Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has confirmed that the federal government will adopt all recommendations from the interim report of the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion in Australia. This report includes 14 pivotal suggestions, with five remaining confidential, aimed at addressing the rising antisemitic sentiment present prior to a tragic mass shooting event.
Albanese assured that the government would act swiftly, stating, “We’re not sitting back and just reading this document. We’re acting on it.” He expressed full support for the recommendations outlined in the report.
One of the key findings highlights the need for New South Wales Police to apply the same security protocols for high-risk Jewish festivals as they do for the High Holy Days. Enhancements to the Australia-New Zealand Counter-Terrorism Committee’s powers were also suggested, including the provision of direct advice to the national cabinet regarding terrorism threats and an annual review of Joint Counter-Terrorism Teams focusing on leadership and information-sharing structures.
Additionally, the report calls for an urgent update to Australia’s counter-terrorism handbook, stipulating a review at least every three years and evaluating whether the Prime Minister and other national security figures should participate in counter-terrorism exercises within nine months following a federal election.
While five recommendations are kept confidential for now, it has been affirmed that no immediate actions are required based on the report’s findings. Commissioner Virginia Bell of the Royal Commission indicated that the identified issues do not warrant urgent intervention.
In relation to the recent gun buyback scheme, which struggled to gain full commitment from various states and territories, Albanese stated the necessity for ongoing firearm reform and emphasised the importance of consistent national legislation.
Reflecting on the significance of the recommendations, Albanese noted the pain felt by Australia’s Jewish community in the aftermath of the mass shooting, underscoring a commitment to understanding the causes of such hatred to prevent future tragedies.
This interim report is part of a larger investigation, with a final report expected by December 2026, which aims to provide a comprehensive framework for tackling antisemitism and enhancing social cohesion across Australia.