Relatives of those killed in the devastating Bondi beach terror attack have issued a powerful public demand for a sweeping federal investigation. In an open letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, families of 11 of the 15 victims have called for a Commonwealth royal commission to examine the rise of antisemitism and alleged law enforcement failures surrounding the massacre.
A National Crisis Demanding a National Response
The letter, sent on behalf of Jewish Australians who lost loved ones in the 14 December attack at a Hanukah event, states that the community feels profoundly unsafe. The families argue that antisemitism has become a 'national crisis' affecting schools, workplaces, and public spaces across Australia, and requires a powerful federal-level inquiry to address it comprehensively.
They express deep frustration with the government's current response. "Announcements made so far by the federal government in response to the Bondi massacre are not nearly enough," the letter states. The families are seeking clear answers on why warning signs were allegedly ignored and how extremist ideologies were allowed to fester.
Political Pressure Mounts on Albanese
Prime Minister Albanese has so far resisted calls for a broad royal commission, advocating instead for a faster, more focused review led by former ASIO chief Dennis Richardson into intelligence and law enforcement. He has argued that a full royal commission would take too long. However, this stance has been criticised by the federal Coalition opposition, the Nationals leader David Littleproud, and even figures within his own party.
Former Labor MP Mike Kelly, a convener of Labor Friends of Israel, emphasised that only a Commonwealth commission has the necessary power. "It's not possible for a NSW commission to compel Commonwealth officers," he told the ABC, highlighting the need to access classified federal materials.
Unanswered Questions and a Plea for Truth
The open letter pointedly questions the Prime Minister's reluctance, noting that royal commissions have been established for issues like banking and aged care. "Prime Minister, how can you not support a royal commission into the deadliest terrorist attack on Australian soil?" it asks. The emotional appeal concludes with a direct message: "You owe us answers. You owe us accountability. And you owe Australians the truth."
The attack's alleged shooter, Naveed Akram, who faces 15 murder charges, was reportedly investigated by ASIO in October 2019 for links to an alleged Islamic State cell. In a further concerning detail, his father was later approved for a gun licence. As of Monday, nine patients remained in Sydney hospitals from the shooting, with three in a critical but stable condition.
