Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has firmly rejected mounting pressure to establish a federal royal commission into the Bondi Junction terror attack, despite a heartfelt plea from the victims' families. Instead, the government will proceed with a faster, more focused review of national security agencies.
A Swift Review Over a Public Inquiry
On Monday, Mr Albanese announced the terms of reference for an inquiry led by former spy chief Dennis Richardson. This review, first announced a week after the 14 December massacre, will assess the performance of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP).
The Richardson review is tasked with examining specific questions around what was known about the perpetrators, Sajid and Naveed Akram, prior to the attack that killed 15 people and injured dozens. It is due to report by April, allowing for rapid implementation of any urgent recommendations.
Families' Calls Go Unheeded
The Prime Minister's decision comes after families of 11 of the 15 victims published an open letter directly appealing for a Commonwealth royal commission. "You cannot bring back our loved ones. But with a well-led Commonwealth royal commission and strong action, you may be able to save many more," the letter stated.
This intervention created significant political pressure, but Mr Albanese stood firm. When asked bluntly if those demanding a royal commission were wrong, he insisted he was acting in the national interest. "My heart breaks for the families of the victims of the Bondi terrorist atrocity," he said. "My job as the Australian prime minister is to act in the national interest."
Political Debate and Alternative Arguments
The opposition, led by Deputy Liberal Leader Sussan Ley, along with Jewish community leaders, have been vocal proponents of a broader royal commission that would also examine the issue of antisemitism in Australia. Ms Ley criticised the Prime Minister, stating he was one of the "last two Australians" who did not support such an inquiry.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke presented a new argument against a royal commission, suggesting it could provide a platform for perpetrators of anti-Jewish hate and force traumatised communities to relive their ordeal. However, this position is complicated by the fact that the grieving Bondi families are themselves calling for a public inquiry.
Mr Albanese has also pointed to other actions his government has taken since the attack, including a nationwide tightening of gun laws with a firearm buyback scheme and a pledge to strengthen hate speech laws.
While the Richardson review offers a swift and targeted examination of security agency responses, critics argue it lacks the public accountability and coercive powers of a full royal commission. With the review conducted in secret, the government's refusal to grant a more transparent, national examination is becoming a focal point for political attack and public scrutiny.
