In a pivotal move addressing mounting public outrage, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced the establishment of a Royal Commission to probe the horrific Bondi Beach attack. The assault, which claimed 15 lives during a Hanukkah celebration, has been labeled Australia’s deadliest terror incident, inspired by ISIS and driven by antisemitic motives.
Speaking at a press conference in Parliament House, Canberra, Albanese emphasized the urgency of tackling antisemitism and bolstering national unity. ‘This was an antisemitic terrorist attack, the most lethal in our nation’s history,’ he declared. The commission, chaired by Virginia Bell, will delve into the roots of antisemitism, religious extremism, and failures in security protocols.
Pressure had been intensifying from Jewish communities, business leaders, and sports figures, all demanding accountability for security lapses. Victim families and prominent voices lobbied relentlessly, culminating in this federal response just 25 days after the tragedy.
The inquiry’s mandate is comprehensive: examining the nature and spread of antisemitism, evaluating enforcement by border, immigration, and security agencies, scrutinizing circumstances surrounding the Bondi attack, and recommending measures to foster social cohesion. With a deadline set for December 14, 2026, the government aims to deliver actionable reforms.
Albanese underscored that decisions were not rushed but informed by extensive community consultations and cabinet approval. As Australia grapples with rising extremism, this commission signals a commitment to healing divisions and preventing future atrocities.