Live hearings begin in Royal Commission into Antisemitism
Live public hearings for Australia’s Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion have begun in Sydney, marking a major step forward in the national inquiry.
The first block of hearings is underway from 4 to 15 May, with witnesses including members of the Jewish community, subject-matter experts and individuals with lived experience of antisemitism appearing before the Commission. The hearings are being held in public, providing a forum for evidence, scrutiny and national engagement with the issue.
The Royal Commission was established in January 2026 in response to the Bondi terror attack that occurred on 14 December 2025. It will examine the prevalence, causes and impacts of antisemitism in Australia, as well as the effectiveness of existing laws and institutions in responding to it. The inquiry is also tasked with identifying practical measures to strengthen social cohesion and community safety.
The commencement of live hearings follows the release of the Commission’s interim report, which outlined early findings and proposed steps to improve Australia’s response to antisemitism and related threats.
Submission deadline extended
In a move designed to encourage broader public participation, the Commission has extended the deadline for submissions to 14 June 2026.
Individuals, organisations and community groups are invited to share their experiences, insights and recommendations. Submissions can include personal accounts, professional perspectives or proposals for policy and legislative reform.
Members of the public are encouraged to make a submission via the Royal Commission’s website:
https://asc.royalcommission.gov.au/share-your-story/submissions
Submissions will play a key role in informing the Commission’s final recommendations, helping to shape policy responses and support efforts to address antisemitism across Australia.
Further hearing blocks are expected to take place in the coming months, with the Commission due to deliver its final report by December 2026.
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