Royal commission lays bare the fear and anger of Jewish Australians. But has it got to the heart of antisemitism?
News Source
β’Sat, 29 Aug 2026 00:00:11 GMT
π° What Happened
The royal commission into antisemitism and social cohesion has heard from more than 300 witnesses. A university student named Liat told the commission about the pervasive fear on campus after Hamas's October 7 attack and Israel's war on Gaza. She said she was labelled a baby killer and genocide supporter. She spoke publicly under her first name only for safety reasons.
The hearings began amid grief over the Bondi attack. One Sydney rabbi says the Jewish community is in a deep process of grief and mourning, but hopes the commission can really make a difference.
π The Backstory
The royal commission was set up after a surge in reported antisemitic incidents across Australia. The Bondi attack deepened fear and anger within the community.
The hearings have covered campus life, social media, and everyday safety for Jewish Australians. The commission aims to understand the problem and recommend action on social cohesion. Its findings could influence laws, school policies, and how platforms handle hate.
π― Why It Matters
Antisemitism affects the safety and daily life of Jewish Australians. The commission's findings could lead to real changes in schools, universities, and online spaces. Thousands are waiting to see if it brings lasting change.
The royal commission into antisemitism and social cohesion has heard from more than 300 witnesses. A university student named Liat told the commission about the pervasive fear on campus after Hamas's October 7 attack and Israel's war on Gaza. She said she was labelled a baby killer and genocide supporter. She spoke publicly under her first name only for safety reasons.
The hearings began amid grief over the Bondi attack. One Sydney rabbi says the Jewish community is in a deep process of grief and mourning, but hopes the commission can really make a difference.
The royal commission was set up after a surge in reported antisemitic incidents across Australia. The Bondi attack deepened fear and anger within the community.
The hearings have covered campus life, social media, and everyday safety for Jewish Australians. The commission aims to understand the problem and recommend action on social cohesion. Its findings could influence laws, school policies, and how platforms handle hate.
Antisemitism affects the safety and daily life of Jewish Australians. The commission's findings could lead to real changes in schools, universities, and online spaces. Thousands are waiting to see if it brings lasting change.