A recent tragedy at Bondi Beach has ignited a push for a federal royal commission to investigate rising anti-Semitism in Australia. On the first night of Hanukkah, a violent attack claimed the lives of 15 people and injured dozens more, leaving the community in shock. David Baxby, a prominent investment manager, received a distressing phone call from his wife while she and their daughters were barricaded in a bathroom at Harry’s Cafe, trying to escape the chaos of the shooting.
Baxby described the harrowing experience, stating, “I’ve never felt more scared, or frankly, more powerless, than I did in those 15 minutes.” The family remained hidden for 30 minutes as gunfire erupted outside, a scene of sheer terror that underscored the need for action.
In response to the attack, Baxby and other leading business figures have raised over $200,000 to fund a campaign advocating for a royal commission. More than 2,500 people have signed an open letter directed to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, urging for a thorough federal inquiry into anti-Semitism and a unified approach to combat extremism. This letter appeared in various publications, including those within the ACM network, amplifying the group’s call for “decisive action.”
Calls for a royal commission have gained momentum, supported by prominent Jewish organizations, former judges, politicians, and security experts. Baxby highlighted the grassroots nature of the campaign, stating, “These are ordinary business owners, community members, husbands, wives, children, uncles, who simply upon hearing that there is a way for them to contribute, have dug in their pockets.”
As a resident of Sydney’s eastern suburbs, Baxby expressed concern over the government’s dismissive stance regarding the inquiry, particularly given the increasing incidents of anti-Semitism. He noted, “I have many friends in the Jewish community and I’m aware of fire bombings of synagogues, of the spray painting on their houses, and frankly, of the terror that their children felt simply going to school.” This sense of urgency has propelled community members to seek accountability and protection for vulnerable populations.
Prime Minister Albanese has recently shifted the government’s position on a royal commission. During a press conference, he stated that the government would support a New South Wales-led inquiry into the Bondi attack and would evaluate necessary measures to foster national unity. “I’m talking and meeting on a daily basis with people to make sure that we do everything that is possible to, as I have said, promote unity at this time,” Albanese remarked.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers reiterated the government’s commitment to immediate action while not ruling out the possibility of a royal commission in the future. Plans are underway to recall Parliament before January 26 to expedite legislation aimed at combating hate speech. This includes creating a new criminal offence for religious leaders who incite violence, alongside provisions for cancelling visas of individuals who promote hate.
Additionally, Albanese indicated that a review of intelligence and security agencies, led by former spy chief Dennis Richardson, would be a priority for the government. This comprehensive approach aims to address the underlying issues of extremism and ensure the safety of all Australians.
The Bondi attack has sparked a significant dialogue on community safety and the government’s responsibility to protect its citizens. As the landscape of hate crimes continues to evolve, the call for a royal commission remains a pivotal step towards fostering understanding and preventing further acts of violence.
