Key Takeaways
- The Australian government is under pressure to establish a royal commission into antisemitism following the Bondi terror attack.
- Labor senator Michelle Ananda-Rajah has become the latest government MP to back a royal commission, stating it is needed to "flush out the failings" that have allowed antisemitism to fester in Australia.
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been in consultation with Jewish groups about the details of a federal inquiry, with sources expecting an announcement as early as Thursday or Friday.
- The terms of reference for the royal commission are still being debated, with some sources expecting the government to confirm multiple parts of its response to the Bondi attack alongside the announcement.
- Former high court justice Virginia Bell has been floated as a potential commissioner, but some Jewish groups have raised concerns about her political leanings.
Introduction to the Royal Commission
The Australian government is facing growing pressure to establish a royal commission into antisemitism following the Bondi terror attack. The attack has sparked widespread outrage and calls for action to address the rising tide of antisemitism in the country. Labor senator Michelle Ananda-Rajah has become the latest government MP to back a royal commission, stating that it is needed to "flush out the failings" that have allowed antisemitism to fester in Australia. Ananda-Rajah’s comments come amid growing expectations that the Albanese government will relent on its previous position and convene a royal commission, potentially as early as Thursday or Friday.
Government Consultations
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been in lengthy consultation with Jewish groups about the details of a federal inquiry. Sources in major Jewish organizations have confirmed that they have been in talks about next steps and expect news in coming days. The terms of reference for the royal commission are still being debated, with some sources expecting the government to confirm multiple parts of its response to the Bondi attack alongside the announcement. This could include details of its hate speech law changes and parliament’s early return. The Executive Council of Australian Jewry and other Jewish groups have been consulted on the hate speech changes, and it is likely that their input will be taken into consideration when drafting the terms of reference.
Potential Commissioner
Former high court justice Virginia Bell has been floated as a potential commissioner for the royal commission. Bell is an esteemed lawyer and judge with extensive experience in the NSW and high courts, particularly in criminal law. However, some Jewish groups have raised concerns about her political leanings, related to her investigation into former prime minister Scott Morrison’s secret decisions to appoint himself to multiple ministerial portfolios without the knowledge of the ministers in those roles. Government sources have pushed back against these criticisms, pointing to Bell’s extensive legal experience and her ability to operate independently. Despite this, the issue of Bell’s potential appointment has sparked debate, with former Liberal treasurer Josh Frydenberg claiming that Jewish leaders have "serious concerns" about her appointment.
Opposition Response
The Liberal leader, Sussan Ley, has declined to repeat or endorse Frydenberg’s claims, but has called for three commissioners to be appointed to any inquiry. Ley has suggested that the commissioners should include someone with a senior judicial background, a national security expert, and someone with expertise in antisemitism. This approach is seen as a way to ensure that the royal commission is comprehensive and effective in addressing the complex issues surrounding antisemitism in Australia. The opposition’s response to the royal commission has been cautious, with some MPs calling for a more nuanced approach that takes into account the complexities of the issue.
Conclusion
The establishment of a royal commission into antisemitism is a critical step towards addressing the rising tide of hate and intolerance in Australia. The government’s decision to convene a royal commission will be a significant moment in the country’s history, and it is essential that the terms of reference are carefully considered to ensure that the inquiry is effective and comprehensive. The appointment of a commissioner with the right expertise and experience will be crucial in ensuring that the royal commission is able to get to the bottom of the issues surrounding antisemitism in Australia. As the government moves forward with the royal commission, it is essential that it listens to the concerns of the Jewish community and works to rebuild trust and confidence in the government’s ability to address this critical issue.