Bondi Beach attack: royal commission into antisemitism begins public hearings

Australia's royal commission into antisemitism has opened public hearings after the Bondi Beach attack, which was reported to have killed 15 people and injured 40; an interim report is expected by the end of April and a full report by the first anniversary of the attack.

Australia's royal commission into antisemitism has opened public hearings. It was established after the Bondi Beach attack, which was reported to have killed 15 people and injured 40. The federal inquiry will examine the prevalence and drivers of antisemitism and review events leading up to the attack. Former High Court Justice Virginia Bell is leading the commission and has said she will conduct the inquiry expeditiously. What is known: - Public hearings began on Tuesday under the federal royal commission. - The commission will investigate antisemitism in Australia and examine events linked to the Bondi Beach attack. - An interim report is expected by the end of April and a full report no later than the first anniversary of the attack. - Ongoing criminal proceedings have led the commission to avoid matters that might prejudice court cases, and some hearings may be held behind closed doors. - One alleged attacker was killed at the scene and another has been charged and is in custody. Summary: The commission is tasked with making findings and recommendations to government on antisemitism and related matters. It is expected to hear from security and intelligence agencies, victims' families and survivors as part of its work. The commissioner will outline the inquiry's parameters at the opening, and the interim and final report dates remain part of the public timetable.