Virginia Bell Gives Statement At Opening Of Royal Commission Into Antisemitism

The landmark royal commission into antisemitism in Australia and the events surrounding the Bondi Beach terror attack is underway, with former High Court justice Virginia Bell giving an opening statement in the NSW Supreme Court today.

The federal inquiry was called on January 9, in response to the 15 people were killed during a shooting at a Hanukkah event at Sydney’s Bondi Beach.

The royal commission is the most powerful type of government inquiry in Australia which can compel people to give evidence.
The Royal Commission on Anitsemitism and Social Cohesion will consider the events of the shooting as well as antisemitism and social cohesion in Australia.

Ms Bell announced today that she will deliver a final report and recommendations no later than December 14, one year after the attacks.

“The first anniversary for those directly affected by it and for the broader Jewish and Bondi communities, is going to be a difficult time. I acknowledge that for some, it will never be right to speak of closure, but one small part of coming to terms with the events of that evening will be the work of this commission,” she said today.

“I regard the delivery of my report on or before the first anniversary as a matter of critical importance.”

Ms Bell also explained who would be able to make submissions to the inquiry.

“A submission can be made by any person using the online form or by email,” she said. “I’m interested in hearing from Jewish Australians who’ve experienced antisemitism whether at school or at university, or in the workplace or elsewhere.”

She also clarified that making a submission to the inquiry does not commit a person to giving evidence in public, “and no person will be pressured to do so”.

Senior Counsel Assisting the commission, Richard Lancaster SC also gave an opening statement, explaining who the commission will her from, saying that dozens of notices have been issue to Commonwealth and State agencies and various other “organisations of interest” to produce documents.

“It is also proposed to lead evidence from relevant persons by way of witness statements. The Commission will also hear oral evidence from witnesses in person, including expert.”

In his closing remarks, Mr Lancaster said:

“The antisemitic attack on Jewish Australians in Bondi on 14th December 2025 was a truly horrifying event,” he said. “The counsel assisting team acknowledge with great sadness the immense trauma this has caused Jewish Australians and members of the community living in Bondi, those visiting for a meal or a swim that evening, those who bravely rushed to help, and many others throughout Sydney and Australia have been deeply affected by the attack.”

The ceremonial opening of the royal commission has now been adjourned to a date that is yet to be fixed.