Calls for a national inquiry into the events surrounding the December 14th shooting at Bondi Beach are intensifying, drawing support from a diverse range of prominent Australians. The demand for a royal commission originated with seventeen families connected to the victims and has since gained momentum across multiple sectors.
Growing Calls for a Royal Commission
A public letter released Sunday bears the signatures of numerous sporting figures, including tennis star Lleyton Hewitt, NRL commentator Brad Fittler, former swimmers Michael Klim and Dawn Fraser, surfer Mick Fanning, Olympic canoeist Jessica Fox, and skater Steven Bradbury. Australian Rules Football is also represented, with signatures from Collingwood player Scott Pendlebury, Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge, St Kilda coach Ross Lyon, and Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan. In Sydney, Swans player Isaac Heeney, coach Dean Cox, former coach John Longmire, and GWS Giants player Phil Davis have also added their names.
Beyond the sporting world, the Business Council of Australia, over 100 captains of industry, more than 200 judges and barristers, the Coalition, and two members of the Albanese government’s backbench have publicly supported a royal commission. The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference stated this week that while they do not wish to politicize the issue, a national inquiry is necessary. Australian Human Rights Commissioner Lorraine Finlay was the first public servant to openly advocate for a royal commission.
Government Response and Divergent Views
Prime Minister Albanese has consistently maintained that a Commonwealth royal commission would not provide the swift response needed following the attack. The government has instead highlighted actions taken since December 14th, including the adoption of recommendations from antisemitism envoy Jillian Segal, support for a NSW-based royal commission, an inquiry into federal agencies led by former intelligence chief Dennis Richardson, and the introduction of stricter hate speech and gun laws.
While major Muslim associations have not yet formally stated their position – though the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils previously cautioned against a potentially divisive process – prominent defense silk Robert Richter has argued that a royal commission would be premature and potentially harmful, particularly if focused on defining antisemitism.
Concerns About Signatories and Broader Implications
The push for a royal commission has not been without scrutiny. Signatories to the sports letter include former Liberal MP John Alexander and Nova Peris, a former Labor senator. Peris faced controversy last year for sharing anti-Islam posts on social media, while former AFL player and TV presenter Sam Newman has been criticized for remarks about Muslim Australians and for inviting individuals with extremist views onto his podcast.
Signatories emphasized that the Bondi attack was not an isolated incident, but rather the culmination of over two years of escalating extremism and radicalization within Australia. They described the event as a national crisis demanding a national response, and a test of Australia’s character as it prepares to host the 2032 Olympic Games.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary demand being made by those calling for a royal commission?
The primary demand is for a Commonwealth royal commission into antisemitism, radicalisation, and the events leading up to the shooting at Bondi Beach on December 14th.
What actions has the federal government taken in response to the Bondi shooting?
The federal government has adopted recommendations from antisemitism envoy Jillian Segal, backed a NSW-based royal commission, launched an inquiry into federal agencies led by Dennis Richardson, and introduced tougher hate speech and gun laws.
Are there differing opinions on the best course of action following the Bondi shooting?
Yes, while many are calling for a national royal commission, Prime Minister Albanese argues that a Commonwealth inquiry would not deliver the urgent response required and has instead focused on immediate actions and a state-based inquiry.
Given the diverse and growing calls for a national inquiry, how might the Australian government balance the need for a thorough investigation with the desire for swift action and community healing?
