Commissioner reveals plan for inquiry into Bondi attack, antisemitism
Sydney Morning Herald
by Michaela Whitbourn, Matthew KnottFebruary 24, 2026
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Former High Court judge Virginia Bell has been appointed as the royal commissioner to investigate the Bondi Beach terror attack and antisemitism. In her opening remarks, Bell emphasized that the inquiry would avoid hearing evidence from eyewitnesses to the December 14 mass shooting to prevent prejudicing the ongoing criminal trial of alleged gunman Naveed Akram, who faces 15 counts of murder and 40 charges of attempted murder. She stressed the importance of delivering the final report by the one-year anniversary of the attack, highlighting its significance for victims’ families and the broader community.
Bell outlined her commitment to addressing antisemitism in Australia, adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of antisemitism. She invited Jewish Australians who have experienced discrimination—whether at school, work, or elsewhere—to share their experiences with the commission. While submissions can be made anonymously or without public testimony, Bell expressed confidence that many would choose to speak publicly to contribute to a meaningful dialogue on antisemitism and
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/24/2026