Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced the establishment of a federal royal commission to investigate the December 14 attack at Bondi Beach, the prevalence and drivers of antisemitism in Australia, and measures to strengthen social cohesion. The inquiry, led by former High Court justice Virginia Bell, follows weeks of public advocacy and will integrate an existing review into security agencies. Its mandate includes examining the circumstances of the attack and proposing recommendations for various agencies and societal measures.
Background to the Commission
The decision to launch a federal royal commission followed weeks of public pressure and advocacy from various groups, including members of the Jewish Australian community and legal professionals. The Prime Minister stated that the commission is intended to help Australia achieve national unity and strengthen social cohesion. Previously, the government had offered Commonwealth support for a state-led royal commission, and NSW Premier Chris Minns had considered a state-based inquiry before withdrawing the proposal following the federal announcement. A federal inquiry was deemed necessary due to the national implications of the attack and the rise of antisemitism, enabling investigation into federal agencies such as the Australian Federal Police and the Australian Security and Intelligence Organisation.
The December 14 attack at a Hanukkah event near Bondi Beach resulted in 15 fatalities. Authorities stated that the incident was believed to have been inspired by ISIS.
Commission Details and Leadership
The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion is Australia's most powerful form of independent inquiry. It will be established via a "letters patent" from the Governor-General, which defines social cohesion as the "national consensus in support of democracy, freedom and the rule of law." The commission possesses extensive investigative powers, including the authority to summon witnesses and compel agencies to produce documents, and it offers legal protections to whistleblowers.
Former High Court justice Virginia Bell AC has been appointed to lead the commission. Prior to the official announcement of her appointment, reports of Ms. Bell's potential selection generated criticism within the Jewish community. Former Treasurer Josh Frydenberg indicated that Jewish leaders had communicated "serious concerns" to the Prime Minister. Community sources also raised concerns about Ms. Bell being associated with the political left and a perceived lack of trust between the community and the government regarding the inquiry's scope, specifically whether it would adequately examine the role of the government and the impact of radical Islamic extremism. Other potential candidates previously considered included former Federal Court chief justice James Allsop, former High Court chief justice Robert French, Federal Court judge Michael Lee, and former security bosses Dennis Richardson or Duncan Lewis. Community sources had articulated preferences for an inquiry led by Mr. Lee, Mr. Allsop, or Mr. French.
Attorney General Michelle Rowland publicly affirmed Ms. Bell's qualifications, describing her as an "eminent and highly capable former Justice of the High Court of Australia" who would examine complex issues with "impartiality and precision." Antisemitism Commissioner Jillian Segal supported the government's decision, stating it reflected the "seriousness of the growth in antisemitism and its impact on our country and our democracy."
Scope and Terms of Reference
The commission's terms of reference, as outlined in the letters patent, direct it to investigate four primary areas, along with any other matter considered relevant:
- Examine the nature, prevalence, and key drivers of antisemitism in Australian institutions and society, including religiously and ideologically-motivated extremism and radicalisation.
- Formulate recommendations for law enforcement, border control, immigration, and security agencies regarding efforts to counter antisemitism.
- Investigate the specific circumstances surrounding the December 14 attack at Bondi.
- Provide recommendations aimed at strengthening social cohesion in Australia and countering the spread of ideologically and religiously-motivated extremism.
The Prime Minister clarified that the inquiry is not intended to address geopolitical conflicts. An independent review into security and intelligence agencies' actions prior to the Bondi attack, previously announced and overseen by former spy chief Dennis Richardson, will be integrated into the royal commission's work and contribute to its interim report.
Timeline and Reporting Schedule
The commission has been directed to submit an interim report by April 30, 2026. Its final report is expected by December 14, 2025, coinciding with the first anniversary of the attack. However, some reports indicate the Prime Minister requested the final report by December 2026. The government has stated its aim for a timely process that does not impede future criminal proceedings.
Related Government Actions and Reforms
In the immediate aftermath of the December 14 attack, state and federal leaders agreed to tighten gun controls. These measures include limitations on the number and types of firearms an individual can possess, as well as the introduction of a buyback scheme. The government also committed to reforms in hate speech legislation. Parliament has since passed legislation establishing a framework for the federal government to ban extremist groups, introducing additional powers for the Home Affairs Minister to cancel visas, and implementing tougher penalties for religious and spiritual leaders who promote violence.
Additionally, the government plans to adopt recommendations from a July report by Antisemitism Commissioner Jillian Segal, which included proposals for monitoring universities and arts organizations and potentially withholding funding if they failed to address antisemitism.
National Security Adviser Resignation
Philippa Brant, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's national security adviser, resigned from her role to pursue a career change. Her departure was confirmed this week, marking the second senior exit from the Prime Minister's advisory ranks in three months. A Labor source stated that Ms. Brant's resignation was unrelated to recent events and was not imminent. The Prime Minister's office did not respond to a request for comment regarding her resignation.