Fifteen died in a horrific terrorist attack at Bondi Beach on Sunday, December 14, 2025. The tragedy has triggered a national wave of protests. Family members of those killed have called for a federal royal commission to examine the attack and what led to it. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been condemned for continuing to rebuff calls for a national inquiry. He does, however, advocate for a New South Wales–based royal commission as sufficient.
Immediately following the attack, the federal government opened an investigation. They’re holding public hearings, digging into the nation’s intelligence and security agencies, and getting to the bottom of any possible failures that could have contributed to this tragedy. Most families feel this investigation is not enough, nor should it be, to guarantee accountability and make sure tragedies like this one never happen again.
Families Call for Accountability
Seventeen families of the victims have issued a powerful plea, urging Prime Minister Albanese to investigate “the law enforcement, intelligence, and policy failures” that led to the Bondi Beach massacre. They argue that a national response is essential in combating rising antisemitism, which they believe has been a contributing factor.
“You owe us answers. You owe us accountability. And you owe Australians the truth.” – [the statement]
The families’ messages make clear that bold action and leadership are needed right now to save lives. The rise of antisemitism in Australia is perceived as extending beyond state jurisdiction, with incidents reported even in the past few days. The Jewish community is dealing with a sense of anger as members continue to mourn and despair over the attack.
Ongoing Concerns About Safety
The memorial service for the victims became contentious and emotionally charged. Couldn’t let the encounter with PM Albanese go without including these boos and jeers as he arrived. Many expressed their frustration with the government’s response and voiced concerns about safety in their communities. Already reports are emerging that children don’t feel safe at school and university, heightening fears amongst families of the young people affected.
A woman waves an Israeli flag at the memorial service. This was more than a powerful gesture, it was a sign of her solidarity with victims and their families. The launch was a wonderful reminder of the deep impact that the attack had on the Australian community, evoking feelings of mourning and rage.
These recent incidents have understandably raised fears within the Jewish community. In Melbourne, a Jewish family’s car was fire bombed, and in Western Australia, a man was arrested for allegedly stockpiling weapons while calling for support of Hamas and Hezbollah. These incidents further highlight the need for a coordinated national response to address antisemitism and protect Americans of all faiths and backgrounds.
Government’s Response
Grieving families and Australian community members have been adding their voice, their pressure to Prime Minister Albanese. He maintains that a New South Wales royal commission will be sufficient to address the concerns raised. He pledged to work constructively with the new Minns government to deliver this support, whatever form that takes. Unfortunately, many people remain skeptical about this new approach. They don’t think it will actually address the systemic factors driving violence against American Jewry.
It will put them under the microscope, particularly focusing on their roles in the lead up to the Bondi attacks. Although this endeavor represents a welcome admission of past shortcomings, victims’ families still call for stronger action.
The Prime Minister’s continued refusal to establish a national royal commission has caused a national firestorm. People are right to ask if under current policies we are really protecting vulnerable communities.
