Australia Launches Royal Commission Into Antisemitism After Deadly Bondi Beach Attack

By Blessing Nweke

Australia has opened a government-backed Royal Commission into antisemitism following a mass shooting at a Jewish Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach that killed 15 people in December 2025.

The attack shocked a nation known for strict gun laws and prompted renewed calls for stronger measures against antisemitism and improved security at public events. Authorities said the commission  the most powerful form of public inquiry  will examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting, broader antisemitism trends, and issues of social cohesion.

The inquiry is being led by retired judge Virginia Bell and is expected to deliver its findings by December this year. In her opening remarks at a Sydney court on Tuesday, Bell said security planning for the Hanukkah celebration would be a central focus.

“The commission needs to investigate the security arrangements for that event, and to report on whether our intelligence and law enforcement agencies performed to maximum effectiveness,” she said.

Police allege the attackers, Sajid Akram and his son Naveed Akram, were inspired by the extremist group Islamic State. Sajid Akram was shot dead at the scene, while Naveed Akram survived and faces charges including 15 counts of murder and terrorism offences.

Because of the ongoing criminal case, potential witnesses in Naveed Akram’s trial will not be called before the commission. Bell said she plans to meet privately with victims’ families to explain these limitations.

Senior counsel assisting the inquiry, Richard Lancaster, said investigators have issued dozens of evidence requests to government agencies but responses have been slower than expected.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had initially resisted establishing the inquiry, warning it could take years, a stance that drew criticism from Jewish organisations and victims’ relatives.

The Bondi attack followed a series of antisemitic incidents nationwide, including the firebombing of a synagogue in Melbourne. The government has since tightened gun laws and introduced new hate-speech legislation.