Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has firmly defended the timing of the newly announced royal commission into antisemitism, declaring it was established in "record time" following the devastating Bondi Beach terror attack. The announcement comes after weeks of mounting national pressure for a comprehensive federal inquiry.
Commission Details and PM's Defence
Revealing the details of the Commonwealth probe at a press conference in Canberra on Thursday, Mr Albanese confirmed the commission will scrutinise the events leading up to the December 14 massacre. Former High Court justice Virginia Bell has been appointed to lead the significant investigation.
Speaking to Sunrise on Friday, the Prime Minister maintained the decision was made within an appropriate and swift timeframe. He emphasised the need for consultation with grieving families and careful consideration of ongoing legal proceedings.
"This is actually record time for a royal commission; the last funeral for the victims was just two days ago," Mr Albanese stated. "I've sat down in the homes of families who are grieving. I've listened to them. We've made sure that we've got this right, in an orderly way."
Addressing Criticism and Political Debate
Sunrise hosts Edwina Bartholomew and David Woiwod challenged the Prime Minister on the perceived delay, questioning why he hadn't previously indicated a royal commission was being considered. In response, Mr Albanese noted his government would comply with the now-cancelled NSW inquiry.
Pressed on why he hasn't met all victims' families, the PM outlined his extensive engagements: "I've had very different conversations with members of the Jewish community. I've sat in people's homes, I've had people to Kirribilli House, I've met people by their hospital beds." He stated his priority was handling immediate issues while ensuring the royal commission decision was correct.
Mr Albanese expressed disappointment at the politicisation of the tragedy, asserting, "There shouldn't be any politics in this. This is a moment for the nation to come together." He said he has largely refrained from responding to public political commentary to focus on working with families "with dignity and respect."
Scope of the Inquiry and Attack Aftermath
The royal commission's terms of reference will cover four key areas:
- Investigating the nature and prevalence of antisemitism in Australia.
- Making recommendations to assist law enforcement, border control, immigration and security agencies in tackling antisemitism.
- Examining the circumstances surrounding the Bondi terror attack.
- Providing recommendations to strengthen social cohesion and counter ideological and religiously motivated extremism.
The Prime Minister highlighted the unprecedented nature of holding a royal commission while related court cases are active, a factor that required meticulous planning to avoid interference.
The mass shooting at Bondi Junction's Westfield shopping centre, allegedly carried out by Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24, resulted in 15 deaths and dozens of injuries. Sajid Akram was killed by police during the attack. Naveed Akram has been charged with 59 offences, including murder and attempted murder, and is scheduled to face court on April 8.
Mr Albanese denied claims of government inaction, stressing that immediate priorities like national security risks were addressed first. "What we did do was act immediately on the things that were required, that were the immediate priorities," he concluded.
