Albanese’s Royal Commission Backflip: PM Finally Acts on Anti-Semitism After Weeks of Pressure
- Anthony Albanese announces royal commission into anti-Semitism after Bondi terror attack
- PM’s backflip comes after nearly 100 Labor members, including former MPs and party officials, urged him to act
- Respected judge Virginia Bell appointed to lead the royal commission, despite concerns from Jewish community leaders
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has finally bowed to pressure and announced a royal commission into anti-Semitism, following the devastating Bondi terror attack. The move comes after weeks of relentless pressure from the Jewish community, Labor members, and opposition leaders.
In a fiery interview on the ABC’s 7:30 report, Mr Albanese was grilled over his delays in calling a royal commission. “Are you worried people will see you as a weak leader?” ABC host Michael Rowland asked. Mr Albanese responded, “What people want in their leader is someone who will listen and adjust positions.”
Despite his initial reluctance, Mr Albanese has finally relented, announcing a royal commission led by respected judge Virginia Bell. However, the appointment has been met with criticism from some Jewish community leaders, who had pushed for alternative candidates.
The royal commission will investigate the nature and prevalence of anti-Semitism in Australia, including ideologically and religiously motivated extremism and radicalisation. It will also examine the circumstances surrounding the Bondi terrorist attack and make recommendations to strengthen social cohesion and counter the spread of extremism.
Former Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has slammed the appointment of Virginia Bell, saying it is “unthinkable” that the Prime Minister would choose a commissioner who does not have the total confidence of the Jewish community. Mr Frydenberg has called for a Commonwealth royal commission with the appointment of a different commissioner.
The backflip comes after nearly 100 Labor members, including former MPs and party officials, urged the PM to act on anti-Semitism. Jewish Labor convenor Michael Borowick said, “This is the right moment for serious and considered national introspection about a sore that has been allowed to fester for too long.”
Liberal leader Sussan Ley has welcomed the announcement, saying it is a “step in the right direction”. However, she has called on the PM to move forward with the royal commission as quickly as possible, saying “victims’ families are waiting” and “the time for leadership is now”.
The royal commission is expected to be established in the coming weeks, with the terms of reference to be finalised shortly. The move is seen as a major victory for the Jewish community, who have been pushing for a royal commission into anti-Semitism for months.