In a significant policy reversal, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced the establishment of a royal commission to investigate both the deadly Bondi Beach shooting and the broader issue of antisemitism in Australian society. The decision comes after weeks of mounting public pressure from victims’ families and prominent community figures.
The December 14 attack, which targeted a Jewish festival and resulted in 15 fatalities, stands as one of Australia’s most devastating mass shootings. While initially favoring quicker policy reforms, Albanese acknowledged that a comprehensive independent inquiry was necessary for national healing. “I’ve repeatedly said that our government’s priority is to promote unity and social cohesion,” the Prime Minister stated during a Canberra press conference. “It’s clear to me that a royal commission is essential to achieving this.”
The commission will wield extensive investigative powers, including the authority to summon witnesses and compel document production from government agencies. Its mandate encompasses four critical areas: examining the nature and prevalence of antisemitism in Australia, recommending enhanced security measures to combat religious hatred, investigating the specific circumstances of the Bondi attack, and proposing measures to strengthen social cohesion against ideological extremism.
Former High Court Justice Virginia Bell has been appointed to lead the inquiry, with an interim report expected by April and a final report due by December 2026. The Prime Minister emphasized this would not be “a drawn-out process” despite previous royal commissions spanning multiple years.
The appointment has drawn mixed reactions, with some Jewish community leaders expressing reservations about Bell’s selection. Former Treasurer Josh Frydenberg revealed that Jewish leaders had communicated “serious concerns” to the Prime Minister prior to the announcement. However, Attorney General Michelle Rowland defended the choice, describing Bell as “an eminent and highly capable former Justice” who would examine complex issues with “impartiality and precision.”
The government’s approach integrates several previously announced measures, including gun control reforms and hate speech legislation. These include limits on firearm ownership types and quantities, a weapon buyback scheme, and proposed penalties for religious leaders promoting violence. The commission will also incorporate the work of antisemitism commissioner Jillian Segal, whose July report had previously drawn criticism for its potential implications on free speech.