• Australia to hold a royal commission to investigate the Bondi Beach shooting that killed 15.
• The inquiry will examine antisemitism and its prevalence in the country.
• Former High Court judge Virginia Bell will lead the commission.
• Prime Minister Albanese emphasized the need for national unity and healing.
• The commission's report is expected by December 2026.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a royal commission into the mass shooting that occurred at Bondi Beach during a Jewish holiday event, resulting in the deaths of 15 individuals. This shooting is noted as one of the deadliest attacks in Australia’s history and has sparked extensive public demand for accountability, particularly regarding issues of antisemitism in the country, according to BBC and Channel News Asia.

The royal commission will delve into the circumstances surrounding the Bondi shooting and investigate the broader issue of antisemitism within Australia. Prime Minister Albanese remarked, "I've repeatedly said that our government's priority is to promote unity and social cohesion," emphasizing that the commission is crucial for healing and national solidarity. The inquiry will be led by former High Court judge Virginia Bell, who has the authority to summon witnesses and gather evidence, according to Los Angeles Times and India Times.

The commission's agenda will include examining the prevalence of antisemitism and its key drivers, alongside an assessment of law enforcement's responses to the threats posed by extremist groups. The inquiry will incorporate ongoing reviews of Australia's intelligence and law enforcement capabilities, with a report expected by December, marking one year since the tragic incident, as noted by BBC and Los Angeles Times.

In the aftermath of the Bondi attack, there is an urgent dialogue about the increasing antisemitism in Australia. Albanese highlighted that the commission arises partly from public calls for clearer answers about the lapses that allowed such violence to occur. Law enforcement agencies are now scrutinized for their prior engagements with those linked to the attack, particularly with one suspect having been previously flagged by intelligence agencies, which raises questions about their protocols, according to Channel News Asia and India Times.