abuse. Source: Getty Images

Alleged victim Nicole Meyer said she was relieved Leifer was being held behind bars.

Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews said the former principal’s excuse is “fraud”.

“She’s not able to come home – we don’t buy that,” Mr Andrews said.

The premier has lobbied Israel’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu to extradite the former principal immediately.

Leifer is facing 74 charges in Australia. Source: 7 News
Leifer is facing 74 charges in Australia. Source: 7 News

It’s hoped the lobbying will have an effect ahead of an election in two months.

Mr Netanyahu is expected to do all he can to hose down claims of corruption in his government.

The premier added the state government remains determined to keep applying pressure to have Leifer extradited.

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