Royal Commission ties government to anti‑Semitism after Bondi Beach massacre

Australian Jewish Association chief executive Robert Gregory told the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion that federal government policies and statements have "egged on" anti‑Semitism, citing visa refusals, public comments and the Labor Party’s platform on Israel. He said the environment created by these actions makes Jews feel hostile and that security measures alone cannot address the drivers of hatred.

Separately, 67‑year‑old public servant Francine Clough was charged with offensive language after calling Jewish leader Alex Ryvchin an “evil Zionist” while he visited the Bondi Beach massacre site. Ryvchin, co‑CEO of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, described the incident as “grossly insensitive” and an example of unchecked incitement. Anti‑Defamation League chief Jonathan Greenblatt echoed the condemnation, reminding that 15 people were killed in the 2025 attack.