‘Tough questions to be answered’: Royal Commission must examine domestic radicalisation

Key Concepts

• Royal Commission: A high-level official inquiry into a matter of public importance, with powers to compel evidence and testimony.
• Anti-Semitism: Hostility to, prejudice, or discrimination against Jews.
• Radicalization: The process by which an individual or group adopts increasingly extreme political, social, or religious ideals and aspirations that reject or undermine the status quo or commonly accepted norms.
• Gaslighting: A form of psychological manipulation in which a person or group covertly undermines another's ability to trust their own perception of reality.
• Social Cohesion: The willingness of members of a society to cooperate for social benefit.
• AIO Watch List: (Australian Intelligence Organisation) A list of individuals monitored as potential security threats.

The Royal Commission into the Bondi Attack: Jewish Community Response and Concerns

Introduction

This discussion with Joel Bernie, Executive Manager of the Australia Israel and Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC), details the Jewish community’s reaction to the announcement of a Royal Commission into the Bondi Junction shopping centre attack, the political context surrounding its establishment, and concerns regarding its scope and timeframe. The conversation highlights a sense of fatigue and disappointment with the government’s initial reluctance, coupled with cautious optimism about the inquiry’s potential.

1. Initial Reaction and Community Fatigue

The Jewish community’s initial response to the Royal Commission announcement is characterized by “fatigue.” For “three and a half weeks,” the community actively “campaigned, prayed, [and] begged” Prime Minister Albanese and his government to initiate an inquiry into the Bondi attack, Australia’s largest terror attack in its history. Despite this sustained effort, and perceived political maneuvering, the community is now prepared to “put its weight behind” supporting Justice Bell and Commissioner Bell, and providing assistance to the Commission, including contributing to the Gansky education review and assisting Dennis Richardson’s review. Bernie emphasizes that while disappointed by the delay, the community is “grateful” to finally have a “Commonwealth Royal Commission” to investigate the failures that allowed the attack to occur and to formulate recommendations for improvement.

2. Critique of Government’s Stance and Claims of Non-Partisanship

Bernie strongly refutes Prime Minister Albanese’s claim that he “never played politics” with the issue of a Royal Commission, characterizing it as a continuation of “gaslighting” towards the Jewish community. He asserts that the attack was not solely a “Jewish Australian problem” but a broader “attack on Australia,” its identity, and its principles. He highlights the significant role played by “non-Jewish Australians” – from corporate leaders to sporting heroes and intelligence officials – in demanding the inquiry, demonstrating widespread concern beyond the Jewish community. He criticizes the government for initially offering “every excuse in the book” to avoid a Royal Commission, only to retrospectively claim they always intended to hold one.

3. The Importance of Telling Stories vs. Addressing Root Causes

The discussion addresses the Prime Minister’s statement that the Royal Commission is necessary to allow Jewish Australians to “tell their stories.” While acknowledging the documented experiences of anti-Semitism faced by Jewish Australians over the past two years, Bernie argues that this is insufficient. He points out that many Jewish individuals remain silent due to fear of further targeting or a belief that their concerns will be ignored. He emphasizes that the Commission must go beyond simply documenting victim testimonies and delve into the “root causes” of anti-Semitism in Australia, specifically investigating how the perpetrator was “radicalized domestically” and how he was able to acquire weapons despite being on an AIO watch list. Bernie states, “It is not enough just to hear of the abundant testimony of Jewish victims… But we need to ask and have those tough questions and conversations.”

4. Desired Outcomes and Concerns Regarding the Commission’s Scope and Timeframe

Bernie outlines the community’s desired outcomes for the Royal Commission: a thorough examination of decision-making within intelligence, policing agencies, and government regarding the events leading up to the attack. Specifically, he questions whether intelligence agencies requested additional resources (e.g., Arabic speakers, asset placement) and whether those requests were denied. He raises concerns about the 12-month timeframe, noting that Royal Commissions typically require longer to complete. He hopes that Commissioner Bell will be granted additional time if needed, fearing that a rushed inquiry might be motivated by the government’s desire to avoid the issue during the next election cycle.

5. Concerns about Emphasis on “Social Cohesion”

Bernie expresses concern over the government’s emphasis on “social cohesion” in relation to the Royal Commission. While acknowledging the importance of social cohesion, he fears that it could be used to “temper or dilute” the Commission’s recommendations if they might be perceived as divisive. He highlights the absence of direct acknowledgement of “radical Islamism” in the government’s statements, suggesting a potential reluctance to address sensitive issues. He argues that tackling radicalization – through analysis of education systems and sources of ideology – is the true path to strengthening social cohesion, rather than avoiding potentially uncomfortable conversations. He states, “Some tough conversations are going to have to be had as to how the radicalization was able to happen domestically here in Australia.”

6. Technical and Specialized Vocabulary

• AIO Watch List: A list maintained by the Australian Intelligence Organisation (now part of ASIO) of individuals considered potential security threats.
• Radicalization: The process by which individuals adopt extremist beliefs and ideologies.
• Gaslighting: A manipulative tactic used to make someone question their own sanity or perception of reality.

Conclusion

The Jewish community approaches the Royal Commission with a mixture of relief, cautious optimism, and lingering skepticism. While welcoming the inquiry, Bernie emphasizes the need for a thorough, independent investigation that addresses the root causes of anti-Semitism and the failures that allowed the Bondi attack to occur. He expresses concern that political considerations and an emphasis on “social cohesion” might hinder the Commission’s ability to deliver meaningful recommendations. The community remains vigilant, hoping that the inquiry will be granted sufficient time and resources to uncover the truth and prevent future tragedies.