In a significant political reversal, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a federal royal commission into antisemitism and social cohesion, just ten days after fiercely arguing against such an inquiry.
A Swift and Striking Reversal
The Prime Minister's about-face was delivered from the same lectern in Canberra where he previously resisted calls for a national probe. The commission will be led by former High Court justice Virginia Bell and is tasked with reporting no later than 14 December – exactly one year after the Bondi beach massacre that killed 15 people and wounded 40 others.
"I take the time to choose the right path, the course of action that will make a positive difference to our country," Albanese told a press conference, explaining his change of position. He stated the inquiry was vital to "heal" and unite the nation.
Unpicking the Prime Minister's Arguments
In methodically outlining the commission's framework, Albanese inadvertently exposed the weaknesses in his government's previous defences. He confirmed the inquiry would not prejudice criminal trials and would be conducted in a format that avoids platforming racial hatred – directly countering earlier claims from him and Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke that a royal commission could re-traumatise the Jewish community.
That particular argument was labelled "bullshit" by one Labor MP, citing deep offence within Jewish communities who saw a commission as a necessary spotlight on antisemitism.
The government will incorporate former spy chief Dennis Richardson's snap review of security agencies into the broader royal commission to ensure swift answers on intelligence matters.
Political Pressure and a Calculated Retreat
Sources close to the Prime Minister insist he was never hostile to an inquiry, merely focused on immediate steps like hate speech laws and gun control. However, critics within the Labor caucus view the shift as a cold political calculation, believing Albanese initially judged that resisting a commission was less damaging than calling one.
Relentless public pressure, including open letters from relatives of 11 victims and a highly coordinated media campaign, ultimately forced the government's hand. As the issue threatened to dominate the political agenda, senior ministers Jim Chalmers and Mark Butler began signalling a potential change early this week.
The Prime Minister's refusal to rule out an inquiry during a Tuesday press conference made Thursday's announcement inevitable. For many advocates and observers, the "right path" Albanese described had been clearly visible all along, making his delayed commitment a case of political retreat rather than timely leadership.
