Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion

Announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on 8 January 2026, after calls from victims' families and community leaders following the Bondi Beach attack in which 15 people were killed, and appointed by Letters Patent issued on 9 January 2026, naming the Hon Virginia Bell AC SC as sole Commissioner. The terms of reference cover the nature and drivers of antisemitism, the information sharing and performance of Commonwealth, state and territory intelligence and law enforcement agencies before the attack, gaps in legal and regulatory frameworks, and measures to strengthen social cohesion. Western Australia (20 January 2026) and New South Wales (21 January 2026, which dropped its own planned royal commission) issued their own commissions so it can inquire jointly. An interim report was due by 30 April 2026 and the final report by 14 December 2026, later extended to 18 December 2026.

Legislation: Royal Commissions Act 1902

1. 24 February 2026Opening hearing held.
2. 30 April 2026Interim report released, with 14 recommendations (five classified) to strengthen counter-terrorism responses, including firearms harmonisation and a national gun buyback.
3. 4 May 2026Witness hearings began in Sydney.

• Inquiry into the nature, prevalence and drivers of antisemitism in Australia
• Inquiry into the response of intelligence and law enforcement agencies to the Bondi Beach attack
• Recommendations on counter-terrorism, legal frameworks and social cohesion

In the portfolio of Attorney-General's Department.

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