PM Backflips – Calls Royal Commission to probe antisemitism and Bondi terror attack

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a federal royal commission into antisemitism and social cohesion in the wake of the Bondi terror attack, reversing his earlier position after weeks of sustained pressure.

The Commonwealth inquiry was confirmed on Thursday afternoon following a cabinet meeting, with former High Court justice Virginia Bell appointed to lead the commission. Her selection has drawn criticism from some within the Jewish community.

Standing alongside Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, antisemitism envoy Jillian Segal and Attorney-General Michelle Rowland, the prime minister said the inquiry was now "essential".

Mr Albanese said the commission would examine four key areas: the drivers of antisemitism in Australia, the effectiveness of responses by government agencies, the circumstances surrounding the Bondi attack, and ways to strengthen social cohesion nationally.

"Our priority is to promote unity and social cohesion," he said. "This is what Australia needs to heal, to learn, and to come together in a spirit of national unity."

He stressed that the royal commission would not be a standalone solution, describing the fight against antisemitism and terrorism as a long-term national responsibility.

"An attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on all Australians," Mr Albanese said.

The inquiry will also build on immediate government measures, including fast-tracking tougher gun laws, boosting resources for law enforcement agencies, and developing new legislation to criminalise hate speech.

Ms Bell is expected to deliver her final report by 14 December 2026.

The Bondi Beach attack, which killed 15 people and injured more than 40 others, is the deadliest terror attack in Australia's history. It prompted widespread calls for a national inquiry from the opposition, crossbench MPs, business leaders, public figures, victims' families and sections of the Jewish community.

For weeks, the prime minister resisted those calls, arguing existing processes - including a NSW-led inquiry and a federal intelligence review headed by former ASIO director-general Dennis Richardson - were sufficient.

However, earlier this week Mr Albanese softened his stance, signalling he was open to further action before formally announcing the royal commission two days later.