Albanese Government to Establish Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion

Umesh Dhakal

KNA- Canberra

The Albanese Labor Government has announced it will establish a Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion following the Bondi terrorist attack.

Former High Court Justice, the Hon Virginia Bell AC, has been asked to serve as Commissioner. The Government has requested that Commissioner Bell deliver her report before the end of the year, while ensuring the inquiry does not prejudice any current or future criminal proceedings.

The scope of the Royal Commission will be defined through Letters Patent and will focus on four key areas.

First, the inquiry will investigate the nature and prevalence of antisemitism across Australian institutions and society, including its key drivers. This will encompass the examination of ideologically and religiously motivated extremism and pathways to radicalisation.

Second, the Royal Commission will make recommendations to support law enforcement, border control, immigration and security agencies in tackling antisemitism. This includes potential improvements to guidance, training and operational responses to anti-Semitic conduct.

Third, the inquiry will examine the circumstances surrounding the anti-Semitic terrorist attack that occurred in Bondi on 14 December 2025.

Finally, the Commission will make broader recommendations aimed at strengthening social cohesion in Australia and countering the spread of ideologically and religiously motivated extremism.

The Government reaffirmed that antisemitism has no place in Australia, stating the Royal Commission is intended to protect national unity and enhance national security.

The Government also emphasised solidarity with Jewish Australians, affirming that Australia is stronger when it stands together against antisemitism, hatred and terrorism.

:PM media & Penny Wong – Senator for SA