PM Anthony Albanese Defends ‘Record Time’ Royal Commission into Antisemitism After Bondi Beach Terror Attack
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese claims royal commission was called in ‘record time’ despite weeks of pressure from across the country
- Former High Court justice Virginia Bell will lead the Commonwealth probe into the events leading up to the massacre
- Albanese insists decision was made within the right timeframe, citing consultation with victims’ families and careful consideration of ongoing legal proceedings
In a dramatic development, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has revealed the details of the royal commission into antisemitism, just days after the nation was left reeling from the devastating Bondi Beach terror attack.
Speaking on Sunrise, Albanese maintained that the decision to establish the royal commission was made in “record time”, despite growing public anger over the perceived delay. “This is actually record time for a royal commission; the last funeral for the victims was just two days ago,” he said, his voice laced with emotion.
As the nation struggles to come to terms with the senseless massacre that left 15 people dead and dozens more injured, Albanese revealed that former High Court justice Virginia Bell will lead the Commonwealth probe. The commission will examine the events leading up to the attack, allegedly carried out by Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24.
But Albanese’s claims of “record time” have been met with skepticism, with Sunrise presenters Edwina Bartholomew and David Woiwod pressing the PM on why he had not previously indicated that a royal commission was still on the table. “I’ve had very different conversations with members of the Jewish community,” Albanese replied, his tone defensive. “My priority has been dealing with all of those issues while making sure that we got any decision around a Commonwealth royal commission right.”
As the royal commission gets underway, Albanese has warned that it could expose divisions and risk causing further harm. But he insists that his team has worked tirelessly to alleviate those concerns. “What we’ve done is look at ways we can alleviate those concerns,” he said, highlighting that the commission cannot interfere with any court cases.
The commission will cover four key areas in its terms of reference, including the events leading up to the attack and the response of authorities. Naveed Akram, 24, has been charged with 59 offences, including murder and attempted murder, and is expected to front court on April 8.
As the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of the attack, Albanese has called for unity and dignity. “There shouldn’t be any politics in this,” he said, his voice firm. “This is a moment for the nation to come together.”