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Business groups call for Royal Commission into Bondi attacks

Written by Mahathir BayenaPublished jan. 2 2026Last Updated jan. 2 2026

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Australia's nine largest business lobby groups have united in calling for a federal royal commission into the Dec. 14, 2025 Bondi attacks and the rise of antisemitism, increasing pressure on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who has previously rejected a formal inquiry.

The Australian Banking Association, Australian Institute of Company Directors, Australian Industry Group, Australian Retailers Association, Business Council of Australia, Council of Small Business Organisations Australia, Insurance Council of Australia, Master Builders Australia, and Minerals Council of Australia released a joint statement on Friday supporting a federal approach.

The statement argued it would "avoid some of the limitations of a state-based approach and help ensure we bring a whole-of-nation focus to tackling antisemitism."

Albanese has argued that a faster inquiry led by Dennis Richardson is already underway. The lobby groups, however, say a royal commission could incorporate and build upon these findings.

The move comes shortly after about 130 prominent executives and business leaders, including James Packer and former RBA governors Glenn Stevens and Philip Lowe, publicly called for a federal inquiry.

In their statement, the groups emphasised the importance of workplaces as "melting pots" that reflect Australia’s diversity.

"Without sustainably safe and cohesive workplaces and communities, we cannot deliver prosperity for all Australians," they said, adding that a royal commission could help prevent future tragedies.

"A federal Royal Commission would also signal to the world that Australia is committed to providing safe and inclusive communities, and intends to lead in overcoming antisemitism," the statement said, highlighting the broader social and economic benefits of such a move.