Australia to Launch Royal Commission into Bondi Beach Shooting
CANBERRA: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a royal commission into the deadly shooting at Bondi Beach last month, which claimed 15 lives and targeted a Jewish festival. The inquiry is the country’s most powerful independent investigation and will examine the circumstances of the attack, the spread of antisemitism, and measures to strengthen social cohesion.
Albanese said the commission was necessary to promote national unity and allow the country to heal. “It’s clear to me that a royal commission is essential to achieving this,” he told reporters. The move follows public pressure from victims’ families, community leaders, and public figures who called for an independent inquiry.
Former High Court Justice Virginia Bell has been appointed to lead the commission, which is expected to deliver an interim report by April and a full report by December 2026. The commission will investigate four key areas: the prevalence and drivers of antisemitism in Australia, recommendations for law enforcement and security agencies, a review of the Bondi attack, and measures to counter ideological and religious extremism.
Albanese confirmed that previous intelligence reviews, including work led by former spy chief Dennis Richardson, will be integrated into the commission. Attorney General Michelle Rowland praised Bell’s appointment, highlighting her legal expertise and impartiality.
The government has already taken steps to tighten gun controls, limit firearm ownership, and introduce buyback schemes. Hate speech reforms are also planned, including penalties for promoting violence and a new federal offence of aggravated hate speech.
Antisemitism Commissioner Jillian Segal described the royal commission as “the right decision” to address the growing threat of antisemitism and protect Australia’s democracy.
The inquiry is expected to balance thorough investigation with ongoing criminal proceedings against the alleged gunman, who survived the attack.
