The Albanese Government will establish a Royal Commission into antisemitism and social cohesion following the Bondi terrorist attack in December.
Former High Court justice Virginia Bell AC has been asked to serve as commissioner, with the government requesting a report before the end of the year.
The inquiry will examine the nature and prevalence of antisemitism in Australian society and institutions, including key drivers such as ideologically and religiously motivated extremism and radicalisation.
It will also make recommendations to assist law enforcement, border control, immigration and security agencies to respond to antisemitic conduct, including improvements to guidance and training.
The commission will examine the circumstances surrounding the antisemitic Bondi terrorist attack on December 14, 2025, and consider further measures to strengthen social cohesion and counter extremist ideologies.
All states and territories will be asked to join the Royal Commission.
Dennis Richardson’s independent review into federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies will be incorporated into the commission’s work, with an interim report due in April.
The government said it had already taken urgent steps in response to the attack, including adopting recommendations from the Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism, convening National Cabinet to fast-track tougher gun laws, and providing additional resources to law enforcement.
It said new legislation to criminalise hate speech and hate preachers would be introduced when parliament returns.
