Law Council welcomes Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion
9 January 2026
The Law Council of Australia welcomes the Commonwealth Government’s announcement that it will establish a Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion.
Law Council of Australia President, Tania Wolff said the establishment of the Royal Commission reflects the seriousness of antisemitism in Australia and the need for an independent, nationally coordinated inquiry.
“A Royal Commission is the most rigorous investigative mechanism available under Australian law,” Ms Wolff said. “It allows complex and systemic issues to be examined thoroughly, evidence to be tested, and recommendations to be made that can strengthen community safety, social cohesion and confidence in our legal system.
“The Royal Commission represents an important opportunity to confront antisemitism, improve institutional responses and reinforce trust in Australia’s legal framework. We support the breadth and objectives of the four key areas the Commission has been asked to investigate.”
The Law Council also welcomes the appointment of former High Court Justice Virgina Bell as Commissioner.
“Justice Bell is an eminent Australian jurist,” Ms Wolff said. “Both judicial decision-making and the conduct of Royal Commissions are governed by clear and well-established legal principles.
“In Australia, judges decide matters impartially and independently, by applying the law to the evidence before them. They do not act on personal views, political considerations or public pressure.
“Those same principles guide Royal Commissions: procedural fairness, careful testing of evidence, and conclusions reached according to law.”
The Law Council looks forward to engaging constructively with the Royal Commission as it conducts its important work.
Contact:
Kristen Connell
0400 054 227
kristen.connell@lawcouncil.au
Last Updated on 12/01/2026